The restrictions on the sex industry in Japan are very strict, resulting in various types of establishments. However, there are few categories where actual sexual intercourse is permitted, and among these, “soaplands”, known as the “King of the Sex Industry”, are the only establishments where intercourse (penetration) is definitively allowed.
This page provides a thorough explanation on various aspects such as the difficult reservation process for foreign travelers, rules for use, and eligibility. Additionally, it covers the basics of soapland, the flow from reservation to store use, price ranges, and how to enjoy it to the fullest
By referring to this page, you will no longer have any confusion. Enjoy soapland to the fullest!
What is Soapland?
Soapland is one of the sex establishments often abbreviated as “Soap.”
Under the Adult Entertainment Law, it is classified as a “private room special bathhouse,” where you can enjoy bathing assistance from soap girls* in private rooms.
Unlike other adult entertainment genres such as delivery health (deriheru), soapland operates solely as a “store-based” business with actual physical locations, not as a dispatch service.
Due to various legal restrictions, soapland can only exist in certain areas, leading to the formation of “Soap districts” where multiple soapland establishments are concentrated across the country.
*soap girl: A lady who provides sexual services to men in private rooms. In Japanese, a soap girl is referred to as “sōpujō” or ”awa-hime (less common)”.
Bath and Mat Play included
A typical soapland usually features an unpartitioned space with both a “bed area” and a “bath area.” The customer and the soap girl move between these spaces as the service progresses.
In the bath area, you can enjoy play guided by the girl using an air mattress and lotion. This is called “mat play” and it is generally included in all courses at soaplands.
Unlike bed play, mat play involves the man being completely passive. Essentially, you just lie down on the mat and follow the girl’s instructions, making it easy for beginners to feel comfortable.
At some establishments, when opting for a shorter course, the session often concludes with intercourse (sex) in the cowgirl position on the mat without transitioning to the bed.
With and Without Condom Options
In soaplands, there are establishments that require condom use, those that do not, and mixed establishments where it depends on the individual soap girl. In Japanese, these types are referred to with specific terms: S-Wearing (condom required), NS (no condom), and mixed.
Furthermore, among NS establishments, there are those where it is possible to ejaculate inside without a condom (sometimes only with specific soap girls). These are referred to as NN establishments.
Are Soaplands accessible to foreign tourists?
Yes! Absolutely possible!
In fact, it was definitely not possible back in the 2000s, but in recent years, many Soaplands have started welcoming foreign tourists. However, there have been numerous incidents of trouble stemming from a lack of understanding of the rules, leading some establishments to refuse entry to foreign tourists.
It’s advisable to inform them of your status as a foreign tourist when making a reservation and confirm whether they accept foreign guests.
Soapland’s Pricing System
Unlike other adult entertainment establishments, Soapland has its own unique pricing system.
This distinctive pricing system can be complex, which may deter many people from trying Soapland. Especially for first-time users, it can be difficult to understand. Here, only the pricing system will be explained, and the actual costs will be detailed in the next section.
The total amount to be paid is “Bathing Fee” + “Service Fee”
| Bathing Fee | Basic fees to pay when using Soapland. |
|---|---|
| Service Fee | Service fees paid directly to the soap girl. *Some establishments may also require payment at the front desk. |
| Other Fees | Other costs incurred besides the service fee and bathing fee |
| Total Price | Bathing Fee + Service Fee + Other Fees |
The basic pricing at Soapland consists of “Bathing Fee” plus “Service Fee”.
In addition to those fees, there are various option fees and nomination fees and some other hidden fees, which vary by establishment. Details about these other fees are explained below..
This combined “Bathing Fee” + “Service Fee” + “Other Fees” is referred to as the “Total Price”.
Bathing Fee
As the name suggests, Soaplands are aptly named as special bathing facilities, and ostensibly, “bathing” is presented as the main service, allowing them to circumvent laws prohibiting prostitution. Each private room in the establishment is equipped with a bathtub, where customers can enjoy bathing and receive services from the soap girl.
The basic fee to enjoy bathing in these private rooms is the “bathing fee.”
The bathing fee is a standard charge found in all Soaplands, similar to an entrance fee at a public bathhouse. It is paid to the staff at the reception desk when you arrive at the establishment.
Service Fee
Service fees are like tips paid to the soap girls who provide the service. Even in the same establishment, there may be differences in the amount of service fees depending on the soap girl.
Also, remember that the timing of paying service fees varies depending on the establishment.
There are cases where you pay the soap girl directly after entering the bathroom, and there are also cases where you are billed the total cost of the bathing fee and service fee at the reception, and pay accordingly.
Other Fees
Nomination Fee
The most commonly incurred cost besides the bathing fee and service fee is the nomination fee.
The nomination fee is incurred when specifying a soap girl for play during the reservation process via phone or website after confirming information about the soap girls on the establishment’s website, for example.
Option Fee
Option fee is also one of the main costs incurred when using Soapland services. The system of options is quite complex, and the rules may vary between establishments. This Options Available at Japanese Brothels page explains those options. However, the options offered vary from store to store. If there is any specific options you really want to try, it is a good idea to check with the store beforehand.
Please contact us if you need these confirmations or any other assistance.
Membership fees or club dues
This is not very common, but it is used in some establishments or especially high-end premises. Those who are concerned about whether these fees are required should check the prices when making reservations.
TypesPrice range
When it comes to Soapland, there are mainly three ranks ranging. The classifications and price guidelines are as follows.
| Types | Approximate total amount |
|---|---|
| Budget (Cheap) Establishments | JP¥ 10,000 – JP¥ 40,000 |
| Mass (General) Establishments | JP¥ 25,000 – JP¥ 50,000 |
| Luxury Establishments | More than JP¥ 50,000 |
The difference in prices for the same type is due to the difference in service time. For example, budget shops offer 45 minutes for JP¥10,000 and 100 minutes for JP¥25,000, with no difference in the level of services provided. However, one point to note is that the mat play, which is said to be the highlight of soaplands, may not be included in shorter sessions such as 45 minutes.
Of course, not everything is as it seems, but the main characteristics of each type are roughly as follows.
Budget (Cheap) Establishments
Budget (Cheap) establishments are soaplands where you can enjoy a course of around 70 minutes for less than JP¥ 20,000. In the past, at very cheap establishments, you might encounter older women providing cold and indifferent service. However, nowadays, there are many young cast members, the quality of service has improved, and these establishments are bustling as introductory places for soapland first-timers.
The price differences at budget establishments are due to the varying service times, such as shorter courses of around 40 minutes. These shorter courses often exclude mat play to ensure sufficient playtime.
It is a fact that age affects a woman’s value in this industry, regardless of her personal efforts. Therefore, many 40-year-old cast members have moved from luxury establishments to mass (general) ones, and finally to this budget establishments. However, these experienced women can provide unparalleled pleasure in terms of technical skills, leading many men to become quite fond of their services.
The entire soapland industry is committed to trust, clear systems, and transparent services. Therefore, even at budget establishments, mature women are introduced as such, so as long as you do your research, you won’t feel deceived. These price ranges are ideal for those who want to enjoy soapland hopping.
Mass (General) Establishments
The most common type of soapland nationwide and the current mainstream in the industry. Prices range from about JP¥ 25,000 to JP¥ 50,000, offering a wide variety of services with many unique and innovative ideas (Surely, in Japan, there are many crazy inventions and ideas even when it comes to sex, too). These establishments cannot simply be categorized as “mass” due to the diversity of options available.
Some establishments boast services and facilities that rival or even surpass those of high-end shops, while others offer low prices that challenge the health industry. The service time systems vary from 50-minute courses to long 180-minute sessions, and more and more establishments are offering 3P courses, which used to be available only at high-end shops, at more affordable prices.
There are numerous concepts such as idol types, mature women, office ladies, school themes, lolita, SM, and many more, often with thorough implementations, so it is essential to do your research beforehand.
During industry downturns, some high-end shops have lowered their prices to become mid-range establishments. These shops often have large facilities and offer excellent services at low prices. Additionally, some cast members move from high-end shops to mid-range ones due to age. In such cases, you might be able to receive high-end services at a lower price.
Luxury Establishments
In the highest price range, the standard price in famous soapland districts is JP¥ 50,000 to JP¥ 70,000 or more, with many ultra-luxury establishments exceeding JP¥ 100,000. When you visit a high-end establishment, you simply pay the designated amount and can leave the rest to the staff. The time settings are generally longer, with many establishments not offering shorter courses like 60 minutes. Additionally, visiting hours are often divided into three to four time slots per day, which is a measure to ensure smooth service. When you actually visit, the process is very smooth and extremely pleasant.
One of the notable differences in service is something called Instant Blowjob or “Soku-Shaku”. This means that after entering the playroom, fellatio begins before you wash your body in the bathroom, and then you move straight to the bed or sofa for sex. Some establishments even allow condomless insertion and internal ejaculation. Many places also offer 3P courses either as a standard or as an optional service, truly embodying a “do anything you want” environment.
As a matter of etiquette, since “Soku-Shaku” is the standard, it is recommended to lightly clean your genitals in the restroom beforehand. Most high-end establishments have amenities provided in the restroom. Originally, soaplands were meant to be “luxurious,” so in that sense, this class represents the epitome of traditional soaplands.
The process of using Soapland
The process of using Soapland typically follows these steps:
- Selecting the establishment, Soapland girl, and service course.
- Make a reservation.
- Visit and pay the fee at the reception desk.
- Wait in the waiting room.
- Be guided and receive the service.
– Example of the typical play process - Leave the store.
Remember that specific procedures may vary depending on the establishment and its policies.
Let’s explain each item below.
Selecting the establishment, soapland girl, and service course.
First, we start by selecting the Soapland we want to use.
While searching on Google with terms like “desired area + Soapland” can be helpful, using adult entertainment portal sites like “Nearby Station” can efficiently check Soapland information in the desired area.
Once you find a Soapland that interests you, the next step is selecting a soap girl.
From looks, style, hobbies, to personality, try to find a soap girl who matches your preferences.
One thing to note here is the soap girl’s work schedule. It’s crucial to confirm whether the soap girl you’re interested in will be working on the day and time you plan to visit.
By the way, there’s also an option called “Free (No specific selection)” where you leave the choice of soap girl to the establishment.
After selecting a soap girl, the last step is choosing a service course.
Various courses ranging from 50 minutes to 180 minutes, and even longer ones, are available at each Soapland, so choose a course that fits your schedule and budget.
Make a reservation
For those coming to Japan as tourists, this reservation may be a little confusing.
If you need assistance with your reservation, please feel free to contact us!
Once you’ve decided on the Soapland you want to visit, the soap girl, and the course, it’s time to make a reservation.
There are two methods for making reservations: by phone and online.
Phone reservations are accepted by almost all Soaplands, but some may not offer online reservations, so it’s essential to check.
The reservation period varies depending on the establishment. Generally, there are several patterns:
- Reservations available several days in advance
- Reservations available only for the previous day or the same day
- Reservations available for members through newsletters, etc., starting a week in advance
Make sure to confirm how many days in advance you can make reservations at the Soapland you plan to visit before booking.
Visit and pay the fee at the reception desk
Arrive at the soapland at your scheduled time and head to the reception (It is ideal to arrive 10 to 15 minutes before your scheduled time). Some soaplands require you to confirm your appointment with a phone call 30 minutes to an hour before your scheduled time, so be sure to make the call at the specified time before arriving if this is the case.
At the reception, give your name as used during the reservation. The staff will confirm the course and the soap girl you selected. If everything is correct, you will pay the bath fee or the total amount. If you have pre-booked any options, it is also good to check that they are included.
Wait in the waiting room
After paying the fee, the staff will guide you to a waiting room.
There are no specific rules on how to spend your time in the waiting room, so you can relax as you like—drink a beverage (generally it’s free), trim your nails, use the restroom, or smoke in the designated smoking area.
Be guided and receive the service
If you arrive at the scheduled time, you will be called by the staff within a few minutes and guided to a private room where the soap girl is waiting. In some soaplands, the soap girl will come to greet you in the hallway just outside the waiting room.
Once you enter the private room, if you haven’t paid the total amount at the reception, you will first pay the service fee to the soap girl. After that, you will typically start with greetings and small talk to ease any tension. Then, once you both feel more comfortable, you will undress, and the service from the girl will begin.
Generally, the soap girl will take the lead, so especially if it’s your first time using a soapland, you can just leave everything to her.
Leave the store
When the designated session time is over, the service concludes. Put your clothes back on and when the soap girl gives you her business card*, it’s time to leave.
*Unlike other sex entertainment, in soaplands, it’s customary for the girl to give you her business card.
Sometimes, the soap girl will escort you to a place where you won’t run into other customers.
In addition, at mid-range or higher soaplands, there may be a “cool-down room” where you can go after the service ends. Here, you can relax and reflect on the experience, or if the shop offers shuttle services, you can wait here. In addition, the cool-down room may offer drink and food services, and you may be asked to fill out a questionnaire about the service you received this time, so please respond warmly.
General flow of play in a private room
In the previous section, I provided an overview of the overall process, from preparation to post-play activities. In this section, I will delve into the specific flow of the main play that takes place within the private room.
Engaging in conversation while undressing
When you enter the private room, you take off your shoes at the entrance and sit on the bed or sofa to chat with the girl. The chat usually goes about five minutes. While talking, the girl may help you undress, or you can help her undress.
Generally, the girl will lead the conversation if you are Japanese, however since many Japanese people are not used to speaking English, it is good if you proactively start the conversation, speaking VERY slowly.
Instant Play
At a soapland, it is common for play to begin after taking a bath. However, depending on the establishment, there are cases where immediate oral service (soku-shaku) or immediate full service (soku-soku) occurs right after undressing. Sometimes that is included as a standard course, not an option.
However, if you prefer to play after taking a bath instead, you can tell the soap girl to do so.
Sukebe-Isu (Pervert Chair) Play
One of the basic plays at soaplands includes sukebe-Isu (pervert chair) play, and this play is one of the special highlights at soaplands.
After you move to the bathroom, the soap girl will wash your body, and you can enjoy the sukebe-isu play at the same time.
For details, please refer to the page of “Sukebe-Isu (Pervert Chair)“.
Take a Bath
After finishing the fun play on the chair, the next step is to enter the bath. While warming up your body in the bath, it is common to gargle with something like iodine for STD prevention, and some establishments also include brushing your teeth.
Once the soap lady has finished washing herself, she will join you in the bath, where you can continue to enjoy intimate moments together. Here, she will also demonstrate a technique unique to soaplands. This is called the ‘periscope,’ named because it resembles a submarine checking the surface while underwater. This refers to the play where the soap girl performs oral sex on the man’s erect penis while in the bath. This is included as a basic service in most soaplands.
Periscope is called “Senbōkyō (潜望鏡)” in Japanese.
Mat Play
In shorter courses of 40 or 50 minutes, only bed play might be available after taking a bath, and some soap girls may not offer mat play. However, in courses of 60 minutes or more, you can generally enjoy mat play for free.
For details about mat play, please refer to the mat play page, but it is one of the most enjoyable experiences, showcasing the diligent yet playful nature of the Japanese people.
Mat play is one of the major highlights of a soapland experience. You must try it!
Incidentally, in budget establishments or shorter courses, there is often no transition to the bed. Instead, the session often moves directly to actual sex in the cowgirl position during the mat play, leading to the finish.
Bed Play
After the mat play is finished, the basic flow involves moving directly to the bed for actual intercourse. In high-end establishments or courses of 120 minutes or more, it is possible to have three finishes: bed -> mat -> bed. (great stamina!)
Depending on the soap girl, you can generally expect the following activities during bed play:
- French kissing
- Blowjob
- 69 position
- Fingering
- Cunnilingus
- Missionary position
- Doggy style
- Cowgirl position
- Other acts that are included in normal sex by common sense
Unlike mat play, which is entirely passive, bed play allows you to take a more active role, satisfying the desires of those who enjoy being dominant or those who wish to experience (as if) loving sex with a real girlfriend.
Shower and Dress
About 10 to 20 minutes before the end of the playtime, the soap girl will rinse off the sweat and lotion from your body with a shower, or you can soak in the bathtub and lightly rinse off the lotion before having it washed off with the shower.
After the man finishes washing his body, it is the girl’s turn to wash herself. During this time, it is common for the man to either soak lightly in the bathtub or towel off and get dressed.
Important Manners
Soaplands are places where girls cater to your needs and where you can enjoy certain activities, but it’s not a place where you can do anything as you please like a lord. There are strict rules and etiquette that must be followed. Not adhering to these rules can result in being banned from the establishment or causing trouble with the shop, so be mindful.
Follow the rules
Please follow the rules and do not demand services not included in the course and options you order.
Make sure the activities you desire are included in the course, or add them as options if they are not. Never engage in activities that are not included in the course.
For example, it is not acceptable to demand bareback or internal ejaculation, or to proceed with such acts pretending not to notice, if they are not included in the basic service or requested as an option.
These services come at a higher cost, but paying the appropriate fee ensures you can enjoy them. It’s a rule violation to engage in bareback or internal ejaculation without opting for these services. Naturally, requests like “I got too excited, so let me ejaculate inside” will be declined.
Persistently pressuring or engaging in rule-breaking behavior may result in the soap girl contacting male staff members. This will lead to service termination, and sometimes incurring fines for violations. In the worst cases, police intervention may occur.
One common issue, especially among foreign visitors, is unauthorized filming. The police will be called immediately upon discovery. It’s crucial to never engage in such behavior.
Strict Adherence to Course Time
In soaplands, requesting to extend play beyond the scheduled time is not acceptable. Even if you still feel unsatisfied, refrain from saying things like “just a little longer” that might inconvenience the soap girl.
Soap girls provide services as part of their job. If you want to extend, it’s proper etiquette to pay an extension fee.
There are situations where extensions may not be possible due to closing time or the girl’s schedule. It’s important to gracefully accept these situations without regret.
Take care of personal grooming
Soap girls are important “products” of the establishment, but before that, they are individual women with emotions. It’s essential to consider not only your own pleasure but also to be mindful of not causing discomfort or physical harm to the girl providing the service.
For instance, in terms of personal grooming, it’s basic etiquette to groom facial hair and keep nails trimmed. (We understand that many foreigners often have facial hair, but in Japan, it can sometimes be perceived as unhygienic.) Some establishments provide nail clippers in the waiting room, but others may not, so it’s important to be cautious.
Moreover, when visiting a soapland, avoid coming in an excessively unhygienic state, such as not showering for several days.
Although these girls are professionals who maintain a smile on the surface, if they feel uncomfortable internally, they may not be able to provide the best service. Therefore, before visiting a soapland, it’s recommended to shower, trim nails, shave if necessary, and brush teeth.