Helsinki, the capital city of Finland, is known for many things – stunning architecture, vibrant cultural scene, and a bustling food market. But one thing that truly sets Helsinki apart from other cities around the world is its sauna culture. Saunas are an integral part of Finnish life and have been for centuries. In fact, it is estimated that there are over 2 million saunas in Finland – a country with a population of just 5.5 million people.
Sauna is a Finnish word that simply means a room or building heated to a high temperature, where people go to relax and sweat. The traditional Finnish sauna is typically a small, wooden structure with wooden benches and a stove that heats rocks to extreme temperatures. Water is then poured over the hot rocks to create steam, which helps to increase the heat and humidity in the room.
One of the most popular and iconic saunas in Helsinki is the Löyly Sauna. Located on Helsinki’s waterfront, this modern sauna complex offers visitors a unique and luxurious sauna experience. The building itself is a striking piece of contemporary architecture, with large windows overlooking the sea and a large terrace for relaxing after a sauna session. Löyly Sauna has separate saunas for men and women, as well as a traditional wood-fired sauna that can accommodate up to 96 people at a time.
For those looking for a more traditional Finnish sauna experience, there are plenty of public saunas in Helsinki where visitors can enjoy a true taste of Finnish culture. One of the oldest public saunas in the city is Kotiharjun Sauna, which has been operating since 1928. This authentic wood-fired sauna offers a rustic and cozy atmosphere, perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
But why is sauna such an important part of Finnish culture? For Finns, sauna is more than just a place to relax and unwind – it is a way of life. Sauna is seen as a place to cleanse the body and mind, and many Finns believe that regular sauna bathing is essential for maintaining good health and well-being. It is also a social activity, with families and friends often coming together to enjoy a sauna session and share stories and laughter.
So if you find yourself in Helsinki, don’t miss the opportunity to try out this uniquely Finnish experience. Whether you choose a modern sauna complex like Löyly or a traditional public sauna like Kotiharjun, you are sure to have a relaxing and rejuvenating experience that you won’t soon forget. Helsinki’s rich sauna culture is truly a must-try experience for anyone visiting this vibrant and diverse city.
