Tips and etiquette for gyms in Japan
Japan is a country of rules and etiquette in public space such as gyms. Please read through before going to the gym.
Tattoo: Almost all of gyms in Japan do not like to see Tatoo no matter how small it is. In some cases, they would ask you to leave if you have one. So please make sure to hide it with long sleeve shirts and pants if you have one.
ID check: Most gyms ask you for ID check for day pass (Passport is the best for int’l travelers)
Visitor: In Japan, one day use at gym is called “Visitor”. They do NOT use the term “Day pass” or “Casual”. As most of gym staff do not speak English, the easiest way to explain at the gym is to say “Visitor” showing your passport (ID check)
Locker: All gyms provide a small locker with the key so that you can keep your valuables
Shoes: Some gyms do not allow your “outside shoes” to be used it in the gym (your have to bring your gym shoes). This is not a strict rule (and you do not need to ask) but you should be discreet.
Towel: Only a few upmarket gyms provide the towel. You need to bring your own towel.
Mobile phone: You are not allowed to bring your mobile in the gym. You need to keep it in the locker. Also it is not allowed to take a photo or video in the gym for privacy reason.
Busy time: Japan is a highly concentrated society. Many gyms are very crowded between 18.00-20.00 (sometimes shocking level)
Location: In Japan many gyms are in the buildings and sometimes it is hard to find even with Google map in hand. Make sure the address and its floor before you get lost.
Payment for day pass: Most of local gyms accept only cash in Japanese yen (no credit card). Major gyms Gold’s Gyms accepts the credit card.
Public gyms: They are run by local governments and very cheap compared with private gyms but usually facilities are not great and often you have to take a safety lessen (explanation of facilities) in advance for 20 min or fill in the form. It is not friendly system for international tourists.
1 day free trial: Some gyms have a special program; one day free trial. It is to entice the customers for monthly subscription but tourists can benefit from it sometimes, but it is better not to expect it. As soon as they find out you are an international traveler (no chance to be a member), then it would be awkward (I have had this moment a few times).
Opening hours: Opening day and hour change. Please check each gym’s website before going. If you want to make sure in advance, send us the request from below form. We can check it for you.
Anytime Fitness: If you are Anytime Fitness member in your home country, you can use the 600+ Anytime Fitness gyms in Japan for free with the same security key for entrance (no need to make a special request). You can use in the same way as you do in your home country. Please check here for Anytime Fitness in convenient locations for tourists.
Popular tours in Tokyo
Question ?
If you have any questions about gyms on this website or want to make sure if it is open, please let us know. We will check it for you.