Sentos in Kyoto with César and Sanjiro
Asia
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Documentary, Independent, Travel, 17-Jul-2025
Explore the fascinating world of Japan's traditional public bathhouses, known as "sento" (literally meaning "penny bath"), through the lens of two passionate advocates working to preserve this centuries-old cultural institution in modern Japan.
We follow French illustrator and designer César Debargue, currently in Kyoto as part of the Villa Kuya artistic residency, as he documents sento culture through his collaborative book project "Ukigumo" (Floating Clouds). Debargue shares his personal journey of discovering these communal spaces as an exchange student and how they helped him forge meaningful connections in Japanese society.
We then introduce Sanjiro Minato, a legendary figure in the sento world who exemplifies dedication to cultural preservation. At just 24 years old, Minato made the decision to quit his job and take over Umeyu, a beloved bathhouse facing closure. Through relentless effort, he achieved what many thought impossible: turning the business profitable and becoming a beacon of hope for the industry. While many sento owners attempt to attract younger generations through modern renovations, Minato advocates for preserving the historical character of these buildings, viewing them as irreplaceable community assets that have served neighborhoods for 50 to 100 years. His company's mission is clear: preventing sento from disappearing entirely from Japan.
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