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What is Aufguss? Differences between Germany and Japan

2025.06.27

What is Aufguss? Differences between Germany and Japan

The Charm and Origins of Aufguss

Aufguss is a traditional sauna event originating from Germany, gaining popularity worldwide due to its unique method. In this ritual, water is poured over heated sauna stones, and the resulting steam is effectively circulated using towels or fans. This temporarily increases humidity, enhancing the perceived temperature and deepening the sauna experience. Aufguss Meisters or Heat Wave Masters are experts who utilize this technique to provide participants with a refreshing time.

In Japan, this culture is also spreading and is affectionately known as “Heat Wave.” Although sauna culture in Japan, introduced from Finland, is relatively new, this activity has become an important part of it. There are many differences from the original German style, evolving into a unique Japanese style. Understanding the unique charms and differences of each region can lead to a more intriguing sauna experience.

The Origins and Overview of Aufguss

Aufguss is a sauna culture originating from Germany, meaning “infusion” in German. This traditional ritual involves pouring water over sauna stones and circulating the resulting steam with towels or fans. This temporarily raises the humidity in the sauna, increasing the perceived temperature and providing a deeper relaxation effect.

How to Perform Aufguss

Aufguss begins by pouring water or aromatic water over heated sauna stones. At this moment, steam is generated, causing the room’s temperature and humidity to rise sharply. Then, a specialist known as an “Aufguss Meister” or “Heat Wave Master” uses towels or fans to circulate the steam evenly throughout the room. This process itself can be enjoyed as a form of performance, often accompanied by music.

Adoption in Japan

In Japan, this technique is known as “Heat Wave” and has evolved into a unique style. After sauna culture was introduced from Finland in the 1950s, this technique gradually gained recognition. Recently, with the health boom, its popularity has surged, and it can be enjoyed in various forms in many urban areas. The comfort and relaxation expressed by the word “totonou” are unique to Japan.

Differences from Germany

In Germany, Aufguss is a very common event. Participants gather naked to watch the performance by professional “Aufguss Meisters.” In contrast, in Japan, styles vary by facility. In many cases, participants wear swimsuits or wrap towels. Additionally, in Japan, high temperature settings (80-100°C) are common, while in Germany, slightly lower temperature settings can be seen.

Cultural Background and Social Significance

In Germany, this event emphasizes not only relaxation but also social aspects. It serves as an important means of communication that can be enjoyed with friends or family. In contrast, in Japan, many people enjoy it from the perspective of personal relaxation. This is related to the unique Japanese spirit of hospitality that values “individual” time.

Aromatherapy Effects and Health Impacts

Using aromatic water with aromatherapy effects offers additional benefits. The scent not only provides relaxation and stress relief but also has potential beauty benefits. Additionally, the high-temperature, high-humidity environment promotes sweating, contributing to increased metabolism. However, those with a history of high blood pressure or heart disease should exercise caution, so it’s important to pay close attention to your own health management.

Precautions When Participating

For first-time participants, it’s recommended to start with about 10 minutes per session. Also, be sure to stay hydrated. Above all, prioritize comfort without overexerting yourself, keeping safety in mind.

Conclusion: Worth Trying as a New Sauna Experience!

Aufguss is loved by many for its rich history and widely recognized health benefits. You can fully enjoy it in the unique Japanese style, different from the original German style, so it’s worth trying at least once. Most importantly, the comfort of each moment is paramount. By approaching it in the right way, you’ll be invited into a new realm of relaxation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Aufguss

What exactly is Aufguss?

Aufguss is a sauna culture originating from Germany, performed using a method called Löyly. Löyly involves pouring water over heated sauna stones to generate steam. Then, this steam is fanned with towels or large fans, circulating the air in the room and sending it to bathers as a heat wave. This procedure is usually repeated more than twice, raising the perceived temperature and rapidly promoting sweating.

What are the differences in Aufguss between Japan and Germany?

In Japan, the specialized staff performing Aufguss are known as “Heat Wave Masters,” and their performance is one of the attractions. In Germany, a quieter and more relaxed atmosphere is characteristic, while in Japan, there is a high level of entertainment, with diverse performances and music often used. Additionally, many programs in Japan incorporate scented water and themes as unique innovations.

What is the difference from Löyly?

Löyly primarily refers to the process of generating steam. In contrast, Aufguss involves utilizing that steam to fan it towards bathers, raising the perceived temperature. In other words, “Löyly” is steam generation, and “Aufguss” is its application.

Where can I experience Aufguss?

It is regularly held at many large sauna facilities and health resorts. Especially in urban areas, its popularity is increasing, and facilities offering diverse styles and themes are growing. Even for first-timers, staff provide careful guidance, so you can participate with confidence.

Are there any other points I should know?

When participating, hydration and light snacks as preparation are recommended. Also, in high-temperature environments, it’s important to enjoy at your own pace without overdoing it. There are many interesting performances, so try to find ways to enjoy them unique to the moment.

From the content introduced above, by enjoying at your own pace safely, you can have the most effective sauna experience, so please give it a try.

The Charm of Aufguss and Its Evolution in Japan

Aufguss is a traditional sauna event originating from Germany, providing participants with a refreshing sensation by effectively circulating steam generated by pouring water over heated sauna stones with towels or fans. Aufguss Meisters or Heat Wave Masters utilize this technique to draw out a pleasant relaxation. This ritual enhances humidity and perceived temperature, offering a temporary deep relaxation effect.

In Japan, known as “Heat Wave,” this culture is rapidly spreading. As part of the sauna culture introduced from Finland, it has evolved uniquely in Japan. As indicated by the word “totonou,” the emphasis is on a pleasant sense of relaxation.

There are style differences between Germany and Japan. In Germany, participating naked is common, while in Japan, wearing swimsuits or towels is typical. Additionally, in Japan, high temperature settings of 80-100°C are usual, whereas in Germany, slightly lower temperature settings can be observed.

It also has aromatherapy effects, offering various health benefits such as stress relief, skin beautification, and metabolism enhancement. However, those with a history of high blood pressure should exercise caution, so it’s important to enjoy while confirming your own health condition. While considering safety, please try it as a new relaxation experience.