Namdaemun Market (2026) Guide: Best Bath & Sauna Essentials
Discover the best bath and sauna essentials at Seoul's bustling Namdaemun Market in 2026. Find celebrity-favorite shops and tips for a great visit!
Quick answer
- Find bath & sauna essentials on the basement levels of Namdaemun Market's Buildings D & E.
- Jungangsa offers scalp gua sha (₩2,000-₩3,000 (~$2-$2)) and massage balls (₩5,000 (~$4)).
- Buchang Sanghoe sells Jinsiline Brightening Salt (₩8,000 (~$6)) and peppermint scrub (₩12,000 (~$9)).
- Visit Namdaemun Market before 10 AM on weekends to avoid large crowds.
- The massage ball from Jungangsa is highly recommended for shoulders, arms, or calves.
I recently visited Namdaemun Market (남대문 시장), which has become quite a hot spot in Seoul! I went on October 24, 2026, a Saturday, and it was absolutely bustling with people. Today, I'm excited to share some of the fantastic bath and sauna essentials I picked up.
I found all my sauna and bath goodies on the basement level (B1F) of Buildings D and E.
My first stop was Jungangsa (중앙사), located in Building E.
This is actually where Korean celebrities like Choi Hwa-jung, Hwasa, and Han Hye-jin have reportedly shopped!
At Jungangsa, I picked up a scalp gua sha, a massage ball, and an 'elephant towel'.
[Jungangsa Prices]
Scalp Gua Sha: ₩2,000-₩3,000 (~$2-$2)
Massage Ball: ₩5,000 (~$4)
Elephant Towel: ₩2,000 (~$2)
My friends also bought some adorable Hello Kitty shopping bags from Jungangsa!
My favorite item from this haul has to be the massage ball!
You slip it onto your hand and use it to massage your shoulders, arms, or calves – it's incredibly refreshing! Highly recommended.
Next, I visited Buchang Sanghoe (부창상회), located on the basement level (B1F) of Building D.
Buchang Sanghoe also offered a wide array of items, including massage balls, combs, soaps, and Korean exfoliating mitts (tte-tawal).
I specifically came here to buy sauna salt and body scrub.
I purchased the famous Jinsiline Brightening Salt and a peppermint scrub.
I initially planned to buy the popular exfoliating soap (tte-binu), but the owner recommended the Dead Sea salt soap instead, so I bought two of those.
I also bought two exfoliating mitts (tte-tawal).
[Buchang Sanghoe Prices]
Jinsiline Brightening Salt: ₩8,000 (~$6)
Peppermint Scrub: ₩12,000 (~$9)
Dead Sea Salt Soap: ₩2,000 (~$2)
Exfoliating Mitt (Tte-Tawal): ₩2,000 (~$2)
Namdaemun Market turned out to be much more fun than I expected! However, it got increasingly crowded, making it a bit challenging to browse. I practically collapsed as soon as I got home, haha!
If you plan to visit Namdaemun Market on a weekend, I highly recommend going before 10 AM to beat the biggest crowds.
▼ Looking for a comfortable stay after a day of shopping? Check out the Shilla Stay Hotel in Seoul: ▼
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price of the massage ball purchased from Jungangsa on B1F, Building E, Namdaemun Market, and what uses are recommended for it?
The massage ball purchased from Jungangsa costs ₩5,000 (~$4). This massage ball is recommended for use by putting it on your hand to massage your trapezius, arms, and calves, as it provides a refreshing sensation.
Is there a specific reason for purchasing two Dead Sea salt soaps from Buchang Sanghoe on B1F, Building D?
Yes, I originally intended to buy exfoliating soap, but the owner of Buchang Sanghoe recommended the Dead Sea salt soap as being better. Therefore, I purchased two of these products.
Based on the experience of visiting Namdaemun Market on Saturday, October 24, what time is recommended for a weekend visit?
When I visited on Saturday, October 24, it was very crowded, making it difficult to look around. Therefore, if you plan to visit Namdaemun Market on a weekend, it is recommended to go before 10 AM.
Share this article
Related Travel Stories
Deungchon Shabu Kalguksu Seoul Station Review
Craving something warm and spicy near Seoul Station? Deungchon Shabu Kalguksu serves up an incredible 3-course hot pot experience that locals absolutely love.
Daemulseom Jongno Review: Best Aged Sashimi in Seoul
Discover Daemulseom Jongno, a vibrant seafood hotspot near Jongak Station famous for its premium aged flatfish sashimi, cozy semi-private rooms, and local charm.
Anto Resort Seoul Review 2026: Timber Junior Room Stay
Discover the ultimate peaceful escape in Seoul. Our review of the Timber Junior Room at Anto Resort covers room layout, amenities, and smart check-in tips.
TIEFE Cafe Sharosu-gil: A New Dessert Spot for Your Seoul Date 2026
Explore TIEFE, a charming new cafe in Sharosu-gil, perfect for dates. Indulge in unique desserts like cupcakes and financiers, paired with signature drinks.
Shimdo Hotel Seoul Review: Ryokan Vibes & Spa
Discover Shimdo Hotel & Spa in Seoul, a hidden gem offering private jacuzzi baths, traditional tatami tea rooms, and cozy ryokan vibes near Sillim Station.
Bistro de Yountville Seoul Review: Chic French Dining
Experience Paris in the heart of Gangnam. Our review of Bistro de Yountville covers the chic vibes, mandatory dinner wine policy, and booking tips.