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LIVING IN CHINA

Washed Up: Can Public Bathhouses Survive in Today’s Cities?

Once a blue-collar necessity, public bathhouses struggle to remain relevant in China’s cities today

In Hong Kong, Mr. Ning shares a 100-square-meter apartment with his wife, but his digs in Shanghai are far more impressive. In addition to several springs, and one outdoor pool, the ground floor boasts a sauna and steam room, the option of massage, a (rarely used) gym in the basement, and, upstairs, a buffet, two screening rooms, and countless cubicles for “relaxation.”

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Washed Up: Can Public Bathhouses Survive in Today’s Cities? is a story from our issue, “China Chic.” To read the entire issue, become a subscriber and receive the full magazine.

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Han Rubo is a contributing writer at The World of Chinese.

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