Northern Virginia boasts a wellness treasure not available in many parts of the country: a collection of authentic Korean spas and bathhouses. These jimjilbang — as they’re known in Korean — offer an experience far beyond your typical day spa.
Korean spas elevate wellness to an art form. Beyond standard treatments, they feature an array of therapeutic water baths and pools maintained at varying temperatures Many have multiple saunas ranging from dry heat to steam rooms, full-service restaurants, and offer specialized spa services.
The beauty of most Korean spas lies in their flexibility. You can purchase a day pass and drift between amenities at your leisure (though treatments should be booked ahead of time). Note that the bathhouse areas are gender segregated. And in some facilities, clothing is actually prohibited in the bathhouse.
These three Korean spas in Northern Virginia each have their own character and standout features. Consider this your invitation to try all three and discover your personal favorite.
King Spa
King Spa has several distinctive features including a heated bade pool, which is a common aspect of traditional spas in Korea. The warm water is a therapeutic venue for breathing and soaking that is intended to heal and relax. There is also an outdoor Hinoki bath, which allows for a soothing, scented soaking experience. Keep in mind that in the classic Korean bathhouse section of the spa nudity is required. It is divided into different sections for men and women. The spa’s restaurant sells smaller snacks as well as larger plates like Korean rice cake soup and japchae. Be sure to try one of their housemade smoothies. 25330 Eastern Marketplace Plz., Chantilly
Parkside Spa & Sauna
Parkside has all the hallmarks of a great Korean spa: bathhouses, saunas, steam rooms, hot and cold tubs for plunging, and massages. They are known for their body scrubs which offer a full body exfoliation utilizing a loofah that has a sandpaper-like texture. Note their bath pools do not permit any attire, but the rest of the spa is co-ed and allows for clothing. Mom’s Diner, located inside the spa, serves bibimbap, kimbap, veggie dumplings, kimchi pancakes, and more Korean treats. 4371 John Marr Dr., Annandale
Spa World
Spa World has an entire water therapy program. The facility features specialized baths with experiences like a water jet wall which massages your upper body, a hydro jet with pressurized water to massage various parts of your body, and bubble jet pool which provides relaxation and is great for your skin. 13830 Braddock Rd., A10, Centreville
Feature image courtesy King Spa
