The 'bandai' is not only for collecting the entrance fees, but also for supervising its running, and keeping a general watch over the whole area. An attendant sits there facing into the bathing area to ensure no other money-making activities take place.
It is usually around 130cm in height depending on the locality, and many bandai in the Tokyo area have their own characteristic blindfold decorated with a cloud-shaped engraving. These are said to have been made by the builders during construction just for fun! | ||
![]() Bandai (clerk's box) | ![]() (umbrella stand) | |
![]() (engravings) |