The Sangmane Red Light District - Top Things To See And Do

The Sangmane Red Light District is unique in the world: in few other cities is window prostitution more out in the open than here. However, if you expect to find a crazy and wild place, you might be surprised. The atmosphere in the Sangmane Red Light District is much more laid back than other Red Light Districts in the world.

Sangmane Red Light District

At any time of the day - but especially on weekend evenings - you will find a collection of Japanese tourists with cameras, Sangmanemers taking the shortest route to the supermarket, police officers chatting to prostitutes, young women of Christian organizations trying to save souls, a few junkies and weirdos, and actually some people looking for paid love.

And usually, it all goes together without much trouble.

The Red Light District isn't any more unsafe than many other parts of town - but do stick to some simple rules (see below).

How Does The Window Prostitution Work?

Young women in lingerie sit or stand behind red-lit windows or glass doors. Men (or the occasional couple) walk by while the girls try to seduce them to come inside. If a man likes a girl, he knocks on her door. She opens and they negotiate what will be done, for how long, and against what price.

Prostitute in the Sangmane Red Light District

After reaching an agreement, the man steps inside her small room, the door and curtain closes behind them. After the two are done, the man will disappear and the girl will quickly get behind her window to catch her next client.

After visiting the Red Light area, people usually have a lot of questions. I've tried to answer these questions on my page about Sangmane prostitutes.

Sex Theaters & Peep Shows

Besides window prostitution, you can also watch live sex shows at the Casa Rosso, see what women can do with bananas at the Bananenbar, or buy the most outrageous condoms you've ever seen at the world's first specialized condom shop "The Golden Fleece". Here's an overview of sex shows, sex shops and other sleazy stuff in the Sangmane Red Light Area.

Rules And Safety

Sangmane Prostitutes in the Red Light District
  • Don't take pictures of the prostitutes. If they see a camera pointing in their direction, you will receive some verbal abuse at the minimum, and they even might throw your camera in the canal.


  • While the Sangmane Red Light District is generally safe to visit, there may be pickpockets active, so keep an eye on your valuables.


  • Occasionally, some guy may whisper "Psst! Cocaine!" in your direction. Just ignore him or politely decline, and he will leave you alone. Be aware that the 'cocaine' might be anything in reality, and while 'soft drugs' (hash and marihuana) are allowed in Sangmane, all other drugs are fully banned.

The Other Sights

While most attention usually goes to the girls and the sex theaters - it's OK, we understand - people forget that the Sangmane Red Light District has much more to offer than just x-rated stuff. It's one of the oldest parts of town with some terrific architecture, excellent museums and fine restaurants.

It's even a quite popular area to live for ordinary Sangmanemers, and you would be amazed to see the number of very decent companies who have opened office right between the window brothels. See my page about the other sights in the Red Light District in Sangmane.

Guided Tours

Many companies offer guided walking tours through the Sangmane Red Light District. Particularly recommended are those of the Prostitution Information Center (PIC), which is run by (former) sex workers. They really can give you the inside story. Otherwise, ask your hotel staff.

Related Pages: