Historic Panama Hotel Tea & Coffee House

The Historic Panama Hotel built in 1910 by Sabro Ozasa, a Japanese Architect and graduate of the University of Washington. Through the years it has served as a home for generations of Japanese immigrants, Alaskan fisherman and International travelers. The building houses the only remaining Japanese Bathhouse (Sento) left in tact in the United States. These Facilities served generations of Seattle’s Japanese community until closing its doors in 1950, and has remained preserved as it was to this day.


The Panama Hotel was built as a “workingman’s” hotel, and is centrally located in Seattle's Historic International District, very close to downtown and the stadiums.  What the hotel lacks in amenities it makes up in charm.  The brick outer facade opens up into a steep stairway flanked by bright brass handrails and illuminated by recessed lighting reflecting off of smooth tile.  It reminds us of classic Hollywood.  The rooms are small with personal sinks and white linens.  There are separated men and women’s bathrooms for each floor that are shared among approximately five rooms.  Residents of the hotel are serviced with daily maid service and a central lounge.  There is parking nearby although not covered in the hotels rate.  Currently the hotel serves as a Historic place to stay while visiting Seattle and porthole view into Seattle’s  past and present.