If you ever find yourself visiting or passing through Japan, you should try out their Japanese bath tubs. These tubs, known in Japan as ofuros, are as significant to the culture as sushi, sashimi, or ramen. Ofuros can be found all around Japan, in homes, hotels, and even in public baths.
Being immersed in bath water takes away tension, stress, and alleviates all types of muscle pain that the body is experiencing. The Japanese even have a saying: Mizu-no-Kokoro, which translates to mind like water. This saying simply means having a peaceful state of being that is in agreement with everything. It is interesting to note though that the Japanese do not really wash themselves in these tubs; the rule is to wash before getting into the tub.
The Japanese bathtub is deeper than the typical Western bath tubs. This gives you more room to move around in. Furthermore, the size of the tub lets you immerse your entire body in bath water. Japanese bath tubs can withstand high temperatures, and the heat of the water in the tub endears you to it more.
The popularity of the Japanese bathtub has since spread around the world.Traditional ofuros are made out of wood, and the modern day ones are made of acrylic and have a heater and a re-circulation system installed in them. You can also purchase bath tubs modeled after the Japanese bath tubs anywhere in the world.
In Japan, public bathhouses can be found at almost every street, and you will notice right away that nudity isn’t a big deal. The normal practice is for the men and women to be segregated and everyone be only partially clothed. The only material they bring around to cover themselves is a small white towel, which is usually part of the package. This is no big deal for the Japanese, but not all bathhouses require you to be completely nude while taking a dip in the ofuro. It is interesting to note though that the Japanese do not really wash themselves in these tubs. The Japanese tradition is to wash before getting into the tub.
Japanese bath tubs are sometimes used to socialize with other people. If you have an ofuro at home, it can become a gathering place and an entertainment area for small parties. The guests can relax and rejuvenate their body and soul in the bath water and forget about whatever worries they brought along.
If you’re ever in Japan, try to experience this part of their culture. You will not have a difficult time finding a public bath, and if you aren’t sure where to go, just ask any Japanese person for directions, and they will be more than happy to point you in the right direction.
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