Bathing rituals are a cornerstone of Japanese culture, dating back thousands of years. There are various types of bathing rituals, each of them associated with a different style of bathing, including Japanese bathtubs (known as ofuro or furo), public baths (sento), and hot springs (onsen).
Ofuro is a style of deep bathtub used for soaking. The intention of ofuro is not to thoroughly clean oneself; the intent is to relax and warm the body, as well as to stimulate one’s circulatory system. Typically, one washes oneself before stepping into the ofuro for a hot soak. A traditional ofuro is constructed of hinoki wood, and is 25 – 27 inches deep; nowadays, however, these bathtubs may be made from stainless steel or plastic.
Bathing in an ofuro is accompanied by a particular set of etiquette rules. The most important of this is to bathe one’s body prior to entering the ofuro. This also rule applies to bathing in other settings, such as in public baths and hot springs, where bathers will bathe naked – clothes and towels are not permitted in or directly around these baths.
Although the popularity of these traditional bathing rituals has waned with younger generations, they continue to be an important element of Japanese life.
