Cultural Rituals: Japan

If you're someone who enjoys taking baths, you probably already appreciate the many benefits of a good soak. Whether it's for solitude, relaxation, skincare or tranquility, bathing is widely regarded as a luxurious experience. 

In Japan, however, bathing transcends personal indulgence to become a crucial part of everyday and communal life. The practical and methodical manner in which the Japanese approach bathing brings numerous advantages for both physical health and mental wellness. Regardless of your personal affinity for baths, there's much to learn from Japan's distinctive bathing culture.

Did you know that in Japan, it's customary to thoroughly cleanse your body before entering the bath?

This ritual, whether in a communal bathhouse or a private tub, is seen as a way to purify the mind. It's a form of active meditation, helping to clear worries and regain focus. Consequently, the bathwater, which is meant to soothe the mind, must remain pure. This tradition, dating back 2000 years, is rooted in Buddhist practices and the numerous natural hot springs found throughout the volcanic islands.

The 3 types of Japanese Baths

Onsen (温泉)

These are hot spring baths usually situated in regions with natural geothermal activity. Onsens can be enjoyed both outdoors (rotenburo) and indoors. The water in an onsen is naturally heated and often rich in minerals, which are thought to offer health benefits. As with other Japanese baths, it's essential to wash thoroughly before entering an onsen to maintain the purity of the water. Onsens are favored spots for relaxation and are frequently found in ryokan (traditional inns) or resort complexes.

Sento (銭湯)

These are public bathhouses where patrons pay an entry fee to bathe. Sento are commonly located in neighborhoods throughout Japan and typically feature separate bathing sections for men and women. The bathing routine includes washing your body at a designated station before soaking in the communal bath. Sento can differ in scale and design, from basic setups to more sophisticated establishments offering a variety of baths and amenities.

Ofuro (お風呂)

This is a traditional Japanese bathtub commonly found in homes. It is generally deeper than Western bathtubs and designed for soaking rather than washing. The customary practice involves thoroughly washing and rinsing your body before entering the ofuro to keep the water clean. The ofuro is intended for relaxation and stress relief.

In Practice

Every night, about two hours before going to bed, dedicate some time solely to yourself. Begin by leaving your worries behind. Next, thoroughly cleanse and rinse your skin with soap and exfoliating towels. This ritual is typically carried out in the antechambers of the baths, where you sit on small stools and use basins made of hinoki wood (Japanese cypress). Only after these purification steps can you start to relax in the hot bathwater. A 10-minute soak at around 39°C is perfect for boosting the immune system. Enhance the experience with purifying bath salts, which offer numerous benefits for the skin, muscles, and joints.

Cleanse Selection:

Indulge in a tranquil bath experience with Himalayan Pink Salts. This soothing mixture is enhanced by the gentle detoxification of the body through Himalayan Pink Salt crystals, offering a genuinely serene at-home-spa for the senses.