Ofuro (Japanese Bathing Custom)

Some Japanese usually take a shower especially during summer, but also a number of them, young or busy, still find time to soak in their bathtub to relax almost everyday. A bath before going to bed is one of the relaxing moments one can experience. While soaking, people would also find time to do other things which can make their relaxation worthwhile such as reading a book.

Are you wondering what is the origin of the ofuro’s unique charm?

For Japanese people, taking a bath is not only done for the purpose of cleaning oneself but to also wash away the fatigue and relax both the physical and mental state. In Japan, it is a general practice to enter the bath before going to sleep, but it is also said that this custom is rooted to their consciousness of not wanting to enter their futon with a dirty body.