Japan Travelogue Series: Bathing in Japan

The Japanese bathing culture have specific rules when bathing at an onsen or hot springs, public baths, or even having a relaxing soak in a tub at home. For many Japanese, bathing is more than cleansing the body, it’s akin to a meditative practice.

Japanese culture exhibits ties between water and religion. Many Japanese wash their hands and mouth as a customary behavior when they enter the grounds of a shrine. A Japanese legend tells us how the deities Izanagi and Izananami created the world. Izanagi bathed to purify himself after descending into the land of the dead upon the death of his wife. The other deities were created from the tears he shed, the drops from his wet body, and his clothes.

Japanese bathing ritual come in two phases, the cleanse and the soak.

The Cleanse

The cleanse is the first step. The body is usually cleansed in a separate area usually a small shower, before proceeding into the bathtub to soak. The main idea is to always clean the body before entering the bath.

The Soak

Soaking is a wonderful way to relax after a long day. It’s the perfect time to collect yourself and get some “me” time.

Bathing in a public Japanese bath or hot spring is most often done in the nude. When travelling to Japan and experiencing this part of the unique Japanese culture, always keep in mind the essential steps in the Japanese bathing culture.