Japanese Bathing Inspiration for Modern Wood Hot Tubs

by: Michael O’Brien

The simple task of bathing has been an important and integral part of daily life in Japan. For thousands of years the Japanese have made bathing an almost formal part of the cultural with a prescribed protocol and etiquette that is not to be taken lightly. The development of the ofuro or bathtub can be considered an important part of how modern wood hot tubs evolved in America during the nineteen sixties.

Normally crafted of fine, heart cut wood, the ofuro is not for bathing in the sense of washing away dirt and grime. In fact proper ofuro etiquette demands that the process of washing is done before entering the ofuro. The sole purpose of the ofuro is to wash away the tensions and worries of the day and rejuvenate the body and the spirit, much like the reasons for having your own wooden hot tub. It is not uncommon for the bathers to alternate between the hot water of the ofuro and a cold water rinse and then returning to the warmth of the tub. This practice can also be seen in the use of modern wooden hot tubs and even sauna baths.

The traditional construction of a Japanese ofuro uses and specific type of cypress called hinoki. Genuine hinoki has become very rare even in Japan so modern tubs may be made with certain varieties of cedar or cypress. Cypress can give off a sweet lemony fragrance that unfortunately does not last as the oils in the woods will dry and dissipate over time. The tubs themselves are typically square or rectangular in shape and designed to hold one to two people. The Japanese ofuro differs from bathtubs in the West by being deeper with square, steep sides. The depth of the tub allows the bather totally submerse themselves while sitting in an upright position. Even the modern fiberglass or acrylic designs now prevalent in Japan have maintained the shape of the traditional ofuro.

There are manufacturers who today offer ofuros that are built in the traditional wooded style and are maintained much like modern wood hot tubs. Some critics of reverting to wood designs is that the wood is likely to deteriorate over time as a result of the cycle of wet and dry and this will occur regardless of the type of wood used. The necessity to keep the tub clean and sanitary mandates that the water be drained and the tub cleaned. This causes the wood to dry out and shrink. In theory, filling the tub with water should cause the wood to swell and remain sealed. This is not always the case over time so alternative materials like acrylic and fiberglass have become popular options even in the modern Japanese home. Some makers of ofuros offer designs the incorporate the traditional look of wood with hi-tech coatings that overcome the problems associated with wood deterioration.

So it is not hard to see why modern wooded hot tubs became a popular spot to relax and socialize with the Japanese already setting the example for centuries. Modern hot tubs are maintained with the proper balance of required sanitizers and filtration. And since they remain filled with water there is less likelihood of damage to the wood that could result from the cycle of wet and dry. Still modern wood-designed ofuros can be a beautiful addition to any home and can reflect an appreciation for the centuries-old tradition of using the simple act of soaking in hot water to free the body and soul.

About the Author

Michael O’Brien