One of the most popular types of bathtub on the market these days is the Japanese bathtub, as people look to install bathroom fittings that are a little bit different from the ordinary. A Japanese bathtub is essentially a soaking tub, and most people understand this. However many people do not know how to really use a Japanese bathtub in order to have the proper Japanese bathing experience. This article will give some pointers how to really take a Japanese bath and get the most out of your Japanese soaking tub.

The first thing to know is that traditionally a Japanese bath is not used for washing, but is only used for soaking after the person has washed themselves. In a traditional Japanese bathroom floor of the bathroom would be tiled and would have a drain to enable water to drain away while the person walked themselves outside of the bathtub. The usual way of washing was to use bowls of hot water which would be poured over the body, although in modern times the bowls have been replaced by a shower. So if you want to have a real Japanese bathing experience the first thing you need to do is forget about having soap in the bathtub and find some way of washing yourself before you get in…

The next thing to know is that water for a traditional Japanese bath should be much hotter than it is in the West. Since the tub is used for soaking, the water should be heated to a temperature that you may find slightly uncomfortable at first, but which really does help to relax tired muscles and also helps to pack the body with heat so that even a cold winter night can feel extremely bearable even when the room is not a particularly warm. The first time you try this you may feel very uncomfortable indeed, but after you have tried it for a few times you'll find it is an extremely relaxing experience…

Finally, for many Japanese one soak is not enough. After soaking for several minutes and getting warm, it is a traditional thing to do to get out of the bath, wash again, and then get back in the bath for an extra soak in order to really relax the muscles. After spending so much time in hot water your body will be so relaxed that you will only need to have a cup of sake with your evening meal and you will be ready to fall asleep… on a futon off course!