In Japan, baths aren’t just for getting clean—they are a way to relax and feel good. This is at the heart of Japanese bath customs. When you think of Japanese baths, you might picture soaking in a hot spring surrounded by beautiful nature.
According to Statista, about 110 million people visited hot springs (called onsen) in 2022. This shows how much people love this peaceful experience.
If you want to bring that relaxing feeling into your home, here are 10 Japanese bath accessories you should try.
Essential Japanese Bath Accessories
Japanese baths aren't just for cleaning—they help you relax and take care of yourself. Here are the top Japanese bath items that will make your bath feel like a peaceful retreat.
1. Ofuro (Japanese Soaking Tub)
The ofuro is a deep soaking tub that allows you to fully immerse yourself in warm water. Unlike regular bathtubs, an ofuro retains heat longer and creates a spa-like experience. Many are made from hinoki wood, which enhances the bath with its calming scent. Adding an ofuro to your bathroom can transform your space into a personal retreat.
Bartok Design makes amazing Japanese soaking tubs using hinoki wood. They use excellent cypress wood from Japan and make each tub just the right size for your space. Their tubs are made the traditional way, so you can have a relaxing and real Japanese bath experience.
Image Source: https://bartokdesign.com/0-blog_news/josenji-temple-kameyama-2-2.php
2. Imabari Towel
Imabari towels are famous for their softness, high quality, and excellent absorbency. They are made carefully using old, traditional methods. These towels are gentle on your skin. This makes them great for drying off after a nice, relaxing bath. You can find them in different sizes, like small hand towels or big bath towels, so there’s one for everyone.
Japarcana sells authentic Imabari towels made in Imabari City, Japan, often called the "Towel Capital" of the country. The store offers many sizes and styles, so you can easily find the perfect towel for you.
3. Hinoki Bath Stool
A hinoki bath stool is made from Japanese cypress wood, known for its fresh, natural scent and resistance to water. These stools are often used in Japanese baths to sit on while washing. Hinoki wood has antibacterial properties, which keep the stool clean and safe for daily use. Its soothing aroma also adds to the overall bath experience.
Irasshai store is known for making beautiful hinoki bath stools. They focus on creating eco-friendly products that are built to last and look great. Each stool is carefully designed to stay charming and strong, even with daily use in a damp bathroom.
Image Source: https://irasshai.store/products/hinoki-cypress-bath-stool
4. Wooden Bucket
A wooden bucket is a staple in Japanese baths. These buckets are typically used to scoop water over your body before entering the bath. Made from materials like cedar or hinoki wood, they are durable and add a traditional touch to your bathroom. The bucket’s natural wood grain also makes it a charming decor piece.
Tortoise General Store makes simple and beautiful Hinoki Bath Buckets. These buckets are made from a special type of wood called Japanese hinoki cypress. They smell fresh and don’t get moldy easily. You can use them to scoop warm water and pour it over yourself before relaxing in the bath.
5. Kishu Binchotan Charcoal
Kishu Binchotan charcoal is a unique Japanese product often used in bathwater. This type of charcoal purifies water which removes impurities and odors. Adding a piece of Binchotan charcoal to your bath can leave your skin feeling refreshed and hydrated. A simple yet effective way to improve your bathing experience.
Morihata International sells real Kishu Binchotan charcoal from Wakayama, Japan. Their charcoal is top quality and made in a way that’s good for the environment. You can use it to make your bath feel extra special.
6. Exfoliating Towel
Japanese exfoliating towels are long, textured cloths designed for scrubbing the body. They help remove dead skin cells and leave your skin feeling smooth. Unlike loofahs or sponges, these towels are easy to clean and dry quickly. You can choose from different levels of coarseness, depending on your skin’s sensitivity.
Salux is a famous brand for Japanese exfoliating towels. Their towels are long-lasting, work great, and come in different textures to fit all kinds of skin.
7. Soap Nets (Awa Tawashi)
Soap nets, or awa tawashi, are small nets used to create a rich lather from soap. They help you use less soap while still getting plenty of bubbles. These nets are a fun and practical accessory that adds a touch of Japanese efficiency to your bath routine. They’re especially useful for exfoliating the skin gently.
Muji makes simple and useful soap nets that are great for Japanese baths. These soap nets are easy to use, affordable, and built to last.
8. Kaisen Bath Salt
Bath salts are a key part of Japanese bathing rituals. Kaisen bath salts often contain minerals and essential oils that help relax muscles and soften skin. Some are infused with green tea or yuzu—a Japanese citrus fruit—for added benefits. Simply sprinkle them into your bathwater to enjoy a soothing soak.
Tabino Yado is a popular brand for bath salts inspired by Japanese hot springs. Their Kaisen Bath Salts let you enjoy the feel of real onsen (hot springs) at home with natural ingredients and nice scents.
Image Source: https://www.amazon.com/Japanese-Bath-Salt-Springs-Packages/
9. Aromatic Bath Oils
Aromatic bath oils are another way to elevate your Japanese bath experience. Oils like hinoki or camellia add a pleasant fragrance to your bathwater while moisturizing your skin. Just a few drops are enough to transform your bath into a relaxing oasis. These oils are often packaged beautifully which makes them a great gift option as well.
Shoyeido is known for its incense. They also make high-quality bath oils with hinoki and camellia scents. These oils help make your bath more relaxing and fun.
Image Source: https://shoyeido.com/
10. Yuzu Bath Bombs
Yuzu is a citrus fruit often used in Japanese baths during the winter. Yuzu bath bombs combine the fresh scent of this fruit with fizzy fun. They dissolve in water, releasing nourishing ingredients and a delightful aroma. These bath bombs are perfect for a relaxing evening or as a special treat.
Chidoriya makes handmade yuzu bath bombs with natural ingredients. Their bath bombs work well and come in pretty packaging. This makes them perfect for gifts or a special treat for yourself.
Image Source: https://www.chidoriyaworld.com/products/yuzu-bath-sachet
Final Words
Japanese bath accessories can make a regular bath feel special. Items like Imabari towels and scented oils each have a purpose and make your bath better. Using these accessories can help you relax and enjoy the calm of Japanese bathing traditions.
At Japarcana, we want you to experience the best Imabari towels, made with care and tradition. Our towels are soft, high-quality, and perfect for your bath. Take a look at our collection and find the right towel for you. Join the Japarcana family and enjoy the luxury of real Japanese towels!