Ofuro Soaking Tubs – The Art Of Japanese Bathing

Ofuro Soaking Tubs – The Art Of Japanese Bathing

Ofuro prices start as low as $1900. Ofuro Soaking Tubs originate from Japan where bathing is not just a bath but rather a spiritual ritual. The Ofuro bathing practice differs from North American and European bath tubs, Ofuro bath tubs are ‘zen’ like providing a sensual pleasure and a feeling of well-being and harmony with the natural surroundings, perhaps in a garden or spiritual landscape. Japanese bath tubs help to restore mental and spiritual well-being by providing a private relaxation space, and they promote good health by stimulating circulation.

The mechanics of an Ofuro Soaking Tub require a deep chin down soak which means the tub is a deeper tub than normal bath tubs. Traditionally Japanese soak in very hot water heated by means of a quiet non-electrical Wood Fired Hot Tub Heaters. The thick cedar construction of our Ofuro’s means that the tub will maintain its heat much longer than a regular tub. Our ‘Fuoro Tubs” are made of clear Western Red Cedar which is a close cousin to the traditional cypress wood used in Japan. Red Cedar has the distinct advantage of being naturally resilient to decay and bacteria. It also is known for its high insulating value. The pleasant aromatherapy of cedar heightens the experience! Our tubs use an architectural stainless steel strap system which allows the tub to naturally expand and contract with out worrying about the wood splitting.

Ofuro Soaking Tubs – Traditional  Bathing Practice

The Japanese Soaking Tub bath meant much more that just getting oneself clean. After shedding one’s clothes and daily concerns, they then lathered, scrubbed and rinsed thoroughly before entering the tub. Once the body was clean, they then stepped into the Tub sinking slowly into the deep, pure and clean hot water. Soaking, submerged to the chin, it is a time for relaxation and contemplation. Soaps and shampoos are not typically used although mineral salts and light fragrant oils are often added.

Ofuro Hot Soaking Tub Specification

Northern Lights Cedar Tubs manufactures three distinct styles of Ofuro’s. One is a larger oval tub that is perfect for a two person soaking hot tub, the other two designs are smaller round Ofuro tubs that are meant for either one or two persons sizes (50″ or 42″). All our  tubs have 25″ of interior height (30″ exterior height) which is an ideal depth to provide a full body soak while still being able to enjoy the visual surroundings.

Japanese ofuro soaking tubs can also be installed indoors. However because there are no liner we suggest proper tiled floor drains or a shower basin be installed. Most people like their Japanese hot tub very hot so one should also consider proper ventilation for steam. Garden or deck hot tubs settings require very little consideration other than heating method.

Three heating choices are available including the traditional wood fired hot tub heater, propane or gas heater, and our electric hot tub heating system. The electric hot tub heater comes with a quiet circulating pump, 1.5 Kw digital heater with LED controller and a 50sq.ft. filter. This system can be used for those that want to enjoy more of a traditional spa style usage without the frequent draining (mineral sanitization option should be selected). Of course you can always fill with hot tap water if your water tank is large enough!

All tubs come fully assembled with a standard center positioned stainless steel drain that connects to any 1 1/2″ PVC drain pipe (other positions available on request). Optional accessories include matching stairs, shelf, back rests, and insulated covers with child -proof locks.

These tubs can be heated in one of three ways:

  1. Lots of wood? Use our wood fired hot tub heaters! Because of the smaller volume of water these tubs can be heated in about 1-2 hour, with only the cost of wood.
  2. Our electric heating system comes with a 1.5 KW Balboa digital spa pack and a 1/8 HP circulating pump & filter. This system allows bathers to control the temperature with the touch of a button. The filter system helps keep the water clean without the need for frequent draining
  3. Use regular hot water from your tap. Because of the excellent insulating properties of the cedar wood, the tub will retain the heat much longer than any other style of soaker tub.

Source: http://www.cedartubs.com/

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