Many people bathe every day, not only to stay clean but to soothe tired muscles, ease tension, promote circulation of the blood, and keep the skin youthful. Communication between parents and young children improves when they bathe together. And when bathing alone, some people come up with good ideas that they wouldn't come up with anywhere else. The Japanese bath consists of two parts - a deep tub and a tiled washing area. Then, after a good soaking in the tub, return to the washing area again to soap down and rinse.
Some people spend a considerable time soaking and rinsing.
Bathing customs have given rise to a number of inventions. Steam baths were popular in ancient Japan, and the current style of bathing became common only in the early 19th century. The stools have evolved since then. Up until about 30 years ago they were generally made of wood, but today most are plastic, like this one. The hole in the middle lets the water drain away.