What is a japanese-inspired bathroom?
Discover the centuries-old secrets to creating a serene bathroom ritual
Japan has long been revered for its incredible design and its dedication to tradition – whether that be a tea ceremony, making a ceramic pot or, more intimately, having a self-care routine in the bathroom. Rooted in centuries-old traditions, the bathroomin Japan is seen as a space for relaxation, purification, and quiet reflection. By embracing Japanese design principles, you can transform your own bathroom into a calming retreat that promotes well-being and harmony.
The Japanese philosophy of bathing
The Ohtake collection freestanding tub is inspired by the Japanese ofuro bath
A hallmark of Japanese bathing culture is the ofuro—a deep, compact soaking bath designed for full-body immersion. The Ohtake bath, a new addition to the Ohtake collection, directly connects to this tradition. Its design is higher and more compact, like the ofuro, and its curving, wave-like design reflects the feeling of water and flow. The inside is specially designed to allow the option of sitting more upright, soothing muscles and mind.
Essential elements of a japanese-inspired bathroom
Nature is at the heart of Japanese design. To recreate atmosphere that is connected to the natural world, incorporate materials and organic textures such as warm woods or smooth stone. Consider the use of elegant wood finishes, from Nordic ash to dark oak to bring a sense of nature into the bathroom. Create a Japanese-inspired shower space using shower trays whose surface resembles the feel of soft stone on your feet. Japanese bathrooms often feature colors that reflect the outdoors—soft beiges, warm browns, muted greys, and greens. Finishes such as light gray or terracotta, or a forest green, are tones that create a calming backdrop and allow natural light to shine.
The curving shape of the Ohtake basin rests on the Ona base unit with two drawers with Ona’s close coupled WC in the background.
A white Ohtake basin complements a matt black Ona faucet and the Luna round mirror with perimetral lighting
A space for the senses
Japanese bathroom design draws heavily on Zen principles and the aesthetic of wabi-sabi—the appreciation of simplicity, imperfection, and the natural flow of life. The Ohtake basin perfectly encapsulates this concept. Its subtle curving form is inspired by the shape of an egg and softly rolling waves. The sculptural shape is inviting and harmonious, adding to a sense of peace and calm in the bathroom space. This philosophy invites us to slow down, find beauty in understated details, and create spaces that feel balanced and timeless.
Smart toilets
In-Wash® Insignia wall hung toilet has a convenient remote control
Bathing in Japan is not merely about hygiene—it is a ritual. The process often begins with cleansing the body outside the bath, allowing the bath itself to be dedicated solely to soaking and relaxation. Incorporating a smart toilet such as the In-Wash® Insignia or In-Wash® Ona, which feature self-cleaning technologies such as multi-spray nozzles and high-level drying functions, allows you to prepare accordingly for the bath. In this way, the bath becomes a moment to disconnect from the noise of everyday life and reconnect with oneself, both physically and mentally. Curious, but prefer to keep your standard toilet? The Multiclean® M-Series offers an easy way of transforming your standard toilet into a smart toilet so you can take advantage of the many unique functions.
Designing a Japanese-inspired bathroom is not about replicating tradition perfectly, but about capturing its essence—calm, respect for nature, and mindful living. With natural materials, a balanced layout, and an emphasis on sensory comfort, your bathroom can become more than a functional space. It can be your personal retreat, a place where you step in for cleanliness and emerge with renewed clarity and peace.