The alluring aroma of pancakes at Hakone Kowakien Yunessun—a resort in Japan already well known for its ramen baths—doesn’t lead guests to the kitchen. Instead, it takes them to syrup-scented “hot cake baths” designed for breakfast-themed relaxation. As Kotaku reports, the tubs were built in honor of Morinaga hot cake mix’s 60th anniversary. Though there's no actual pancake mix in the baths, they are filled with vanilla and maple-infused water that’s refreshed with syrup three times a day. And while brown isn’t usually a desirable color for hot tub water, in this case, the shade is intentional. Culinary spa experiences are a running theme at Hakone Kowakien Yunessun. In the past they’ve debuted baths meant to evoke ramen, green tea, and red wine. Their latest installment is open to guests from now through April 25.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 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.
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. 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 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. 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.In addition to our handcrafted cedar hot tubs, Forest Lumber & Cooperage offers premium outdoor soaking tubs. The smaller size of the Japanese soaking tubs provides the opportunity to change the water more often, eliminating the need for harsh chemicals. Since soaking tubs hold less water than a hot tub, the heat-up time is shorter. The soaking tubs do not come with jets, so they are quiet and relaxing. The therapeutic value of these tubs lies in soaking in the hot water. Our soaking tubs can reside indoors or outdoors. If used indoors, a tiled floor or concrete floor with a drain or shower pan set up is necessary. The tubs also require ventilation for any steam that builds up. Outdoor installation on a deck or patio requires no extra consideration for spilling water. You can heat Forest Lumber & Cooperage soaking tubs using one of three methods: 1. Electrically with a 1.5 kw Balboa digitally controlled heater, 50 sq. ft. filter and small 1/8 hp circulating pump.
This equipment will work from a 20 amp, 110 volt GFCI wall plug. 2. The Chofu external wood stove heats the water in 1 to 2 hours. No pump is required because of the thermo-siphoning principle. We do not recommend Chofu heaters for our larger tubs, due to slow heat-up times. 3. If you have a large water tank or supply of solar heated water, fill the tub directly from the tap. We currently offer two different styles of soaking tubs, including our round and oval designs. Our round soaking tubs are 4 ft in diameter and either 3 ft high (32” deep) or 4 ft high (44” deep). The 4×3 designs hold approximately 250 gallons while the 4×4 holds 340 gallons. Each round tub will come with two benches to accommodate up to two people. The oval soaking tubs provide an elegant shape for comfort similar to an extra-large bath. This design comes in a one or two person model and has up to a 125 gallon capacity. Two person oval soaking tubs are 64” long, 34” wide and 26” deep.