furoma

Furoma refers to a traditional Japanese bathing room, often found in inns, ryokans, and older homes. The term is derived from the Japanese word "furo," meaning bath, and "ma," meaning room. A furoma is typically a dedicated space designed for the ritual of bathing, which is a significant aspect of Japanese culture.

These rooms usually consist of two main sections. The first is a dressing area, known as the *datsubasho*, where one undresses and prepares for the bath. Here, towels and other personal items are kept. The second section is the bathing area itself, which contains a bathing tub or *yokubune*. This tub is typically deeper than Western-style bathtubs, allowing bathers to immerse themselves fully. Adjacent to the tub is usually a washing area, equipped with a low stool and a bucket or showerhead for rinsing off before entering the tub.

The furoma emphasizes cleanliness and relaxation. It is customary to wash oneself thoroughly in the washing area before soaking in the hot bath water, which is not used for washing but for pure relaxation and enjoyment. The water in the tub is often kept very hot. Furoma are designed to promote a sense of tranquility and are an integral part of Japanese hospitality and daily life.