Japanese bathing is a traditional practice that emphasizes cleanliness and relaxation. It typically involves two main steps: washing and soaking. Bathers first cleanse their bodies thoroughly at a washing station, using a handheld shower or a stool, before entering a communal or private bath, often filled with hot water. This process ensures that the bathwater remains clean for everyone. The most common type of bath in Japan is the onsen, which is a natural hot spring. Another popular option is the sento, a public bathhouse that uses heated tap water. Both settings provide a serene environment for relaxation and socialization.