“KAMA-BURO” is still trendy bathing style!
Unique bath "KAMABURO" in Hakone Tenzan.
"ISHIBURO" in Kuga, Yamaguchi Prefecture.
There are two ways of enjoyment of bathing. “Onyoku” or hot water bathing is one. Another is a sauna form of the steam bath.
Original bath in Japan is said to be a steam bath but not hot water bath, which dates back to ancient or even in pre-historical years. The Japanese word “FURO” or bath is considered to be the same meaning of “MURO” or room. The “FURO” or bathroom was actually a small cave with a vent behind. In the old days, a hole that is large enough for a person, were dug into a rock. Branches were burnt inside, and then wet seaweed or straw mats wet in sea water were laid on top to create steam for the sauna. The “ISHIBURO”or stone bath in the Itsukushima Island is typical one among them. It is said that “KOBO-DAISHI”or Great Buddhist Priest Kobo created it. This style of bathing still exists in a few places in the Seto Inland Sea area.
Ancient Style "KAMABURO" in Yase, Kyoto.
“KAMABURO”or earthen pot bath in Yase, Kyoto is also the origin of Japanese bath in different kind. It dates back to the Battle of Jinshin in 672 A.D. in Japanese history. It is said that Prince Ohama (Later Emperor Tenmu) was wounded by an enemy’s arrow on his back in the battle. He bathed in “KAMABURO” to cure his arrow wound. People says that the name of place 八瀬（矢背）“YA-SE” or arrow-back originated from this event.
Modern style "KAMABURO" in Hakone Tenzan.
Modern “KAMABURO” is usually made of concrete and plaster mixture, sitting on top heat absorbing bricks. Burner flames heat up the bricks, when then heat up the “KAMA” or a pot. Bathers lay on straw mat placed on the floor in a pot. Occasionally water is sprinkled over the straw mat to maintain the temperature of approximately 50 degree Centigrade (120 degree Fahrenheit), for longer enjoyment.
The interior of "KAMABURO" in Hakone Tenzan.
This “KAMABURO” process is rarely used now, due to lack of skilled builders. Fortunately, you can still enjoy this time honored bathing style in Hakone Tenzan. Is it considered to be something obsolete style? Answer is no. It is really a kind of simple and natural bathing style, and still very attractive and trendy even in today.
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