Customer Reviews for The Japanese Bath

The Japanese Bath
by Bruce Smith, Yoshiko Yamamoto

The Japanese Bath Our Price: $21.99
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Book Reviews of The Japanese Bath

Book Review: easy on the mind -- easy on the eyes
Summary: 4 Stars

This is a handsome little book. The emphasis is on photography. If you're seeking a photo essay for Japanese baths and possible details (designs, plans, etc.) this is not the reference for you. However, if you just want a visually pleasing browse, this book has beautiful photography and very limited captions. You're not likely to use this book for detailed design research but you may find it useful for idea research (brainstorming). Although the baths look authentic, most of them are Western replicas(many in the US) of their Japanese cousins. If it's authentic Japanese baths and detailed explanations (concepts, theories, etc.) this is not the book for you. But, if you just want a nice browse, the photographs are thought provoking enough to be useful.

Book Review: The Japanese Bath Review
Summary: 4 Stars

I enjoy the book, and dream of having my own Japanese bath; the book sits by my bathtub. The practice of taking care of ones self this way becomes more of a necessity than an indulgence as explained by the authors, a method of showing gratitude for life. I was left wanting more, but it is not that kind of book. I hope the book is successful enough to encourage the authors to produce a follow-up with more details, such as technical concerns gone into more in-depth, how to find onsen in Japan as an enthusiastic but clueless first-time traveler, and input from people who have interesting personal perspectives and experiences to share.

Book Review: Beautiful, elegant, informative
Summary: 4 Stars

This book will make you want to float oranges and blossoms in your bathtub (if that's the best you can do)--or better yet, find a way to construct your own beautiful bathing space. Interesting info about the history and substance of Japanese style bathing, both in terms of the physical act of soaking (and the difference between soaking and cleansing) and the sociological background and aesthetics of the time spent in the tub. The photos are gorgeous and the combination of the visuals and the texts stimulates every sense. A great read, and a great vehicle for dreaming of quieter, more peaceful times.

Book Review: Loved this little book Japanese Baths
Summary: 5 Stars

Loved this little book. Great pictures. Very interesting reading detailing the whys and hows of the traditional Japanese style of bathing. Was originally looking for information and ideas on building my own ofuro and Japanese bath. Gained a lot of info from this book to come up with my own ideas and plans..... If you are trying to de-stress your life and live more peaceful and zen like, you will like this book.

Book Review: One of a Kind
Summary: 5 Stars

While this is one of the only English-language books thoroughly covering the Japanese bath, it would likely stand alone in a trove of similar books. Thoughtful, concise, and with A+ color photography, the book will fool you into thinking you can pick it up to get a few tips on building a bathtub--and before you know it, you're immersed in a lifestyle that defines the Japanese Bath.
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