The Ofuro: A Ritual Rooted in Reverence
Ritual, Heritage, and Cultural Preservation
This project was born from a love for Japanese bathing traditions, a deep respect for mindful living, and the generative spirit of Omotenashi. What began as a quiet practice has grown into a design journey—bridging ancient wisdom and master artisan craft with modern intention.
OUR MISSION
We design rituals that slow down time.
Through the Ofuro, we invite you to reconnect
with stillness
with intention
with yourself.
Born in Nikko – A Sacred Place of Craft
Nestled in the mountains of Tochigi Prefecture, Nikko is a place where Japan’s spirituality and artistry converge. Known for its World Heritage shrines and centuries-old woodworking culture, it’s here that master artisans craft our Certified Hinoki Ofuro tubs, each one shaped by sacred forests, ancient hand tools, and timeless attention to detail.
Our cypress is grown for over 70 years, then dried for more than a year before use. It carries not just strength and fragrance, but a history of reverence for nature.
“Hinoki is more than wood — it’s a carrier of calm, clarity, and spiritual connection.”
The Studio Behind the Soak
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More on WHISK
From Concept to Craft
WHISK is a creative studio based between San Francisco and Biarritz. We design immersive objects and experiences that reflect deep care, cultural intelligence, and visual clarity.
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The Ofuro
Commitment to rituals that restore.
Our collaboration with Japanese artisans and wellness practitioners honors centuries-old bathing traditions, translated through modern design. The Ofuro reflects our commitment to creating objects that hold space for restoration, beauty, and slowness.
Why We Return to the Bath
Presence in Every Soak
To bathe is to return to presence.
Our Ofuro is handcrafted in partnership with Yamaichi, a Nikko-based studio founded in 1973. Each tub is made from Kiso-grown Hinoki, aged 100–300 years. Yamaichi’s philosophy: “to let the scent and gentleness of wood come alive,” is embedded in every step of the process.
Each Hinoki tub is crafted with an unwavering commitment to perfection.
Design as Ritual
Every Detail Chosen with Intention
From the Fog Linen towel to the handcrafted bath stool, each piece in the Ofuro ritual is selected with care. We believe that materials carry energy, and design—when done thoughtfully—becomes a form of healing.