5 Japanese Soaking Tub Ideas for Small Bathrooms: How to fit a deep, relaxing Japanese soaking tub into a tiny bathroom without sacrificing style or function

I once tried to convince a client that his tiny bathroom could fit a Japanese soaking tub—he laughed, then cried with joy when I made it happen. That day taught me that small spaces spark big creativity, and that a compact soaking tub can transform a cramped bathroom into a mini-retreat. In this article I’ll share 5 practical design inspirations I’ve used to fit Japanese soaking tubs into small bathrooms, based on real projects and a few lessons learned the hard way.

1. Go Vertical with a Deep, Narrow Tub

Japanese soaking tubs (ofuro) are deeper than Western tubs, so choosing a narrow but deep model saves floor space while keeping that luxurious soak. I used this approach in a city apartment where width was only 120 cm; we installed a 60–70 cm wide tub and added a slim shelf above for toiletries. Advantage: maximum soak in minimum footprint. Challenge: getting in and out can be slightly trickier for mobility-limited users, so consider a grab bar or step.

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2. Corner Soaking Tub to Reclaim Floor Space

Placing a compact ofuro in the bathroom corner frees up circulation and creates a cozy bathing niche. On one renovation I built a low platform with storage underneath—perfect for towels and bath salts. Benefit: better traffic flow and hidden storage. Drawback: plumbing in a corner can be a bit more complex, but it’s worth it for the space gain.

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3. Alcove Installation with Sliding Door

Turn a recessed wall area into a soaking alcove and pair it with a waterproof sliding door or shoji-inspired panel. I love this solution because the sliding panel saves swing space and adds a soft, Japanese aesthetic. Perk: privacy and style without needing extra clearance. Small challenge: choose moisture-resistant materials to avoid warping over time.

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4. Convert a Shower Stall into a Compact Ofuro

If you already have a shower footprint, swapping to a short but deep soaking tub is often the most cost-effective route. I did this in a rental where the shower stall was underused; we installed a custom wooden-clad ofuro and preserved the linear drain. Upside: lower renovation costs and quick installation. Caveat: you may need to raise the floor slightly for proper drainage and trap access.

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5. Combine a Soaking Tub with Minimalist Vanities

Pairing a compact tub with a wall-mounted, minimalist vanity keeps the floor visually open and draws focus to the deep tub. In one small flat, a floating vanity and hidden medicine cabinet made the bathroom feel twice as large while highlighting the tub as the star. Advantage: airy, modern look and easier cleaning. Watch out for storage needs—add recessed niches or above-tub shelving if you need more room.

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Tips 1:

Budget note: prefabricated compact ofuro models are affordable and faster to install, while custom wood-clad tubs cost more but offer authentic warmth. Practical tip: always confirm water heater capacity and floor load when adding a deep tub. For planning and mockups, I often use an online room planner to visualize fit and circulation before demo.

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FAQ

Q1: What is the ideal size for a Japanese soaking tub in a small bathroom? A1: For small bathrooms, tubs around 60–75 cm wide and 100–120 cm long are common; depth is often 60–75 cm to allow full immersion while saving footprint.

Q2: Can a soaking tub be installed in an existing shower area? A2: Yes—many of my projects convert shower stalls into ofuro installations by adjusting drainage and slightly raising the subfloor for plumbing access.

Q3: How much water does a compact ofuro use compared to a regular bathtub? A3: Because of the vertical design, compact ofuros generally use less water than long Western tubs—often 20–40% less depending on dimensions.

Q4: Are wooden soaking tubs practical in humid bathrooms? A4: Traditional wooden tubs (hinoki, cedar) can work if properly sealed and ventilated; regular maintenance and good ventilation prevent mold and warping.

Q5: Do I need a larger water heater for a deep tub? A5: Possibly—check your water heater capacity and recovery rate. Shorter, deeper tubs may require higher initial fill temperature or a larger tank for consistent hot water.

Q6: Are soaking tubs safe for elderly users? A6: They can be, with modifications like low-step entries, grab bars, and non-slip surfaces; consult with an occupational therapist for specific mobility needs.

Q7: How do I maintain a wood-clad ofuro? A7: Wipe dry after use, ensure good ventilation, and reseal where recommended—manufacturer care guides are helpful for long-term upkeep. For standards and safety on wood bathroom materials, see guidance from Japan’s Housing and Building Center (The Building Research Institute).

Q8: Where can I visualize layout options before renovating? A8: I recommend using a 3D floor planner to mock up tub placement and circulation; seeing the design in 3D saves time and surprises during construction.

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