9 Japanese bathroom ideas to embrace — and the one to avoid adding to your wash space

If you're drawn to bathrooms that offer a zen-like sanctuary with cool clean lines and natural materials, you will likely find Japanese bathroom ideas a great source of inspiration when finalising your own bathroom design ideas.

But, as with any interior design concepts taken from other countries, there can often be nuances and practicalities that are lost in translation. What works well in other climates or lifestyles, may not always feel the same when used closer to home.

We asked bathroom and interior design experts what are the Japanese bathroom ideas that do work, is there anything to avoid, and how can we include the main features of the concept in our own homes?

Japanese bathroom ideas or Japandi?

If you're keen on interior design, you'll no doubt recall the 'Japandi' trend that emerged around 6-7 years ago. Combining clean lines, natural materials, minimalistic design and textural materials, it wasn't the first time east and west had intertwined in interiors, but it had a noticeable impact as Japandi weaved its way into homes across the UK.

Because of the trend, it's good to question from the start, exactly what it is you want in your final bathroom design, says Justine Bullock, designer and director at The Tap End, so that you can ascertain which elements influence you the most.

"Japanese bathroom ideas have been requested for as long as I have been in the industry. This is a style that I think is very timeless," she adds, "but is open to interpretation.

"If a client requests a Japanese inspired bathroom I always try to drill down what exactly they mean by that. Do they mean small bathroom ideas and clever space design, do they mean tech led bathroom designs, or do they simply mean the UK's version of what designers deem to be 'Japanese inspired' which is more 'Japandi'?

Not entirely sure if your allegiances lay with Skandi style or Japanese simplicity? It probably doesn't matter. As long as you follow the advice from our experts regarding the key concepts of Japanese bathroom ideas, the chances are you'll end up with a bathroom to be proud of.

Justine Bullock

Justine Bullock is designer & director at The Tap End, award winning bathroom design studio, in Pontyclun, South Wales. The Tap End opened in 2017 and will be celebrating 8 years in June 2025. The company has six employees and boasts a number of design, business and local awards.

1. Install a soaking tub – or freestanding bath

For an authentic Japanese bathroom idea, installing a bath tub is a must. With rituals one of the core elements of the Japanese bathing, experience, soaking in a hot bath is considered a way of removing the stresses and strains of the day.

"Japanese bathrooms consist of two separate areas – wet and dry areas," explains Yoko Kloedon, founder of Yoko Kloedon Design. "A wet area would have a soaking tub and a space to wash and rinse yourself with a low tap and an overhead shower. It often has a stool to sit on as you are expected to wash your hair and body outside of the tub and keep the bath water soap-free.

"A soaking tub is typically small but deep and has a reheating functionality to keep the water temperature consistent. A dry area just outside of the wet area would have a basin, mirror and changing area.

"Japanese bathrooms place more focus on soaking in a tub rather than having a quick shower," she adds. "Soaking in hot water in a steamy room is an extremely nurturing and refreshing experience and it is achievable with a little bit of planning (and space.)"

Although a wooden version is an option, for a more contemporary slant, this white freestanding Zencha design from Duravit is the perfect way of combining east meets west.

Throw into the mix some wood in the form of a slatted screen, minimalistic finishes such as concrete and large format tiles, simple artwork and dark, soothing colours and you're onto a winning bathroom design for your new self build.

From a practical side, make sure whatever hot water system you're installing will be able to provide you with a sufficient amount of hot water to fill this deeper than normal bath.

Try this soaking tub in your Japanese bathroom design

Yoko Kloeden

Yoko Kloeden Design is a London-based architecture and interior design studio, founded by Yoko Kloeden in 2016. Located in West London, the studio specialises in crafting mood-enhancing sanctuaries, seamlessly blending Japanese aesthetics with natural, serene elements. Each project aims to create spaces that feel both harmonious and deeply restorative, reflecting Yoko’s commitment to calm, balanced interiors.

2. But avoid shower toilets in the same space as your bath

Although you could assume a Japanese bathroom idea needs to incorporate every type of bathroom innovation on the market, substituting a smart shower toilet into your bathroom instead of your regular loo, is the one Japanese trend to avoid say the experts.

Why? Well, it isn't anything to do with the smart toilet itself, which offers hygienic cleaning using water jets, warm seats, self cleaning modes and more. The mistake is more to do with layout.

"Japanese WC's should be particularly pushed when the client is drawing inspiration from Japanese bathrooms," says Justine Bullock.

But Yoko Kloeden warns that western bathroom layouts are often different to Japanese setups and this can cause a problem with your zen styling.

"A toilet is usually a separate room to the bathroom and most toilets in Japan are Washlets," she says. Justine adds: "Going overboard – mixing too many elements together – such as colour changing lighting, blingy elements and convoluted expressions of the Japanese culture, must be avoided if you are really looking to create a design that incorporates the calm ethos of a true Japanese bathroom idea."

Instead ideally keep a fancy shower toilet separate from the main bathroom if possible.

This shower toilet is discreet but multi-functional

3. Keep it minimal as an homage to Japanese design

Even if you don't fancy embracing a full Japanese bathroom idea, take the basic concept of minimalism and apply it to your own personal preferences as an homage to the core of the concept.

The clean lines of this modern bathroom idea designed by The Tap End is light, bright and practical; features both a bath and shower for your cleansing rituals, sticks to a natural palette of stone and marble, accentuated only by simple black fixtures and fittings.

While it may not shout Japanese bathroom idea, it's a subtle nod to the ethos of the main bathroom design characteristics.

4. Use modern radiators to continue the minimal theme

It's important when heating a bathroom that you still install items that compliment your Japanese bathroom idea. While underfloor heating is the perfect option if you prefer your heating out of sight, you may also be looking for ways to ensure there's a toasty warm towel available after a long soak in the bath. Traditional towel rails won't necessarily suit the bill, so what are the alternatives?

"Japanese interior style emphasises simplicity with clean lines and a clutter-free environment, ideal for creating a relaxing spa-like feel in a bathroom," says Nick Duggan, managing director of The Radiator Centre. "Modern, sleek towel rails suit this look perfectly, providing both a design element and practical storage to keep the room orderly."

5. Reference the Far East in the form of a Chinoiserie wallpaper mural

Want to add some detail to your bathroom design? If you're questioning can you use wallpaper in a bathroom, the answer is yes, and there's a host of bathroom wallpaper ideas to choose from, including vast murals such as this chinoiserie inspired design.

Perfect for adding an asian flavour to your bathroom design, the visual detail allows you to keep the rest of your design more simple and in keeping with the general ethos of Japanese bathroom ideas.

This wallpaper will add character to your Japanese bathroom idea

6. Cover your windows with venetian blinds or screens

Privacy is a must in most bathrooms, and bathroom window ideas need serious consideration when it comes to your Japanese bathroom ideas.

While moveable screens in front of your windows are one option, if space is limited, you're more likely looking for a more permanent fixture. Pale wood effect venetian blinds are a great option for adding in the wooden element that often features in Japanese bathroom ideas. Providing privacy but still allowing light to stream through, they are also a great partner for bamboo wood accessories such as mirrors and bathroom storage ideas.

"It is great to draw inspiration from other cultures and countries," adds Justine Bullock, "and Japanese bathrooms are very architectural and minimalist in the most part, which always remains timeless and classy."

Concerned certain elements might be considered cliche? Don't be says Justine. It is not cliche to factor in pebbles, contrast or waterfall style elements," she reassures, "as these by their very essence evoke a sense of Japanese styling."

7. Use green as an accent colour

Bamboo green is a colour often associated with Asian design. The luscious green leaves of the plant feature in homes across Asia (a fact I can confirm having lived in Singapore for two years), and has many positive connotations of good fortune.

However, while planting bamboo inside your home is not recommended, it's easy to reference the green shoots in your bathroom with bathroom tiling ideas, or your bathroom colour ideas.

These green tiles provide a great focal point in this loft conversion bathroom, with the fluted wooden vanity unit further enhancing the space.

"Japanese culture has become a growing trend in bathroom design, known for its serene and calming ambiance," says Jorge Hernandez, head of design at Crosswater .

"Japanese bathroom design typically revolves around natural materials like wood and stone, complemented by soft, muted tones, all emphasising simplicity. This design concept creates the perfect retreat or at-home haven, ideal for those who appreciate a minimalist aesthetic," he adds.

Jorge Hernandez

Jorge is passionate about the way design shapes our interaction with the world. He believes designing for the bathroom, a seemingly utilitarian space, is an important necessity that offers the designer plenty of tools to play with including material, colour, and experience.

8. Combine natural wall panels and plants

If you think your Japanese bathroom ideas are probably more in line with the Japandi trend, it's important to follow key principles says Lidia Kane, creative manager at Multipanel and Naturepanel.

“To create a Japandi design scheme in the bathroom, there are some key design principals to be followed that are worth doing, including lavish textures, low key lighting, neutral, earthy colour scheme and lots of plants," advises Lidia.

"One way of adding texture is through your choice of wall covering. Opting for bathroom wall panelling ideas can ensure an uninterrupted expanse that isn’t broken with grout lines, for simplicity and neatness. Remember to choose one that fits in with the neutral tones associated with Japandi, as well as potentially choosing one that resembles a material, such as wood or plaster for added texture.”

The wall panelling featured in this idea is the Naturepanel Hydrolock Bleached Cuneo Oak Laminate Slat Wall Panelling and is available to purchase from Wickes.

9. Focus on architectural features and a simple colour palette

While the term Japanese bathroom ideas may not immediately jump out at you when viewing this bathroom, it's a great example of how you can strip out the most important elements of a trend or idea and make them work in your home.

And when it comes to Japanese bathroom design, the core principles are often those we look to naturally include in bathrooms – be they ensuite bathroom ideas or figuring out how to make a small bathroom look luxurious.

So why does the concept of a Japanese bathroom idea work so well in our homes?

"The seamless combination of natural materials and softer textures, infuses a calming atmosphere and elevates the sense of relaxation," says Jorge Hernandez.

"A great way to bring Japanese design into your bathroom is by opting for furniture with natural material finishes and a soft, muted colour palette. Also consider standout focal features and luxurious, minimalist accessories to create the perfect retreat aesthetic.

"Incorporating elements like indoor plants, can also be a good way to infuse Japanese design, strengthening the connection to nature as well as promoting a serene atmosphere," adds Jorge.

"Include soft, gentle lighting and clean lines to create a sense of order, with all final pieces of the design working together to foster a peaceful environment."

On the flipside, for a full Japanese bathroom idea, you'll need to pay extra care and attention to your bathroom layout advise the experts.

"Separation of the three main areas would require more floor space than traditional western bathrooms with a full bathroom suite," says Yoko Kloeden. "A wet room also needs to to be completely waterproofed as well as having extra powerful bathroom ventilation. A tub with a reheating mechanism is not common and I haven’t yet found a good one in the UK. However, in Japan, the entire family uses the same bath water (hence it is important to keep the bath water soap free) but unless that’s how you want to use it, you may not need this."

Keen to explore the concept further? Make sure you know which are the best bathroom extractor fans to install and avoid these bathroom lighting mistakes in your final design.