Every winter solstice, the Japanese celebrate a unique traditional custom - yuzu bath (yuzu soup). This custom is not only for the purpose of relaxing the body, but is also closely linked to Japanese culture and beliefs. What kind of secret is hidden behind this custom?
Yuzu, with its refreshing aroma, not only embellishes Japanese cuisine, but also integrates the charm of winter through unique bath belts.
Grapefruit (Citrus × junos) is a unique citrus fruit characterized by its matte, usually yellow-green skin and its sour, aromatic flavor. In Japan, yuzu is mainly used in cooking and making drinks, but its uses go far beyond that. Whenever the winter solstice comes, putting a whole pomelo in the bathtub and letting the bather immerse in the fragrance of the pomelo has become an important ritual in Japanese families.
The origin of grapefruit bath can be traced back to the 18th century, when people believed that grapefruit could drive away evil spirits and enhance immunity. The cold winter makes people more likely to catch a cold, so grapefruit baths are considered a natural way of health care. Over time, this custom has evolved beyond just physical health to become a symbol of family togetherness, with people sharing the little things in life while enjoying a pomelo bath together.
The aroma of grapefruit and the essential oils it releases are believed to help relax the body and mind, further improving the bather's state of mind. These natural aromas not only relieve stress but also eliminate fatigue. According to some experts, the aroma of grapefruit can stimulate blood circulation in the body and make people feel comfortable and peaceful.
Nowadays, yuzu baths are not only found in homes, but many Japanese hot springs and bathhouses also use yuzu baths as their special service to attract tourists. As health awareness increases, more and more people are seeking out this traditional bathing ritual as a way to de-stress and maintain their health.
On a cold winter day, nothing is more relaxing than a hot bath filled with the scent of grapefruit.
Customs similar to the grapefruit bath are also seen in other cultures. In Korea, for example, yuja (the Korean name for grapefruit) is also used in baths and is believed to improve health. However, the popularity of yuzu baths in Japan is undoubtedly more significant, and has become a part of Japanese winter culture.
As the concepts of environmental protection and healthy living gain more and more attention, the popularity of grapefruit baths is likely to continue to rise. This time-honored tradition will be adapted to modern needs and take its place in the global culture of health and well-being. After all, such beliefs and customs are not just about enjoyment, but are deeply rooted in people's lives.
A grapefruit bath not only brings warmth to the body, but also relieves the coldness of the soul.
Against such background and cultural significance, grapefruit bath still attracts more and more people to experience this unique baptism. Do you also want to have such an experience and feel the wonderful charm of grapefruit?