20 Everyday Objects Designed Completely Differently Outside the US

Bathing and washing are two separate activities in a traditional Japanese bathroom, and the tub makes sense only once that distinction is understood. Soap and rinsing happen beforehand, often in the waterproof area beside it. Then comes the soak. Rather than stretching out in a long, shallow basin, a bather sits upright in a compact vessel deep enough for hot water to rise toward the shoulders. Traditional versions were made from hinoki cypress; contemporary homes also use acrylic, steel, and other materials. The smaller footprint suits limited floor space, while steep sides provide depth that an American-style reclining bathtub generally achieves through length.