An open shower enclosure in a modern bathroom with floor-to-ceiling windows

Shower pod

Japan's "Human Washing Machine"

Bathing and bathroom customs often differ from one country to another. Japan, in particular, is known for its sophisticated public toilets, which feature music and responsive frosted glass. So it’s no surprise that the so-called “shower capsule” also comes from Japan and is attracting a lot of attention. Is this the shower of the future? Find out here.

Key points at a glance:

The shower pod automates the showering process: the so-called “Human Washing Machine” cleans, massages, and dries the body fully automatically.
The shower pod combines wellness and technology: water jets, steam, music, and lighting effects create a futuristic spa experience.
Still in the testing phase: The first models are primarily being used in wellness hotels and, in the future, in nursing and healthcare facilities.

Shower pod – what is it?

The shower capsule from Japan is also known as the “Human Washing Machine”—and that’s exactly what it does. The human washing machine is a capsule that you can lie down in, and it automatically cleans your body from head to toe. The invention was developed by the Japanese company “Science Co.” in Osaka.

Fun fact: The Japanese name for the shower capsule is “Mirai Ningen Sentakuki.”

How does the shower pod work?

First, you lie down on the bed inside the shower pod, and then the full-body wash cycle begins. The shower pod is operated at the push of a button; the rest happens automatically. A “wash cycle” lasts about 15 minutes.

First, the water rises to a preset level, such as chest height. Then, small jets, water streams, and warm steam ensure that the person is cleaned completely on their own. This reliably removes dead skin cells and dirt.

In addition, the person receives a massage while lying on the bed; relaxing music plays, and images of nature and light effects create a pleasant atmosphere inside the shower pod. After the “wash cycle,” several hair dryers automatically dry you off, so there’s no need for a towel.

In addition, the Human Washing Machine from Japan constantly monitors the vital signs of the person inside to ensure that they are doing well. If something does go wrong or the person in the capsule feels uncomfortable, the process can be stopped at the push of a button.

Tip: You can completely relax and unwind not only in the shower enclosure, but our Duravit showers also offer a spa-like experience right in your own home.

Who is the shower pod designed for?

If you'd like to buy the shower capsule, you'll probably have to wait a little longer. Even though the shower capsule has been officially on the market since 2026, there are only a handful of them available.

Close-up of a Duravit Stonetto shower tray with water running over it

According to reports, the first units were delivered to wellness hotels in Osaka that want to offer their guests a unique experience. In the future, retirement and nursing homes could also become an important target market for this futuristic shower capsule from Japan.

Tip: You can find even more ideas for your bathroom in our article on bathroom trends for 2026.