A furo is a Japanese bathing tub. Similar to the Western hot tub, it is not used for washing but for soaking and relaxing. Most homes in Japan, and even some apartments, have one; they are usually big enough for two or more persons to bathe together. Bathing in public baths, called sentou", is a common social activity, although it is typically gender-segregated. The process of a Furo differs from western style bathing where the entire house hold uses the same bathwater but keeps it clean by first showering and washing off outside of the bathtub and then can get in solely for the purpose of relaxation.