The Legend of Nuru

Imagine diving deep into the mystical steam of ancient Japan, back to a time when the serene rhythms of Buddhist monasteries were accompanied by whispered tales of the first bathhouses. These sanctuaries, born in the Nara period (710–784), were initially reserved for monks, offering refuge from the world—a place of well-being and regeneration. But soon, these spiritual havens opened their doors to the sick and needy, becoming a sanctuary of healing. These were no ordinary bathhouses; they were places where the natural forces of sea and stone met in an alchemical ritual of steam and warmth, purifying the souls of those who entered.

Over time, these bathhouses evolved. Particularly in Edo (now Tokyo) and Osaka, two distinct bathing cultures emerged: the hot water baths and the steamy Mushiburo baths. But beneath the surface of physical cleansing, another secret lay hidden: in the dim, intimate atmosphere of these steamy baths, tender, sensual touches became an art form. Geishas—masters of allure—developed a ritual of body-to-body touch in these secretive havens, creating a rhythmic dance of connection and intimacy.

This legendary art of touch might have remained hidden forever. But one ingredient, a shimmering, mysterious essence, gave this experience a unique depth and sensuality: the ancient recipe for what we now know as Nuru gel. In ancient Asia, the ocean's alchemists uncovered the value of red algae. They cooked down these algae into a thick, smooth liquid—precious carrageenan. This gliding substance allowed the geishas to transform each touch into an intense experience, turning sensual movements into a mesmerizing, sensory journey.

We are dedicated to rediscovering and perfecting this centuries-old tradition. The Nuru gel we offer today carries the same magic that once enchanted hearts and senses in those hidden, steamy bathhouses. It is a window into the past and an invitation to a sensory experience that connects body and mind in the present.