#Japan #Kyoto #SPIRITUAL MODE #Wako Manufacturing #Hotel Show

Innovative Solutions for Hotel Industry Problems

As inbound tourism in Japan continues to rise dramatically, reaching over 40 million visitors, the hotel industry faces emerging challenges. One prominent problem is the shortage of hotel rooms equipped to handle larger groups. To address this, Wako Manufacturing Co., located in Kyoto, has introduced new shower units under its bathing brand, SPIRITUAL MODE. These innovative products will be showcased at the upcoming 54th International Hotel & Restaurant Show at Tokyo Big Sight, starting February 17, 2026.

The Context of the Hotel Industry

The tourism sector has witnessed a significant uptick in foreign visitors, particularly those traveling in groups of four or more. Correspondingly, there has been an increase in the development of multi-occupancy hotel rooms. However, many such guest rooms are hindered by having only a single bathroom and wash area, leading to congestion during peak usage times. To remedy this situation, the new dual-type shower units have been designed to maximize efficiency within limited space.

One such unit, the DSM1616, features two shower stalls and washbasins compactly fitted into a one-tatami (1616) area. This design is particularly suited for accommodating larger groups and aims to alleviate the common bottleneck seen in traditional hotel setups. The 800x800 mm shower booths allow for both functionality and space-saving attributes while ensuring user comfort.

Addressing Land Use Challenges

Japan has recently experienced a surge in real estate prices, necessitating a trend towards minimizing room sizes to optimize hotel capacity. This presents a conflict, as customer satisfaction often necessitates more expansive bathroom spaces. Wako’s design strategy recognizes this dilemma, aiming to create units that separate shower, toilet, and wash facilities while still adhering to standard dimensions, such as the SSM1216 model.

The SSM1216-SP stands out as a unit that effectively separates toilet facilities while offering greater versatility in design. Utilizing materials typically reserved for indoor spaces, this model permits seamless integration into the overall aesthetic of hotel interiors. Moreover, it boasts a prefabricated construction method which not only provides cost benefits but also enhances installation efficiency.

Features of New Models

• - DSM1616: A game-changing concept for multi-occupancy lodgings, accommodating two shower stalls and washbasins.
• - SSM1216-SP: A standard model that separates the toilet area, permitting greater design freedom and ease of use—particularly for individuals with mobility issues.
• - SSM1218BF: The enhanced accessibility-focused model, designed to comply with Japan's barrier-free regulations while maintaining aesthetic integrity.

The International Hotel & Restaurant Show will occur from February 17 to 20, 2026, and is expected to attract attention from industry professionals seeking to innovate hotel facilities in light of the growing demand for competitive accommodations. Wako Manufacturing encourages stakeholders to witness firsthand the potential of these pioneering shower units that could redefine guest experiences in hotels.

The Vision for the Future

Takuya Nishida, the president of Wako Manufacturing, shared insights on the company's participation in the show: "We view the HCJ Hotel Restaurant Show as an essential platform to present new concepts and models that tackle the challenges faced by the hospitality industry today. Our mission is to transform restroom spaces into energizing environments while enhancing the overall experience for users."

With an ambition to revolutionize bathroom designs across Japan, SPIRITUAL MODE positions itself as a design brand focused on rejuvenating personal spaces. Enhancing the aesthetic quality of bathrooms can lead to improved emotional well-being for users—an area of vital importance for today's travelers.

Contact Information

For further inquiries, please contact:
Wako Manufacturing Co. SPM Division
Phone: 075-693-3280
Email: [email protected]

Company Overview:

• - Name: Wako Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
• - Location: Kyoto, Japan
• - Established: May 23, 1961
• - CEO: Takuya Nishida
• - Business: General housing equipment, plants, industrial machinery, and sheet metal processing.