http://www.hawcc.hawaii.edu/nursing/RNJapanese_04.html

I did a google search for the ceremony that CP described and it only came up with this site, it is rather interesting to read the difference in traditions between cultures.I noticed that no where in the article does it say she can't bathe it is more that she can't touch water for chores like dishes and laundry :-) (which in my opinion is how it should be after we give birth)

*It is common practice to save the umbilical cord in a wooden box.

*In Japan, the new mom usually goes to her parents home for about 20-30 days. The grandmother will perform all household duties, because the new mom is not allowed to touch water for washing dishes or doing laundry.
* She is also not allowed to drive anywhere.
* After that time period, the postpartum mom returns home to her husband with their baby.
*Between 30 and 32 days, the family will then return to the shrine to pray, pay respect, and to offer thanks for a safe delivery and healthy child. The ceremony is called "omiya maeiri".

In Japan, the babies are frequently named after their grandparents.
An ideal family would be made up of a married couple with 2 children. If a couple were to have 3 or more children, they are thought to be wealthy.