How to Use Japanese Public Toilets: Features and Etiquette

When traveling to Japan, one of the unexpected experiences you’ll likely encounter is the country’s highly advanced public toilet system. While using a toilet might seem like a mundane task, in Japan, it comes with its own set of features and cultural etiquette that might surprise foreign visitors. Here’s a guide to help you navigate Japanese public toilets like a pro!

The Two Types of Toilets

In Japan, there are two main types of toilets you’ll encounter: the Western-style toilet (Yoshiki toilet) and the squat toilet (Washiki toilet).

• Western-style Toilets: These are the typical seated toilets you’re probably familiar with. Many Western-style toilets in Japan are equipped with advanced bidet functions, often referred to as Washlets. However, not all Western-style toilets have these features—some are simpler, without the high-tech options.
• Squat Toilets: Although much rarer today, you may still find these traditional squat toilets in some older facilities, rural areas, or temples. While they were once common, they’ve largely been replaced by Western-style toilets. If you do encounter one, simply squat facing the hooded part of the toilet. However, many modern places, especially in urban areas, no longer have squat toilets.

Understanding the Features of a Washlet

One of the most famous aspects of Japanese public toilets is the high-tech Washlet. Found in many Western-style toilets, these advanced seats come with a variety of features controlled by buttons on the side.

• Bidet: A water spray function for cleaning. There are often separate buttons for front and rear cleaning.
• Otohime: A sound function that plays flushing noises or music to cover up any sounds you might make. This feature is popular for maintaining privacy.
• Heated Seat: In colder months, the heated seat function is a welcome luxury.
• Flushing Options: Many Washlets offer two flush options: a “small” (小) flush for liquid waste and a “large” (大) flush for solid waste, allowing for water conservation.

Not every Western-style toilet has these features, so if you encounter a simpler version, you’ll just have the standard seat and flush system, which still functions like a regular Western toilet.

Toilet Paper and Hand Towels

• Toilet Paper: Japanese restrooms almost always provide toilet paper, and it is free to use. The toilet paper is designed to dissolve easily, so it’s safe to flush down the toilet. Always remember to flush it, as throwing paper in a bin is not common practice in Japan.
• Hand Towels: Many public restrooms do not provide hand towels or dryers. Japanese people usually carry a small personal hand towel or handkerchief to dry their hands. If you don’t have one, you can easily buy one at a convenience store.

Shoe Etiquette in Traditional Restrooms

In some traditional places (such as temples, shrines, or certain older establishments), you might find toilet slippers. These are provided at the entrance of the restroom for you to change into while inside. Be sure to switch back to your regular shoes after leaving the restroom—wearing toilet slippers outside is considered a big no-no!

Public Toilet Etiquette

While public toilets in Japan are generally very clean and user-friendly, there are a few etiquette rules to follow:

• Keep It Clean: Japan places a high value on cleanliness, and public toilets reflect that. Be sure to leave the stall as clean as you found it. Wipe any spills and flush properly.
• Quietness: Public restrooms in Japan are often quiet places. Talking on the phone or having loud conversations while using the bathroom is considered impolite.
• Wait in Line: If there’s a line for the bathroom, people will quietly stand in line and wait their turn. Be mindful and respectful of this unspoken rule.

Where to Find Public Toilets

One of the remarkable things about Japan is the abundance of public toilets, and the fact that they’re free to use. In many countries, finding a clean, accessible restroom can be a challenge, especially without having to pay a fee. But in Japan, public toilets are available almost everywhere and are maintained to a high standard, making this convenience something travelers and locals alike greatly appreciate.

You can easily find public toilets in:

• Train stations (even small stations usually have restrooms)
• Department stores
• Parks
• Convenience stores (you can politely ask to use their restrooms)
• Tourist spots (shrines, temples, museums)

Japanese public toilets are known for being clean and well-maintained, even in busy or highly trafficked areas. This accessibility and level of cleanliness, without any fees, is quite rare globally, making Japan stand out in terms of public restroom convenience.

Handy Phrases

If you’re in need of a restroom but don’t see one, here are a few phrases that might help:

• Toire wa doko desu ka?: “Where is the bathroom?”
• Otearai: A more polite term for “bathroom,” often seen on signs.

Bring Your Own Hygiene Items

While Japanese public toilets are generally very well-equipped, it’s a good idea to carry a few items with you, such as a small hand towel for drying your hands and a packet of tissues. Though toilet paper is usually provided, it’s always handy to have tissues on you just in case, especially in more rural areas where paper might not always be available.

Conclusion

Using a public toilet in Japan is often a unique and sometimes luxurious experience, thanks to features like heated seats and bidet functions. While you might still encounter the occasional squat toilet in older or more traditional locations, Western-style toilets with Washlets are now the standard across most of the country. By familiarizing yourself with the features and etiquette, you’ll feel confident and comfortable using public restrooms during your trip.

Additionally, Japan is home to some incredibly unique designer toilets. Be sure to check out the following article for more information!

Exploring Tokyo Designer Public Toilets: A Unique Journey in Shibuya