Did you know that Tokyo’s public toilets are famous not just for their cleanliness but also for their unique designs? In fact, some of the toilets in Shibuya have become tourist attractions themselves. These aren’t just regular restrooms; thanks to collaborations with well-known architects like Kengo Kuma and Tadao Ando, they’re spaces that blend practicality with creative design. Today, I’m taking you on a journey through Shibuya to check out 17 of these fascinating toilets, all of which were featured in the film “Perfect Days.” So, let’s dive in and see how these everyday facilities have been transformed into something special.
I’ll share my Google Maps List to help you navigate easily—just follow the link below: https://maps.app.goo.gl/ym14sxB9m118aRrW9
The Idea Behind Designer Public Toilets
You might not expect public toilets to be a highlight of your trip, but in Shibuya, they’ve become something of a local attraction. These toilets, designed by some of Japan’s most respected architects, have transformed what could be a mundane space into something truly worth visiting. In fact, there are now even tours dedicated to exploring these unique facilities—a testament to how much they’ve captured people’s imaginations.
A Closer Look at Shibuya’s Designer Toilets
Now, let’s take a closer look at some of the standout toilets you can find around Shibuya:
“Monumentum” by Tomohito Ushida:
This toilet, located in a park, is a piece of public art that lights up in unique patterns symbolizing the world’s population. It’s a thought-provoking design that blends seamlessly into its natural surroundings.
The Transparent Toilet by Shigeru Ban:
Located in a park, this toilet’s transparent glass walls become opaque when locked. It’s all about combining modern design with practical needs, ensuring that users feel both safe and comfortable.
Haruno Ogawa Community Park Toilet:
Also designed by Shigeru Ban, this toilet is a variation of the transparent design, featuring bluish glass walls that also turn opaque when occupied. It’s a subtle but beautiful addition to the park’s landscape.
“Three Mushroom” Yoyogi Hachiman Shrine:
This toilet is designed to look like three mushrooms growing in the forest, blending perfectly with the surrounding nature. Despite being near a busy road, it offers a peaceful and serene space for visitors.
“Andon” by Takenosuke Sakakura:
This toilet replaces an old, uninviting facility with a bright, open design that feels like a welcoming lantern. It’s a place that invites you to use the space, making the park more attractive for everyone.
“Hi Toilet” by Kazoo Sato:
A cutting-edge design that’s completely contactless, this toilet was ahead of its time. With voice commands, it’s designed to enhance hygiene, especially in a post-pandemic world.
Ebisu East Park Toilet by Fumihiko Maki:
Maki’s design is minimalist and modern, with a reflective surface that helps it blend into the park’s surroundings. It’s simple, functional, and elegant, perfect for all visitors.
Kengo Kuma’s “A Walk in the Woods”:
Kuma’s design in Shoto Park features five separate huts, each serving a different purpose. The open layout and use of natural materials make this a standout example of how public spaces can be both practical and beautiful.
Tadao Ando’s “AMAYADORI”:
Ando’s design at the heart of Shibuya uses a circular floor plan with natural light flowing in through vertical louvers. It’s a space that feels both secure and serene, offering a unique experience for visitors.
Nao Tamura’s Diversity Toilet:
Located around Ebisu Station, this toilet was inspired by the LGBTQ community in New York. It offers three distinct spaces, each designed to provide safety and privacy, while also symbolizing hospitality for Shibuya’s international visitors.
“Toilet of the town lights” by Junko Kobayashi:
This playful design features a large yellow awning with rabbit silhouettes in the windows. Located under railway tracks, it’s a bright and cheerful space that contrasts with the typically dark and enclosed feeling of similar locations.
“Modern Kawaya” by Masamichi Katayama:
Katayama’s cylindrical design is sleek and minimalist, offering a comfortable and accessible space that blends modern aesthetics with the park’s natural environment.
“THE HOUSE” by NIGO:
Inspired by the idea of learning from the past, this design evokes the comforting feeling of a traditional home, providing a familiar and homely atmosphere in the middle of Harajuku.
Marc Newson’s Copper Roof Toilet:
Drawing from traditional Japanese architecture, this toilet features a copper roof that will develop a patina over time, blending seamlessly into Tokyo’s cityscape.
“Vessels and Fountains” by Sou Fujimoto:
Designed as an urban gathering place, this toilet turns hand washing into a social experience, with various heights for different users to encourage interaction.
“…With Toilet” by Miles Pennington:
Located at a busy intersection, this toilet also serves as an exhibition space, pop-up kiosk, and meeting spot, making it a multifunctional area that’s valued by the community.
“WHITE” by Kashiba Sato:
This simple, pure white design near Ebisu Station is easy to enter and use, creating a fresh and uplifting atmosphere for passersby.
Final Thoughts
These public toilets are more than just places to go—they’re a testament to Japan’s commitment to cleanliness and innovative design. They’re all free to use, making them even more appealing.
If you’re in Shibuya, why not take a moment to check them out? You might be surprised by the creativity and thought that went into each one. And if you’re up for it, I highly recommend renting a bike to explore them all.
I’ll share my Google Maps List to help you navigate easily—just follow the link below: https://maps.app.goo.gl/ym14sxB9m118aRrW9
For more details, don’t forget to check out my YouTube video:
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