Japanese Toilets Things to keep in mind!

You've finally arrived in Japan and had some delicious green tea for breakfast. But during your sightseeing tour of Tokyo, you suddenly find yourself needing to use the restroom? Don't worry. This is not a problem in Japan! Public restrooms are available almost everywhere: in subway stations, shopping malls, parks, and even convenience stores and supermarkets.

How do you ask for the restroom in Japan?

There are different expressions to describe the restroom, depending on the situation in which you are asking. For example, in a restaurant, you would ask for the "otearai" (bathroom). However, the direct translation is "toire" (toilet).

What do Japanese toilets look like?

There are both traditional and high-tech toilets in Japan - and they could not be more different. Japanese toilets are now known worldwide and surprise with small technical gimmicks, such as modern control panels and a built-in bidet. But not all toilets are created equal!

Traditional Japanese Toilets

The traditional Japanese toilet consists of a shallow basin flush with the floor, reminiscent of a urinal, also known as a squat toilet. You may know this from other Asian countries. You can't sit here, but rather squat over the basin. Despite its rustic appearance, these toilets still have a flush that you should also operate! Nowadays, this type of toilet is relatively rare. You may find them occasionally in public restrooms or in very old buildings.

Modern Japanese Toilets

Modern toilets resemble our Western toilets in appearance. But these toilets often have additional technically sophisticated features. For example, there is the option to warm the toilet seat, as well as a built-in bidet, with which you can wash yourself with warm water after using the toilet. There is even "Rear" and "Front" Washing, a function for cleaning after both small and large business. The control panel is usually located on the wall or on the side of the toilet. 

Many toilets also have a sound function, playing the sounds of running water, also called Otohime (音姫). This function, which translates to "Sound Princess", is particularly used by Japanese women, who find possible noises during their "business" extremely unpleasant. In some toilets, this sound is activated automatically as soon as a sensor detects movement. In others, you have to press a button. But be careful: Don't confuse this button with the flush button. You don't always need to press it anyway, because the flush often activates itself!