Before embarking on your journey to Japan, it’s essential to prepare and learn about the practical aspects of your destination. Among these, Japanese toilets deserve special attention.
As soon as you arrive in Japan, you'll notice the significant importance placed on toilets, often considered the most advanced in the world. Japan is home to some of the most specialized companies in this field, such as TOTO, the inventor of the famous "Washlet," a hybrid between a toilet and a bidet.
What Types of Toilets Can You Find in Japan?
In Japan, you’ll encounter three main types of toilets: traditional Japanese toilets, Western-style toilets, and Washlet toilets.
Traditional Japanese Toilets
Traditional Japanese toilets, often referred to as "squat toilets" in other parts of the world, were the norm in Japan until the 1960s.
These toilets are still occasionally found in old houses and remote rural areas. Users must squat over these toilets, which many Japanese consider more hygienic since there’s no direct contact with the seat. However, they can be uncomfortable or even inaccessible for the elderly or those with knee problems.
With the introduction of the first Western-style toilets, many Japanese began to avoid traditional toilets, to the point that some would even refrain from drinking water to avoid using them. In response, the government encouraged the adoption of more modern toilets, accelerating the transition to more comfortable facilities. Today, traditional toilets are rare and are most likely to be found only in historic or very remote locations.
Western-Style Toilets
Western-style toilets, similar to those found in Europe, are also present in Japan, but their numbers are limited.
When traditional toilets are replaced, it’s typically with Washlets rather than classic Western-style toilets. Urinals are also widespread for men and can be found in almost all public places.
Washlet Toilets
Washlet toilets are perhaps one of Japan’s most iconic innovations. They are renowned for their ability to clean intimate areas with a warm water jet, offering an unparalleled level of hygiene. These sophisticated toilets are ubiquitous, found in public places, hotels, and private homes.
Washlet toilets generally offer the following functions:
- Flushing: Activated by a button or sensor.
- Rear Cleansing Water Jet: Adjustable in intensity and temperature.
- Bidet Water Jet for Women: Specifically designed for feminine hygiene.
In addition to these basic features, some Washlet toilets offer additional options:
- Heated Seat: For maximum comfort, even in winter.
- Dryer and Deodorizer: For paper-free drying and a pleasant atmosphere.
- Ambient Music: To mask embarrassing noises, though this can sometimes be less than discreet.
- Urine Analysis Sensor: Providing feedback on the user’s health, which could be useful for medical monitoring.
However, these toilets present a small drawback for foreign visitors: the seat size is often smaller than what Europeans are used to.
Why Aren't Washlets Common in Europe?
You might wonder why this technology hasn’t yet conquered Europe, particularly France. The answer lies mainly in technical and environmental differences.
First, Washlets are designed to work with low-calcium water, like the volcanic spring water found in Japan. In Europe, where water is often harder, the small pipes and jets of Washlets could quickly become clogged, making their use and maintenance more complex. Additionally, water pressure in Japan differs from that in France, which can also pose adaptation challenges.
Lastly, cost is a significant factor. A quality Washlet often costs more than 1,000 euros in France, representing a substantial investment for many households.
Toilet Paper and Toilet Slippers
Although Washlets are equipped with water cleaning systems, toilet paper is still widely used in Japan. Japanese people often carry small disposable wipes in case no paper is available. That said, during your trip, you’ll typically find toilet paper in public restrooms, along with a trash can for disposal.
Another interesting aspect of Japanese toilet culture is the use of toilet slippers. In Japanese homes, it’s common to find specific slippers at the entrance of the bathroom. This tradition stems from a strict separation between "clean" and "unclean" areas of the house. The Japanese remove their shoes at the entrance to avoid bringing outside dirt indoors and use special slippers for the bathroom to maintain this cleanliness.
Are There Many Toilets in Japan?
The answer is yes, and it’s a real relief for travelers. Toilets are abundant throughout the country, free of charge, and generally impeccably clean.
In addition to standard toilets, you’ll often find baby care spaces and facilities accessible to people with disabilities. Toilet paper and a trash can are also usually provided.
You can easily find toilets in department stores, train stations, subway stations (beyond the ticket barrier), tourist sites, and even some parks. However, in small neighborhood restaurants, it may be rarer to find them.
What Are Japanese Bathrooms Like?
Japan has a unique relationship with the bathroom, a space that reflects both evolving habits and cultural influences. Until the 1980s, it was common to go to public baths to wash, a practice that still persists in some areas, although most modern homes now have their own bathrooms.
There are two main types of bathrooms in Japan: "traditional" and "modern."
Traditional Bathrooms
In traditional inns (Ryokan) and old houses, the bathroom is often a tiled room dedicated to bathing. It includes:
- A wall-mounted showerhead, often accompanied by a plastic stool to sit on while washing.
- A shared hot bath, usually heated by gas. It’s essential to wash thoroughly before entering the bath, as it’s meant for relaxation, not hygiene.
In Ryokan, the bathroom is often a communal space where guests wash before soaking in a large hot bath. If you stay in a more luxurious hotel, you’ll likely have a private bathroom.
Modern Bathrooms
Modern bathrooms are ubiquitous in Japanese apartments and hotels. They are usually designed as a one-piece plastic unit, making them easy to clean. They include:
- A sink for washing hands and face.
- A bathtub, mainly used as a shower. In Japan, mixer taps are still not very common, so you’ll need to manually adjust the water temperature using two separate taps.
What Bath Products Are Provided?
Japanese hotels stand out for their generosity in terms of hygiene products. Whether you stay in a luxury establishment or a small hotel, you’ll typically find shower gel, shampoo, and conditioner.
These products often have a distinctive scent that you’ll quickly recognize, as many Japanese people use similar products daily.
In addition to these basic items, most hotels also provide razors, toothbrushes, and toothpaste. If you forget something, don’t worry—you can easily buy these items at a reasonable price in a nearby konbini (convenience store).