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Restrooms in Japan

Japan Travel Tips 440
Restrooms in Japan

What are the public restrooms like in Japan? Many travelers might have this concern before their Japan vacation. The restrooms in Japan are actually among the cleanest in the world. Whether in airports, bus stations, hotels, business districts, parks, or tourist attractions, travelers can easily find restrooms. Restrooms are well designed to meet many people's need. Here is a brief introduction to the restrooms in Japan.

Types of Restroom in Japan

Japanese restrooms are generally classified into 3 categories, including the Japanese-style toilet (squat toilet), Western toilet, and Multi-function toilet. Depending on the location, you may find different types of toilet. The traditional Japanese-style toilets are common in tourist attractions and older buildings. Japan-style toilets require user to squat down. Over time, Western toilets, which are more convenient to use, become popular in Japan. Multi-function toilets are incorporated with high-tech and are suitable for different users including babies and disabled.


 

Where Can I find a Restroom in Japan

If you travel to Japan from the USA or other countries, you can easily find restrooms in Japan. Clean restrooms are widely available in attractions, bus and train stations, and airports. When outside on a street, people can use the restrooms in restaurants and convenient stores, and Japanese would usually welcome tourists from overseas. In Japan, toilet, lavatory, and W.C. all refer to restroom, and toilet is the most commonly used.



Hotel Restrooms in Japan
Japanese hotel restrooms are similar to those around the world. Restroom can be found in hotel lobby as well as restaurants. In hotel restroom, there is a bath tub, a wash basin, and a toilet. Hotels in Japan are relatively smaller, so the restrooms are also smaller. Shower faucet is commonly installed over the bath tub. A separated shower room is very rare.



Household Restroom in Japan
When visiting a family in Japan, guests have to change their shoes before entering the house. As hygienic practice, guests will use different shoes specific for the restroom. Going to the restroom without changing shoes is considered impolite.




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Most Frequently Asked Questions

  • Are public restrooms free in Japan?
    Public restrooms in Japan are usually free. Toilet paper and hand soap are also provided free to use, so travelers don’t have to worry paying to use restroom.
  • How to dispose used toilet paper?
    Used toilet paper can be disposed into the toilet. However, feminine hygiene products and other wastes should be placed in the trash bin.
  • How to flush the toilet after use?
    Flushing method is different depending on the type of toilet. Press the flushing button on the water tank. For Japanese style toilet, use the rear handle to flush the toilet.
  • Is water spray common in Japanese toilet?
    Many toilets in Japan have water spraying function. You can use it as a regular toilet as well. The toilets usually provide English instruction on how to use.
  • Does Japanese toilet have emergency call button?
    Most Japanese toilet have emergency call button near the flush handle. If you feel unwell in the restroom, you can press the button for help. Be careful not to press the button unless needed.
  • Is there restroom in subway station?
    Every subway station has large clean restroom. They are usually located by the exits.
  • Can I use the restroom in restaurants?
    Japanese are very friendly to foreigners and usually welcome travelers to use their restroom. However, because restaurant restrooms are private property, it is polite to ask for permission before using.
  • Is it easy to distinguish the restroom sign for woman from man?
    It is usually easy to distinguish woman restroom from man restroom. However, in some case, the icons are not as recognizable or are written in Japanese. Thus, it is a good idea to check carefully before using.
  • Is hand soap provided in Japanese restroom?
    Hand soap is provided in most Japanese restrooms for free. Some restrooms even have hand dryer.
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