The Japanese Toilet - A Lavatorial Luxury
Japan is renowned for its technology (despite how frustrating the lack of it in certain areas can be for some!), and one particular area it excels in is the humble toilet. It may seem a very simple device that serves a single purpose that requires no explanation, but in Japan there are various types of toilets with different levels of complexity and features.
In this blog, we will look at the different types of toilets out there so that you know what to expect and don't get caught with your pants down.
Washiki – The Traditional Toilet
We'll start simple with what is often called the squat toilet, which does exactly what it says on the tin. (Or is that can?) While the benefits of this type of toilet are often touted by the Japanese, it is often avoided even by the more contemporary Japanese and may not be a comfortable choice for the uninitiated. These can typically be found in older public restrooms in parks or on road sides. You'll find a handy metal bar on the floor to keep your balance with while you drop your drawers. Compared to public toilets in many other countries, they may still be cleaned and maintained well, but considering what else may be on offer, you may want to avoid them unless you're feeling adventurous.
Youshiki – The Western Toilet
In many cases this is where you will find the dramatic evolution in lavatorial comfort and functionality. There are plenty of 'normal' toilets out there, but sometimes on the surface what may look like a typical toilet you'd find in any western home, upon closer inspection will have an array of buttons on either the side of the toilet or on a separate panel, that may befuddle the user upon first landing.
Here is a list of some of the
handy features one would typically find:
1) The Heated Toilet Seat
A warm welcome during the winter months. You can keep the toilet seat warm throughout to avoid a sharp wake-up in the morning!
2) The Washlet
Both a bidet for the ladies and a posterior spray for all, this is a good option for those who want to cut down on their toilet paper usage. The position, temperature and strength of the spray can be controlled with the control panel.
3) Oto-hime: The Sound Princess
You may be greeted with the sounds of birds chirping or flushing water when parking that may bewilder you at first. The 'Sound Princess' is there to mask some noises that may be otherwise embarrassing to the sensitive.
4) Touchless Toilet Seat
Really fancy toilets will have automated toilet seats that will open and close by themselves. Some may have a button that you can press to open and close without touching the toilet itself, which many will find more hygienic.
5) The Wash Bowl
A nifty feature of many toilets in Japan, particularly in homes and less so in public. When flushing the toilet, the water will come from a tap at the top of the toilet that runs into the bowl. This water is totally clean and can be used to wash your hands when you’re done, which helps save on a lot of water!
These are just some of the features you may come across during your adventures in Japan. Some love them so much that they will buy one to take home when they leave Japan. Try not to be daunted by all the features; they're completely optional and are not necessary for achieving your ultimate goal.
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