The surprising reason why the Japanese sit on the toilet facing forward! 🚽🇯🇵 This unique habit is not just about convenience—it’s rooted in deep cultural traditions 🤔😮 Curious to know why? Find out in the article! 👇
Japan is famous for its cutting-edge toilet technology, offering comfort and convenience that surpasses traditional plumbing systems. Many toilets are equipped with heated seats, built-in bidets, air dryers, deodorizing systems, and even soundproofing features to conceal natural sounds. In Japan, these high-tech toilets are comparable to luxury gadgets, with some models costing tens of thousands of dollars.
Users can adjust settings like water pressure, temperature, and direction for the bidet function. Certain models even provide instant urine analysis and blood pressure monitoring. Just like luxury car seats, these toilets can store personalized settings for different users.
However, one challenge for international visitors has been the complexity of toilet control panels, filled with numerous buttons and symbols. To make navigation easier for tourists ahead of the 2021 Tokyo Olympics, the Japanese government required manufacturers to standardize remote control icons for smart toilets.
Despite these innovations,Traditional Japanese toilets, referred to as “washiki,”,are still commonly found, especially in public places. Many facilities offer both Western-style and Japanese-style toilets to accommodate different preferences.
For those unfamiliar with washiki toilets, their use can be confusing. Unlike Western toilets, they require a squatting position, facing the water tank rather than the door. Special signage in public restrooms helps guide users on the correct way to use them.
The shape of a washiki toilet resembles a slipper, with the front section, called “kinkakushi,” designed to prevent splashing when flushing. Sitting in the correct direction is not just about functionality but is also rooted in cultural tradition.
According to the book ‘The Reverse Side of Japan’ by Alexander Kulanov, Japanese toilet habits are influenced by a deep-seated cultural belief. A Japanese journalist quoted in the book explains that people feel vulnerable when using the toilet, as they are in a defenseless position. By facing the wall, they avoid direct confrontation with potential danger, even if it means adopting a less conventional stance.
Japan’s toilet culture is a fascinating blend of tradition and modernity, offering both high-tech luxury and deeply ingrained customs.
