Toilets

Clean, free and easy to find. The control panel is the only tricky part.

What to know

• Public toilets are common and generally free, in shopping streets, at sights and at temples.
• Most convenience stores let shoppers use their toilets. Buying something isn't required, but it's appreciated.
• Most modern toilets have a warm-water wash button. You can adjust the pressure and the spray. A button with three wavy lines dries.
• The small red square is stop. Press it if the water keeps running.
• In many public toilets, especially women's, a button plays a flushing sound for privacy. Sometimes it starts on its own.
• Squat toilets still exist. They have a strong flush and toilet paper.
• In homes, ryokan and some other places, there are special slippers at the toilet door. Wear them only inside the toilet, and change back when you leave.
• A few cafes lock their toilets and print the code on your receipt.

psst, carry a small hand towel. Locals do, and you won't be stuck shaking your hands dry.

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