.Sharing ~ Learning ~ Growing ............................... The World Stories Project.

~ Japanese Bathrooms ~

I guess I never really gave a whole lot of thought to the differences between bathrooms around the world. Well, I had to think about it in Japan because there were huge differences. I couldn't help thinking that some Americans might look at Japanese bathroom customs as odd, but I think perhaps the Japanese feel their way is much more sanitary and clean than other places. In many places in Japan only Asian toilets (low to the ground) are available, or sometimes only one Western Style (that's our style). In the latter case there was always a long line of JFMFers at the Western Style stall.

Ok, so here we go. First off you'll notice that there are slippers as you enter the bathroom. These are separate slippers from the ones you use throughout the rest of the house. They're just for the bathroom! The Japanese are very serious about keeping outside dirt, out. The seats in most homes, hotels and public places are heated. I thought it was pretty funny that in electronic stores they sell toilet seats right next to the computer section.	The toilet is always separate from the bathing area. So, for example the toilet room was across the hall from the bathing/shower area in my host family's home. By the way, no paper towels are available after washing hands, you bring your own towel. This is one way the Japanese reduce paper use. These controls are for cleaning up after. Ok folks, I'm not going to get too specific here - look closely and maybe you can figure out what they do. I can hear my students giggling all the way over here in Tokyo!
All toilet paper holders are covered. Some, in homes and restaurants, have more personal handmade covers; in hotels, etc they are plastic.	Most public restrooms have a beam sensor to flush, but in homes there is a handle.
Ok so here is the Asian toilet. Squatting is a necessary skill.

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