Tokyo, a city known for its technological advancements, is now going one step further by introducing a unique concept in urban tourism, a tour of renovated public toilets. This initiative is not just about function, but also about aesthetics and a pleasant experience. By combining innovative design and advanced technology, Tokyo has transformed public toilets into works of art that can be enjoyed by everyone.
In March, Tokyo launched a tour of renovated public toilets in Shibuya Ward, Japan. The aim of this project is to change the traditional perception of public toilets which are often considered dirty and smelly. By remodeling 17 public toilets, the project gives visitors from home and abroad a unique opportunity to see the city of Tokyo through a different lens.
Interesting Architecture
A total of 17 public toilets have been redesigned by leading architects under “ The Tokyo Toilet ” project. Architects involved include Kengo Kuma, known for the National Stadium used for the Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics in the summer of 2021, as well as Toyo Ito, winner of the acclaimed Pritzker Architecture Prize for the National Taichung Theater in Taiwan. These facilities not only function as places for personal use, but also as works of art that attract attention.
One interesting example of a toilet is Toyo Ito's “Three Mushrooms”. This toilet is made to resemble a mushroom that grows from the forest around the Yoyogi-Hachiman shrine. Apart from that, there are also colorful and transparent bathrooms that turn opaque when locked. All of this is part of an effort to create safer and more fashionable public toilets.
Interest from Overseas Visitors
Although the tour is still in its early stages, interest from overseas visitors has begun to increase. Many people are attracted to the architecture and locations featured in the Oscar-nominated film “Perfect Days.” This film follows the simple life of a public toilet cleaner in Tokyo, played by Koji Yakusho.
The project was founded by the nonprofit Nippon Foundation and Koji Yanai, an executive at Fast Retailing Co., operator of the Uniqlo clothing chain. The first facilities in the project opened to the public in 2020 and the latest additions last year. Toilets are cleaned three times a day and undergo regular inspections.
Interesting Toilet Tour
This tour is divided into two parts, namely the east and west routes which are held simultaneously on Thursday and Saturday starting at 10 am and 14 pm. The fare is 4,950 yen per person. The tour lasts for about two hours, and participants are allowed to use the facilities. The western route is slightly more popular as it includes many works by famous architects and is a lesser known area of the neighborhood. This route includes the work of Shigeru Ban, who is the only architect to contribute two separate facilities.
Response From Architects
The architects involved in “The Tokyo Toilet” project responded positively to this initiative. Here are some opinions from some of the famous architects who participated in this project:
- Shigeru Ban : Architect Shigeru Ban, who designed the facilities at Haru-no-Ogawa Community Park and Yoyogi Fukamachi Mini Park, describes his creation as a “toilet village.” He used the latest technology to make the exterior glass turn opaque when locked. This allows users to check cleanliness and whether there is anyone inside the toilet from outside. At night, the facility lights up like a beautiful lantern.
- Fumihiko Maki : Fumihiko Maki designed the facilities at Ebisu East Park. He wants this facility to not only function as a public toilet, but also as a public space equipped with a rest area. The cheerful roof design integrates different sections promoting ventilation and natural light, creating a bright and clean environment.
- Kengo Kuma and Toyo Ito : Kengo Kuma and Toyo Ito are also involved in this project. The toilet they designed will be available in the coming year.
“The Tokyo Toilet” project has created attractive, innovative and environmentally friendly public toilet facilities, and changed people's perception of toilets as part of the beauty of the city.
Impact of "The Tokyo Toilet" Project
“The Tokyo Toilet” project which changed the perception of public toilets in Tokyo had several positive impacts on society and the surrounding environment:
- Improved Perception : This project succeeded in changing the traditional perception of public toilets which are often considered dirty and smelly. By overhauling the design and cleanliness of toilets, Tokyoites now see these facilities as part of the city's beauty and innovation.
- Increase in Tourists : Attractive and unique public toilets have attracted tourists from home and abroad. Visitors can now experience Tokyo through a different lens by visiting toilets designed by famous architects.
- Appreciation for Architecture : This project provides more appreciation for architecture and design. The artwork integrated into public toilets inspires people to see toilets as more than just functional places.
- Improved Cleanliness : By regularly cleaning and inspecting facilities, this project improves the cleanliness standards of public toilets. This has a positive impact on public health and the surrounding environment.
- Introduction to Lesser-Famous Areas : Public restroom tours also take visitors to lesser-known areas of the Shibuya neighborhood. This helps introduce interesting places that many people may not know about.
With this toilet tour, Tokyo shows its commitment to creating a friendly and innovative environment for its citizens and visitors. Public toilets are no longer just functional places, but also part of the beauty and uniqueness of the city.
We hope this article provides an interesting look at the Tokyo Toilet project and inspires us to look at public toilets in a more creative light!
