The Tokyo Toilet is a public restroom project with the aim of building a society that is accepting of diversity. Under the project, public restrooms, which are open to anyone regardless of their gender, age, or disability, have been established at 17 locations in Shibuya Ward. With the participation of 16 creators advocating the cause, the project presents a new mode of society through the power of creative design.

In this article, we would like to introduce five of them.

“White” by Kashiwa Sato

Located just outside the west exit of Ebisu Station, the one designed by creative director Kashiwa Sato is welcoming and very accessible and has a clean and unassuming appearance. Because Sato thought that a symbolic structure right in front of a station, which people see almost every day, should not stand out too much, Sato built a completely white restroom while in hopes of brightening up station users’ days even if only slightly.

“White” by Kashiwa Sato

“A Walk in the Woods” by Kengo Kuma

Titled “A Walk in the Woods,” the one located in lush Shoto Park has been designed by architect Kengo Kuma under the theme of a restroom village. To accommodate the needs of diverse users, such as child-rearing families and wheelchair users, he built five hut-like restrooms. Connected by footpaths, these restrooms create an illusion as if users are stepping into the woods.

“A Walk in the Woods” by Kengo Kuma

“Vessels and Fountains” by Sou Fujimoto

Architect Sou Fujimoto has taken a public restroom in Nishisando and redefined it into an urban water area/fountain. The wide concave shape, which reaches the lowest point in the center, allows for faucets at varying heights. Everyone from children to the elderly can wash hands, collect water, and chat with each other, surrounding the “vessel.” It proposes a new way of treating public spaces as a place where people gather around water.

“Vessels and Fountains” by Sou Fujimoto

“Amayadori” by Tadao Ando

With the goal of developing a space which not only functions as a public restroom, but also has public value as an urban facility, architect Tadao Ando built “Amayadori” (meaning “taking shelter from rain”) in Jingu-dori Park. With eaves projecting extensively beyond the side of the cylindrical building, it looks as if there is an engawa-style veranda under the eaves. Sitting obscurely among trees, the restroom gives off a tiny urban haven vibe.

“Amayadori” by Tadao Ando

“Triangle” by Nao Tamura

Product designer Nao Tamura built a bright red public restroom on a triangular lot located in the Higashi 3-chome area. Its shape has been inspired by “origata” (meaning “folding styles”), which is an essential part of Japan’s gift culture. Wishing for a society where everyone can live happily, she designed the restroom while placing importance on the privacy and safety of all users.

“Triangle” by Nao Tamura

All restrooms of The Tokyo Toilet are equipped with a bidet, which is synonymous with Japan’s advanced toilet culture. Moreover, they accommodate the needs of various users such as wheelchair users and ostomate users. Another remarkable fact about them is that they are always kept clean and comfortable thanks to meticulous management by the dedicated cleaning staff.

Check out the official website for details of individual restrooms. When you are visiting Shibuya, why not go check out the unique restrooms that embody Japan’s world-renowned hospitality culture?

■DATA The Tokyo Toilet Official website (English version): https://tokyotoilet.jp/en/ (Information as of February 2025)

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