06.04.2022

Media Information of our clients

TOTO for "THE TOKYO TOILET"

They are often searched for in vain: public toilets are usually in short supply. If they have to be used out of necessity, then for as short a time as possible. No wonder that public sanitary facilities do not invite people to linger. They are usually uncomfortable to use, smelly and the hygiene leaves a lot to be desired. Things seem to be quite different in Tokyo.

The transparent doors of the cabins at the toilet pavilion by Shigeru Ban become opaque when the door is locked from the outside, providing the necessary privacy.
The transparent doors of the cabins at the toilet pavilion by Shigeru Ban become opaque when the door is locked from the outside, providing the necessary privacy.photo: Satoshi Nagare

It is a city of impressive contrasts: Tokyo is the world's largest metropolitan region, currently home to more than 38 million people. The hustle and bustle, the hustle and bustle and the noise are contrasted by the calm, hospitable culture of Japan and the clarity in structure with its level-headed inhabitants.

As soon as the lock of the door is operated from the inside, the glass turns into an opaque wall, protecting the user from unwelcome glances.
As soon as the lock of the door is operated from the inside, the glass turns into an opaque wall, protecting the user from unwelcome glances. photo: Satoshi Nagare

Japan is considered one of the cleanest countries in the world with high standards of hygiene. In the field of technically advanced toilet systems, Japanese companies such as TOTO are leaders. So it's no wonder that we have a lot to learn from this country when it comes to public toilets!

Kazoo Sato's "sphere", which seems to float, has a futuristic appearance. Going to the toilet in the gleaming white sphere is a special experience. In the meantime, it has become a landmark in the area.
Kazoo Sato's "sphere", which seems to float, has a futuristic appearance. Going to the toilet in the gleaming white sphere is a special experience. In the meantime, it has become a landmark in the area.photo: TOTO LTD.

But even in clean Japan, public toilets are considered dark, dirty and scary. The squat toilet is still common in public restrooms. The project "THE TOKYO TOILET" aims to make this place more comfortable and clean through the Nippon Foundation.

Going to the toilet in the shining white sphere is a special experience.
Going to the toilet in the shining white sphere is a special experience.poto: TOTO LTD.

Our customer TOTO, with its outstanding expertise in sanitation, is taking an advisory role in this project. Here, the quiet place in a noisy city becomes a peaceful experience.

A trip into nature: The toilets designed by the well-known architect Kengo Kuma stand at different levels on the edge of the green Nabeshima Shoto Park. The five toilet stalls themselves can be walked through like a small forest.
A trip into nature: The toilets designed by the well-known architect Kengo Kuma stand at different levels on the edge of the green Nabeshima Shoto Park. The five toilet stalls themselves can be walked through like a small forest.photo: TOTO LTD.

For more information about the unusual project in Tokyo, please see our media information.

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