Toilets

Overview

Toilets in Japan date back 2,000 years. A modern one typically features a heated seat and electronic bidet. Recent trends include new toilets for the elderly and infirm, and for use after a disaster. Our expert guest, architect Shiohiko Takahashi, is a leading researcher and designer of toilets who has surveyed public toilets throughout Japan. This time on Japanology Plus, we'll see how the Japanese relate to an essential everyday item. And in Plus One, a look at state-of-the-art public toilets.