Bathrooms in Japan often feature “embarrassment prevention devices” for women; in many countries, men and women share public restrooms.
In the United States, toilet paper is typically flushed directly down the toilet, whereas most public restrooms in Asian countries have a trash bin next to the toilet for disposing of used toilet paper.
Many areas in China still use traditional squat toilets, especially in public restrooms. Some individuals find it challenging to balance in a squatting position while using the toilet here.
Residents of Antarctica use portable toilets. These toilets can seal waste in a plastic bag. After using the toilet, you simply press a button, and two minutes later, the sealing process is complete. You can then dispose of the waste bag in a trash bin.
Due to women in Japan often feeling embarrassed when others hear sounds while using the toilet, engineers in the country have installed devices that create the sound of flushing even when the toilet is not flushed.
In many countries such as China and South Korea, public restrooms do not always provide sufficient toilet paper, so people often bring their own toilet paper when going out.
Cambodian toilets feature a spray nozzle. Since many sewage systems cannot handle toilet paper, the spray nozzle helps maintain cleanliness without causing blockages. Most toilets in Vietnam also use spray nozzles.
Public restrooms in the USA, Canada, Japan, and Thailand are often shared by all individuals, regardless of gender, transgender status, disabilities, or age.
Public restrooms in Japan feature an emergency button. Many people mistakenly think it is the flush button. This device is helpful for elderly individuals who may need assistance, as it sends an alert to security personnel.
In Indonesia, individuals use their left hand for toilet activities and their right hand for eating.
Soap in public restrooms in South Korea is quite unique. It is often attached to a post, and you need to rub your hands against it to dispense soap.
You should know the local term for toilet when traveling abroad. Many European countries like France, Germany, and the Netherlands refer to toilets as “water closet” or “toilette.” In Australia, it is called “dunny,” in the United Kingdom, it is referred to as “loo,” and in Japan, it is known as “ben-jo.”