Home DISCOVERY Only in Japan: When public toilets look like works of art

Only in Japan: When public toilets look like works of art

DISCOVERY · August 21, 2017

Traveling to Japan offers more than just famous landmarks and bustling cities—it’s also about discovering the small yet meaningful details that make everyday life unique. From traditional gardens and local festivals to unexpected surprises like beautifully designed public spaces, Japan never fails to capture the attention of travelers seeking authentic experiences.

>> Top 12 unique things you must try when traveling to the land of the rising sun

Only In Japan - When Public Toilets Look Like Works Of Art 1
Heeding the call of nature: The toilet is designed to harmonize with the tree next to it.
Only In Japan - When Public Toilets Look Like Works Of Art 20
Vast greenery surrounds beautifully designed WC near Mont Yudono shrine tourist area.
Only In Japan - When Public Toilets Look Like Works Of Art 19
At Futatsubashi Park, toilets are built in metal containers.
Only In Japan - When Public Toilets Look Like Works Of Art 18
The toilet in the children’s playground in Toshima stands out with its contrasting brick color.

>> A closer look at Japan’s most bizarre “Naked” festival

Only In Japan - When Public Toilets Look Like Works Of Art 17
At Shinjuku Daiichi Park WC is decorated with pink flowers.
Only In Japan - When Public Toilets Look Like Works Of Art 16
WC built under a large bridge in Bunkyo-ku district
Only In Japan - When Public Toilets Look Like Works Of Art 15
A WC in the children’s playground and to make the place stand out, the WC is painted bright blue.
Only In Japan - When Public Toilets Look Like Works Of Art 14
The toilet in the park in Toshima has a mosaic design and a clock mounted on top.

>> What’s inside Japan’s most famous love hotels?

Only In Japan - When Public Toilets Look Like Works Of Art 13
In Shukugawa Park there are toilets designed from bricks and stone buildings.
Only In Japan - When Public Toilets Look Like Works Of Art 12
The toilet in the communal garden in Suginami Ward is paved with blue and pink tiles.
Only In Japan - When Public Toilets Look Like Works Of Art 11
The toilet at Kominami Midori Park is decorated with a tree-shaped building.
Only In Japan - When Public Toilets Look Like Works Of Art 10
A mosaic of a baby with a rainbow adorns the WC in Suginami-ku.

>> Essential tips for visiting Japan during new year’s holidays

Only In Japan - When Public Toilets Look Like Works Of Art 9
This WC has a simple design but still stands out thanks to its bright blue color.
Only In Japan - When Public Toilets Look Like Works Of Art 8
The toilet near the bridge in Taito-ku is designed with faces that look like they’re about to jump out of the wall.
Only In Japan - When Public Toilets Look Like Works Of Art 7
The toilet in Bunkyo-ku is decorated with rose bushes and colorful tiles.
Only In Japan - When Public Toilets Look Like Works Of Art 6
Neatly trimmed shrubs and flowers in front of the WC at Aoyama cemetery.

>> Don’t miss these unique festivals when visiting Japan

Only In Japan - When Public Toilets Look Like Works Of Art 5
At Hikarigaoka Park, the WC bricks have colors that blend in with the surrounding landscape.
Only In Japan - When Public Toilets Look Like Works Of Art 4
The toilet in Mizutani Nashi Park has a large clock in front of the entrance.
Only In Japan - When Public Toilets Look Like Works Of Art 3
A WC inspired by castles.
Only In Japan - When Public Toilets Look Like Works Of Art 2
Passengers arriving at Oku Station can rest assured knowing where they are at all times.

>> Discover the fairytale village of Shirakawago – The hometown that inspired Doraemon

Whether you are exploring iconic attractions or stumbling upon hidden gems, every corner of Japan holds a story worth experiencing. With its seamless blend of tradition, modernity, and thoughtful design, the country continues to inspire visitors from around the world. A journey here is not just about sightseeing—it’s about embracing a culture where even the simplest things can leave a lasting impression.

Related Posts

Ashinomaki Onsen Ookawaso 1
DISCOVERY

Ashinomaki Onsen Ookawaso – The real-life “infinity castle”

· August 29, 2025

Many scenes in Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba are inspired by real-life locations scattered across Japan. Among them, the model for Muzan Kibutsuji’s mysterious Infinity Castle is believed to be…

Read more
A “ghost Market” Hidden In Beijing
DISCOVERY

A “Ghost Market” hidden in Beijing – Where bargaining happens under flashlights

· May 26, 2025

Amid the glittering skyline and fast-paced modernization of Beijing, one relic of the past refuses to disappear — a mysterious “ghost market” where buyers and sellers exchange antiques and whispers…

Read more
Journey to Conquer Mount Roraima
DISCOVERY

Journey to Conquer Mount Roraima

· November 29, 2024

The Trekking Adventure Hiking to the summit of Mount Roraima is an incredible challenge, offering an unforgettable journey for those who love to explore nature’s wonders. Preparation is crucial; climbers…

Read more
Mesmerized By The Timeless Charm Of A Train Station Immersed In Cherry Blossoms
DISCOVERY

Mesmerized by the timeless charm of a train station immersed in Cherry Blossoms

· March 28, 2024

Each spring, travelers to Fukushima are treated to one of Japan’s most enchanting sights: the historic Yunokami-Onsen Station draped in a sea of cherry blossoms. More than just a transit…

Read more
Praying For Peace At A 1,400-year-old Temple In Tokyo At The Start Of The Year 8
DISCOVERY

Praying for peace at a 1,400-year-old Temple in Tokyo at the start of the year

· January 28, 2024

When visiting Tokyo in the early days of the new year, tourists should not miss the opportunity to visit Sensoji Temple, one of Japan’s most iconic spiritual sites. Sensoji (also…

Read more
Stunned By Japan’s New Year Bento Box 1
DISCOVERY

Stunned by Japan’s new year bento box: The culinary pinnacle of the land of the rising sun

· September 28, 2023

In Japan, osechi ryori is a special multi-tiered bento box prepared and enjoyed during the New Year (Oshogatsu) as part of traditional celebrations. While many countries ring in the new…

Read more