Public toilets are usually ignored, avoided, or joked about. In most cities, they are dark, unpleasant, and anything but welcoming. Tokyo decided to change that idea completely.
In the heart of the city, public restrooms have been transformed into architectural landmarks through the Tokyo Toilet Project. Led by The Nippon Foundation in partnership with the Shibuya City government, the initiative redesigned 17 public toilets across the district with one clear goal in mind. To prove that public spaces, no matter how small, can be clean, safe, beautiful, and respectful to everyone.
The project challenges the long held belief that public toilets must be dirty or unsafe. Instead, it treats them as important parts of everyday life that deserve thoughtful design and care. At its core is the Japanese concept of Omotenashi, the spirit of genuine hospitality and consideration for others.
To bring this vision to life, 16 of the world’s most respected architects were invited to take part. Among them were internationally acclaimed designers such as Tadao Ando, Toyo Ito, Kengo Kuma, and Shigeru Ban. Each architect was given freedom to design a toilet that reflected both their creative style and the needs of the surrounding neighborhood.
One of the most talked about designs comes from Shigeru Ban. His transparent toilets, located in Yoyogi Fukamachi Mini Park and Haru no Ogawa Community Park, directly address two common fears people have when using public restrooms. Cleanliness and uncertainty about whether the stall is occupied. When empty, the walls remain completely transparent, allowing users to see inside before entering. Once the door is locked, the glass instantly turns opaque. At night, the structures glow softly, lighting up the park and making the space feel safer and more inviting.
Other designers approached the challenge in equally thoughtful ways. Tadao Ando created a circular concrete structure called Amayadori, meaning shelter from the rain, offering a calm and open space. Kengo Kuma designed a toilet wrapped in cedar wood that blends naturally into the greenery of Nabeshima Shoto Park. Architect Kazoo Sato introduced the Hi Toilet, a futuristic facility where doors, flushing, and other functions operate through voice commands, creating a fully touch free experience.
What truly sets the Tokyo Toilet Project apart is its commitment to long term care. These restrooms are cleaned several times a day by dedicated staff. Maintenance is not an afterthought but a central part of the design philosophy. Cleanliness, safety, and comfort are treated as ongoing responsibilities.
Inclusivity is also a key focus. All 17 locations include universal toilets designed for people with disabilities, parents with young children, and anyone who needs additional space or support. The designs reflect the belief that public facilities should serve everyone equally.
By turning an everyday necessity into something people actually admire, Tokyo has shown how thoughtful design can change behavior, perceptions, and even dignity in daily life. The Tokyo Toilet Project proves that when creativity meets care, even the most overlooked spaces can become symbols of respect and humanity.
