Tokyo, Japan

Designed by Kashiwa Sato of SAMURAI, the new Tokyo Toilet Project for The Nippon Foundation beats all stereotypes that public restrooms are dark, dirty, smelly, and scary.

Instead, the designers delivered a new concept for public toilets with the aim to make a contribution to a society with cleanliness, security, harmony, and acceptance of diversity.

The project is located outside Ebisu Station —a transfer station for the JR and metro lines — making it a popular meet-up spot and an area of heavy pedestrian traffic.

This restroom is designed to be a recognizable landmark outside the exit that brings a bright and refreshing atmosphere to the area while remaining unobtrusive to daily commuters.

The “pure white toilet” design depicts the cleanliness that is expected of toilets by consolidating all its components to the color white.

The square building that contains four individual stalls is made from white aluminum louver that gives off a light and airy impression.

This design manages to promote security from both outside and inside the restroom by allowing appropriate levels of visibility into the restroom while making sure to maintain the privacy of users in the stalls.

Taking these ideas into his own hands, Kashiwa designs this public restroom as a landmark outside of the station to align with the natural standards of a public restroom and to show a new way of life.

Restrooms are an important part of Japan’s world-class “omotenashi” culture.

With the cooperation of the Shibuya Ward, this project aims to construct appealing restroom facilities across various locations in Shibuya Ward that everyone, regardless of age, gender, or handicaps, can comfortably use.

In the 17 planned locations, each restroom is designed by one of 16 different world-renowned architects and designers.

Using the power of design and creativity of these skilled individuals, this ground-breaking project is gaining notice for its endeavors to challenge and address the social issues revolving around today’s public restrooms.

Project: Tokyo Toilet Project
Architects: SAMURAI Inc.
Creative Director: Kashiwa Sato
Lead Architect: Yoshihiro Saito
Art Director : Ko Ishikawa
Lighting Designer: Daiko Electric
Constructor: Daiwa House Industry
Client: The Nippon Foundation
Photographers: Satoshi Nagare