Japan is said to be the world's most hygienic country as toilets can be found practically everywhere including parks, train stations, department stores, restaurants and even convenience stores.
Most of these are available for use by the general public free of charge.
Toilet paper is also provided.
If there are plenty of people waiting to use the toilet, form a single line and allow the person at the head of the line to use the first available toilet.
You may flush used toilet paper directly into the toilet as Japan has well-maintained drainage systems and the toilet paper is made to dissolve in water very easily.
That said, remember not to flush anything other than toilet paper in the toilet.
Do not throw used toilet paper into the trash bin, even if one is available.
Do not forget to flush the toilet when you are done using it.
Types of toilets in Japan
There are four kinds of toilets in Japan - traditional squat toilets, Western-style toilets, male urinals and multi-purpose restrooms.
How to use a traditional squat toilet
Despite its long history in Japan, traditional squat-style toilets are gradually being phased out.
Simply squat across the toilet to use it.
How to use a Western-style toilet
The Western-style toilet featuring chair-like seat is commonly used in Japan nowadays.
Some even come with a bidet attachment.
A bidet is a nozzle attachment that sprays pressurized water that is used to clean up after using the toilet.
Bidets can either be attached to the wall or have a control panel right beside the toilet seat.
How to use a male urinal
Male urinals are small cubicles used for urination.
The standard for male urinals is the same everywhere in the world, and their instructions for use are identical.
Just stand in front of the urinal and use it as you would normally.
Some models flush automatically; others need to be flushed manually.
How to use a multi-purpose toilet
Multi-purpose toilets are for wheelchair-bound users, people traveling with children or infants, and the elderly.
Note that multi-purpose toilets are reserved for users that cannot use other types of toilets. Please keep them ready and available for use.