THE TOKYO TOILET ProjectIn cooperation with Shibuya City government, installing public toilets that can be used comfortably by anyone – Pritzker Prize winners among 16 creators

Japan is known as one of the cleanest countries in the world. However, the use of public toilets in Japan is limited because of stereotypes that they are dark, dirty, smelly, and scary. The Nippon Foundation and the Shibuya City government have launched THE TOKYO TOILET project to build public toilets that can be used comfortably by anyone regardless of gender, age, or disability, in 17 locations in Shibuya by the summer of 2021. Seven of the toilets have been completed, and the remainder are scheduled for completion by the summer of 2021.

Participating creators include Tadao Ando, Shigeru Ban, Toyo Ito, and Fumihiko Maki – all winners of the Pritzker Architecture Prize, which is known as the “Nobel Prize of architecture.” Using their design and creative skills, the creators are making a bold statement that demonstrates what an inclusive society can mean. Cleanliness and maintenance are also being emphasized to ensure that people can use the toilets without hesitation, and to foster a spirit of hospitality for the next person. The toilets are being constructed by Daiwa House Industry Co., Ltd., and TOTO Ltd. is advising on toilet equipment and layout.

The toilets that have been completed and are available for use by the general public are shown below. (Photographs by Satoshi Nagare)