I’ve been fitting bathrooms for years now. And every once in a while, a new thing comes along that makes me relearn how I view and think of some designs or items. Lately, that thing has been the Japanese toilet.

I’ve seen a few trends come and go, ending up not being as efficient or helpful as some would’ve considered. Trends like fancy lighting setups or overly complicated digital shower controls. Or they stay and quietly change how we live, but without making such a big impact (like underfloor heating or rimless toilet bowls).

This one’s a third kind, that’s more rare. The kind that deserves all the hype in the world, for so many different reasons, all being more relevant than the other.

You might think it’s just another posh gimmick, something for luxury hotels or tech-obsessed folks. But if you stick with me through this article, I’ll show you why more and more everyday homeowners, especially here in the UK, are asking us to fit these things. And I’ll tell you what they’re actually like to live with.

What Is a Japanese Toilet?

You’ve probably heard about them online, maybe seen a clip or two. But what is a Japanese toilet, really? Well, it’s a toilet that does a lot more than flush. These units often come with heated seats, built-in bidets, dryers, motion sensors, and even soft lighting.

That might sound overwhelming, I admit, but once you try one, the old setup starts to feel a bit… dated. People who visit Japan often come back raving about their bathrooms more than the food. I’ve had customers who travelled there once and immediately wanted one back home. That says something.

Styles of Japanese Toilets

There are a few main types. Some are full units, like the TOTO Japanese toilet, which is one of the most well-known brands. Others are seats that you fit onto your current toilet/ They are what we simply call Japanese toilet seats.

They come in all shapes (wall-hung, floor-mounted, back-to-wall) and if you want a Japanese style toilet bowl that looks neat and hides the plumbing, that’s doable too. The Japanese style toilet doesn’t always come loaded with high-tech features. Sometimes, it’s just about the shape, design, or how the plumbing’s hidden, not the electronics.

How Do Japanese Toilets Work? (Key Features)

Some models now even come with motion-activated lids, night lights, or UV disinfection that kicks in once you walk away. That kind of self-sanitising tech might sound over the top, but it genuinely helps keep things clean in shared homes. And don’t be worried about hitting the wrong button. Most modern seats only activate functions like spraying if they detect weight on the seat. So there won’t be a surprise face splash if you’re fiddling with the controls out of curiosity.

Most folks are usually amazed by the first use. You sit down, and the Japanese toilet seat instantly warms up. Sensors detect you, and the bidet function gets ready. There’s a control panel, sometimes a remote. You get a clean with warm water, and then a gentle dry.

Some models even deodorise the air. Many have self-cleaning toilet seats, and it’s one of the most hygienic systems I’ve worked with. The cleaning process is often automatic, using a nozzle that cleans itself before and after each use.

And yes, you can adjust the water pressure, temperature, and even the spray position. There’s no guesswork once you get used to the buttons.

Benefits of Using a Japanese Toilet

One surprising benefit a few clients mentioned: it stopped arguments in their house. Things like forgetting to put the seat down or splashing around the bowl just don’t happen anymore. The lid closes on its own, and the heated Japanese toilet seat makes sitting down far more likely (even for those who usually stand). That alone made life easier in more than one couple’s routine.

People ask if it’s worth it. And I’d say, ten times yes. The hygiene alone is the most relevant part, in my opinion. For anyone with limited mobility or medical conditions, it can make life a lot easier. And for those of us who just want to feel cleaner, it’s probably the most practical tool I’ve seen. It not only helps with personal hygiene, but it makes things way easier than having to get in the shower or bath every time just to clean yourself properly. It saves time, and honestly, it’s a good way to make sure kids actually learn to take care of their bodies after using the toilet.

Bidet features basically mean less toilet paper. Which means less waste, less pollution, and fewer trees being cut down. That’s better for the planet, your wallet, and your plumbing, from all angles. I’ve seen fewer blockages in homes with a Japanese bidet toilet. Some folks I’ve worked with had bowel issues or just felt uncomfortable with dry wiping. This was life-changing for them.

Understanding Japanese Toilet Signs

 A lot of folks visiting Japan don’t know what symbols to look for. ‘おしり’ (Oshiri) means buttocks (that’s the rear wash). And there’s usually a separate bidet spray for women. Most panels also have a square stop button to cancel any function. If you’re shopping for an import, check for translations (some panels only have Japanese characters). Otherwise, go for one tailored for export markets.

One tricky bit, especially for travellers, is the buttons. If you’ve used one in Japan, you’ve probably seen icons instead of text. Some are clear, others… not so much.

In the UK market, brands like TOTO or Panasonic have English panels. But if you’re importing directly, or buying second-hand, it helps to understand their common icons.

Bringing Japanese Toilets to the UK

I get a lot of questions from homeowners who saw these on a trip and want one fitted here. And yes, Japanese toilets in the UK are growing in popularity.

Best Japanese Toilet Brands Available in the UK

One UK-friendly brand that surprised me was Vitra. Not a Japanese brand, but a solid local option that gives you a similar experience. Clients liked that it felt familiar and came with an app, Bluetooth support, and all the main functions. It’s a good alternative if you want something easier to service in the UK without losing out on the fancy bits.

TOTO is the most well-known. But there’s also Panasonic, Coway, and Blooming. Some come as full systems, while others are Japanese toilet seats you can retrofit onto your existing toilet. If you’re in the UK, a local fitter can easily help with the install.

I’ve personally worked with several models now, and as long as you’ve got a socket nearby and decent water pressure, you’re set. Some need a plumber and an electrician, but it’s not a major job if planned properly.

Cost Considerations for Japanese Toilets

Most people hesitate because these aren’t cheap. A good Japanese toilet, UK model, can start from a few hundred for a seat, or over a thousand for the full unit.

Another cost to factor in is the need for both a mains water supply and a nearby power outlet. That’s what powers the heated seat, bidet spray, dryer, and even the bowl light (which is great for nighttime use). In Japan, this setup is standard, but in UK bathrooms, it might need a bit of rewiring.

Installation adds a bit too, depending on your bathroom layout. But they do last. And if you factor in savings on toilet paper and plumbing issues, it’s not a bad long-term investment. 

Cultural Insights into Japanese Bathrooms

The Inventor Behind the Innovation And Cultural Attitudes Towards Bathrooms

The Japanese toilet we know today really took off in the 1980s. TOTO helped push it forward with the tech side of things, like heated seats, bidet functions, all of that. But it wasn’t just about showing off new gadgets. In Japan, cleanliness is deeply tied to everyday life. It’s seen as a sign of respect, for yourself and for others. Being clean for them is about health and manners. That mindset shaped how these toilets were developed, to improve how people live and feel, every single day.

In Japan, many toilets are in separate rooms from the bath. You take your shoes off before stepping into some homes. The idea of using dry toilet paper and walking away is almost shocking to some people over there. 

Toilet Paper Usage: A Satirical Look by South Park

Now, here’s something I didn’t expect to bring up in a bathroom blog: South Park. But the show did a whole episode about Japanese toilets, and they weren’t just trying to be funny. They were actively pointing out how our socio-economic and political system works against us, not for our benefit.

They basically called out the absurdity of the toilet paper industry. How we cut down countless trees, create massive waste, and endure price hikes, all to use something that’s dry and, frankly, inefficient. South Park pointed out that Japanese toilets already offer solutions to these issues.

But they also showed how people avoid switching because of habits, and because bidets are still seen as something fancy or unnecessary. Even Randy, in the episode, gets targeted by big toilet paper just because he starts promoting these toilets. It was humorous, yes, but also uncomfortably close to reality. To me, it was spot on. Japanese toilets could significantly reduce paper waste, but capitalism has its grip on this one. Still, more homeowners are becoming aware, and that’s why I’m writing this.

Real Experiences: Homeowners Embrace Japanese Toilets

One couple told me their guests always comment on the warm toilet seat first. It’s the detail that makes the biggest impression. Another homeowner said his toddler started using the toilet earlier, just because the seat felt more inviting. And more than one client joked that it’s become a talking point at dinner parties. Not something you’d expect from a loo, but here we are.

At AV Modern Bathrooms, we’ve installed a fair few of these now. Some in family homes, others in posh flats. One client told me her dad stopped needing help in the bathroom after they got one. Another said it helped during a bad flare-up of IBS.

I’ve had homeowners call me months later to say they’re saving more than they thought just on these toilets and less plumbing trouble. And they all thought it sounded silly at first. Now they’re the ones convincing their mates to try it.

Embracing the Japanese Toilet Experience

You don’t need a full remodel to get started. A good Japanese toilet seat can be added to most modern toilets. If you’re redoing your bathroom, even better, we can fit the whole unit and run power discreetly (you can book your free quote right here!).

These products are about comfort, hygiene, and doing things smarter. These toilets aren’t the future because they’re already here. And they’re brilliant in every way.

FAQ

Are bidets sanitary for females?

Yes. Bidets, especially those in Japanese style toilets, offer a gentle clean with warm water. That’s more hygienic than dry wiping. It helps avoid irritation and can be helpful during menstruation or post-birth recovery. And you can adjust the water temperature and pressure for comfort.

Do you still wipe after using a bidet?

Sometimes, yes, especially if your bidet doesn’t have a dryer. But in most Japanese bidet toilet models, the drying function replaces toilet paper entirely. A quick wipe may still feel normal at first, but most people stop using much paper over time.