TOILETS
Since Many public toilets provide neither towels for drying hands nor toilet paper,
it is wise to always carry a handkerchief for the former purpose and a small pack of
tissues for the latter. Toilets on trains and in train stations are among the least
pleasant; those in department stores are much better.
Although Western-style toilets continue to increase,there are occasions when
only Japanese-style facilities are available. One takes care of one's business by
squatting astride the toilet,facing the raised end.
In private homes,ins,and some public facilities,slippers or sandals are provided inside
the entrance of the restroom,so be sure to change footwear on the way in and
again on the way out.
Japanese toilet stalls are enclosed all the way to the floor,so it is not possible to quickly
ascertain whether the stall is occupied. The Japanese custom is to knock on the door.
If there is no answering knock from the inside, then open the door,It is not polite to
straight away pull on the knob. Nor is it necessary to verbally announce that someone is
inside the stall; a return knock efficiently conveys that message.