Why Do Japanese People Sit on the Toilet Facing Backwards?

Japan is known for its unique cultural practices and innovations, especially when it comes to hygiene and design. One intriguing question that often arises is: Why do Japanese people sit on the toilet facing backward? While this practice is not universal across Japan, it has historical and practical roots in certain contexts. In this article, we’ll explore the reasons behind this habit, how it works, and its connection to Japanese toilet culture.

The Origins of Sitting Backward on Toilets

The practice of sitting backward on a toilet is not a widespread, everyday habit for modern Japanese people. However, it has historical and practical roots that stem from traditional Japanese squatting toilets (washiki toilets) and the multifunctionality of public restroom designs. Here are the key reasons and contexts:

  1. Traditional Squat Toilets:

    • Early Japanese toilets were squat-style, where users naturally faced forward toward the tank area or wall. This orientation became ingrained in certain settings.
    • Sitting backward on newer, Western-style toilets in Japan can feel like a continuation of the forward-facing squat toilet practice.

  2. Practical Design of Public Toilets:

    • In some older Japanese public toilets, the cistern or tank is built with a flat top, often used as a small shelf for personal items like phones, bags, or tissues. Sitting backward makes it convenient to place and access these items.

  3. Stability and Comfort:

    • For elderly individuals or those who find squatting difficult, sitting backward provides better stability.

  4. A Learning Quirk:

    • Children learning to use toilets sometimes sit backward as it feels more secure. This practice occasionally carries over into adulthood in certain cases.

How to Sit Backward on a Toilet

If you're curious about trying this method or if you encounter a scenario where it’s practical, here’s a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Identify the Right Toilet

  1. Look for a toilet with a sturdy, flat tank or backrest, as this method works best on older or public Western-style toilets in Japan.
  2. Ensure the surface is clean before use.

Step 2: Turn Around