It might sound unlikely, but in Tokyo even public toilets have been transformed into art and design projects. The Tokyo Toilet Project invited world-famous architects to redesign facilities across the city, turning something mundane into something creative, safe, and even beautiful.
Some of the designs are playful, others are sleek and minimalist, but all share the goal of accessibility and dignity. One of the most talked-about is the transparent toilet in Shibuya, designed by Shigeru Ban. When empty, its walls are clear, letting you see that it is clean and safe. Once locked, the glass turns opaque, giving privacy. It is both practical and thought-provoking, showing how design can change everyday life.
Other toilets look like sculptures or small houses, blending into parks or adding bursts of colour to quiet streets. Locals use them daily, but travellers often seek them out as part of an urban design tour.
The project reflects a Japanese philosophy of care in the small details. Even something as ordinary as a toilet can be approached with creativity, respect, and ambition. It is another example of how design in Japan is never just about appearance, but about how people experience the world around them.
