If you pay attention, you’ll notice that most Japanese households have separate bathrooms and toilets. This design is quite different from what we often see in many other countries around the world, including Vietnam. This arrangement is influenced by various factors, all of which ultimately bring practical benefits to the users.
According to Traditional Japanese Cultural Beliefs
Despite Japan’s strong societal development, some traditional values remain unchanged. This is one of the most admirable aspects of their culture. The separate design of bathrooms and toilets is also rooted in ancient beliefs. Traditionally, Japanese people used to build toilets in the middle of gardens or at the end of hallways, choosing a location far from the main house. This not only provided ventilation for the toilet but also kept the living space clean.
On the other hand, the bathroom, for the Japanese, is a place to cleanse both the body and the soul. They have a custom of soaking in hot water to relieve fatigue after a long day, which provides a relaxing experience. In contrast, the toilet is considered a place of dirty, impure air. Combining these two spaces would negatively impact the cleansing process.
Moreover, the Japanese have a habit of cleaning themselves before entering the family bath. They believe that this practice maintains the cleanliness of the shared bathwater.
Hygiene Assurance
Separating the bathroom and toilet also ensures better hygiene. Toilets are known to harbor bacteria and often emit unpleasant odors. By keeping them apart from the bathing area, these issues are less likely to affect the bathing space. Additionally, for those who keep their toothbrushes and face towels in the bathroom, separating the two areas with a partition can prevent bacteria from the toilet from spreading and contaminating personal items, thus reducing health risks.
Convenience and Space Optimization
Having separate bathrooms and toilets is also more convenient and space-efficient. When they are combined, if one person is bathing, others cannot use the toilet, and vice versa. By separating the two areas, multiple people can use the facilities simultaneously without any inconvenience.
The Japanese design of separating bathrooms and toilets offers numerous advantages for daily life. This choice is not arbitrary but is rooted in tradition and practicality. It is certainly a design aspect worth considering and adopting.
