Japanese Toilets おてあらい（お手洗い）
There are two types of toilets common in Japan.
The first is the traditional "Japanese style" toilets called わしき（和式）. These are most common in older or more rural areas of Japan, but many public toilets still have these types of toilets too. These require the user to “squat” but have typically considered more sanitary because the user doesn’t actually “sit” on anything.
The second is the "Western style" toilets called ようしき（洋式）. The prefix “Wa” is often used to refer to something that is traditional, while the prefix “yo” is often used to refer to something that is more modern or western. Most public areas and modern buildings have these types of toilets, along with the traditional kind.
Because toilet paper is sometimes not provided in public washrooms, it is recommended to always carry a small package of tissues with you. Similarly, because paper towels or dryers are not always provided to dry your hands, it is recommended to carry a handkerchief or pocket-size disposable towels.
Toilets in private homes are mostly Western style. Many modern toilets feature luxury options such as a heated seat, a bidet and dryer and an automatic lid opener.
Getty Images: Japanese toilet, traditional flush, sit down toilet in Japan by daandart
Vocabulary Practice
Let's practice talking about our homes again. Use the vocabulary images that you see to say what you did to help clean the house and do chores last week. If possible, include what room of the house you did this chore or activity in.
Click each picture to see the correct answer.
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Graded Assignments
Please return to the Section 3 Tasks & Assignments folder to complete the graded assignments for Section 3, Part B.
