Why do Japanese people sit on the toilet facing backwards? (Page 3 ) | March 16, 2025

The traditional Japanese toilet, or “Washiki,” is shaped like a slipper. Its front part, called “Kinkakushi,” serves as a splash guard when flushing. Therefore, you must sit on it facing forward. This is due to both convenience and cultural traditions.

Orientalist Kulanov Alexander Evgenievich, in his book “The Other Side of Japan”, talks about the cultural peculiarities of the Japanese associated with the tradition of using the toilet. He quotes the words of a Japanese journalist who notes that in the toilet a person is vulnerable and cannot resist in case of danger. But they cannot face death. Therefore, the Japanese prefer to sit facing the wall on the toilet, even if it means adopting a less secure position.