“The Tokyo Toilet” by Shigeru Ban

Shigeru Ban’s Transparent Design at Yoyogi Fukamachi Mini Park

Public toilets are one of the most frequently used spaces in any city. Often designed with only function in mind, they are usually associated with discomfort and unhygienic rather than care and clean. In Tokyo, however, a unique urban initiative called ‘The Tokyo Toilet’ seeks to change this narrative by inviting leading architects to rethink what a public toilet can be.

One of the most massive contributions to the project is by architect Shigeru Ban, known for his socially responsible and human-focused designs. He quoted, “There are two things we worry about when entering a public toilet, especially those located at a park. The first is cleanliness, and the second is whether anyone is inside”.

At Yoyogi Fukamachi Mini Park, he transforms an everyday necessity into a thoughtful architectural statement—one that challenges expectations and improves the user experience through design.

Rethinking the Public Toilet

Overall design of the ‘Yoyogi Fukamachi Mini Park Toilet’ project in Tomigaya
All images in this article are sourced from The Tokyo Toilet project, © Shibuya City / The Nippon Foundation

At first glance, the toilet at Yoyogi Fukamachi Mini Park stands out for its transparent glass walls—an unexpected choice for a space that is often associated with privacy. Rather than hiding the structure, Shigeru Ban places it openly within the park, inviting people to see it as a deliberate part of the public environment.

This transparency serves a practical purpose. From the outside, users can clearly see whether the toilet is clean and occupied. By removing uncertainty, the design addresses common concerns such as hygiene and safety, making the space feel more welcoming.

Privacy Through Technology

Toilet layout of the ‘Yoyogi Fukamachi Mini Park Toilet‘ project
All images in this article are sourced from The Tokyo Toilet project, © Shibuya City / The Nippon Foundation

Despite its transparent appearance, privacy is carefully protected. When the door is unlocked, the glass remains clear. But once a user locks the door, the glass panels instantly turn opaque, creating a fully private interior. This seamless transition is made possible through smart glass technology, which responds to an electric current to change its transparency.

The result? A design that balances openness and privacy, offering reassurance without compromising comfort.

A Gentle Presence in the Park

As evening approaches, the toilet softly illuminates the surrounding area, resembling a glowing lantern within the park. This subtle lighting enhances visibility and contributes to a safer, more welcoming atmosphere, especially after dark. With this, the public will be able to use the facility without having to worry about safety and accessibility.

Shigeru Ban’s work at Yoyogi Fukamachi Mini Park demonstrates how thoughtful design can elevate even the most ordinary public spaces. By combining design with technology, he turns a simple toilet into a meaningful part of the urban landscape—proving that good design can quietly improve everyday life.

Disclaimer: This article includes references to publicly available information and images from The Tokyo Toilet project — an initiative by the Nippon Foundation and Shibuya City. To explore all unique toilet designs and learn more about the initiative, please visit the official website : https://tokyotoilet.jp/en/