In Japan, there's a QR code solution for people needing to find a public restroom
In a bid to address the issue of long queues, particularly for women, in public restrooms in Japan, especially in crowded places like train stations, the city council or relevant municipal authority responsible for urban infrastructure planning has requested funds in the upcoming fiscal year's budget for installing digital display boards and movable toilet walls that can increase the number of women's toilets.
This innovative solution is the brainchild of TOTO, a well-known Japanese company known for its water-spraying and musical toilets. The proposed funds will be used to install digital signage displays and movable toilet walls, aiming to enhance the convenience and accessibility of public restrooms.
The new system, launched this month by TOTO, is designed to manage long queues and maintain cleanliness in public restrooms. It links consumers with existing internet-connected facility management systems, providing a seamless and efficient solution.
One of the key features of the new system is a QR code inside a restroom stall. Scanning this QR code with a smartphone brings users to a website where they can report problems such as being unable to flush or something broken in the restroom. The website also displays live congestion levels of restrooms, helping users find the least crowded facilities.
Moreover, the system notifies facility staff if a cubicle is dirty or occupied for an unusually long time, ensuring prompt attention and maintaining a clean environment. The service provided by TOTO's new system is multi-lingual, available in English, Chinese, and Korean, catering to a diverse user base.
According to local media, these measures are aimed at relieving the problem of long queues for women in public restrooms. The Japanese government, through the transport ministry, has proposed additional funds in the upcoming budget to support this initiative.
In addition to installing digital signage displays and movable toilet walls, the budget will also fund movable toilet walls to increase the number of stalls for women. This is expected to further improve the user experience in public restrooms.
With TOTO's innovative solution, users can also scan a QR code with their phones to access a website showing restroom locations, making it easier for them to find available facilities. This comprehensive approach to public restroom management is a significant step towards improving the overall experience for users in crowded public spaces in Japan.
