These Funky and Unexpected Public Toilets Are Delightful

Not to sound crass, but taking a trip to the restroom doesn’t have to be boring. At least that’s the implied intent behind these colorful, creatively shaped Japanese public facilities photographed by Okinawa Soba (Rob).

Over the last six years, Rob has collected several photos of various eye-catching public restrooms scattered across the island of Okinawa. First, there’s the “Tangerine Toilet,” a larger-than-life replica of the vibrant colored fruit that allows visitors to enter through its sliced core. Some spectators believe it’s actually a pumpkin, but we can all certainly agree that it’s one of the quirkiest latrines we’ve ever seen.

If you’re willing to sacrifice a bit of privacy to experience Japanese culture, then you won’t mind this so-called “Pencil Stub Toilet” and its accompanying urinal, which, erm, doesn’t have a door. There’s also a traditional Japanese squat toilet, which requires you to hover just above a bowl that’s buried in the ground, but we’re relieved (no pun intended) to report that it’s concealed behind a metal door.

Next up is the playfully designed Koi Toilet, which is situated underneath a bridge in the city of Nago. If you need to make a pit stop, you’ll have to walk through the fish’s open mouth to get to the toilet. Despite its faded exterior and fishy nature, Web Urbanist says the restroom is “well-maintained and surprisingly clean on the inside.”

Finally (but certainly not the last of these oddly shaped bogs), there’s this wood log restroom, a handmade concrete structure built in the shape of a large tree stump.

One thing’s for sure: Japanese designers definitely don’t shy away from drawing attention to toilets. There country is home to a sleek designer public restroom built to attract tourists, plus this tiny Tokyo apartment with a toilet at the front door, presumably for quick access for those moments when you really have to go.

h/t Colossal