Do I need to bring toilet paper to Japan?


Do I need to bring toilet paper to Japan? Although the situation has improved dramatically in recent decades, toilet paper is not always provided in public washrooms, in which case it can be useful to carry a small package of tissues with you. Similarly, because paper towels or dryers are not always provided, it is recommended to carry a handkerchief.


Do Japanese hotels provide toothpaste?

Thankfully, Japanese hotels offer so many free amenities you can leave most of these at home. Three and four-star accommodations almost always include necessities like razors, toothbrushes, toothpaste, hairbrushes, and hair dryers. Some might go the extra mile and also have bath salts and facial treatments.


What does Japan use instead of toilet paper?

The most advanced washlets can mix the water jet with soap for an improved cleaning process. The washlet can replace toilet paper completely, but many users opt to use both wash and paper in combination—although use of paper may be omitted for cleaning of the vulva.


Why is there no soap in Japanese bathrooms?

No one knows the reason why, but seem to guess that it's to save money in the public restrooms (both the cost of soap and of water). And a lot of Japanese homes have (or used to have) the toilets with the faucet on top and (for some reason) you wouldn't want the hand soap to run back into the tank.


Should I bring my own towel to Japan?

Bringing a small towel and toiletries to thoroughly clean yourself beforehand is recommended. “For smaller more traditional onsens, don't get caught out without body wash. If you're not squeaky clean before you go in, you won't be making any friends, and products aren't always provided at the less touristy spots.”


Do hotels in Japan have toilet paper?

Almost all toilets in Japan are well maintained and kept spotlessly clean to ensure the utmost comfort for all travelers to Japan. On the whole, toilets are free to use and toilet paper is always provided.


How do you dry yourself after using a bidet?

The modern bidet seats even have drying options. If you press the 'Dry' button, provided there is one, the air dryer will dry the area. If you are using the traditional bidet, you can dry using toilet paper or a towel. In most public toilets with bidets, towels are provided on a ring next to it.


Can you drink tap water in Japan?

Yes, drinking water from taps in Japan is safe. For environmental reasons, try to use a refillable water bottle rather than buying bottled water in Japan. Metro train stations have public water fountains, but otherwise these can be hard to find (this is the land of vending machines after all).