Foreign Travelers’ Guide to Using Public Toilets in China

What Foreign Travelers Need to Know About Using Toilets in China

When traveling in China, foreign visitors might face some unexpected challenges when it comes to using public restrooms. Here’s what you should know:

1. Squat Toilets Are Common – In many public places like train stations, tourist spots, and old town areas, you’ll mostly find squat toilets instead of Western-style ones. If you’re used to sitting toilets, this can feel uncomfortable—especially for seniors or anyone with mobility issues.
2. Hygiene Differences – Some public toilets, especially in remote areas or lower-end facilities, may not be very clean. You might encounter strong odors, outdated facilities, or inconsistent maintenance.
3. No Toilet Paper Provided – Many public restrooms do not supply free toilet paper. Bring your own tissues or buy some locally. Also, some toilets don’t have trash bins, which can be confusing when disposing of used paper.
4. Signage and Language Barriers – Signs are often only in Chinese, without English or other languages. This can make it tricky to find a restroom or distinguish male from female facilities.
5. Pay-to-Use Toilets – Some public toilets charge a small fee, either in cash or via mobile payment apps. Foreign travelers might not be familiar with WeChat Pay or Alipay, or may not have small change.
6. Privacy Issues – Traditional toilets, particularly in rural areas, might lack partitions or doors, which can feel awkward or uncomfortable for visitors.
7. Cultural Differences – In some places, it’s recommended to throw used toilet paper in the trash instead of flushing it, and using squat toilets correctly might be confusing if you’re unfamiliar.

Reference squat toilet:https://chinawondersguide.com/2025/08/21/how-to-master-squat-toilets-in-china-without-awkward-moments/

Tips for Foreign Travelers:

• Carry tissues, small change, or learn to use WeChat/Alipay for payments.
• Download a translation app (like Google Translate) to read Chinese signs.
• Opt for modern facilities in malls, hotels, or airports, which usually meet international standards.
• Check restroom availability and type ahead of time, and be mentally prepared for differences.