TOTO Museum: A journey through bathroom innovation and sustainable design
A model showing the principles of the modern toilet
The TOTO Museum in Kitakyushu, Japan, stands as a testament to a century of bathroom innovation and sustainable design. Opened in 2015 to mark TOTO's centenary, this futuristic building showcases the evolution of toilet technology and TOTO's commitment to enhancing daily life. From humble beginnings to global leadership in bathroom fixtures, the museum offers visitors a unique glimpse into the cultural, technological, and environmental impact of bathroom design. Through interactive exhibits and cutting-edge displays, the TOTO Museum not only celebrates the company's history but also envisions a future where comfort meets sustainability in our most private spaces.
History and evolution of TOTO: From ceramic pioneers to global leaders
TOTO's journey began in 1917, when it was founded as Toyo Toki (Oriental Ceramics). The company's initial focus was on creating Japan's first ceramic flush toilet, at a time when most of the country lacked a proper sewage system. This pioneering spirit set the stage for TOTO's century-long commitment to innovation in bathroom technology.
The museum guides visitors through this rich history, showcasing early toilet designs and the company's diversification into high-quality tableware production. This side business, which lasted until the 1970s, is represented by exquisite porcelain displays, highlighting TOTO's commitment to craftsmanship beyond bathroom fixtures.
As Japan modernized rapidly in the post-war era, TOTO played a crucial role in improving sanitation standards across the country. The museum chronicles this period, demonstrating how TOTO's innovations aligned with and often drove Japan's technological advancements in everyday life.
A chronological display of Japanese toilets beginning with the traditional "squat" type still found in many places
Exploring the museum's exhibits: A century of bathroom technology
The TOTO Museum's exhibits are thoughtfully curated to showcase the evolution of bathroom technology over the past century. Visitors can explore galleries dedicated to different eras, each highlighting the technological breakthroughs and design innovations that shaped modern bathrooms.
One of the most captivating sections is the chronological display of Japanese toilets, starting from traditional "squat" types to the latest high-tech models. This progression vividly illustrates the transformation of bathroom culture in Japan and TOTO's role in driving this change.
The museum also features novelty exhibits that capture visitors' imagination. Among these is the Toilet Bike Neo, a methane-powered motorcycle with a TOTO toilet as its seat. This unique creation traveled the length of Japan to promote TOTO's environmental initiatives, embodying the company's innovative approach to sustainability.
Toilet Bike Neo, a three wheel motorbike powered by methane
The iconic WASHLET: Revolutionizing personal hygiene
Central to TOTO's legacy is the WASHLET, introduced in 1980. This high-tech toilet seat with integrated bidet functionality has become synonymous with modern Japanese bathroom culture. The museum dedicates significant space to showcasing the WASHLET's evolution, from its initial conception to the latest models equipped with advanced features.
Visitors can learn about the technology behind the WASHLET, including its heated seats, customizable water sprays, and air-drying functions. Interactive displays allow guests to experience these features firsthand, demonstrating how the WASHLET has transformed personal hygiene practices globally.
The exhibit also highlights the cultural impact of the WASHLET, exploring how it has influenced bathroom habits worldwide and become a symbol of Japanese technological prowess and attention to detail in everyday life.
The inner workings of the world's most hi-tech toilet
TOTO's commitment to sustainability: Eco-friendly manufacturing and products
The TOTO Museum itself embodies the company's dedication to sustainability. Designed by Azusa Sekkei, the building incorporates numerous environmentally friendly features, including rooftop gardens, solar power, natural ventilation, and advanced insulation techniques. This architectural showcase demonstrates TOTO's holistic approach to sustainability, extending beyond product design to its corporate practices.
Exhibits within the museum highlight TOTO's eco-friendly innovations in product design. Visitors can learn about water-saving technologies in toilets and faucets, as well as TOTO's efforts to reduce energy consumption in manufacturing processes. The museum also showcases TOTO's use of recycled materials, such as the pavement made from sanitary ware scrap produced during manufacturing.
Through these displays, the museum underscores TOTO's philosophy that daily use of environmentally conscious products can significantly impact global sustainability.
International influence: TOTO's global impact on bathroom culture
TOTO's influence extends far beyond Japan, and the museum dedicates space to exploring the company's global reach and impact on international bathroom culture. Visitors can explore exhibits showcasing TOTO products designed for different markets around the world, including the Americas, China, Asia, Oceania, and Europe.
These displays highlight how TOTO has adapted its technologies to suit various cultural preferences and regulatory requirements across different regions. The exhibit demonstrates TOTO's role in introducing Japanese bathroom innovations to a global audience, influencing hygiene practices and bathroom design worldwide.
The museum also explores TOTO's collaborations with international designers and architects, showcasing how the company has integrated its technologies into diverse architectural styles and cultural contexts.
Looking like a modern art gallery, in the foyer of the TOTO Museum are two toilets decorated by Japanese artist Asao Tokoro
Visitor information: Planning your trip to the TOTO Museum
Located at TOTO's headquarters in Kitakyushu, the TOTO Museum is easily accessible for visitors. The museum is open from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (last admission at 4:30 PM) and is closed on Mondays, during summer holidays, and over the New Year period. Admission to the museum is free, making it an attractive destination for both bathroom enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.
To reach the museum, visitors can take a bus from Kokura Station to the Kifunemachi stop, which is directly in front of the museum. Alternatively, the Kitakyushu Monorail offers a scenic route, with the museum a short walk from Kawaraguchi Mihagino Station.
For international visitors, the museum provides audio guide pens in English, Korean, and Chinese, ensuring a comprehensive experience for non-Japanese speakers. Additionally, visitors can use their smartphones to access multilingual information through QR codes throughout the exhibits.
Interactive experiences: Engaging with TOTO's innovative technology
The TOTO Museum offers more than just static displays; it provides visitors with hands-on opportunities to experience TOTO's cutting-edge bathroom technologies. Interactive exhibits allow guests to explore the features of various TOTO products, from adjustable water pressure settings to heated seat controls.
One of the highlights is the chance to test TOTO's latest toilet models in the museum's public restrooms. This unique experience allows visitors to understand firsthand the comfort and hygiene benefits of TOTO's innovations.
The museum also features a detailed section explaining the inner workings of modern toilets, with cutaway models and interactive displays that demystify the technology behind TOTO's products. This educational approach helps visitors appreciate the engineering and design considerations that go into creating efficient, comfortable, and sustainable bathroom fixtures.
Before leaving, visitors can explore the museum shop, which offers a range of TOTO-branded souvenirs and smaller bathroom accessories, allowing them to take a piece of TOTO's innovation home with them. The TOTO Museum thus not only educates but also inspires visitors to consider how technology can enhance their daily lives, one flush at a time.
