Japan’s new guidelines aim to reduce long lines of women at public toilets

From NHK World

March 13 2026

TOKYO – Japan’s transport ministry has come up with draft guidelines aimed at reducing long waiting lines at women’s toilets at stations and commercial facilities.

At a meeting of experts and businesspeople on Friday, the ministry presented its first draft guidelines for public restrooms in such places.

The guidelines say it is important for both men and women to be able to use restrooms comfortably, and that the waiting times for each must be equal. They also say that the number of toilets for women needs to be higher than those for men at facilities where the number of male and female toilet users are almost the same.

Regarding major factors behind long lines at ladies’ toilets, the transport ministry points out women’s increased participation in society and the improved convenience of toilets resulting in longer occupation times.

The ministry says that women use public restrooms not only for relieving themselves but also for doing their makeup and changing or adjusting their clothes.

The guidelines say that the most effective solution is to add more toilets. If that is not feasible in terms of space and budget, the guidelines suggest monitoring the lines at toilets in real time and guiding people to less-crowded facilities.

The ministry plans to notify businesses and municipal governments of the guidelines after gathering public feedback in March and April.