14.2 What are public restrooms like in China?

For foreign travelers in China, understanding and adapting to local public restrooms is important for comfort and to avoid awkward surprises. Facilities can be quite different from those in many Western countries, but with some preparation you can handle them easily.

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1. Key warning: be ready for squat toilets

• What is a “squat toilet”?
  A squat toilet (蹲厕 / dūncè) is a ceramic fixture designed to be used in a squatting position, rather than sitting. It is common in many parts of Asia.

• How common are they?
  Very common. In most public places — including tourist attractions, markets, many restaurants, bus stations, and older train stations — squat toilets are the norm, not the exception.

• Why do people use squat toilets?
  Many locals feel that squat toilets are more hygienic because there is no direct contact with the toilet seat.

• Where can you find Western‑style sitting toilets?
  Sitting toilets are more common in:

  • International airports and newer high‑speed railway stations
  • International chain hotels and higher‑end hotels
  • Large, modern shopping malls
  • International fast‑food chains (McDonald’s, KFC, Starbucks, etc.)
  • Accessible or family restrooms at major museums and top‑tier tourist sites

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2. Golden rule: always bring “the big two”

This is the most important survival tip for using public restrooms in China. Please remember it.

1. Toilet paper

• Key reality:
  The majority of public restrooms in China do not provide toilet paper, or the paper runs out quickly.
• What to do:
  Always keep a small pack of tissues or a mini roll of toilet paper in your bag or pocket.

2. Soap / hand sanitizer

• Key reality:
  Many restrooms have sinks but no soap.
• What to do:
  Carry a small bottle of hand sanitizer or travel‑size liquid soap so you can clean your hands properly.

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3. Other important things to know

• The waste basket (for used paper):

  • You will usually find a trash bin inside or next to the stall.
  • In many public restrooms, plumbing is not designed to handle large amounts of toilet paper. Used toilet paper should be thrown into the bin, not flushed, to avoid blockages.

• Cleanliness:

  • Restrooms in big‑city shopping malls, airports, and paid attractions are often reasonably clean.
  • In smaller towns or very old facilities, hygiene standards may be lower, so prepare yourself mentally and rely on your tissue and sanitizer.

• Finding a restroom:

  • Learn the words “厕所 (cèsuǒ)” and “卫生间 (wèishēngjiān)”, both meaning “toilet / restroom.”
  • Public toilets are usually marked with the standard male/female icons, often alongside the Chinese characters.

With preparation and realistic expectations, using public restrooms in China doesn’t need to be stressful — just remember your tissues and sanitizer.