Is Toilet Paper Common in Japan?

Introduction

Toilet paper is an essential item for daily life in many countries, but is it common in Japan? This article will explore the history of toilet paper use in Japan, the types of toilet paper available, and the cost and availability of toilet paper in Japan.

History of Toilet Paper in Japan

The use of toilet paper in Japan dates back to the late 19th century when Western-style toilets were first introduced. Before this time, Japanese people used a variety of materials to clean themselves after using the restroom including newspaper, rags, and even sticks. The introduction of Western-style toilets meant that people needed a new way to clean themselves after using them. This led to the introduction of toilet paper which quickly became popular among Japanese households.

Traditional Japanese Toilets

Traditional Japanese toilets are not like modern Western-style toilets. Instead, they are typically squat-style toilets with a hole in the ground that you stand over to use. For these types of toilets, toilet paper is not necessary as it is easier to clean yourself with water than with paper. However, many modern Japanese homes now have Western-style toilets which require the use of toilet paper for hygiene purposes.

Modern Toilet Paper Options in Japan

Today there are a variety of different types of toilet paper available in Japan including regular rolls, individually wrapped rolls, and even flushable wipes. The most common type is regular rolls which can be found at any convenience store or supermarket. Individually wrapped rolls are also becoming more popular as they are more hygienic and can be disposed of easily without having to worry about clogging pipes or sewers. Flushable wipes are also becoming more common as they offer an easy way to clean up after using the restroom without having to worry about disposing of used tissue or towels.

Types Of Toilet Paper Available

There are a variety of different types and brands of toilet paper available in Japan ranging from basic single ply tissue to luxurious quilted varieties made from bamboo fibers or other natural materials. Basic single ply tissue is usually very affordable and can be found at any convenience store or supermarket for around ¥100 per roll (approx US$0.90). Luxurious quilted varieties can be much more expensive but offer a softer texture and better absorption rate than basic single ply tissue.

Common Uses For Toilet Paper In Japan

In addition to being used for hygiene purposes after using the restroom, many people also use toilet paper for other tasks such as cleaning their hands after eating or wiping down surfaces before cooking food. It is also common for people to keep some extra rolls on hand just in case they need it during an emergency such as a power outage or when traveling away from home where there may not be access to running water or soap products.

Cost And Availability Of Toilet Paper In Japan

Toilet paper is generally very affordable and widely available throughout Japan at any convenience store or supermarket for around ¥100 per roll (approx US$0.90). Prices may vary depending on brand and type but overall it should not be too expensive compared to other countries around the world where prices can be much higher due to taxes or other factors such as shipping costs from overseas suppliers.

Environmental Impact Of Toilet Paper Use In Japan

The environmental impact from using toilet paper should not be overlooked when considering its usage in Japan as it does generate some waste that must be disposed off properly through recycling centers or composting facilities if possible instead of simply throwing it away into landfills where it will take up space and potentially release harmful chemicals into the environment over time due to decomposition processes occurring within landfills sites.Additionally, since most modern Japanese homes now have western style toilets that require flushing after every use this means that more water will need to be used which could lead to increased water bills over time if not managed properly by households across the country.