Public restrooms in China are a mix you might not be used to. Outside top-tier hotels and international venues, squat toilets are still common, especially in older buildings, public parks, train stations, and rural areas. Don’t worry, many modern malls, airports, and tourist spots offer western-style toilets too. The biggest surprise? Always carry your own toilet paper and hand sanitizer – dispensers are rarely stocked or available. Facilities in busy areas can range from basic (concrete stalls, maybe a shared sink) to surprisingly modern. Expect to find paid public toilets (usually ¥0.5-¥1) in some parks or older city sections. While cleanliness varies considerably (train stations often being the most challenging), they are generally functional. Mentally preparing for this mix and packing essentials makes all the difference!
What essentials should I pack for public restrooms anywhere?
Being prepared is your superpower for hassle-free exploring anywhere in China! Here’s your essential restroom kit:
- Toilet Paper/Packs of Tissues: This is non-negotiable. Small travel packs are perfect. Stash them everywhere – bag, pockets, daypack.
- Hand Sanitizer: Soap and water aren’t always available. A good alcohol-based sanitizer is crucial.
- Small Change: For those paid toilets, especially common in parks or historic districts. Keep ¥1 coins or small notes handy.
- Seat Sanitizer Wipes (Optional but Recommended): Useful if you find a western-style toilet and prefer extra hygiene.
- A Sense of Adventure: Embracing the squat toilet experience as part of cultural immersion makes it easier! Remember, practice makes perfect.
What’s the scene like in major cities? (Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou)
Facilities in metropolises like Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou offer wider variety, but don’t expect universal western standards.
- Modern Malls & Office Buildings: Your best bet! Generally clean, more likely to have western-style toilets, sometimes with paper and soap. Airports and high-speed rail stations also tend to be decent, though busy.
- Tourist Attractions (Forbidden City, The Bund, Canton Tower): Varies significantly within the same site. Popular sections might have newer block facilities with some western-style cubicles, while older areas stick with squat toilets. Cleanliness fluctuates with crowds.
- Subways/Public Transport Hubs: Often functional but basic, heavily used, and frequently feature squat toilets. Paper and soap rare. Be prepared.
- Traditional Hutongs/Neighborhoods: Expect very basic, older block public restrooms with shared squat toilets. Paid entry is common here. Carry tissues!
How do facilities differ by location type?
Knowing what to expect where helps manage expectations. Here’s a quick comparison:
| Location Type | Toilet Style Likelihood | Cleanliness Level | Paper/Soap Likely? | Payment Common? | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| International Airports | Mostly Western | High | Yes | No | Best standard, comparable globally |
| High-Speed Rail Stations | Mix, Western Increasing | Moderate to Good | Sometimes Paper | No | Can get very busy; hygiene varies |
| Shopping Malls (Modern) | Mix, Western Common | Good | Yes (Increasingly) | No | Most reliable urban option |
| Metro Stations | Primarily Squat | Basic | Rarely | Sometimes | Functional, crowded, bring everything |
| City Parks | Primarily Squat | Variable | Very Rarely | Often (¥0.5-¥1) | Older parks most basic; newer better |
| Tourist Sites | Mix | Variable | Rarely | Sometimes | Depends heavily on site age/crowds |
| Restaurants (Sit-down) | Often Squat (esp. local) | Variable | Rarely | No | Use before you leave hotel if possible |
| Public Street Blocks | Primarily Squat | Basic to Poor | Never | Often in cities | Most basic option; essential kit vital |
What about temples, hikes & the Great Wall?
Visiting cultural and natural wonders requires extra restroom prep. At ancient temples or sites along the Great Wall (especially less restored sections like Mutianyu’s wilder parts or Jiankou), facilities are often very basic block public restrooms with squat toilets. Expect minimal maintenance, especially the further you go. On mountain hikes (Huangshan, Zhangjiajie) or rural day trips, options become scarce. Restrooms at cable car stations exist but are simple. On trails, proper facilities vanish – be prepared for very basic outhouses or even finding a discreet spot (pack out all tissue, please!). Always go before you start your trek and carry ample supplies. The remoteness amplifies the need for your tissue and sanitizer!
Any crucial etiquette tips I must know?
A few simple courtesies smooth the way: First, queue patiently, often outside the main door (not per stall), especially for women’s restrooms which usually have longer lines. Second, never put used toilet paper in the basket next to a squat toilet – it goes in the toilet only if there’s a sign saying it’s okay (rare). For western-style toilets, paper usually goes in the toilet, but check for blockages/clues first; if unsure, use the bin. Third, manage expectations – staff often don’t proactively clean constantly in busy public restrooms. Finally, relax! Millions use these facilities daily. Your preparation (tissues! sanitizer!) means you’ll handle it just fine. Deep China Travel advisors are always happy to share specific tips or reassure you about facilities at your planned stops! Enjoy the adventure!
