If you travel to Japan, one thing you’ll encounter almost everywhere—hotels, stations, shopping malls, and even public parks—is the high-tech Japanese toilet.
At first glance, the control panel may look confusing, but once you understand it, you may never want to go back to a regular toilet again.

This guide explains what Washlets and bidets are, the meaning of the icons, their differences, and other useful functions, so you can use them with confidence during your trip.

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What Is a “Washlet”?

“Washlet” is the commonly used term in Japan for a toilet seat with built-in water-spray cleaning functions.
Originally, Washlet is a brand name by TOTO, one of Japan’s largest toilet manufacturers. However, many people now use the word generically to describe all similar toilets.

Other manufacturers may use different names, but the functions are very similar.

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Washlet vs. Bidet: What’s the Difference?

On Japanese toilet control panels, you will usually see two main cleaning options:

Washlet (Rear Wash)

• Icon: Butt / bottom symbol
• Purpose: Cleans the rear (anus)
• Water pressure and position are often adjustable
• Used by everyone

Bidet (Front Wash)

• Icon: Female symbol
• Purpose: Cleans the front area
• Designed mainly for women
• Gentler water pressure than the rear wash

👉 Key difference:

• Washlet = rear cleaning
• Bidet = front cleaning

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Different Names You Might See

Depending on the manufacturer, the buttons may not always say “Washlet” or “Bidet.”

Common alternative labels include:

• Rear / Front
• Oshiri / Bidet
• Cleansing / Feminine Wash
• Simple icons only, without words

Even if the wording changes, the icons are the most reliable guide.

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Other Common Washlet Functions

Japanese toilets often come with many extra features designed for comfort and privacy.

Heated Seat

• Keeps the seat warm, especially appreciated in winter
• Usually turns on automatically

Sound Masking (Otohime)

• Plays a flushing or water sound
• Used for privacy, especially in public restrooms

Adjustable Water Pressure & Position

• Allows you to customize the spray strength and angle
• Helpful for first-time users

Warm Water Control

• Lets you choose the water temperature
• Cold water is rarely used by default

Dryer Function

• Blows warm air after washing
• Optional, but reduces the need for toilet paper

Automatic Lid & Flush

• Lid opens and closes automatically
• Some toilets flush when you stand up

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Is It Safe and Hygienic?

Yes. Japanese Washlets are designed with hygiene and safety in mind:

• Nozzles are cleaned automatically before and after use
• Water is clean, fresh, and temperature-controlled
• Controls are intuitive once you know the icons

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Tips for First-Time Users

• Start with low water pressure
• Sit properly before pressing any button
• If unsure, look for a STOP button (usually a square)
• Don’t worry—Japanese toilets are designed to be user-friendly

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Why Japanese Toilets Are Loved Worldwide

Once you get used to them, Japanese Washlets feel:

• More hygienic
• More comfortable
• More considerate of privacy

For many visitors, using a Washlet becomes a memorable part of their Japan experience.

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