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Restroom signs: useful Japanese you want to recognize instantly.

Restroom signs are some of the most practical Japanese signs to learn. These words appear in stations, department stores, restaurants, parks, museums, and hotels all over Japan.

Five restroom signs to know first

トイレ
toire
restroom / toilet
Example: トイレはどこですか。
Toire wa doko desu ka.
When to use it: In stations, shops, restaurants, and public spaces.
おとこ
otoko
male / men
Example: 男 / 女
Otoko / Onna
When to use it: On restroom doors and signs.
おんな
onna
female / women
Example: 男 / 女
Otoko / Onna
When to use it: On restroom doors and signs.
けしょうしつ
keshoushitsu
restroom / powder room / washroom
Example: 化粧室はこちらです。
Keshoushitsu wa kochira desu.
When to use it: In department stores, hotels, and more formal places.
てあらい
tearai
washroom / hand-wash area
Example: 手洗いはこちらです。
Tearai wa kochira desu.
When to use it: On older signs or restroom-area labels.

Accessible restroom words

たもくてきトイレ
tamokuteki toire
multi-purpose restroom / accessible restroom
Example: 多目的トイレはどこですか。
Tamokuteki toire wa doko desu ka.
When to use it: When looking for an accessible or larger restroom.
くるまいす
kurumaisu
wheelchair
Example: 車いすのマーク
Kurumaisu no maaku
When to use it: On accessibility signage.
ベビーシート
bebii shiito
baby seat / baby changing facility
Example: ベビーシートあり
Bebii shiito ari
When to use it: On family restroom or baby care signs.