#Japan #Accessibility #Higashi-Hiroshima #Universal Design #Toilet Map

Tackling Bathroom Anxiety: The Toilet Information Sharing Map App

In an effort to alleviate the restroom-related anxieties of individuals, Fabeyond LLC, headquartered in Tokyo, has launched the Toilet Information Sharing Map app aimed at providing invaluable information about multi-purpose and universal toilets. This initiative is particularly beneficial for parents, ostomy users, the elderly, and individuals with disabilities, allowing their apprehensions of whether a suitable restroom is available to shift into the confidence of “I want to go!”

With over 1 million downloads already, the app is expected to meet its users' needs through easily accessible information about available toilets across Japan. Starting in April 2025, the app will be implemented in Higashi-Hiroshima City, where its user-friendly and considerate design—specifically tailored based on actual users' feedback—has already been receiving high praise.

Making Toilet Facilities Visible

The feedback from the users is crucial in understanding the needs of mobility-restricted individuals when venturing out. In Higashi-Hiroshima City, local officials conducted surveys to better comprehend the necessity of toilet facilities and to list the locations of essential amenities like universal restrooms. The city has published this critical data, which now can be accessed through the official LINE account under the “Event and Outing Information” menu, leading users directly to the Toilet Information Sharing Map app.

Such initiatives highlight the societal need to visualize bathroom availability, which correlates directly with individuals feeling secure while going out. Bathroom-related anxieties can drastically discourage individuals from stepping outside, trapped by the fear of not being able to find an accessible restroom. For example:

• - Users have previously faced situations where the wheelchair-accessible toilet was broken.
• - Many find it challenging to locate multi-purpose restrooms.
• - Websites may not clearly indicate if a place is ostomy-friendly or if baby-changing stations are available.

Creating a Supportive Information Infrastructure

The Toilet Information Sharing Map aims to provide easy access to necessary restroom information on smartphones and PCs, establishing itself as a pivotal support system for a society where everyone can feel safe venturing outdoors. This infrastructure has gained attention nationwide as a vital resource capable of fostering a society where people do not need to apprehend their bathroom needs when stepping out.

As part of its commitment to support positive change, Fabeyond exhibited its initiative at the Osaka-Kansai Expo, presenting the project titled Peace Toilet Japan alongside Yoneda Inc.. Within three days of the event, more than 1,500 visitors engaged with the booth discussing the social problems surrounding bathroom accessibility. The diverse dialogue tackled issues surrounding disaster preparedness, gender matters, health care for the elderly, and educational opportunities for children, all related to restroom usability.

One resonating testimonial came from a male wheelchair user who shared his frustrations on restroom accessibility. His words highlighted the pressing need for an app that addresses such challenges: “While out, I often find myself struggling to locate a suitable bathroom and have to resort to wearing diapers. If a mapping application existed, I could enjoy a safer and more comfortable experience while out.”

This sentiment underlines the significance of initiatives such as Peace Toilet Japan, aiming to visualize and share the invisible challenges and endorse a community-supported solution to these issues.

Expanding Collaboration for a Community-Based Society

Fabeyond’s Toilet Information Sharing Map is garnering interest and queries from multiple municipalities looking to initiate or enhance similar programs to improve local restrooms' accessibility. Toilet information can be instrumental in supporting evacuation activities during emergencies, making it a crucial aspect of disaster preparedness. As restrooms are public facilities that everyone can use, having clear information is becoming increasingly important across varied scenarios, including daily activities, emergencies, and tourism.

Moreover, the initiative not only focuses on equipping cities with necessary tools for community support but also endeavors towards preventing frailty among local residents by providing safe travel information. Future activities include online workshops conducted by specialists in urology and updates on multilingual universal maps, reinforcing Fabeyond's commitment to fostering inclusive environments.

Recognizing toilets as a part of essential community infrastructure can be the first step towards facilitating the development of more inclusive neighborhoods. Joining hands with local governments, Fabeyond is keen on contributing to building a society that prioritizes shared living and mutual support.

For continued learning and exploring inclusive designs and policies, Fabeyond actively shares insights through YouTube videos and social media, encouraging communities to broaden their understanding of shared living practices. Visit the provided links to learn more about their initiatives, bring awareness, and contribute to the cause.

Fabeyond’s Philosophy: “Toilet information is crucial infrastructure that affects lives and dignity. We aim to eliminate someone’s resignation by collaboratively assembling and compassionately communicating essential information within communities.” - Jun Ueno, Representative of Fabeyond LLC.

The path towards a society where individuals can live fully and confidently begins with sharing and improving restroom information. Let’s join efforts and foster a community committed to inclusivity, accessibility, and kindness.