A new public toilet outside JR Kinashi station in Takamatsu city, Kagawa prefecture, opened on March 22. It replaced a dilapidated old facility that had drawn complaints from residents about its unsanitary conditions.
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The toilet at JR Kinashi station. Photo: KikinoNatasyo. |
The toilet at JR Kinashi station. Photo: KikinoNatasyo.
The previous toilet featured a single, shared area for men and women, equipped with a squat toilet. JR Shikoku, the station operator, initially considered demolishing the facility due to a lack of funds. However, the Kagawa prefectural government decided to invest in a new toilet to serve approximately 600 daily train passengers and students from a nearby high school.
Kinashi station, located on the JR Yosan line, is two stops west of Takamatsu station. It ranks as the 14th busiest among the 48 JR stations in Kagawa prefecture by passenger volume.
The new facility boasts separate male and female restrooms, alongside a multi-purpose area with modern amenities. However, its most striking feature is the building's exterior. Each evening, the toilet's facade transforms into a projection screen for artistic light shows. Two performances run from 7:15 PM to 8:00 PM and from 8:20 PM to 9:00 PM.
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The front of JR Kinashi station. Photo: KikinoNatasyo. |
The front of JR Kinashi station. Photo: KikinoNatasyo.
On weekdays, images of angel wings are projected onto the building. On weekends, the content changes, featuring various works, including videos created by local students. The Kagawa government stated this initiative not only creates a landmark but also offers opportunities for students and young artists to showcase their work. Local residents are encouraged to submit light effect designs for public projection.
The project also aims to attract tourists to Kinashi, an area known for its pine bonsai cultivation and production. Local authorities hope to leverage the toilet's unique nature to promote the region to international visitors.
However, the project quickly ignited debate after the total construction cost, approximately 100 million yen (over 17 billion VND), was announced.
The new public toilet outside JR Kinashi station. Video: The Asahi Shimbun.
Some residents argue this sum could have been used for more practical purposes. In contrast, supporters believe the facility has brought more attention to Kinashi and the local station, potentially yielding future tourism benefits.
The project's effectiveness will require more time for evaluation. Nevertheless, immediately after its completion, this distinctive toilet helped Kinashi station gain media exposure and become a point of curiosity for many.
By Tuan Anh (Source: Japantoday)
