Westerners often mock Chinese people for not liking to use toilets, complaining that our restrooms smell unbearable. But what if I told you that Chinese toilets were more advanced than Western ones… by 3,000 years? Stay with me, because the truth is, there’s more to this story than meets the eye.
The Historical Truth About Toilet Culture
Our toilets were already segregated by gender during the Western Han dynasty. By the Tang dynasty, we had invented the sitting toilet.
Meanwhile, European nobles and commoners relieving themselves wherever they pleased. In the morning, people would throw a large bucket of waste out the window, so Europeans wouldn’t stepping outside without a hat.
To them, restrooms were just another social space. Men and women sat in rows, chatting while relieving themselves.
Even royalty wasn’t any different.
Princesses, dressed in voluminous gowns, couldn’t squat, so their maids would discreetly collect waste beneath their skirts. Princes, on the other hand, would casually stand in a corner to relieve themselves.
In the Song dynasty, China’s toilet culture reached its peak. In the capital city (present-day Kaifeng), officials were assigned to manage public toilets and maintain sanitary conditions. Noble households used expensive incense 24/7 to mask unpleasant smells.
Tracing the origins of toilet development, China’s advancements in sanitation and toilet design have undoubtedly surpassed Western countries by 3,000 year.
Why Squat Toilets?
Although in ancient palaces, sitting toilets were used for noble women attending banquets, in rural areas of Chinese ancient time, human waste was an important fertilizer for crops.
Squat toilets were designed to collect this waste efficiently, keeping the economy of rural China thriving for centuries.
While Europe was still struggling with chamber pots and primitive sanitation systems, China had already optimized its toilets to serve dual purposes—hygiene and agriculture.
The squat position also aligns with natural human posture for elimination, which can aid digestion and overall health.
The Modern Toilet Scene in China
But here’s the thing: times are changing.
In urban areas, sit-down toilets are now just as common as squat ones. Walk into a modern apartment or a five-star hotel in Beijing, and you’ll likely find a sleek, sit-down toilet equipped with the latest technology—think heated seats, bidet functions, and even music!
China is no stranger to innovation. Whether you prefer squatting or sitting, there’s an option for everyone. And yes, you’ll still find squat toilets in public restrooms because they remain practical for high-traffic areas.
Bottom line
Squat or sit toilet, it’s more than a quirky cultural feature. It’s a 3,000-year-old testament to human ingenuity, sustainability, and practicality.
From ancient agriculture to modern skyscrapers, Chinese toilets prove that innovation comes in all forms—even in the restroom. Check out our Chinese toilets essential tips.