Shanghai's notable public lavatories

Most beautiful

Duolun Road toilet

Address: 280 Tian'ai Road

Completed at the beginning of 2013, this toilet has been rated as the most beautiful one in Shanghai for three consecutive years since 2014. It is frequently used by tourists visiting Duolun Road, shop assistants working nearby and senior residents living in the neighborhood. The restroom has even been identified by some Japanese visitors as one of Shanghai's must - go locations.

The well - designed toilet is devoid of any smell, thanks to the unique ceiling which facilitates natural ventilation of the area. Measuring about 38 square meters, this unisex toilet provides umbrellas on rainy days as well as simple amenities such as medicine kits and disposable trousers. Seats are also available at the entrance so that pregnant women and elderly people can sit while waiting for their turn.

The Oldest

Haining Road public toilet

Address: 514 Haining Road

According to Shanghai's environmental quality monitoring center, this toilet dates back at least 70 years and is the oldest of its kind in China. It was even featured in a Shanghai road map that was published in 1947.

However, some experts pointed out that public toilets with flushing systems first emerged in Shanghai in the 1920s. Since the Haining Road toilet has this function, it is possible that it was built during that time, which means that it might be around 90 years old.

Today, the toilet is used by about 25 residents every hour. Despite its age, the restroom is well - maintained and does not smell, thanks to its ceiling which is similar to the one in Duolun Road toilet.