Beautiful gardens have been constructed in place of what was once a secondary circle of defense for the Edo Castle – home of the Tokugawa shogun. This shogunate ruled feudal Japan for over 250 years until the Meiji dynasty was restored in 1868. Fortunately, these are not original facilities. I can only imagine the spectacle of an embattled 400 year old wooden outhouse. Instead there are modern, spacious, clean and nicely equipped two-sided (women on the left, men on the right) restrooms located near the entrance to the gardens.

A doorless entryway allows natural sunlight to flow into this airy space. There are ample stalls outfitted with Japanese and western toilets – several of which are handicapped accessible. Futuristically curved self-flushing Toto urinals hang from the walls. One features handrail braces, an uncommon but nice feature which may be beneficial to those with crutches or walkers.