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#Q&A How do I choose a Japanese bidet toilet… Answer ↓

How do I choose a Japanese bidet toilet seat, and can I use one back home?

Updated 3 sources

Only if you buy a model made for your home voltage. As of October 2026, almost every seat on display in Japanese stores is a 100V Japan-domestic model, which won't work on 220V mains and isn't suitable for use with a transformer; the 220V tourist models stores sell are made for mainland China. Before buying, make sure your toilet can take it (a two-piece toilet with the right size and mounting holes, a grounded outlet and a water shut-off valve nearby), then choose between instant and tank heating; the main brands are TOTO, Panasonic and LIXIL (INAX).

Step 1: Check the voltage

  • Japan-domestic seats are labeled AC100V. If your home voltage is different, don't buy those. Check whether it works in your country in our compatibility table.
  • The overseas models found in Japanese stores are mostly 220V models for mainland China: the packaging or rating plate says "220V", "海外仕様" (overseas spec) or "for mainland China". Some brands' tourist models are explicitly for use in mainland China only (not Hong Kong, Macau or Taiwan), with manuals in Simplified Chinese; follow the packaging.
  • These models usually aren't in the display area, so ask staff: "中国で使える220Vの温水洗浄便座はありますか？" (Do you have a 220V bidet seat that can be used in China?)

Step 2: Instant or tank heating?

Type Japanese Pros Cons
Instant 瞬間式 Heats on demand, low standby power, never runs out of warm water High wattage (often over 1,000W), higher price
Tank 貯湯式 Lower price, lower wattage Keeping the tank warm uses power; warm water may run out with continuous use

Check the model's rating plate for the exact wattage.

Step 3: Make sure it fits your toilet

Not fitting is the most common problem, so measure at home before you buy:

  • A two-piece toilet (separate tank and bowl) is the safest bet; one-piece, tankless or unusually shaped toilets may not work.
  • The toilet size (standard/elongated) and mounting hole spacing must match.
  • You need an outlet nearby (ideally grounded) and a water shut-off valve at the inlet.

For detailed steps, see Installing a Japanese toilet seat at home.

Main brands

  • TOTO: "ウォシュレット" (Washlet) is its trademark; it also has official sales channels in mainland China.
  • Panasonic (パナソニック): the "ビューティ・トワレ" (Beauty Toilet) series, well known among tourists.
  • LIXIL (INAX): the "シャワートイレ" (Shower Toilet) series.

For specific models, voltages and prices, see the toilet seat category page.

Before you buy in Japan

  • Compare with what's available in your country, where the same brands may be sold with installation and a local warranty. Seats bought in Japan usually have no warranty outside Japan; see Warranty on Japanese appliances.
  • The box is bulky (usually 5–7kg) and has to be checked; see Checking appliances in your luggage.
  • High-priced models may exceed your country's duty-free allowance, so check your own country's customs rules before you travel. For mainland China, a single item over 5,000 yuan is taxed on its full value; see China's 5,000-yuan allowance.

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Updated 2026-10-23Prices are for reference only; check in store.Markdown