For World Toilet Day, a prototype public restroom in Beijing
Workers sweep the red carpet at the new “5th Space” public restroom in Beijing.
(Julie Makinen / Los Angeles Times)Beijing literally rolls out the red carpet for an Internet-enabled public restroom.
This machine allows users to pay their gas, water, cable TV and other bills.
(Julie Makinen / Los Angeles Times)Tanks hold waste; material from 14,000 flushes can be held here until it is removed via sanitation truck.
(Julie Makinen / Los Angeles Times)The front part of the bowl is designed to catch urine and has its own small flush. The rear portion is designed to handle feces and has a more powerful flush.
(Julie Makinen / Los Angeles Times)An electric-car charging station (still under plastic) at the new “5th Space” restrooms in Beijing.
(Julie Makinen / Los Angeles Times)The family restroom features a kid’s commode alongside a standard-size one.
(Julie Makinen / Los Angeles Times)Locals check out the new “5th Space” restroom in Beijing.
(Julie Makinen / Los Angeles Times)An ATM at the “5th Space” restroom in Beijing.
(Julie Makinen / Los Angeles Times)Vending machines in the lounge area of Beijing’s “5th Space” public restrooms. You can pay with your mobile phone or use cash.
(Julie Makinen / Los Angeles Times)A red carpet welcomes the public at a new public restroom in Beijing.
(Julie Makinen / Los Angeles Times)Locals in Beijing’s Fangshan district check out some informational posters about the new “5th Space” restrooms.
(Julie Makinen / Los Angeles Times)