A Delicate Subject

Ok...there's no way to put this delicately.  The traditional Chinese toilet is a hole in the ground.  With time, this has evolved into a high-tech porcelain hole in the ground.  With foot pads.

If you're a guy, this is normally not a big deal.  Most of the bathrooms also have urinals.   For that matter, if you have to go bad enough, then the world is your urinal if you're a guy.  I normally see at least one cab driver peeing in the bushes on my morning walk to work.

If you're a lady, or a guy getting too much fiber, then it can be a bit more challenging.   These "squat toilets" require a combination of balance, muscle tone, and keen aim that must take a lifetime to develop.  As they say, though, when you gotta go..you gotta go.

Most modern buildings, especially those that serve an international crowd, have at least one Western-style porcelain throne.  Call it a commode, or a water closet, or a john, or a stool, or whatever you like...it's a welcome sight when you're feeling the pressure. 

One other thing.  The best selling item in China seems be the personal package of kleenex.   Everyone carries one.  If you have to blow your nose, then 20 people will be there to offer you a tissue.  I've finally realized that it is not for worry of a runny nose that they all carry a package.