Key Facts
• August 7, 2025: Hirao Town signed agreements for disaster relief collaboration.
• New toilet truck paired with water supply vehicle, a first in Japan.
• Hirao Town joined a national network of 34 municipalities for mobile toilet dispatch.
• The network is expected to grow to 57 municipalities by the end of 2025.
• The toilet truck features five private rooms, including one with wheelchair access.
• Specialized facilities include electric lifts, ostomate equipment, and diaper-changing stations.
• The truck cost approximately 26 million yen, with 9.98 million yen raised via crowdfunding.
• Crowdfunding exceeded its 8 million yen goal in two months with 86 contributions.
• Local company “Hirao” provides water supply vehicles for disaster support.
• Mayor Kunihiro Asamoto emphasized the importance of toilets for health and dignity.
Summary
Hirao Town in Yamaguchi Prefecture has taken a pioneering step in disaster preparedness by introducing a toilet truck paired with a water supply vehicle, marking a first in Japan. On August 7, 2025, the town signed agreements with a national mobile toilet dispatch network and a local sanitation company, “Hirao,” to enhance disaster relief efforts. The toilet truck, equipped with five private rooms, includes advanced features such as wheelchair-accessible lifts, ostomate facilities, and diaper-changing stations. The initiative, costing 26 million yen, was partially funded through a successful crowdfunding campaign that raised 9.98 million yen. Mayor Kunihiro Asamoto highlighted the critical role of sanitation in maintaining health and dignity during disasters. This collaboration positions Hirao Town as a leader in innovative disaster response, with plans to extend support to other affected areas.
