On November 19, coinciding with World Toilet Day, the Hong Kong Toilet Association (HKTA) released its annual public restroom rankings, surprisingly designating the Lan Kwai Fong public toilet as the city’s cleanest facility, despite its location in a bustling nightlife district; this unexpected victory highlights the crucial role of diligent janitorial services and modern amenities in maintaining urban hygiene standards. Located discreetly near a 7-Eleven, the Lan Kwai Fong facility surpassed expectations for cleanliness, earning the top spot and demonstrating that high-traffic areas can still sustain immaculate public services.
The annual assessment evaluates the cleanliness, functionality, and maintenance of public facilities across Hong Kong. The Lan Kwai Fong restroom’s success is particularly remarkable given its frequent use by late-night crowds, often associated with heavier wear-and-tear. HKTA President Henry Hung noted the exceptional dedication of the on-site staff, citing one “toilet host” who was “cleaning all the time” and constantly checking the space for any dirt.
While many patrons in the area likely use the facilities within bars and restaurants, the state of the public restroom is viewed as a significant indicator of urban management. The Lan Kwai Fong facility is serviced around the clock during weekends and holidays and features modern upgrades essential for public health, including air conditioning, automatic sensor water taps, soap dispensers, and a touchless flush system. These enhancements contribute significantly to the facility’s overall success in resisting the typical grime associated with busy urban areas.
High Performers and Notable Progress
Rounding out the top three list were the Kam Tin Shi public toilet in Yuen Long, taking second place, and the Catchick Street Garden public toilet in Kennedy Town, ranked third. The ascent of the Catchick Street location is particularly noteworthy, as just two years prior, it had been ranked as the worst public toilet in the city. The dramatic improvement suggests that focused maintenance and renovation efforts can quickly transform facility status.
Conversely, this year’s lowest ranking facility was the Kowloon City Road public toilet in To Kwa Wan. The HKTA report described this location as suffering from poor hygiene, including a foul odor and perpetually wet floors—classic signs of inadequate maintenance and aging infrastructure.
Implications for Urban Hygiene
The results of the HKTA’s rankings underscore a broader appeal to municipal authorities: the need for ongoing investment in public hygiene. Beyond simply identifying the best and worst facilities, the HKTA is urging authorities to commit to systematic refurbishment of aging public toilets across the territory and to ensure consistent, high-standard maintenance.
The stark contrast between the technologically upgraded and meticulously maintained Lan Kwai Fong facility and the neglected facility in To Kwa Wan serves as a potent reminder of the impact that public facility quality has on overall city livability. Ensuring accessible, clean, and functioning public restrooms is a fundamental measure of urban infrastructure success and directly contributes to public health and tourist appeal. Moving forward, the HKTA hopes to see the modern standards achieved in Lan Kwai Fong replicated citywide.