LIXIL Corporation (TSE: 5938) announced that its “Sanitarina 61” — Japan’s first domestic shower toilet launched in 1967 — has been recognised with an IEEE Milestone designation by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers.
The designation, which acknowledges global breakthroughs such as the compact disc and Wi-Fi, also jointly recognises Toyo Toki (now TOTO Ltd.) and Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd. (now Panasonic Housing Solutions Co., Ltd.) for their contributions to electric bidet toilet technology in Japan.
“The IEEE Milestone recognition is an immense honor for LIXIL and a testament to an ongoing commitment to innovation, which has been driven not only by our own journey since ‘Sanitarina 61’ in 1967, but by the collective achievements of Japan’s sanitaryware industry,” said Hiroyuki Onishi, Executive Officer of LIXIL Water Technology Japan. “From the outset, our focus was never merely on creating a convenient sanitary fixture, but on delivering meaningful value that nurtures personal well-being and enriches the bathroom space. What began as a Japanese innovation is now redefining daily wellness and hygiene practices around the world. As a pioneer, LIXIL remains dedicated to advancing this technology to make better homes a reality for everyone, everywhere.”
LIXIL’s development of shower toilets began in 1964 at Ina Seito, one of its core heritage companies. Without existing anatomical or behavioural data, engineers conducted thousands of practical evaluations using clay and plaster. The team established an optimal nozzle location, water pressure, and a spray angle of approximately 75 degrees to balance cleansing with nozzle cleanliness, while also devising multi-layer thermal controls to eliminate burn risks. The technology continues to evolve in modern products, including the company’s “SATIS X” series.
The company introduced Japan’s first dedicated feminine-wash function in 1981 based on female user feedback. LIXIL later incorporated a dual-nozzle system, separating rear-wash and feminine-wash nozzles to address cross-contamination concerns. The company’s products also feature accessibility functions such as automated lids to reduce physical strain for seniors and users with mobility challenges.
Additionally, LIXIL utilises its proprietary Aqua Ceramic technology, which features a super-hydrophilic performance designed to prevent waste and limescale buildup on the bowl to maintain cleanliness.
The company has expanded its shower toilet technology internationally through its global brand portfolio, which includes INAX, GROHE, and American Standard. This includes products such as the GROHE Sensia Series, which combines INAX’s Japanese technology with GROHE’s German design and engineering to adapt to regional cultures, preferences, and infrastructure needs.
