A genius or a horrid idea? Timers in restrooms at Yungang Grottoes trigger tourist backlash

The Yungang Grottoes, a complex of Buddhist rock temples, is one of China's fascinating attractions and is visited by numerous tourists. However, visiting this place may come with some discomfort due to the installation of timers above the entrances to the restrooms.

The temple complex is located near the city of Datong in the Chinese province of Shanxi. The entire site was added to the UNESCO World Heritage list in 2001 and replicates Buddhist cave art from the turn of the 5th and 6th centuries. Just like any tourist attraction, it includes restrooms. Recently, photos and recordings of these restrooms have gone viral on social media globally.

According to CNN, the Chinese authorities decided to install timers in the restrooms at the Yungang Grottoes at the beginning of May. Digital timers were installed above each stall to measure the time spent in the restroom from the moment the door is closed until the person exits.

The custodian of the Chinese site mentioned in an interview with the "Xiaoxiang Morning Herald" that these timers aim to "manage the increase in the number of visitors." Notably, over three million tourists visited the caves just last year.

The custodian stressed that the goal is not to monitor the duration each tourist spends in the stalls but to "enhance the restroom usage." He also assured that no restrictions on the amount of time one can spend in the restrooms will be implemented.

The Chinese initiative has sparked diverse reactions. Some find it an innovative and interesting solution, although many others have expressed criticism. CNN quoted tourists who describe it as "embarrassing" and "uncomfortable," adding that they "feel monitored."