You’re in an upscale shopping center in Japan and you have to use the restroom. You wander in, stand in line, then get your turn in the little stall. You’re relieved to see your stall choice does not feature a Japanese squat-style toilet. However, what you find is a throne full of buttons with little descriptions in illegible Japanese writing.
Okay… be brave…
You sit on the toilet. Oooh! Warm! Yay, it has a heated seat!
Suddenly, a water/gurgle noise comes from a motion-sensor speaker next to you, masking the sound of your pee. Nice.
Hmmm… what does this button do…?
WHOA! A butt-washer! Alright!!
Okay… so this one must be flush…
Oh that just re-heats the seat.
So THIS one is flush. Yes!!
What an experience.
I’ve observed a number of different types of interesting technology since I’ve moved to Japan. However, the toilet was probably the most fascinating new technology I have encountered so far. It may sound a bit wild, but it’s just another way of showing how great the service industry is in this wonderful country. Not only are public toilets provided for free, but they also hide the embarrassing (or at least Japanese people find it embarrassing) noise of your “business,” warm you up, and “freshen” your bottom. What more could you ask for?
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I totally want one for my bathroom! Even the little sound effect that masks the tinkle for when I decide to bring guys home. I get so embarassed when they hear me pee. I always carry around baby wipes now to clean myself odd with, so a butt washer would be awesome - it would even save me a little bit of money on baby wipes!
Those are some cool toilets! I hope this kind of technology manages to find its way over here.