Potty Talk!

(The "mother board" on a Japanese toilet.)

(A typical Japanese toilet...at the mall.)

(A Japanese squatty potty.)

So, as you know, I live in Japan. I have embraced all of Japan's differences with open arms. I'm happy and excited to live in this historical, humbling nation filled with honorable people.

However, there are a few things about Japan and Japanese people that I just don't get. For example, Japanese people are quite innovative in regards to electronics, but, yet, some still crap in a hole? What up wit dat? And, they are incredibly environmentally conscious. They recycle everything because they lack the natural resources we have in the states. Most people don't even have clothes driers because they cost too much to use. Electricity in Japan is very, very expensive. However, every time you walk into a restroom at the local mall, the toilet has more buttons on it than this freaking computer. And, the toilets "mother board" is plugged into the wall ready and waiting for your command. Some toilets even play the sound of running water as you approach it, in hopes of encouraging you to go. Some play the sound of running water at the touch of a button. That way you can cover up the sound of your tinkling noise or the sound of your giant fart. You can even rinse yourself with at the touch of a button.

But, I just don't get it. If electricity is so expensive, why create millions of toilets that require electricity?? And, do you really need to cover up the sound of your urine flowing into the toilet?? Or, do you really need to cover up the sound of your fart?? Isn't that the reason why you went to the restroom in the first place?? I just don't get it!