Luxury

I present to you the Rolls Royce of toilets:

At first glance, it might look like your average toilet, but it isn't. I came across this little gem in the Tokyo airport on my way home from China. Look a little closer. It has an armrest, but this is no ordinary armrest.

That's right, ladies and gentlemen. This thrown has a CONTROL PANEL!!

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I will admit that, although fascinated, I was quite intimidated by this complex bit of advanced technology. Allow me to break down the elements:

• I could not muster the courage to attempt the "spray" or "bidet" functions, but I am still curious as to what the difference between these might be. The graphics suggest a varying stream, but I cannot confirm.
• That being said, I simply could not resist testing the "Flushing Sound"! Really?! How genius is that?! Obviously meant for cases of...shall we say...stage fright, this is an option that not only benefits the individual user, but let's face it - it's a win/win for everyone. I can tell you that it does indeed sound like flushing, AND you can adjust the volume as your particular situation requires.
• Speaking of win/win - "Powerful deodorizer"?! The adjective "powerful" alone, was enough to keep me from pushing that button. Exactly how powerful are we talking? Seeing as how I was about to board a 14 hour flight, I didn't think it wise to risk possibly smelling like a pine tree or some such fragrance for the duration. But, really, if necessary, this is another feature that obviously serves the greater good.
• In addition to all of these options, it appears you can even control the pressure and temperature of the "spray" and/or "bidet" water, and you can warm the seat!

Luxury, indeed.

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How and why these toilets are not standard around the world - or at least in the good ol' US of A - is a matter worthy of an international investigation, in my humble opinion. I think we can all learn a lesson from the Japanese here - they are not only interested in creating a delightful individual experience (spray, bidet, warmer, etc), but they have gone above and beyond to create a more pleasant environment (flushing sound, powerful deodorizer) for all patrons. The journey to world peace is a long one, my friends, but Japan is making their contribution one stall at a time.

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Domo arigato, Japan.

Bravo to you.