Let me ask Japanese people something. If you were asked what Japanese culture is, what would you say? Many foreigners even Japanese, may answer Sushi, Kimono, Samurai or manga? If you try to give a unique answer, it will probably be hot springs or judo. But it is a stereotype, out-of-date. I found the answer to the exact Japanese culture! 

In my opinion, in terms of real Japanese culture,  it has to be recommended to foreigners is the high technology and comfortability of the washroom! Japanese culture has to be represented by Washlet and Otohime. Did you know this? Have you ever wanted to wash your butt after that? Have you ever wanted to turn off the sound of that? You can do it almost everywhere in Japan! I am really proud of it.

Today I would like to introduce Washlets and Otohime as true Japanese culture. ”Washlet” is the trade name for a hot-water washing toilet seat sold by TOTO. Since its launch in June 1980, total sales have exceeded 30 million units in January 2011. By the way, The origin of the name "Washlet" is said to have been derived from "Let's Wash", which was reversed from it. Also, “Otohime” means “sound princess” and it is an onomatopoeic device for toilets that automatically or manually plays the sound of running water to muffle the sound to protect privacy and save water at the same time. Can you imagine how comfortable it is? You have to feel it!

When I started to live here in Vancouver, it was very hard to live without Washlet and Otohime, rather than missing Sushi, Yakiniku and hot spring! I feel like really annoyed and I always thought ”Why can't TOTO export this technology to the rest of the world!”

Whenever you visit Japan, I really recommend using it!