Japan Part Three (San): Everything in Japan is cooler, why don't we have these?

Just some examples...

Have you ever been annoyed that the air hand dryers in our public restrooms never get the job done? If not (a) you're wierd and (b) you've never experienced a jet-engine like Japanese hand dryer in Japan:

This picture doesn't really do it justice either. You simply stick your hands in there (and you dont have to touch any buttons and undo the germ-elimination you just completed) and these crazy jet-engine like dryers come on and wick away every drop of moisture. They're never too hot or too cold and the dryer stays on until you remove your hands.

Oh, that reminds me, every faucet and soap dispenser is automated. And not in the annoying way that it is here---where you spend at least 30 seconds waving your hands frantically around trying to get the damn sensor to sense that you are there and want to wash your hands. Nope. In Japan, the sensors actually do their jobs.

It's actually a bit disconcerting how automated the bathroom experience is. You'll go to the counter and there are no buttons, levers or anything to touch. Hence there are most likely less germs for you to pick up. I love it!

Speaking of bathrooms, the cool factor doesnt end there. It actually starts here:

First off, the toilet seats are all warmed. And not from someone else's ass. They are constantly warmed for your comfort. Plus, all the other options: flushing sound in case you're modest and dont want others to hear your business, 2 different types of cleansing options (with water pressure options too) and a deodorizing option:

The only down side is the rare occasion when you're in the sticks or in a place that hasn't joined the rest of Japan and given everyone Western toilets. I used to fear these last time I was in Japan. This time I was pleasantly surprised that they are a much more rare occurrence nowadays. May I present the typical Japanese toilet:

May you never have to use these without having been in Japan for at least 3 days. It will throw you off your game. I'm totally used to them by now, but I still prefer the First Class version of toilets. :-)

I couldn't possibly put in pics of all the cool things in Japan. Next time, a couple more cool things and then funny things. Stay tuned!