Salvation from those embarrassing moments...

Some things are so funny!  One thing I never considered before moving here was the embarrassment of those "revealing" sounds when using a public restroom.  Basically, everyone goes there for the same purpose, so it seems obvious there would be tinkling sounds, etc.  Well, to preserve one's image (and the water supply so people won't flush to mask the sound) there is a very handy invention.  A wall mounted sensor that plays a "flushing" track to cover up any potentially revealing noise that is a natural part of using the bathroom. 

I'm sure the portable version for the image-conscious will be available soon...if it isn't already!  Ecological and convenient....

 

Wave your hand over the hand mark, and it starts.  Also convenient instructions in braille.  The sound will automatically shut off after 25 seconds.  If one's "business" isn't quite finished, just wave your hand again, and the masking noise starts right back up! The maker's suggested retail price starts at about 18,000 yen, but found it at half price on their site on sale (delete the last two digits for approximate US dollar price)(and NO, I didn't buy one).

(Apologize for the blurry pic...the camera click was actually more embarrassing...what would people think!  Will retake soon and leave the door open so people can realize I'm not doing something really weird--just kind of weird!)