Like sitting on a throne

For me, the term “comfort room” is only appropriate when describing Japanese public restrooms. Unlike the usual smelly, substandard restrooms, the ones in Tokyo satisfy the basics — clean, fresh-smelling and stocked with soap and toilet paper.

Plus, the toilets defy the common notion of what a toilet is.

Tourists always react with a mix of surprise and delight at the sight of seemingly complicated toilets in Japan. The array of buttons next to the seat is indeed perplexing. There’s a seat warmer, bidet, water spray, dryer and even a “flushing sound” button for those who want to do their business in the utmost privacy.

While it seems a bit odd to have a “computerized” toilet, once you’ve tried it, it’s hard to go back to the usual bare flushes and toilet paper. Well, nobody said you ever had to.

Now dreams of owning an eager-to-please toilet is within reach in Manila.

A visit to the new showroom of Japanese brand Toto demonstrates what a “comfort room” should be with the introduction of two of Toto’s hottest products — the Washlet and the Neorest.

The Washlet, considered their signature product, is found in most restrooms in Japan. It’s an advanced toilet seat that fits any standard toilet equipped with a seat heater, warm water cleanser and an air dryer to pamper the user.

This innovation stemmed from Toto’s desire to create a cleaner bathroom experience using water, a practice Filipinos are accustomed to. Think of it as a toilet with a hi-tech tabo that’s conveniently available.

For a more luxurious take, there’s the intelligent Neorest that features a lid that rises upon your arrival. Functions are operated through a wall-mounted remote control. You can adjust water temperature, pressure and direction right from where you’re sitting.

Its sleek technology is matched by a minimalist design, which eliminates the bulky water tank.

The novelty that Toto offers is not its only draw. Apart from the convenience, it provides a greener option through products designed to conserve water and energy. Materials used are lead-free, in keeping with environmental goals.

For some, it may seem excessive to obsess about a toilet, but to those who have tried it, this comes pretty close to sitting on a throne.

In Manila, the Toto Showroom is located at Ridgewood Square, C5 Road (across McKinley Hills at Fort Bonifacio), Taguig City, Philippines. Call 710-5095 or 217-0683.