It's hard to say which culture is more enamored with the Western-style toilet -- the Japanese or the Americans. While in Japan, the Asian-style squat toilet still rules, the Western-style sit-down toilet is making inroads. In fact, most new homes are equipped with the Western "porcelain god."
Always out to impress, the Japanese have made elaborate renditions to the Western toilet, elevating it to the status of "porcelain goddess." These stunning home toilets are equipped with cloth seat covers, heated seats, bidets and dryers, all ready to receive the esteemed fanny.
While Americans don't insist on such toilet comforts, we do insist one sit down for the ceremony. The Asian-style squat and flush is not our style. Americans like to take our time.