Associations in Japan #2

The Pizza Association of Japan.

I found this while I was looking at them pizza crusts at the supermarket. How interesting. It was established about 14 years ago and I guess their purpose statement talks about how they want to improve quality, increase consumption, exchange business information and ideas between pizza-related businesses, and to develop the pizza industry. Currently there are about 39 member companies and these are their symbols:

Their website also talks about the nutritional values of pizzas and the "pizza market."

Associations in Japan #1

One of the few things that intrigue me about Japan are the associations they have here. From the Trader's Association, to the Western Clothing Association, and to the Accordion Association down the street; you name it, they've sure got it! Today I wish to write about the Japan Toilet Association.

In IHT today was a story about how the Japan Toilet Association is going around schools teaching children about passing motion. These kids are taking poop classes, by a 38 year old dude also known as the "Poop Prince". To them, "glittering poop" means healthy feces and the secret to passing "glittering" stools: drink a glass of water in the morning to wake up the intestines, eat breakfast and exercise. He also teaches about eating bananas, natto fermented soy beans and other fiber-rich food.

Their website boasts information such as "unchi" (shyt) calender, Children's Unchi Information 2007, and a Disaster Toilet Information Network link. And don't forget, November 11th is Toilet Day! I know it all seems rather silly at first but I think it's pretty rad!