I don't know if there is any truth to this story; perhaps someone can
verify or deny its veracity.

I heard that in the 19th century, when Japan was beginning to lay out its
railroads, they copied the standard U.S. country railroad station, but
adapted it to their own customs.  One end of the stationhouse was dedicated
to the lavatories.  As in the American prototype, you could enter through a
door that indicated that it was for men, or you could enter through a door
for women.  But, no mater which door you chose, you found yourself in the
same bathroom.

Robert A. Baron
Museum Computer Consultant
P.O. Box 93, Larchmont N.Y. 10538
[log in to unmask]