A Helping Hand
Do you ever want to sleep at work but don't know how to do it comfortably? Japan has a weird invention that will quite literally give you a hand. Thanko's chin-rest device, called Agonose Arm, has one limb that can be tilted depending on a person's need. It can be attached to an ergonomic chair or a desk through a clamp.
The product claims that it is supposed to help with an employee's posture because long hours at work can definitely take a toll on a person's back. In case you're wondering, the hand is surprisingly soft as the manufacturers made it from a squishy material for maximum comfort.
Affordable Botox?
Who says you must go to a plastic surgeon to look your best? Japan has invented this torture device-looking tool that might save you from early signs of aging. It's not invasive, nor will it probably hurt. This colorful figure, made by Taroman, is wedged between the lips, meant to be bitten, and the "locks on the sides make your jaw and facial muscles work.
According to Yeet magazine, this face trainer made from elastomer costs $35 and works wonders if used for around three minutes daily. There are two variants available: regular and strong, which would depend on the face shape.
A Mask To Find Friends
Face coverings are extremely helpful in several ways: not only does it help one avoid diseases, but it also helps keep the lips from drying. In recent years, there has been an uptick in demand for them, but sadly, this could also stop people from getting into conversations with others.
Well, Japan invented the C-Face Smart Mask, which doesn't just cover the face but also amplifies the wearer's voice. Unlike other plain old coverings, this invention is genuinely genius because it has a translation feature! This plastic and silicone device is Bluetooth-connected to a smartphone, which translates a person's words.
The Right Way To Store Umbrellas
While the previous items were helpful but weren't really needed, this one should probably be a requirement for most establishments. Ever had your umbrella stolen outside a store? You're not alone. Japan invented this genius equipment that lets mall patrons lock their umbrellas, so there's no chance of theft.
It works like a bike lock and has become a public service in the Land of the Rising Sun. Plus points because you never have to carry a soaking wet umbrella inside the store! That would be useful in nations like Papua New Guinea and Colombia that experience rainy weather for most of the year.
No More Manual Mopping
We've seen a rise in automatic vacuum cleaners that do their jobs without human assistance. But have you ever heard of the remote control mop that does the floor wiping without your hands? Technically, you only need to operate the remote control that hilariously looks like a video game console.
The renowned Japanese company Kyosho may have designed its product as arguably smaller than commercially available conventional mops, but it still does its job. However, it is only best for small areas and spills. Its classical look plus the remote control might be part of its appeal to adults who never outgrew remote-control-operated car toys.
How To Maintain Poise While Eating
Is there any one right way to eat a burger? A tiny bite could mean only getting the bun and some lettuce. For the total experience, a big bite generally gets most of the components inside, so it's hard to look decent while consuming this food. That is why others use a knife to cut it into smaller sections.
Japanese shop Freshness Burger came up with a brilliant idea after their Classic Burger was only popular with men. In their culture, practicing Ochobo or covering the mouth while eating in public is essential. So they launched the Liberation Napkin, which conceals one's face as they gobble up a burger.
Silent Karaoke = Happy Neighbors
In many countries, karaoke nights aren't only for special events, so it isn't surprising that these have fueled a lot of fights. To be fair, late-night noises make it hard to get a good night's sleep, but if you're really into honing your singing skills, this invention by Prodiea might be your best option.
This silent karaoke mic allows a person to sing without the loud noise. So how does it work? The device consists of a funnel where one can sing their heart out; because it is muted, around 70 percent of the sound gets reduced. Headphones are connected so that the users can still hear themselves.
Washing Machine For Trinkets
When we hear washing machines, we automatically think of the bulky ones found in laundry rooms. However, for anyone who is a busy bee and tends always to get their tiny trinkets and accessories dirty, this Japanese invention by Thanko is definitely for them.
This mini washing machine only measures 6.3 by 2.9 inches, so this device is ideal for washing glasses, watches, and other tiny things. To operate this compact device, you only need to connect its USB cord to a power source like a computer or power bank. It also looks perfect for anyone living in a tiny apartment.
Actually Not the Warmest Welcome
Anyone planning to visit Tokyo, Japan, should know that Urayasu has a unique tourist attraction; two robotic dinosaurs that man the front desk of the Henn-na hotel. When they see a customer approaching, they announce "Welcome." We don't know what's scarier: the reception area's residents or them talking to us.
At least the robots have little bell boy hats and seem calm. Plus, it would be a great feature for "Jurassic Park" fans, although the robots are far from the real-life size. Although, on second thought, what can one expect from a place called Henn-na, which literally in Japenese means "weird"?
Rain Indicator
Summer in Osaka, Japan, is usually short and humid, but still, the place experiences occasional rain during this season. Generally, the city is always wet, so it's not surprising that inventors came up with this rainfall indicator, which looks like a capsule. These are usually found in elevators to give people a head's up if it is raining outside or not.
Maybe you have experienced walking outside only to find out that it is pouring. As such, having this device in your house can help you understand what you need to bring when going out. Plus, this indicator can also give you weather predictions, which is extremely helpful, too.
Bath Pillow + Smartphone Holder = Best Combination
The Japanese company Thanko has a lot of incredible inventions that may look ridiculous but are helpful. This Bath Air Pillow and Smartphone Holder are for social media enthusiasts who can't seem to take their eyes off their gadgets. It is an inflatable pillow with a cushion with an arm that goes over one's shoulder, holding your smartphone.
It seems great for when we're binge-viewing our favorite Netflix show and want to finish the entire season in one sitting. The case for the smartphone prevents the gadget from getting wet; besides, the user only needs to touch the device when they want to change what they are watching.
Scream Your Heart Out
Sometimes, a good old scream can help one vent out their stress. Sure, a crying fest does wonders to relieve yourself, but there are moments when things get overwhelming, and you just want to scream at the top of your lungs. That may sound easy, but it's actually more complicated to do this when you live with other people in the house.
Well, the Banraishop Scream Jar Voice Silencer is made just for that reason. Strangely, this item is pricey at $82 on Amazon. According to the reviews, people use it for rage, while others give it to kids so they wouldn't be noisy around the house.
Dog Models
The mere sight of animals is enough to brighten up your day. So there's no surprise that the Japanese created dog grooming models with hip styles. Just see this photo and tell us you don't find this poodle adorable. Unfortunately, not all groomers have the right skills to do what clients ask, so this is quite useful in salons for animals.
According to the American Kennel Club, poodles weren't originally meant to be used as a fashion statement. Grooming used to be about practicality, and this breed for a show must have three hairstyles: the English Saddle, the Modified Continental Clip, and the Continental Clip.
Couch Potatoes, Meet the Walking Fridge
Isn't it a bit irritating when you have everything set for a movie night in your room only to learn that you forgot to get snacks from the fridge? We're probably all guilty of wishing this appliance could come to us. Well, tech giant Panasonic invented a walking fridge that literally comes to you when you call it.
Aptly called the Moving Fridge, it has the LIDAR technology, which uses the infrared laser to detect any obstacles nearby. That means that this is the reason the walking appliance doesn't bump into things when traveling to the owner. Fair warning: this 600-pound device might scare your pets.
Who Needs To Work Out Anyway?
Captain America and Thor have a lot of things in common: they aren't just superheroes that are part of the Avengers; they are also unsurprisingly buff. Of course, the actors Chris Evans and Chris Hemsworth expectedly spend a great deal of time at the gym to achieve and maintain this muscular look.
But what if we tell you that you never need to break a sweat and still have muscles? The answer is the Danrich Muscle Shirt, a white top made of polyurethane and polyester. In case you miss it, it has pads in the arm, pecs, back, and shoulder areas that make you more toned and muscular.
Selfie Stick/Mic Combo For TikTok Stars
According to The Guardian, the social media app TikTok garnered its one billionth user in 2021. Analysts predict it could even beat Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube if the increase in popularity continues in the next few years. If you're one of those hooked on the Chinese-owned platform, then this Japanese invention might be for you.
Called a SelfieMic, this gadget is a mic connected to a selfie stick. Basically, it gives a person a chance to sing without having to hold the phone. It works on iOs and Android gadgets, and even though it looks like a toy, it's become popular in the Asian market.
Instant Straight Nose
Who says we have to be Kylie Jenner-level wealthy to achieve a straighter nose? When there's no budget to go under the knife for facial feature enhancements, the Hana Tsun Nose Straightener has got that covered. While the silicon clip comes with instructions in Japanese, it is pretty self-explanatory.
A person reportedly needs to wear it 20 minutes daily to see changes. While it wouldn't change the nose shape, it is enough to straighten the cartilage of the nose, although we're not sure if this is 100 percent approved by experts. Nonetheless, a straighter nose could lead to improved breathing.
A Blanket of Ramen
Instant noodles are not exactly the healthiest meal, but does it make for the comfiest blanket? That doesn't make sense, but this product in the picture begs to differ. This is a ramen blanket that comes in different flavors er styles. When folded, it will look like a noodle wrapper.
It's hard to resist curling up on the bed with this blanket, made by a Toronto, Canada-based company. It may not be from Japan, but this product definitely pays homage to the Asian country. As such, it wasn't surprising that it bagged the Shutup&takemymoney's Product of the Year award in 2020.
Earn-Your-Keep Onesie
Babies are such curious beings that they always want to be involved with whatever we're doing around the house. Be it cooking or cleaning, they will always find a way to "contribute" to finishing up the chores, regardless if they are doing it right or not.
This cleaning onesie called Baby Mop will make sure that the little ones do help around the house. Originally launched in 1998, BetterThanPants.com rereleased the product in 2012 for $40. The mop material is located in key areas that touch the floor when the baby crawls. Just be careful not to leave harmful chemicals on the floor.
The Space-Saving Parking Slot
Japan is such a highly urbanized country that also faces space problems, but luckily, its citizens are very talented and innovative that they think of modern-day solutions to pressing issues. The company Sanoyas Hishino Meisho, for instance, tries to address this matter by launching a vertical parking system, thereby maximizing the already limited spaces in cities.
So how does it work? If there is a vacant slot, the vehicle will be "parked" on one level, and once the driver is ready to get their vehicle, the conveyor belt will rotate to bring the ride to the owner. This revolutionary parking is gaining traction, despite the alarming number of accidents.
'The Matrix'-Level Glasses
Gone are those days when high-tech gadgetry was only in movies. Today, almost everything is within our reach, and we only need the money for it. Just look at these glasses, which seem ordinary-looking but can notify you if you have a message or alarm.
Created by Fun’iki, these are called the Ambient Glasses Digital Eyewear, which can be connected to an iOs or Android device through Bluetooth. It gives sound signals and has LED lights to alert you with important notifications. Despite the unassuming aesthetic, it packs a lot of features, including the mini speaker, lithium-ion battery, and six different colors of LED lights.
A Nice Way To Greet Commuters
Japan is very popular for its love of cartoons, anime, and generally anything colorful. So it is not shocking to know that some of their streets have these cute, pink bear accents on posts, which may be a delight for motorists and commuters alike. Did you have a bad day at work? At least these things may help cheer you up on your ride home.
It's unclear where these posts were located but they immediately gained popularity after they appeared at a construction site one day. Plus, this could be a way to keep the workers safe because according to Statista, there were 288 fatalities in 2021 due to this occupation.
Cat Accessories, Anyone?
Vending machines aren't new inventions. However, Kitan Club's idea of offering cat accessories through the equipment was such a big hit that the company expanded on what it could provide the customers. The geniuses behind the brand started with bandanas and later branched out into hats of different shapes like a lamb.
These machines often get customers hooked because they will never know what trinkets they will get. So many people crank on these because they not only get the excitement of opening small items, but they also collect them for a small amount. According to CNET, there's even a vending machine made by Sanden that can operate without electricity.
Geometry And Fruits
Japan is truly living in the future because they have created some of the most advanced technologies that have become popular worldwide. The country boasts many scenic sites and hospitable citizens, and there are square watermelons, which are locally called 'shikaku suika.'
The thirst-quenching fruit is grown in tempered glass to mimic a cube shape. Unfortunately, they are purely ornamental and inedible because they were meant to keep up with the gourmet fruit trend. This unique watermelon has become so popular in Japan that it has now been embedded into its culture and regularly appears in anime movies and video games.
A Tiny Helper With a Big Role
Although drones seem like a modern concept, they have been present for longer than we imagine. We initially used them during wars, so this is probably why some of us are still frightened upon seeing one. That is also why there has been an effort in Great Britain to paint these devices more colorful to make them appear friendlier.
In Japan, the Aerospace Exploration Agency launched this robotic ball called JEM Internal Ball in 2017. This gadget was made to help astronauts in zero-gravity environments and was meant to help the guys do their jobs easier by being the ones to take snaps of the astronauts.
Love + Robot = Lovot
At some point, we all have wondered if we would ever find our greatest love to spend the rest of our lives with. While some are lucky enough to have met theirs, others aren't as fortunate. Luckily, these robots called Lovot are more than ready to give their "unconditional" affection toward you as long as you do the same to them.
According to the website, these tech inventions will react to the owner's mood and will do anything to comfort you. They are capable of recognizing and hugging their masters as well as greeting them whenever they are around. One unit is customizable depending on your fashion preferences.
Hi, I'm Pepper
Slowly, robots have become a staple in our everyday lives, from smart TVs to wireless vacuums. But what takes the cake are those tech inventions that resemble human beings. Just like SoftBank's creation that was released in 2014. They launched Pepper, which the company claimed was the first "social humanoid robot."
Pepper can process basic human emotions and recognize facial expressions, which is most probably why it garnered a lot of businesses, too. In fact, this piece was so promising that you can see one at HSBC in New York, acting as a host. Another one can be found in London's Smithsonian.
Eye Drop Ease
Not everyone is a pro at putting medication to their eyes. Those who are not used to this often end up blinking at the exact moment of the drop. This Japanese invention aims to address that because these glasses have tiny funnels to help the administration more manageable.
We don't have to use two hands to do this anymore, thanks to this invention by Topcon. But why is it essential to use eye drops correctly? According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information, it could be less effective if a person doesn't get the ideal dose. It is also crucial to use it only for the peepers.
No Mess Allowed
People with long hair know the struggle of eating soups and noodles. Because Asian countries like Japan have staple meals with soup, creative minds have developed a quirky invention that helps address this. This silicone splash guard is enough to keep the liquid away from the hair.
It perfectly frames the face to avoid mess from reaching the side of the face. It may not be the most fashionable thing to wear when dining out, but at least it does its purpose of protecting your locks. Splash guards are mainly used at home, but it is up to you if you want to use them outside.
How To Stop Overlapping Toes
Overlapping toes can result from genetics or from wearing footwear that is too tight. The most commonly affected toes are the pinky, big, and second. According to Healthline, even babies suffer from this condition, which is generally inherited.
If caught early, it is essential to immediately go to a foot specialist for conservative steps in addressing overlapping toes. Professionals will advise against ill-fitting shoes, using pads and inserts, and physical therapy. Then, toe separators are available, like this Genki-kun Toe Stretcher made from a soft material called polyethylene. Warning: this is not waterproof, so don't use this in the bath.
Marauder's Umbrella
One would think that something useful yet boring, such as an umbrella, would never be exciting. But Japanese company RainStoppers has figured out a way to make consumers buy their products. It incorporated this color-changing material into its items.
Once rain hits these umbrellas, prints will appear, pretty much how the marauder's map showed footprints in "Harry Potter." There are countless options to choose from, but the most popular is the butterfly design, which can set you back by around $20. While this is more for aesthetics, it will also give the owner an idea if the umbrella is dry because the print stays when it is wet.
Resting While Watching
If you love resting your head to the side when watching movies or shows, you would understand the struggle of blocking one ear. That can become an uncomfortable experience during what should have been a relaxing moment. Well, FUJIPACKS created this sound-catching cube pillow, which prioritizes comfort while watching.
This pillow has cubic holes, too, which means you can still hear what's happening around. Just like many countries in the world that were taken away by streaming platforms, Japan also boasts a number of viewers. According to The Hollywood Reporter, Prime Video has 14.6 million subscribers in the Asian nation.
Lost Umbrellas - A Thing of the Past
Due to its topography, Japan is prone to natural disasters such as typhoons and earthquakes; the latter is because the nation belongs to the Pacific Ring of Fire. This is probably why inventors often create products that will help citizens maneuver during rainy seasons. This mini-umbrella can be attached to the head, so one will never have to hold the handle again.
It is worth noting, though, that this invention may not be aesthetically pleasing, but it is very functional as it can also work on sunny days. Thanks to the tie around the chin, this can also be used for outdoor activities such as gardening and fishing.
Goodbye to Noise
The Japanese are pretty creative when it comes to their inventions. They just don't think about the apparent problems people face. But they also consider circumstances that aren't much talked about, just like women using public restrooms. Let's face it, the terror of doing one's business in shared bathrooms is genuine.
Women in this nation, and even in other countries, often flush or turn the faucet on to cover up any unintentional sounds, thereby wasting water. As such, Keitai Otohime released its toilet sound blocker, which comes in a tiny pink device that mimics the sound of flushing and running water.
Perfect Lips, Here We Come
Not all people find it easy to put their lipstick on, even with a steady hand. That is what stencils like in the picture are made for. It may look useless to some, but it has gained popularity in Asian countries, and it comes not just for the lips but also the eyebrows.
These stencils are commonly reusable and only need washing with makeup remover, dishwashing liquid, or shampoo. Although lip stencils seemed like a new idea, Vintag.es claims they have been around since the '60s. Not everyone has the same lip shape, so check if it works for you before buying this $3 product.
Cleaning and Working Out at the Same Time
Let's face it: chores aren't everyone's favorite pastime. A lot of us would rather binge-watch our favorite shows or sleep rather than put in the hard work, especially in cleaning. We would like to think that the inventor of these mop shoe covers loves finishing their task the soonest as possible.
Instead of just pushing a mop around, simply walking in these covers is a big help to accomplishing the task. They are affordable at $4, and there are tons of colors to choose from! Although it's unclear who is the person behind these things, it is safe to say that it is quite popular in Japan, too.
Move Over, Iron Man
Raise your hand if you have ever been fascinated at how Tony Stark fits into his Iron Man suit in the Marvel movies. Now, this type of technology has become a reality, although wearers don't necessarily become super strong or be able to fly. Tsukuba University and Cyberdyne collaborated to create the HAL exoskeleton, a wearable piece meant for people with disabilities.
Also called "Wearable Cyborg," the robotics company promises this tech can adjust to a person's needs. HAL detects bio-electrical signals on the skin as sent by the brain. This will prompt the gadget to move according to what is requested.
We're Twins
Many dedicated 'fur-moms' and dads go to great lengths for their pets. According to MarthaStewart.com, an owner spends an average of $13K for ten years for their cuddly companions, but this doesn't include the amount that they shell out for emergency cases.
As such, it is safe to say that passionate animal lovers can splurge for the sake of the adorable creatures. Modeling workshop 91 took this to another level when it released realistic 3D masks meant to look like one's pet. We just need to send a copy of our pet and cough up $2K to get our hands on one.
Combatting Mask Acne - 'Maskne'
Face masks have always been a big thing in Japan, so much so that inventors created this adorable cat facial covering complete with a fan for proper ventilation. The typical surgical ones tend to make us uneasy because they always become overly hot, sticky, and moist.
The cat mask has a rechargeable battery for the fan so that the air will circulate. Maskne, or acne due to prolonged wear of a mask, is a real thing. According to the Cleveland Clinic, when hot air is trapped, the skin becomes a breeding ground for bacteria and yeast, creating an imbalance that causes rosacea flare-ups and pimples.
Star-Shaped Cucumber
"Kawaii" is the Japanese word for cute, and they have developed a fascination for everything childlike and adorable. According to The Conversation, the concept first erupted in the late 1960s when students refused to go to class and protested by reading manga. Over the subsequent decades, the rise of subculture began to happen, and the "cute" style started to overflow in clothes and other consumer goods.
Although we're not sure who invented this star cut-out tool, it definitely falls under the kawaii aesthetic. These days, they are commonly found on TikTok and Instagram because of how aesthetically pleasing their food looks because of this tool.
Whiskers' Storage
In case it isn't apparent, Japan is very fond of cats. For instance, the ever-famous Hello Kitty is a cat personified, Sanrio explained in its argument against anthropologist Christine R. Yano, who claimed that the character isn't a feline.
So it is safe to say that cats are special to the culture. That might be what the inventor of this item had in mind when brainstorming for this product. This wooden container is meant to store whiskers that have fallen out from your pet's face. It may sound silly to some, but this is actually a perfect way to keep the strands from a dearly departed animal safe.
A Buttery Must-Have
According to Culture Cheese Magazine, Isaac Hunt and François Boullier were the creators of the cheese grater, initially made from pewter, intended to help families stretch their budget. Today, this is widely used to spread evenly on dishes such as spaghetti and carbonara.
But have you ever wondered about the most efficient way to spread butter? We know what you're thinking: we've already got the butter knife. We've got a clever Japanese to thank for inventing the butter grater. It is an excellent choice for toast, too, because it distributes thin strands of the nutritious dairy product evenly. You can get one for $5 on the internet.
'Breezy' Attire
It seems impossible not to go out during summer. Still, with the sweltering heat, you would wish you could carry your air conditioner anywhere with you. Luckily, Japan has created this interesting shirt that will literally keep you feeling cool and relaxed.
Many companies have released versions of this shirt, where fans are attached to the sides of the clothes. They aren't hidden, just like what can be seen in the image, so it definitely isn't for people who are seeking to be fashionable 24/7. According to The Thrillist, even Sony has released its own wearable air conditioner called Reon Pocket.
Buckle Up, Baby
Although these seats have become common throughout the world, Japan's toilets have long included baby seats so that moms can proceed with their business without carrying their children or thinking about their safety. As we can see, there are seat belts to fasten the little ones even when their parents are busy.
It might be a simple contraption, but it is definitely a big help for parents who don't have an extra hand when going out. Some toilets, including those for persons with disability, are also equipped with the yobidashi button, which will alert a staffer if you get sick or need assistance.
DIY Perfect Pout
According to a well-received study from The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, Japanese women prefer thin lips. Strangely, they have created this little tool to help achieve reality star Kylie Jenner's signature pout. They need not go under the knife and instead use this inexpensive product.
Made out of silicone, this tool overlaps into the lips, making you appear with a big smile. This is more likely suitable for pranksters, and this will undoubtedly garner a lot of laughs. There are natural ways to make our pout look fuller: over-line them with a liner and use lip gloss to highlight.