Japan has gained a reputation as one of the most technologically advanced countries on the planet. Its constant delivery of stunning, high-tech products means that its budget for research and development is at a colossal $130 billion per year, one of the largest in the world. Naturally, this has led to an abundance of products that are, shall we say, "memorable."
Whether it's computer chips bullet trains or holographic products, Japan is synonymous with technology, and one of the benefits for consumers is the creation of a wealth of gadgets that you simply can't find anywhere else. With the holiday season upon us, here are a number of unique gifts that come straight from Japan.
Since it’s winter, it’s likely going to be cold out. Particularly, those using their computers during the cold winter nights may want to keep their hands warm. What better way to combat low temps than with the Futon Mouse Pad, a USB-powered heated cover that can reach temperatures of up to 122°F. The heater itself can be removed, allowing you to use the pillow as a regular arm or wrist rest. Price: US$44
With its trademark tongue, those who appreciate the Alien franchise will certainly value this particular product. Powered with a USB connection, the Alien figure features a red glow inside its mouth, with its tongue popping out at random intervals. Price: US$72
We're always itching to know just when exactly the postman has dropped off our mail and packages. The Mailbox Sentry from Thanko is the ideal gadget to ease your anticipation: as soon as something arrives in your mailbox, an alert is sent up to 100m away. Undoubtedly useful for those living in an apartment, each signal shows up along with a number on the receiver that tells you exactly how many items have been delivered. Price: US$93
This multi-purpose USB-powered cooler keeps your shoes, socks and feet cool through an air tube that secures itself to your leg and then makes its way into your shoes. At the other end of the tube is a small pump that blows cooling air at either high or low settings. You can power it with a mobile device if you’re not at home, but if you are, you can use your computer. Yes, the product also doubles as an armpit cooler, and it can even blow up a beach ball in about 10 minutes. Price: US$39
This USB-powered microscope offers an up-close look at microorganisms and cellular structures. Four LED lights situated around the lens allow the product to be utilized in the dark, while the included mini tripod makes it a perfect microscope for aspiring scientists. It’ll do just fine as a hobby tool as well. Price: US$151
Ever had the urge to check how fresh your breath is before you start getting personal? Fear not, the Kiss Me Meter from Thanko is one of the more unusual but arguably more useful Japanese products. This gadget shows the freshness of your breath on a scale measured in hearts. A red broken heart means you need a mint, whereas a green heart means you’re good to go. Price: US$40
When a lamp is powered by nothing but water, you know it must be from Japan. Straightforward to use, rechargeable almost anywhere, and apparently lasting up to ten years without losing its charge, the NoPoPo mini lantern can also be used as a flashlight. You operate the product with a small syringe that sucks water into the battery, and it's a worthy addition to emergency kits, camping gear, and more. Also works with urine. Price: US$46
Perhaps you thought the aforementioned foot cooler was borderline unnecessary, or the heated mouse pad was taking it too far. How about air-conditioned pants? Kuchofuku’s "flexible" trousers contain a battery-powered fan that’s situated outside the pants, blowing cool air in through the cargo pocket. Price: US$199
With this stereoscopic microscope, users can mount a Nikon DSLR or compact digital camera to take high-resolution digital pictures of miniature objects. The magnification goes from from 20x-66x, depending on the camera adapter, and the system works with a wide variety of camera models. Price: US$2,163
When you have no use for an optical data disc any longer, the natural option is to simply throw it in the trash. However, if it contains confidential data or media that you don’t want anyone to potentially see, placing it into this USB-powered data-side scratcher renders all the data contained on the disc unreadable. Price: US$42
If you spend countless hours on a PC whilst sitting on an office chair, it can get fairly uncomfortable, especially if you’re not in a well-cooled room. Thanko’s USB Cooler Cushion, however, provides a solution to exactly that. Users simply have to plug it in their computer via a USB connection, pop the cushion onto their chair, and wave their lengthy, uncomfortable computer sessions goodbye. Price: US$31
With a 40-inch waterproof flexible tube that sports a 0.3 megapixel digital still and video camera and two LEDs featuring six levels of brightness, this borescope boasts a 2.4-inch LCD for viewing. The monitor is joined by an SD card slot which accepts up to 32GB of storage, allowing users to save video and stills, and there's a video port for showcasing the camera image on a bigger screen. Contrast adjustment, colour balance, saturation and auto exposure collectively contribute to keeping the image clear as possible. Price: US$192
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