The contribution of the Japanese to the landscape of modern popular culture is extremely immense. Of all the entertainment industries in the world to make a global impact, Japan has to be rated as one of the all-time biggest giants. From films to animes, from mangas to toys, Japan has given the world some exciting, intense, illuminating and off-colored elements. Here is the list of some of the strangest and funniest Japanese toys you can actually buy.
5. Koibito Art Toy
5. Koibito Art Toy
This toy might seem like a creation from a Japanese fantasy movie, but it has been actually created by artist Yoskay Yamamoto. It is a vinyl figurine that is based on one his paintings titled ‘In Another Land’ and is only about 7 inches tall. It has become a very popular figurine and is famous for combing elements of American pop art and Japanese mysticism.
4. Japanese Pregnant Dolls
4. Japanese Pregnant Dolls
Japan had their own version of sideshow carnivals in the 18th and 19th century known as Misemono. These used to be conducted in the state of Edo, or what is known as modern day Tokyo. The Misemono’s used to contain all types of entertaining and educational attractions which is where the pregnant doll can be traced back to. They were used to teach midwives how to deliver babies and were also used for good old-fashion entertainment.
3. Sega Robot Cat
3. Sega Robot Cat
The Japanese sure love their robots and cats, and they were bound to put the two together sooner or later. The above toy is called ‘Yume-Neke Venus’ or ‘Dream Cat Venus’. It actually has touch sensors that make it respond like an actual cat based on your reactions. It can actually purr, move its legs when pet by the owner and sleep many hours, just like a real cat.
2. Japanese Shaving Baby
2. Japanese Shaving Baby
This has got to be one of the most bizarre toys ever made. This baby doll is actually covered in hair in various places including the armpits and the public region for some reason, and people who buy this toy have the unique privilege of actually shaving it before using it as a toy.
1. Kaiju Action-Figure
1. Kaiju Action-Figure
Kaiju is a very popular genre of film that can be found in Japan. It usually involves a giant monster terrorizing the entire city and its most popular film has to be Godzilla. There are many kinds of Kaiju and this action figure is inspired from one of the other popular films. Even though it looks entirely demonic, it is a smash hit with children.
