Only in Japan: Ingenious Inventions that Defy Imagination

11. A Keychain with Bubble Wrap

What it is: a key holder with bubble wrap around it. Initiated in 2020; Average Cost: $2.52–$3.13* Animewild sells the Bandai Mugen Puti Puti Bubble Pop Keychain, which is a key ring with bubble wrap attached. But since the plastic bubble wrap never flattens, you can pop it as often as you like without any negative consequences. The product is offered for sale on websites like Amazon, where the lowest price ranges from $2 to $3.

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Keychain with Bubble Wrap @Lil Garebear/PPinterest The word "Mugen" in Japanese means "infinite." The term "Puti Puti" refers to bubble wrap, which is handy because it does have a similar sound to bubble wrap popping. All that's really in the toy is a pocket-sized roll of endless bubble wrap.

12. Umbrella Fastener

This is a tie that may be used as an umbrella. Invented in 2012; Average Price: Less than $50* An exceptionally high percentage of distinctive Japanese innovations are related to umbrellas. Known as tsuyu in the country, the rainy season in Japan typically lasts from June to mid-July, with the exception of the Okinawa Islands, where it can begin as early as May. Japanese Chindogu has young professionals covered for tsuyu.

Steven Dolf's Umbrella Tie via Pinterest Japanese designers have produced a tie that doubles as an umbrella. It is a useful (ish) invention, even though it is unlikely that Americans would see this on Dick's Sporting Goods shelves very soon. The body of the umbrella is designed like a tie, so you may tie it around your neck and use it as rain protection.