Go-go gadgets / Global
Power tools
Japan is a nation that does many things rather well. Here we profile a few problem-solving products to tackle some of life’s trickier challenges – oh, and a banana holder.
Mantensha
Place a can in the cooler with some ice then spin the handle for 90 seconds for a quickly chilled drink.
mantensha.co.jp
Axe Yamazaki
A stitch in time saves nine and this sleek sewing machine is great for beginners. Made by a 75-year-old company from Osaka.
axeyamazaki.co.jp
Design Works Ancient
This is the lightweight solution for holstering a takeout coffee. The svelte, stainless-steel number holds 180ml.
poketle.com
Marna
Made in Japan by Marna since 1872, this cloth does one job well: cleaning the back of a tap.
marna.jp
Hario
A thermal mug, filters and filter holder from a historic glass-maker.
hario.com
Skater
Banish blackened bananas from bags with this ventilated case.
skater.co.jp
Aritsugu
This sharp, versatile beauty from Kyoto is great for everyday use.
aritsugu.co.jp
More Trees Design
A classic toy made from cedar, designed by Kengo Kuma.
more-trees-design.jp
Asahi Kasei
Fed up with those ridiculous tangles? Japan’s biggest-selling film is easy to use.
asahi-kasei.co.jp
Blue Lug
Parents who use child-carrying mama-chari bikes appreciate mitts that attach to the handlebars; this is the cool version from cycle shop Blue Lug.
bluelug.com
Hakoya
A staple of the school bento (lunchbox), the onigiri is a seaweed-wrapped rice ball, usually triangular. These cases keep them in perfect order.
hakoya.co.jp
Sengoku Aladdin
A fixture in Japanese households. This retro model comes from Sengoku Aladdin; the colour is exclusive to Beams Japan.
aladdin-aic.com; beams.co.jp
Metaphys
Footrest? Stool? Step? You decide. The Lucano takes the mini stepladder to the, ahem, next level – in many colours and sizes.
metaphys.jp
Marna
Essential for cleaning a bathroom. Easy to slip on and off. Most importantly, they keep feet clean and dry.
marna.jp
Mori Mori
What’s not to like about this snug led lantern, which doubles up as a Bluetooth speaker? Adjustable light casts an appealing glow.
mori-mori.shop
Panasonic
Too much desk work? Slip into this cordless contrpation to loosen the tight muscles around your pelvis, hip and thighs.
panasonic.co.jp
Think of Things
You can create your own configuration of folders with this home or office storage solution from Kokuyo.
think-of-things.com
