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.
![16341_1.jpg](http://img.monocle.com/article/16341_1.jpg?g=center&q=65)
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
![16490_1.jpg](http://img.monocle.com/article/16490_1.jpg?g=center&q=65)
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
![16514_1.jpg](http://img.monocle.com/article/16514_1.jpg?g=center&ratio=3-4&q=65)
Design Works Ancient
This is the lightweight solution for holstering a takeout coffee. The svelte, stainless-steel number holds 180ml.
poketle.com
![47152_1.jpg](http://img.monocle.com/article/47152_1.jpg?g=center&ratio=3-4&q=65)
Marna
Made in Japan by Marna since 1872, this cloth does one job well: cleaning the back of a tap.
marna.jp
![47036_1.jpg](http://img.monocle.com/article/47036_1.jpg?g=center&q=65)
Hario
A thermal mug, filters and filter holder from a historic glass-maker.
hario.com
![16287_1.jpg](http://img.monocle.com/article/16287_1.jpg?g=center&q=65)
Skater
Banish blackened bananas from bags with this ventilated case.
skater.co.jp
![47125.png](http://img.monocle.com/article/47125.png?w=370&g=center&q=70)
Aritsugu
This sharp, versatile beauty from Kyoto is great for everyday use.
aritsugu.co.jp
![16510_1.jpg](http://img.monocle.com/article/16510_1.jpg?g=center&q=65)
More Trees Design
A classic toy made from cedar, designed by Kengo Kuma.
more-trees-design.jp
![16392_1.jpg](http://img.monocle.com/article/16392_1.jpg?g=center&q=65)
Asahi Kasei
Fed up with those ridiculous tangles? Japan’s biggest-selling film is easy to use.
asahi-kasei.co.jp
![16364_1.jpg](http://img.monocle.com/article/16364_1.jpg?g=center&q=65)
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
![47061_1.jpg](http://img.monocle.com/article/47061_1.jpg?g=center&q=65)
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
![16505_1.jpg](http://img.monocle.com/article/16505_1.jpg?g=center&q=65)
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
![16466_1.jpg](http://img.monocle.com/article/16466_1.jpg?g=center&q=65)
Metaphys
Footrest? Stool? Step? You decide. The Lucano takes the mini stepladder to the, ahem, next level – in many colours and sizes.
metaphys.jp
![47093_1.jpg](http://img.monocle.com/article/47093_1.jpg?g=center&q=65)
Marna
Essential for cleaning a bathroom. Easy to slip on and off. Most importantly, they keep feet clean and dry.
marna.jp
![16434_1.jpg](http://img.monocle.com/article/16434_1.jpg?g=center&ratio=3-4&q=65)
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
![16356_1.jpg](http://img.monocle.com/article/16356_1.jpg?g=center&ratio=3-4&q=65)
Panasonic
Too much desk work? Slip into this cordless contrpation to loosen the tight muscles around your pelvis, hip and thighs.
panasonic.co.jp
![47196_1.jpg](http://img.monocle.com/article/47196_1.jpg?g=center&ratio=3-4&q=65)
Think of Things
You can create your own configuration of folders with this home or office storage solution from Kokuyo.
think-of-things.com