New Human Washing Machine Now Available for Purchase

Japan has officially put its futuristic “human washing machine” on sale after the device drew huge crowds at the World Expo in Osaka. The pod-like machine, created by Japanese company Science, allows users to lie inside, close the lid, and be gently washed without spinning while soothing music plays.

The “human washer of the future” monitors the user’s heartbeat and vital signs during the cleansing process. A prototype showcased at the six-month Expo, which ended in October after attracting more than 27 million visitors, received overwhelming attention.

According to Science spokeswoman Sachiko Maekura, the machine is a modern update of an earlier version displayed at the 1970 Osaka Expo. “Our president was inspired by that as a 10-year-old boy,” she said, adding that the new model “not only washes your body but also your soul.”

Interest surged after a US resort company asked whether the prototype would be commercialised, prompting Science to move ahead with production. The first unit has already been purchased by a hotel in Osaka, which plans to offer the service to guests.

Yamada Denki, a major electronics retailer in Japan, has also ordered the machine in hopes of attracting customers. Science plans to manufacture only around 50 units due to the product’s unique appeal.

Local media reports suggest the retail price will be around 60 million yen (approximately $385,000).