Tuesday, July 26, 2005

USB Deliciousness

Why are all things Japanese so incredibly whacked... yet at the same time so incredibly enticing.

You've probably heard of this company that produces USB storage devices in the shape of rubber duckies - Solid Alliance. They often merge cute or unusual items into USB technology to create rather utilitarian adornments for your workspace.

Cute duck toys are one thing. Now, they are just pushing things too far now. One of the most interesting facets of Japanese culture is the presentation of plastic food items that are often displayed in restaurant windows as a means of showing the public what items area available on their menu. The production of these plastic food items has almost become an art form, each piece produced by hand. There is also a big market for collecting these food-arts and buyers will often pay top dollar for rare or unusual items.


I present to you "Cable ga Naporitan" (The Napolitan Cable). Bon Appetit.

6 comments:

Andy said...

I've seen that fake food, they give me the willies.

Them crazy Japanese.

Between this and their immense and frightening bugs, I am scared of Japan - very scared.

Andy said...

Have you ever heard of "Kancho"?

If this is true, wow - just wow.

elhombrealto said...

If "kancho" is referring to the time-honored tradition of elementary school children putting their hands together, making a point using both of their index fingers, and then running up behind someone while trying to insert their pointed fingers directly into someone's buttocks... then yes, I have heard of "kancho".

Even I have experienced the "kancho" on a few occasions. Despite how it sounds, I must say that it is not too enjoyable.

Unknown said...

Kancho? Holy Crap! - I can dismiss wacky USB with barely a giggle, but this pokery? For shame, for shame.

Andy said...

That would be the Kancho I speak of.

My god, it sounds disturbing on at least 3 levels.

Sorry to hear you 've been victimized by it. I'm sure you're a little bit wiser for the experience though - or at least your ass is.

elhombrealto said...

The most disturbing part is that this is totally condoned by society.

Recently, a new soft drink came on the market and has quickly sold out (the factories were unprepared for such a response to the product).

The name of the soda is "Bubbleman" and has an animated space-themed superhero-like character that performs dance moves while drinking Bubbleman soda. It's not that the soda is anything special (a few fruit flavors, and perhaps some additional carbonation), instead I believe that the advertising campaign is what is sparking the sell out.

The kids really dig this product because Bubbleman does the "kancho" as part of his dance routine.

I direct you here for a look at the proper "kancho" form as demonstrated by Bubbleman.