Feeling Fresh: Osaka Governor Tests Futuristic ‘Human Washing Machine’ in Prep for Expo
OSAKA — Ahead of the commencement of the World Expo in Osaka, reporters were granted an early look at the futuristic “human washing machine,” scheduled for display, when Governor Hirofumi Yoshimura demonstrated its usage during a press event on March 23rd.
At the Osaka Healthcare Pavilion, visitors can experience a single-person, oval-shaped pod filled with water up to their chest. Inside, they are cleansed using bubbles and receive additional washing through overhead showers. Once clean, warm air dries them off. The system enhances the bathing experience by playing soothing music and displaying visual content tailored to the bather’s physiological state, such as heart rate, which is monitored via built-in sensors.
Yoshimura, clad in a wetsuit, put the device through testing and commented, “It feels great.” Once done, he appeared revitalized and dabbed at his somewhat damp face and hair using a towel.
Following Sanyo Electric Co.’s impressive display of the initial “human washing machine” at the 1970 Expo in Osaka Prefecture, Water Purifier Manufacturer Science, located in Osaka City’s Yodogawa Ward, revamped the initiative. The aim extended beyond automatic body cleansing to providing spiritual comfort as well.
(Japanese original by Sayuri Toda from the Osaka City News Department)