Yamada Announces Plans to Sell ‘Human Washing Machine’ Following Expo Success
Japan’s major home electronics retailer, Yamada Holdings, is preparing to bring one of the most talked-about attractions from the Osaka Expo into everyday life: the Mirai Human Washing Machine. The device garnered widespread attention during the 2025 Expo by drawing over 40,000 people who applied for the chance to try it.
After months of public anticipation, Yamada has confirmed plans to display a working unit at its flagship Ikebukuro store before the end of the year.
A High-Tech Concept Revived for a Modern Audience
The idea of a human washing machine isn’t entirely new in Japan. A similar concept appeared at the 1970 Osaka Expo. Osaka-based Science, known for its fine-bubble cleaning systems, revisited the idea with modern microbubble technology and contemporary health-monitoring features, resulting in the Mirai Human Washing Machine.
The updated design transforms the bathing process into a 15-minute session inside a 2.3-meter capsule that handles washing, rinsing, and drying without requiring user effort. Microbubbles, a fine-mist shower, and automated drying work together to create a controlled, spa-like environment enhanced by ambient visuals and soothing audio. Sensors inside the unit continuously monitor the user’s vital signs during the session.
What the Machine Actually Does
Inside the capsule, the user lies down while the system automatically begins its programmed cycle. The process includes:
Microbubble cleansing and a fine-mist shower
Full-body exterior washing without rotating or scrubbing mechanisms
Automated drying
Continuous monitoring of vital signs through sensors
Ambient visuals and audio designed to create a spa-like experience
The goal is to provide an efficient, self-contained bath that combines hygiene with relaxation. Science describes the effect as refreshing both mentally and physically.
Public Demand Pushes the Technology Forward
Interest in the device accelerated rapidly after its Expo debut. More than 40,000 applications were submitted for the bathing experience, and the machine helped draw attention during the event’s six-month run, which attracted over 27 million visitors.
Demand extended beyond Japan as well, with a U.S. resort company expressing interest in the technology. A hotel in Osaka has also purchased the first commercial unit and plans to offer the service as a specialty amenity.
Yamada Steps In With Retail Plans
Image via Wikimedia Commons/Tokumeigakarinoaoshima
Yamada Holdings announced it will begin displaying the Mirai Human Washing Machine at its Ikebukuro flagship store starting December 25. The setup will include a demonstration unit and an experience corner, which will allow visitors to see the device up close. Although an official sales launch date has not been set, the projected price is approximately ¥60 million, equivalent to roughly $385,000.
Only about 50 machines are expected to be produced. According to Science Chairman Yasuaki Aoyama, the goal is to give people who missed the Expo an opportunity to engage directly with the technology.