Human washing machine unveiled in Japan

After a hard day downt pit, gaming, I like nowt better than to slip into the massive Mirai Human Washing Machine. Only paid ¥60 million for it and knew I had to have it the moment I visited the Experience Corner at Yamada's flagship store in Ikebukuro.

By simply lying down in a 2.3-meter-long capsule, the bather is washed by the machine with microbubbles and a fine mist shower, with the whole process, including drying, completed in about 15 minutes. Sensors monitor a bather's health during use, while the machine provides relaxing visuals and music.

Hospitals, therapy and elder-care are among non-frivolous uses for a $385k personal human washer, and the latter scenario is particularly relevant with Japan's aging population. Here's video of it in action:

The "Future Human Washing Machine" at the Osaka Kansai Expo, which opened in April, is living up to its reputation. Our journalist went to check it out with a waterproof smartphone in hand. Was he able to refresh their bodies and minds? Take a look!

That said, NDTV reports that a hotel in Osaka was the first customer.

According to company spokeswoman Sachiko Maekura, the new machine not only cleans the body but also "washes the soul," using sensors to monitor the user's heartbeat and vital signs throughout the process.

Interest from international businesses, including a US resort company, prompted Science to commercialize the prototype. The first unit has been purchased by a hotel in Osaka, which plans to offer the unique service to its guests.

Here's the website for Science, developers of the machine.