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Nov 06 2008 8 Comments

Japanese train-based bank

Japan’s terrific number of train otaku have already been treated to a carriage-themed clock, and now, these timetable obsessed citizens can sensibly save their money in this uniquely designed depository which, in these financially volatile times, may well be about as safe as a real bank.

Yamanote line bank

Based on Tokyo’s Yamanote loop line, the product cleverly allows its proud owner to pop their money through the roof of the carriage.

Yamanote line bank

Plus, if that wasn’t enough, the lights flash on and off,

Yamanote line bank

along with the doors actually opening,

Yamanote line bank

and closing.

Details which undoubtedly make it a must buy; however, incredibly it has one more tantalising trick — the ability to play train station melodies from a selection of stops on the line. A few examples of which can be heard by watching this dazzling live demonstration.

A final flourish that means Japanese train aficionados can now happily save up for their next trip while at the same time still feel like they are traveling on a train.

Does life get any better?

Categorized: General

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Carter says

    11/6/2008 at 11:03 pm

    Haha, great video. The guy in the front is even getting in to the tunes!!

    Reply
  2. John says

    11/7/2008 at 1:49 am

    I know someone that would love one of those. But it doesn’t look like targa offers overseas shipping. Too bad.

    Reply
  3. billywest says

    11/7/2008 at 2:07 am

    There’s an extra feature that isn’t described on the box; Every time the bank owner chikans someone on the train, some of the money inside disappears.

    Reply
  4. Bunny says

    11/7/2008 at 8:30 pm

    The happiness of Autism!

    Reply
  5. Mike in Ebisu Tokyo says

    11/10/2008 at 1:38 pm

    Hi

    It’s funny my wife and I were standing on the Yamanote Platform in Ebisu on Sunday talking about the different tunes and wondering if there was a CD. This is even better. Any idea where in Tokyo they can be purchased? Christmas is coming.

    Thanks

    Reply
  6. Lee says

    11/10/2008 at 5:17 pm

    It was in Don Quixote Mike.

    Reply
  7. Mike in Ebisu Tokyo says

    11/11/2008 at 1:08 pm

    Thanks for the info

    Reply
  8. Jing says

    6/28/2012 at 9:19 am

    Where can I find it in Tokyo? Which area? Would be great if anyone can tell the store’s name.

    Thank you so much 🙂

    Reply

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