Tokyo Times

Apr 06 2006 10 Comments

Animation animosity

â€œI hate Mickey Mouse. He has nothing like the unique sensibility that Japan has.â€

Tokyo governor Shintaro Ishihara speaking at the capital’s recent anime fair.

Briefly turning his bile away from Japan’s Asian neighbours last week, powerful politician and infamous xenophobe Shintaro Ishihara inexplicably opted for a below the belt jab at the United States; his denunciation of a cartoon mouse surely set to destabilise the two country’s close economic and political ties.

However the 73-year-old may not be done with his cartoon character shenanigans, as rumours abound that the grumbling governor is set to further anger French speakers by dismissing Gallic-gadabout Tintin as nothing more than a tufty-haired troublemaker — a character who pales into insignificance when compared to Japan’s own elaborately coiffured superstar, Atom Boy.

Or alternatively he will revert back to form and continue on his quest to insult as many non-Japanese Asians as is humanly possible.

Apr 05 2006 11 Comments

Digitless digital

Digital watches have come a long way since their birth in the early 1970’s. So far in fact that it now seems they have progressed to such a level that even digits are surplus to requirements.

Yes, whilst it may not be ideal for quickly checking the time as you dash for an all-important train or meeting, Japanese manufacturer Sea Hope’s new EG design certainly looks the part.

Ok, so you may not have a clue what time of day it is, but when you finally reach your destination you’ll have the advantage of an excuse, a ready-made talking point and the EG’s undeniable coolness. All for the surprisingly reasonable price of 15,750 yen (76 pound).

But seeing as at the end of the day it is a timepiece, and therefore more than a mere fashion accessory, any idea what different times the two watches are showing? And thankfully it is only the time, the date and year having been mercifully excluded.

Answers on a postcard please, or alternatively you can click here to find out how it works.

Apr 05 2006 14 Comments

Silicone sex substitute

For silicone sex seekers held back by hygiene concerns, emotional discomfort, or a simple lack of funds, help may finally be at hand — providing a willing partner can be found; the simple application of a mannequin-like mask creating a convincing — if somewhat disturbing — love doll effect.

Plus, just like their expensively constructed counterparts, different ‘heads’ can be used.

And whilst the changing of masks might take a little longer than the simple removal of a head, overall it’s probably an improvement as there’ll be no fear of it falling off during especially vigorous activity.