The high-tech capsule, which cleans the body with micro-bubbles while monitoring vital signs, drew global attention at the Osaka Expo and is now entering limited commercial production.

Japan has begun commercial sales of a next-generation “human washing capsule,” a device that gained widespread attention during the Osaka World Expo for its unusual yet highly sophisticated approach to full-body cleansing.

Developed by the Japanese technology firm Science, the capsule-type machine allows users to lie inside a 2.3-meter chamber that provides a complete wash, rinse and dry cycle—without any rotating drum motion. Instead, the system uses ultra-fine bubbles and gentle steam to clean the entire body in a spa-like environment.

During the Expo, the device was tested by hundreds of thousands of visitors and quickly became one of the event’s most talked-about attractions. Inspired by a similar concept displayed at the 1970 Osaka Expo, company chairman Yasuaki Aoyama said the project was rooted in his childhood memories and a desire to combine relaxation with hygiene. “We want people who couldn’t visit the Expo to experience this technology,” he stated.

Science spokesperson Sachiko Maekura emphasized that the machine offers more than physical cleansing. “This device washes the body, but it also refreshes the soul,” she said. The capsule is equipped with sensors that track heart rate and other vital signs throughout the process, while calm music and visual effects are displayed to enhance relaxation.

The first production units have already been purchased. A hotel in Osaka bought the initial model and announced it will offer the capsule as a premium service for guests. Major electronics retailer Yamada Denki also acquired a unit and plans to showcase it in stores starting December 25 as part of a visitor-experience campaign.

Due to the device’s complex design, production will be limited to around 50 units. Japanese media report that each machine is priced at approximately 60 million yen (about 385,000 USD).

How the capsule works

• Entry: The user lies inside the enclosed 2.3-meter capsule.
• Gentle washing: Micro-bubbles and a fine mist cleanse the whole body without friction.
• Health monitoring: Internal sensors track vital signs in real time.
• Relaxation mode: Soft music and visual projections promote calmness during the wash.
• Automatic drying: The device dries the user without needing any towels.
• Completion: The full procedure takes about 15 minutes.

International resorts, hotels and wellness facilities—particularly in the United States—have also shown strong interest in purchasing the new technology.

The human washing capsule, now dubbed by media as “the future of personal cleansing,” is expected to remain a niche yet highly innovative product as commercial rollout begins. (ILKHA)