Gaia Series 35: "Human Washing Machine" Revived At The World Expo

The Osaka Kansai 2025 World Expo will spotlight Japan's leap in innovation, marrying heritage with futuristic technology for a sustainable future.

On the cusp of a technological renaissance, Japan positions itself as a global leader, ready to unveil its innovative might at the Osaka Kansai 2025 World Expo. This international spectacle is set to highlight Japan's commitment to sustainability and technological prowess, marrying the nation's rich heritage with futuristic advancements. Osaka, a city steeped in history and forward-thinking, provides the perfect backdrop for this event.

The last time the city held the World Expo, it was in 1970 when technological wonders of the era such as the mobile phone were revealed to the public. It was also when a technological marvel – the “Human Washer” – think of it as a washing machine for humans – was unveiled. It didn’t take off commercially then, but one company hopes to launch a bathing revolution with their modern version when the World Expo comes around in 2025.

The tale of the “Human Washer” is particularly emblematic of Japan's journey from post-war recovery to technological stardom. Once a marvel at the 1970 Osaka Expo, it captured the imagination of a nation eager to showcase its capabilities to the world. Today, its revival speaks volumes about Japan's dedication to pushing the boundaries of what's possible, merging hygiene, comfort, and sustainability in a single, elegant solution.

One spotlight of the 1970s “Human Washer” was on bubbles. Since then, Japan has made great strides, researching its multi-functional uses. They have become experts in ultra-fine bubble technology where bubbles less than 0.001mm are created to reach into the skin’s pores, removing dirt and even odours. 

This cutting-edge innovation has found use-cases in other industries: “Fine-Bubble” washers are now installed at bars managed by the Suntory Group as it removes whisky residue and aromas from its glasses in just five to six seconds. Meanwhile, at the Osaka Metropolitan University, "Ultra-Fine Bubbles" are injected into lettuce roots for cultivation as it betters the flavour and increases harvest quantity by 20 per cent.

These innovations epitomise Japan's approach to technological development: solutions that are both groundbreaking and in harmony with the environment. For example, using special shower heads that create ultra-fine bubbles cuts down on 50 per cent of water used compared to typical shower heads.

The narrative of Japan's technological ascent is interwoven with stories of resilience and creativity. The “Human Washer” is a testament to the nation’s ability to look back at its history, draw inspiration, and leap forward into the future with innovations that have the potential to change the way we live. 

You can see this in the make-up of its team, with its original designer Manatsu Umeda and engineer Eiji Yamatani, now 89 and 83 years old respectively, now employed as consultants. They meet up monthly, with other teams working on the bather’s comfort, its ergonomics, its display screens and other minute details to perfect the “Human Washer” in time for the World Expo. No expense is spared: They have even floated the shower head with a balloon up 25,000m to the stratosphere to prove that it can be used in space.

In embracing its past and charting a course for the future, Japan sends a clear message to the world: that through innovation, perseverance, and a deep respect for nature, we can envision a future that is both technologically advanced and sustainable. 

The Osaka 2025 World Expo is not just an exhibition; it's a glimpse into a future where technology and tradition coalesce to create a better world. As Japan steps onto this global stage, it does so not just in celebration of its own achievements but as a testament to the boundless possibilities of human creativity and ingenuity.