At this point, it’s safe to assume that the Japanese are creatures from another dimension. We have absolutely no idea how they’re able to come up with amazing (and borderline absurd) solutions to problems we never knew we had, or we have never acknowledged before as solvable. But it rarely matters how they’re able to do what they do — they just do it, and we’ve eventually accepted their ways.

Here are only 8 of the hundreds of Japanese inventions that prove they’re way ahead of the rest of us.

Automatic underground parking

One thing to admire about the Japanese is their ability to save space. While we’re so used to weaving through streets with cars parked on either side, and to waiting for slots to open in tiny parking lots, the Japanese have invented automatic underground garages so its locals never have to endure the idle waiting times and the hassle of parking their cars.

Electronic toilets

Undeniably our favorite thing about visiting Japan is getting to use its electronic toilets and glorious bidets. Where else can you find a toilet that can warm up your butt, wash your private parts, play music to mask the sounds of your business, and make your poop smell good?

Vending machines that sell everything

Although not necessarily a Japanese invention, Japan is best known for the number of vending machines you can find along its streets selling a variety of things aside from the usual beverages. You can find vending machines that sell cigarettes, alcohol, fruits and vegetables, underwear, rice, milk, eggs, and even a car! It saves everyone the trouble of running to the mall or the grocery store.

Air-conditioned Shoes

Businesspersons are the ones who are most affected by heat and humidity because they’re always dressed in suits for work. Naturally, the Japanese discovered a way to make their employees’ lives much better — with air-conditioned dress shoes! Makes you wish we had a pair here in the Philippines, where we need it more.

Square Watermelons

The Japanese have had square watermelons since the 1980s, and it’s not (only) for weird aesthetic purposes. They had been created with the intention to fit them better inside refrigerators, and to cut them more easily without them rolling off the table.

Imagine being in the 80s and realizing all these. They really were waaaay ahead of humanity.

Robot Priest

Yes, you read that right. Only recently, a Softbank invented a robot that could preside over Buddhist funerals. Strangely enough, however, hiring this robot (named Pepper) won’t cost as much as you’d expect, making it the perfect choice for those who don’t have enough to spend.

Amazing how the Japanese are that advanced that they can invent a robot just for this specific purpose, instead of for something else.

Pedal-powered Hairdryer

We’re not entirely sure if these are being commercially sold in Japan, but the fact of the matter stays — that someone suddenly thought about creating a hairdryer which you could conveniently power via your own footsteps when you’re running late for school or work.

Sure, you’d cringe at its absurdity now, but when you think about it it’s actually pretty smart.

Realistic Sex Dolls

Orient Industry permanently changed the sex doll industry back in 2014 with the release of its realistic love dolls, which have caught worldwide attention since. These dolls are made with the highest quality silicon material and look completely human! You can customize them according to your preferences with hair, shape of face, bust size, and even clothing. Their joints are bendable too, so you can position them any way you want.

Now, doesn’t that sound like a dream? (You don’t need to answer that.)

What are your thoughts on these useful and weird inventions? Share them with us below!