Japan’s New “Human Washing Machine” Is Turning Sci-Fi Into Reality

For decades, the idea of a machine that could wash a person as easily as laundry has floated somewhere between science fiction and quirky Japanese innovation. But in 2025, that futuristic concept officially stepped into the real world. Japan has unveiled the Mirai Human Washing Machine — a full-body cleansing capsule that washes, rinses, dries, and even relaxes the user in just 15 minutes.

11/30/20252 min read

A Spa, a Shower, and a Sci-Fi Pod in One

The Mirai pod looks like a sleek, elongated capsule — about 2.3 meters long — designed for the user to lie down inside. Once closed, the machine takes over completely.

Here’s what it does:

Microbubble Deep Cleaning

Ultra-fine bubbles and a soft mist cleanse the entire body without scrubbing or effort, creating an almost weightless cleaning sensation.

Automatic Drying

After the wash cycle, warm air jets fully dry the user so they step out clean and moisture-free.

Built-In Relaxation Mode

Ambient lighting, gentle music, or calming visuals can be played inside the capsule, transforming the experience into a personal spa session.

Health Monitoring Sensors

The machine tracks heart rate, posture, and other metrics during use — a feature aimed at supporting elderly users and those with mobility limitations.

In short, it’s a hands-free bath designed to clean the body and calm the mind.

From Expo Showcase to Commercial Reality

This futuristic washer first made headlines at Expo 2025 Osaka-Kansai, where it quickly became one of the most talked-about attractions. Crowds lined up to see — and in some cases test — what felt like a vision straight from a sci-fi novel.

Now the device is moving beyond exhibition halls.
A demo unit is scheduled to appear at a major Tokyo electronics store, with highly limited sales beginning soon after.

The Price Tag Is… Not Small

Here’s where things get real: the Mirai Human Washing Machine costs roughly ¥60 million, which is about $385,000 USD.

Only about 50 units are expected to be produced in the initial run, putting the machine firmly in luxury territory. Early buyers include high-end hotels and wellness facilities eager to offer guests a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Who Is This Machine Really For?

While the idea may seem whimsical, the design has practical value:

Elderly & Mobility-Impaired Users

The machine removes the physical effort of bathing — a huge benefit for people who find daily hygiene tasks difficult.

Wellness & Luxury Spas

For high-end relaxation centers, the pod is a unique attraction that blends cleanliness and sensory therapy.

Hotels & Hospitality

Luxury hotels see it as a novelty amenity that distinguishes their offerings.

For the average household?
Not yet — unless you have a spare room and a few hundred thousand dollars lying around.

A Glimpse Into the Future of Personal Care

Japan’s new human washing machine is more than a quirky invention. It shows how advancements in automation, healthcare technology, and design can blend into everyday routines. As populations age and demand for supportive tech grows, ideas once dismissed as gimmicks may become everyday necessities.

For now, the Mirai machine remains a rare, futuristic luxury. But like many breakthroughs, today’s marvel could be tomorrow’s standard.

One thing is certain: Japan has once again pushed the boundaries of what “everyday technology” can look like — turning an old Expo concept into a working reality that the world can’t stop talking about.

Disclaimer

This update is shared based on publicly available information. VOTG News is not responsible for any decisions made based on this news. The image is AI-generated only for illustration