The Japanese are known for their creative pop culture creations that sometimes push the boundaries of bizarre.
But it remains to be seen whether the company that developed a “hugging chair” has a hot-seller on its hands or a flop.
The idea behind the piece of furniture - also referred to as a “tranquility chair” - is that it can be used primarily by the country’s aging population to combat loneliness.
Inspired by the studies of a Japanese professor, the invention is shaped like a giant human doll with a friendly face and long arms that can wrap around the user in an affectionate embrace.
“It makes you feel safe. Anyone can use it, but it is designed for older people,” said the chair’s manufacturer UniCare, the company behind similar products like the “life rhythm dolls,” which are programmed to remind owners to take their medicine or go to the bathroom.
The product will retail for about $419 and is being showcased at the International Home Care and Rehabilitation Exhibition in Tokyo.
While in theory the product is certainly a good idea, the discussion points out that in reality the unit resembles an overgrown rag doll sitting on an Ikea chair, and might not be the picture of comfort its users crave.
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