A1–A2 Level

Vocabulary

bubble (noun) — a small ball of air or gas inside a liquid.
Example: Children love making bubbles in the bath.

sensor (noun) — a device that reacts to heat, movement, or light.
Example: The fitness watch has a sensor that checks your heartbeat.

relaxing (adjective) — helping you feel calm and not stressed.
Example: Soft music is very relaxing.

demonstration (noun) — showing how something works.
Example: The robot did a demonstration at the event.

display (verb) — to show something so people can see it.
Example: The store will display the new phone this week.

expect (verb) — to think something will probably happen.
Example: We expect the rain to stop soon.

Article

Japan’s New Human Washing Machine
One special attraction at the Osaka Expo 2025 was a “human washing machine.”
This machine washes one person with thousands of tiny bubbles for 15 minutes. It uses sensors and AI to choose the right water temperature. It also plays relaxing music and videos.

The machine was first made only for demonstration.
But now it may go on sale.

Yamada Holdings says it will display a model at its Ikebukuro store on December 25.
The company that created the machine, Science Co., says many people are asking about it.

More than 40,000 people wanted to try it at the Expo.
The price is expected to be around 60 million yen (about $385,000).
People will probably be able to test it for free in the store.

Comprehension Questions

1. When will the machine be displayed in the Ikebukuro store?

2. How long does one wash take?

3. How many people asked to try the machine at the Expo?

Personal Questions (15)

Would you like to try a human washing machine?
Do you think 15 minutes is enough for a wash?
Do you enjoy relaxing music while washing?
Do you like baths or showers more?
Would you pay to try this machine?
Do you think it is too expensive?
Would you try it for free in a store?
Do you trust machines to wash your body?
Do you think this invention is useful?
Have you ever been to an expo?
Do you think more stores will display it?
Would you feel comfortable inside a machine like this?
Do you like futuristic technology?
What is the most relaxing thing you do?
Would you buy this if it were cheap?

Comprehension Answers (A1–A2)

1. December 25.

2. 15 minutes.

3. More than 40,000 people.

B1–B2 Level

Vocabulary

bubble — a small sphere of air inside liquid.
sensor — a device that detects physical changes like heat or movement.
relaxing — helping reduce stress; calming.
demonstration — an event showing how a product works.
display — to show something publicly.
expect — to believe something will likely happen.

Article

Japan Prepares to Showcase a Human Washing Machine
One of the most talked-about attractions at the Osaka Expo 2025 was a futuristic “human washing machine” developed by Science Co..
The device cleans a person using ultra-fine bubbles and automatically adjusts water temperature through AI-supported sensors. It also provides relaxing audio and visual content to enhance the experience.

Originally, the machine was meant only for demonstration.
However, strong public interest has encouraged the company to take it to the next stage.

Starting December 25, Yamada Holdings will display a model at its Ikebukuro store. Since the Expo, thousands of people from around the world have asked whether they can purchase or try the machine.

More than 40,000 visitors requested a trial during the Expo, surprising the developers.
The expected retail price is around 60 million yen, approximately $385,000.
While it may not be ready for public sale, customers will likely be able to test it in-store for free.

The company also aims to install these machines in future hotels, including one planned in Osaka.

Comprehension Questions

1. What technologies does the machine use to personalize the wash?

2. Why is Yamada Holdings displaying the machine in its store?

3. Why did Science Co. consider selling the machine?

Personal Questions (15)

Do you think luxury tech like this has a real market?
Would you visit a store just to try such a machine?
What potential benefits do you see in AI-controlled personal care devices?
Do you think hotels should include high-tech bathing experiences?
Would you feel comfortable relying on a machine for something so personal?
What price range would make this invention practical?
Do you think the popularity at the Expo indicates real demand?
Should companies test unusual inventions in public events?
How could this technology be used in healthcare?
Do you think this machine is more entertainment than necessity?
Would this attract tourists to certain hotels?
What safety concerns might exist with such a device?
Do you enjoy futuristic experiences at exhibitions?
Could this inspire new types of spa services?
Do you think machines could replace human spa workers?

Comprehension Answers (B1–B2)

1. AI and sensors to adjust water temperature and manage the wash.

2. Because of strong public interest after the Expo.

3. Because many people asked to buy or try it.

C1–C2 Level

Vocabulary

bubble — a gas-filled sphere within a liquid, used here to describe micro-cleaning technology.
sensor — a detection device that gathers data to inform automated adjustments.
relaxing — producing a calming physiological or psychological effect.
demonstration — a practical presentation designed to showcase functionality.
display — to publicly present an item for viewing or testing.
expect — to project a probable future outcome based on current information.

Article

Japan’s Prototype Human Washing Machine Draws Global Attention
One of the standout technological curiosities at the Osaka Expo 2025 was a fully automated “human washing machine,” engineered by Science Co..
The prototype uses ultrafine bubble technology combined with AI-driven sensor data to adjust everything from water temperature to the user’s comfort settings. To cultivate a spa-like atmosphere, it incorporates synchronized visual and audio relaxation features.

Although originally intended strictly for demonstration, overwhelming interest from domestic and international visitors has accelerated the company’s commercial considerations.

Recognizing the momentum, Yamada Holdings announced it will publicly display the machine at its Ikebukuro flagship store beginning December 25. During the Expo alone, more than 40,000 people requested an opportunity to try the device — far surpassing expectations.

The anticipated price point, roughly 60 million yen (around $385,000), places the machine firmly in the luxury or commercial hospitality sector rather than everyday consumer use. Science Co. has indicated an ambition to deploy the machines in select hotels, positioning them as premium wellness experiences.

While the device captures the imagination, critics question its practicality, safety regulations, and potential niche appeal. Still, it reflects Japan’s ongoing commitment to experimental consumer technology and experiential innovation.

Comprehension Questions

1. What factors caused Science Co. to consider commercializing the prototype?

2. Why is Yamada Holdings an important part of the machine’s next development stage?

3. How might this machine fit into Japan’s broader approach to technological innovation?

Personal Questions (15)

Is this invention an example of meaningful innovation or technological excess?
How should regulators evaluate the safety of automated personal-care devices?
Would such a device redefine what luxury wellness means?
What ethical concerns arise when machines handle intimate human tasks?
Does public enthusiasm at expos accurately predict long-term demand?
Could this technology benefit individuals with mobility issues?
How might hotels use devices like this to differentiate themselves?
Is the high cost justified by the experience it offers?
Should companies prioritize experimental tech even if it has limited market potential?
How should such machines be tested before commercial release?
Could this product influence future designs in home or medical hygiene systems?
Does this invention challenge traditional ideas of self-care?
How might cultural attitudes influence acceptance of automated bathing machines?
Would you consider the machine a form of performance art or practical technology?
What other futuristic devices might appear in the next decade?

Comprehension Answers (C1–C2)

1. Strong interest from both Japanese and international visitors.

2. It will provide the first opportunity for the public to see and possibly test the machine.

3. It demonstrates Japan’s willingness to explore experimental, high-concept consumer technology.

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