Cool Hunting

World's Smallest Flying Robot
One can imagine all sorts of uses for this little bugger. Seiko Epson Corporation ("Epson") has developed the mFR ("Micro Flying Robot"), the world's smallest flying prototype microrobot. Epson developed the mFR to demonstrate the micromechatronics technology that it has cultivated in-house over the years and to explore the possibilities for microrobots and the development of component technology applications. The company will display its...

Higashiya Tea and Sweets
by Julie Wolfson Nestled between the shops and trees in Tokyo's tranquil Nakameguro neighborhood, Higashiya is a seasonal confection shop and tea bar selling traditional Japanese sweets in the setting of a rustic house. The brainchild of design firm Simplicity , Higashiya brilliantly integrates the old with the new. Known for adding modern twists to conventional crafts, designer and confectioner Shinichiro Ogata creates elegant dishes...

Bar Rage
by Julie Wolfson Often tucked away on side streets and down alleys, some of the best bars and restaurants in Tokyo are behind unmarked doors. Bar Rage takes that notion to an extreme, with no signs of a bar from the exterior. A tiny elevator lifts guests to the third floor, unveiling a huge space that boasts an extensive vintage liquor collection, a bar with...

Tokyo Art Beat Spring Tees
We're always super excited to see Tokyo Art Beat's new limited edition tees, and this spring is no different. As usual, Tokyo Art Beat, the nonprofit website covering art events, reviews and creative jobs in the Japanese capital put out two tees with fresh graphics from the up-and-coming Japanese artist Teppei Kaneuji and American born, Tokyo-based type designer Ian Lynam. (Click on images for...