Instant noodle manufacturer Myojo Foods and Takara Tomy subsidiary Takaka Tomy A.R.T.S have collaborated on the Cup New York, a funky new bath product that integrates the look of a cup noodle product.
Available in three types (regular cup, square block cup, bag) and with packaging based on the popular Myojo series “Meijo Charurame” and “Meijo Ippei-chan Night Stall’s Yakisoba”, inside you find a bath sponge in the shape of instant noodles and bath agents in sauce-style packets. And just like real cup noodles, all you have to do is add hot water!
Bath products in Japan are often much more interesting than those in other countries. The reason for this is that the daily bath itself is a highly valued social ritual; even taking a wash at home is something to take time over. In Japan you can find bath products not just for beauty goods-loving women, but for all kinds of consumer, including men. We have reported before about trends with bath towels in dessert shapes, and this is just one of a multitude of things out on the market.
The Cup New York is clearly a novelty for its replica design — but its manufacturers are not hoping for high sales through wacky comic relief only. The Japanese consumer is actively looking for interesting bath products and even these fun ones fill a need to make their daily soak a better experience.
The three Cup New York products go on release from February 24, priced from 367 JPY (c.$4) to 472 JPY (c.$5) depending on the version.
William is one of the editors of JapanTrends.com and a Project Manager at 
I don’t have time to take a bath so always take a shower. I’m glad these aren’t available in the UK or I’d have to quit work and JUST have baths! awesome!
That is pretty cool. I can see myself putting it in the kitchen and tricking guests into thinking its instant noodles!
@duncan: now if only they can make something for the us types that take showers.