Recently, a trip to Tokyo has reminded me exactly what makes Japan the center of everything new, innovative, and cool. Whether it’s the fresh sounds and fashion styles, the hyper cultures and subcultures, Japan is definitely the birthplace of the quirkiest and most appealing things out there. Take, for example, toys. Strolling down a section of Tokyu Hands in Shibuya is nothing like visiting the Times Square Toys R’ Us, guaranteed.

What happens when fine art, design detail, and culture overload come together in making this generation’s newest evolution of toy?

Here’s an update of the army figurine toys we had when we were younger. Boford Japan produces these realistic “Mononofu” (warrior) models that can be set up to reenact the classically epic battle of red vs. blue. Well, maybe not, but the fine detail and creative flair in these is enough to impress anyone who’s used to the usual “Made in Taiwan” stickered toys.

“Mononofu”  models are currently displayed at Japan C.

By NYT