Explore the Fascinating World of Japanese Rubik’s Cubes

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Japan loves to show the West how they do things so much better! Examples include Japanese Disney, Yōshoku cuisine, and even Kit Kats.

So it’s no surprise that the Japanese have made and mastered their own version of the classic Rubik’s cube, known worldwide for its precision engineering, high-quality materials, and unique color scheme.

Japanese Rubik's Cubes
All you need to know about Japanese Rubik’s Cubes

Let’s take a closer look at what makes the Japanese Rubik’s cube special and where you can get your hands on one of your own!

3 Best Japanese Rubik’s Cubes

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The Rubik’s Cube has become a Japanese institution

Rubik’s Cubes have been a popular puzzle toy since their invention in 1974.

While sales have waned globally, 50 years later, the fiendish puzzle is going strong in Japan, with up to half a million Rubik’s Cubes sold every year. 

Rubik’s Cubes have been produced in various shapes, sizes, and colors over the years, with the original 3×3 cube remaining the most popular.

But, not all Rubik’s Cubes are the same, and Japanese Rubik’s Cubes have become a distinct class of this classic puzzle.

The design and engineering of Japanese Rubik’s Cubes make them favored by speedcubers, who solve Rubik’s Cubes in record times. 

Japanese Rubik’s Cube vs Western Rubik’s Cube: What’s the difference?

facts about Japanese Rubik's Cubes
Solving Japanese Rubik’s Cubes

The Japanese Rubik’s Cube and the Western Rubik’s Cube are both variations of the original Rubik’s Cube puzzle game, but there are some important differences: 

  • Japanese Rubik’s Cubes have a smoother turning mechanism, allowing for faster solving times. 
  • The internal engineering of the cube is more complex with magnets, additional gears, and layers that facilitate more advanced solving techniques.
  • The Japanese Rubik’s Cube has a distinct color scheme that is actually from the earliest versions of the cube. It is sought-after by speedcubers that use the Fridrich method of Rubik’s Cube solving.

Japanese Rubik’s Cube Brands and Manufacturers

Japanese Rubik’s Cube Brands and Manufacturers
Best Japanese Rubik’s cubes today

Japan has its own Rubik’s Cube manufacturers who are licensed to produce Rubik’s cubes, but most Japanese-style cubes are made in China.

Since the patent on the Rubik’s Cube expired in 2000, these companies have come up with many Japanese versions of the famous cube.

The leading Japanese Rubik’s Cube manufacturer is MegaHouse, a subsidiary of Bandai Namco.

They produce some of the most original and challenging Japanese Rubik’s Cube designs including the world’s smallest Rubik’s Cube and their new ‘Impossible’ Rubik’s Cube that changes colors as you try to solve it!

Perhaps the strangest Japanese Rubik’s Cube is this pair of cubes that have been modeled after popular Japanese instant meals of Maruchan’s Akai Kitsune Udon:

This special-edition bowl of udon, made by the ramen noodle company Toyo Suisan Kaisha, has a smart Rubik’s cube that pops out for you to solve.

The instructions are cleverly concealed in the seasoning sachet!

The Best Japanese Rubik’s Cubes You Can Buy Today 

After researching and testing various Japanese Rubik’s Cubes, we have identified the top options that offer speed, durability, and ease of use.

Japanese Rubik’s Cubes are some of the best Rubik’s Cubes you can buy, with great features for beginners and advanced users alike. 

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What to look for in a Japanese Rubik’s Cube

One critical factor to consider when purchasing a Japanese Rubik’s Cube is the type of mechanism used.

There are two main types:

  1. the traditional ball-bearing mechanism
  2. and the newer magnetic mechanism

The ball-bearing mechanism is the more common and affordable option, but it can be prone to lockups and require more maintenance.

The magnetic mechanism is more expensive but provides a smoother and more consistent solving experience.

Other Japanese Rubik’s Cube features to look out for:

  • Good quality materials for durability
  • Fast movements for quick and easy turning
  • Fun aesthetics, with special edition cubes that feature manga and anime characters like Naturo!

Japan’s famous speedcubers

Japan has many, highly successful speedcubers, who hold world records in the sport of solving Rubik’s Cubes competitively. A notable Japanese 3×3 speedcuber is Shotaro Makisumi, who is also known as Macky Makisumi.

This 33-year-old from Ube in Yamaguchi can solve a Rubik’s cube in seconds. Yu Nakajima is another successful Japanese speedcuber who has held world records in the past.

Watch them in action:

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the top Japanese Rubik’s Cube brand?

Toy brand MegaHouse is the #1 Japanese-designed and manufactured Rubik’s Cube brand. MegaHouse Rubik’s Cubes come from Japan. 

What is the color scheme used on Japanese Rubik’s Cubes?

Japanese Rubik’s Cubes typically use the standard color scheme, which includes white, yellow, orange, red, green, and blue. However, brands like MegaHouse use different shades of these colors or even different colors altogether.

Rounding Up

Japan’s fascinating Rubik’s Cubes make an excellent souvenir or something to pass the time on flights to and from Japan.  Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced solver, Japan is the country that is most likely to have a cube that is perfect for you.

About the author

Renee Christian

Written by

Renee Christian

Renée Christian is a writer and long-standing travel enthusiast who enjoys learning about other countries, cultures, and foods! When she’s not perfecting a ramen bowl or tempura recipe in the kitchen, you’ll find her in her permaculture garden or trekking the nearest coastal path!

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