Unlock the Secrets of Japan's Brilliant and Bizarre Inventions

6. Beds in capsules

What it is: a sleeping capsule that can be rented (instead of a hotel room). Invented in 2013; Average Nightly Rate: $30–$50* There are "capsule hotels" (kapuseru hoteru) in Japan. Although they started in Japan, these hotels are known as "pod hotels" in the West. Their accommodations are somewhat small compared to those at the Marriott or Hilton. These rooms are just big enough to fit a bed.

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Mr. James Kelley/SShutterstock, "Capsule Beds" Generally speaking, each capsule has a bed. Although there might be additional facilities that raise the cost, the average nightly rate is between $30 and $50. Tokyo capsules tend to be the most expensive because some of the hotels include high-speed internet and facilities.