The Otamatone is a popular portable synthesizer toy from Japan, available in over 30 designs and enjoyed by players worldwide. It produces sound when you touch or slide your fingers along the stem to adjust pitch, while squeezing the cheeks adds vibrato. The instrument offers low, medium, and high pitch settings, allowing for solo play or group harmonies. Designed for musical experimentation, the Otamatone encourages creativity with its unique sound-shaping capabilities. Its lightweight and compact size (27 cm / 10.6") make it easy to carry for outdoor activities like camping. The toy operates on three AAA batteries (not included) and requires no setup—just turn it on to start playing. Suitable for all ages and skill levels, the Otamatone provides an accessible and entertaining way to explore music, whether for beginners or experienced musicians.

Maywa Denki is an artistic and musical act first made popular in Japan. The KnockMan figures are part of the original act. Move his left arm up and down to wind up the spring and he will start knocking his head. Turn his right arm and he will knock other KnockMan's head. Each character plays only one instrument, which you can see played because of the simple design. They're 10 cm tall and don't need batteries to work their magic.
— "KnockMan from Maywa Denki — the ones with band member figures....by a Japanese musician," said Luke Rook, owner of Lulubell Toy in Tucson, Ariz., when asked by TDmonthly about best-selling musical toys in his store.