Wednesday, July 23, 2008

The Claw.

One of the strangest features of the Taiwanese urban landscape is the abundance of arcades: slim game-lined shops that flash neon lights and jangly music. I've found myself strangely drawn to the claw machines, which are totally addictive and a great way to lose some heavy coins while killing time. After trying for a tofu-headed toy and a Taiwan beer coin purse, I finally got my first win: a Manjiukun in China cellphone accessory. Though I have no idea what Manjiukun is- some sort of jellyroll?- and I have no plans to dangle him from my cell phone, I am rather keen on his tiny changeable outfits and stylish Eunuch's cap.

6 comments:

Unknown said...

you should hold a giveaway on your blog and have this strange toy be the prize!

i love those fluorescent colors on the arcade game...

Alexander Santillanes said...

Oo, a giveaway could be fun. I've actually been noticing a lot of really funky Taiwanese stationary- all very much within the 'culture of cute', which is so big here. Perhaps I'll have to put together a packet before I leave to use as a giveaway.

Those funky '80s neon colors are so big in Taiwan youth culture. Shorts, sunglasses, and t-shirts all come in hot pink, electric blue, and neon green. -X

Prêt à Voyager said...

So funny! Congrats!!!!

Anne

Anonymous said...

Think it is a Japanese copy thing. "Manjyu" is a Japanese sweet/dessert item (many kinds, could be rolled). "Kun" is a friendly, respectful name suffix used for and between boys or young men in Japanese.
You've got a little sweet dessert friend.

dee said...

I love stopping by your blog to see what new things you've discovered. It's like seeing the world through the eyes of a kid in a candy store! This photo is so great, too:)

Alexander Santillanes said...

Ah, thank you so much, anon! You've cleared up the mystery for me. And I love the phrase "sweet little dessert friends." I wish all of my friends were. -X