Originally published on metropolis.co.jp on May 2013

One of the lesser vaunted benefits of Japan and the USA’s special alliance is the possibility of combining US Marvel comic book heroes with traditional Japanese hand towels. Not content with invading the country via a series of big-budget Hollywood flicks, Iron Man is also invading key moments in Japanese cultural history, specifically appearing on top of “The Great Wave off Kanagawa” in Hokusai’s iconic ukiyo-e. Look out for Spiderman admiring sakura petals scattering in the moonlight amid other Marvel Tenugui (¥840). Take these 100%-cotton items to the onsen and let your favorite hero protect more than just the earth’s safety.

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