I love Japanese TV. Sandwiched between a news story about protesters being pepper sprayed by police in a dangerous foreign country (America) and a piece on noodles topped with grilled intestines (horumon udon) was a story on the 2011 Tokyo Nail Expo’s Nail Queen.
Nails are big here, and anything goes. It’s not unusual for a manicure to cost upwards of $100 and feature anything from tiny plastic cupcakes to little chains swagged here and there. Having a smartphone is pretty much a requirement among fashionable nailistas because it’s nearly impossible to text on a regular phone when your nails are the equivalent of Marie Antoinette’s hairstyle in her “let them eat cake” period. The Nail Queen probably doesn’t have to put in long hours slaving away at a computer like we commoners.
Here are a few examples from the many ready-to-wear lines:
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The Last Tea Bowl Thief was chosen as an Editor’s Pick for
Best Mystery, Thriller & Suspense on Amazon
“A fascinating mix of history and mystery.” —Booklist
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Jonelle Patrick writes novels set in Japan, produces the monthly e-magazine Japanagram, and blogs at Only In Japan and The Tokyo Guide I Wish I’d Had
Only In Japan 
I know it was just an aside but horumon udon?? Sign me up!
I was craving some myself until I looked up what it was. On the screen it looked all savory and sizzly and delish, but once I found out it was made of wiggly bits, the desire sort of faded.