This high-tech kimono will help you fall asleep

Konel, a Tokyo-based creative studio, has designed a sleep-inducing robe inspired by traditional nightwear to address the sleeplessness epidemic in Japan.

The heavy-looking garment wraps around the wearer like a cocoon, and if that alone isn’t dreamy enough, it also uses a light and sound system to help them catch some shut-eye.

Called the ZZZN Sleep Apparel System, it comes with a smart ring that tracks vital data such as sleep quality, stress levels, and heart rate. The system analyzes the data and tailors the sleeping environment based on the wearer’s needs, according to Konel.

Headphones in the system’s headpiece play two types of audio that promote relaxation and sleep, while “superior” noise isolation blocks out external distractions.

A soft red light mimicking the hues of sunset helps a wearer fall asleep. When it’s time to get up, the system uses a combination of blue light and a specially selected music track to gently wake up the body.

Various studies have ranked Japan among the countries where people get the least amount of sleep – less than in Canada, France, Germany, Italy, the US, or the UK – with people citing stress and anxiety among the most common reasons.

“In today’s hyper-connected world, where people are constantly bombarded with information, sleep remains the only time we can disconnect from it all,” Konel said. The system is “designed to optimize the timing of short naps” – whether you’re on a bus or someone’s sofa.

While it uses modern technology, the robe is inspired by traditional Japanese “yogi” – a quilted kimono used for warmth. Wearers can adjust the garment's configuration based on their comfort level, temperature, and the environment.

The proposed system is still a concept, and Konel is looking for partners to help develop it further. It was first unveiled at Milan Design Week in April and is now on display at the World Expo in Osaka.