Back in 1986, Tim visited Japan for the first time, and he was amazed by the wide variety of toys and other novelty items on sale there that never appear in the west. He spent a lot of money, and brought back an enormous suitcase full of toys. On his way home, he was asked by a Japanese customs official at Narita Airport to open his case. Tim did so, revealing the entire case filled with toys. The customs official blanched slightly, presumably a the thought of trying to ascertain what was what, and how much things were worth, and simply gestured for him to close the case and continue!

The paper sword, much enjoyed by many children since then, has become rather feeble, but the plastic spring loaded gun works just as well as ever.