There is a new law in Japan forbidding the sale of electonics that are more than 5 years old. I think that this coul have major ramifications as well as present the opportunity to buy tons of used gear in japan on the cheap. Check out the following link: http://www.engadget.com/2006/02/22/japan-bans-old-electronics-as-of-april-1/
I am sure there are opportunists in Japan who like to get cool used stuff cheap from people who are afraid of the spirits.
They have no problems selling the valuable used stuff like the pianos to Americans.
Even if they don't believe in spirits, it is probably the original cultural root cause of them wanting to buy only new goods. You do it simply because everyone else does it.
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