Have you ever walked down Nanjing Dong Lu and wondered, "What idiots buy those plastic wind-up tops that shoot out laser lights and play annoying music?" Well, now you have your answer: Us.
We have our reasons:
- We're suckers for toys.
- We wanted to see what our dogs thought of it.
- They are cheap (10-15 RMB).
- The song it plays is "Axel F."
- Yes, Axel F!
Anyway, the embedded video shows you what the top looks and sounds like when not interrupted by dogs. Then it cuts to our dog Tux interacting with the Laser Top. We had to put our bigger dog, Ozzie, out on the balcony because the top makes him want to tackle his little brother. You'll hear Ozzie crying and barking in the background ... and at one point you'll hear him banging on the balcony door because he wants to come in and tackle his little brother.
Want a laser top for yourself? Walk down Nanjing Dong Lu. Won't be long before you hear or see one — and no doubt some illuminated roller skate vendors with be nearby, as well.

This week in Shanghaiist


While those of us who are cultured do, in fact, know that tune as Harold Faltermeyer's iconic "Axel F," unfortunately the majority of today's world (including, I would venture to guess 99.5% of China) only know that tune as the Crazy Frog Song.
*sigh*.