The World’s Smallest Escalator Is A Useless Curiosity

Among humanity’s most ingenious inventions, the escalator stands out for its ability to simplify vertical movement in crowded spaces. But in Kawasaki, Japan, one escalator defies all practicality. Nestled in the basement of More’s Department Store, the world’s smallest escalator—affectionately dubbed the “Petitcalator” or “Puchicalator”—has earned fame not for its functionality but for its absurdity. It measures just 83.4 centimeters (32.8 inches) with five steps and holds Guinness World Record.

The Petitcalator was installed in 1989 when Kawasaki’s More shopping center opened. Designers intended it to connect the building’s underground level to the adjacent Azalea underground shopping center. However, a design miscalculation led to an amusingly impractical result. The original plan envisioned a conventional escalator, but a massive concrete beam blocked the intended motor placement. Instead of abandoning the concept, the team opted for a scaled-down version, creating what is now the world’s smallest escalator.

At a glance, the Petitcalator is a curious sight. Its tiny dimensions make it nearly indistinguishable from a regular staircase, except for its moving steps. Interestingly, it failed to achieve its original purpose of seamlessly connecting the two shopping centers. Instead, it merely transitions to a short set of stairs, rendering it more symbolic than functional.

For most of its existence, the escalator descended, which further diminished its utility. However, about eight years ago, it was reconfigured to ascend, allowing users to “climb” a height of 83.4 centimeters. Even so, traditional stairs would arguably be faster and more efficient. Despite this, the Petitcalator has endured as a local novelty and a photo-worthy landmark.

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