By Pete Vilmur

When it comes to Star Wars collectibles produced in Japan, the first reaction most US fans have is, "Why don't we get this stuff?" Some of the coolest items bearing the Star Wars name have actually come from across the Pacific, leaving many stateside collectors wishing they had a good connection overseas.

Don't get us wrong -- US licensees have provided a wealth of different wares to consumers -- from toys to towels to trading cards -- but the truth is, Japan has beat us to the punch on several occasions, producing items that often beg the question, "Why didn't we think of that?"

Searching the collection of Steve Sansweet, we've selected 10 items we feel best represent Japan's Star Wars merchandising acuity. While not all the items can be considered remarkable by any stretch, they were the first of their kind to meet consumers, and in the crowded Star Wars merchandising space of the late '70s to now, that's saying something.