It is said that the first Japanese domestic electric washing machine was an agitator type, named "Solar" and produced in 1930 by Shibaura Engineering Works Co., Ltd. In fact, cylinder type washing machines had been produced in Japan, prior to its appearance, invalidating the previous affirmation.
Washing machines' prices were extremely expensive in those days and the dealers would not put those prices down. In other words, they did not work proactively on the sales management. Because it was a major company's product, Solar's production was able to continue even under such circumstances. Consequently, Solar's recognition grew stronger, reason why it became allegedly known as the first Japanese electric washing machine.