Bits and Pieces - Detailed Mosaic Secret Puzzle Box - 11 Step Solution - Wooden Money Box Brainteaser - Secret Compartment Brain Game

One of my family members and their best friend have a running gag of trick wrapping for gifts. This puzzle box was a fun addition to the gift this year. There was lots of laughs as they worked their way through solving the puzzle to get their gift. Fun way to keep everyone entertained and was large enough to hold a gift card.

I had a puzzle box years ago that worked smoothly once you knew how to open it. This one isn’t nearly as well made and sticks and wobbles; it is also much smaller than I thought it would be.

I have a few of these Yusegi boxes (also known as Kiyusegi) and the oldest along with several others were crafted in Japan. The Japanese crafted ones are so well made it is difficult to see the seems, joints fit tight and some have paintings on the surfaces vs. mosaic patterns. However this inexpensive one I bought is still worth what I paid for it. It is still fun.Not only did I note the differences in quality between this one and the original Yusegi I have from Japan; as I held it in my hand this Yusegi box brought back some memories.My grandfather gave my first Yusegi about 45 years ago. He said he got it about 25 or so years after he was discharged from the army. Grandpa referenced a lot of things to how long it was before or after the war. That would be the great war . . . the war to end all wars . . . World War One. Grandpa was a Scottish Highlander. He got it from my dad when when my dad was discharged from the US army after returning from Japan. Dad was in Japan 'collecting' weapons (vs. dodging bullets) after the bomb was dropped.Later in life my dad befriended and worked with a former Japanese soldier who was amused by the Yusegi and opened it immediately. Dad said the Japanese were fine craftsmen (and formidable warriors). Judging by the quality of the Yusegi box I have from Japan I would have to agree. However as I said this one is still well made enough to be well worth what it costs.

This was great. I had a Christmas present to give which was a ticket on a bit of paper. Putting it in this (rather than an envelope) made it much more fun and exciting for my kids to open.

Had to return. It came broken with some of the paint pattern coming off where it should open. Defeats the purpose with it giving away the secret, then not being able to open fully. SMH

Great

Gift

I guess you get what you pay for. I have several of these Japanese puzzle boxes and these are not very good quality. Do yourself a favor and be a little more careful with the quality.