If you're wondering where Japan's never-ending stream of cute characters and whimsical products comes from, one source seems to be the very popular Design Festa event. Held twice a year in Tokyo's Big Sight convention center, this two-day extravaganza brings together hundreds of illustrators, painters, product designers and craftsmen - both amateur and semi-professional - to show off their work.

The thousands of visitors include many representatives of Tokyo's cosplay community, making the audience here as attention-worthy as the exhibitors. Below are a few creations on the kawaii end of the spectrum that caught our eye. Click on any of the images for a larger view.