Japan's toy makers are ringing up higher sales despite the declines in the nation's birthrate. That's generating stiff competition to win industry awards for best product. Manufacturers are using new technology and added functions to stand out.

More than 400 products competed in 9 categories in a competition run by the Japan Toy Association. The winner in the educational group uses a screen, a hand sensor and a floor pad. A user steps on the pad to simulate sumo wrestling, rice planting and other activities.

The association says the domestic market in the last fiscal year grew 7 percent to a record of just above 1 trillion yen, or 7 billion dollars. It says sales of products targeting adults and those popular among overseas visitors are especially strong.