Overview: The behind-the-scenes tales of hit products and creations from Japan: this is Japan's Top Inventions. This time, a well-known type of 2D barcodes called QR codes. These codes were invented in 1994 by a Japanese car component manufacturer. These days, they're used throughout the world in factories and stores, on travel tickets, for cash-free payments and more. Learn the little-known story behind these barcodes, including their unusual inspirations: the game of Go and skyscrapers!