Japan’s cultural eccentricities never cease to amaze. From KFC feasts for Christmas to toilets equipped with more technology than some computers, Japan constantly redefines norms. Their unique blend of innovation and tradition shines through in practices like inducing tears for good luck, snoozing on strangers’ shoulders during commutes, and embracing the concept of paid companionship.
Unmelted ice cream and eateries exclusively offering canned delights add to the intrigue. With a penchant for pushing boundaries while cherishing heritage, Japan’s cultural landscape promises endless surprises, each one a testament to their fearless spirit and boundless creativity.
Procuring human connection
Love appears to be scarce in Japan, particularly among the youth who have deemed dating as too challenging. In response, a unique business trend emerged in Tokyo’s electronics district around 2012. Soineya, the pioneer, offered a novel service allowing individuals to monetize the simple yet intimate act of human touch.
Customers pay for cuddling or sleeping next to employees, with strictly non-sexual interactions. This innovative approach addresses the need for affection and companionship in a culture where traditional dating norms may seem daunting. Soineya and similar ventures represent a shift in how intimacy is perceived and commodified in contemporary society.
Napping on trains
Sleep deprivation is a prevalent issue in Japan, fueled by the culture of long working hours and social obligations. Students often sacrifice sleep to keep up with academic demands. To cope, many have adopted the practice of “inemuri” or “sleeping while being present.”
This art allows individuals to rest in public settings such as meetings, trains, or libraries without fully disengaging from their surroundings. Whether it’s employees nodding off during meetings or travelers seizing moments on trains, inemuri has become a survival strategy in a society where time is scarce and rest is often sacrificed for productivity.
Vending machines sell everything.
In Japan, vending machines have evolved beyond the conventional, offering everything from beverages to newspapers and even smaller hygiene products. However, the most infamous inclusion might be the sale of used women’s underwear. Despite initial opposition from merchants when they first appeared in 1993, these automated sales machines proliferated rapidly.
By 2014, Japan boasted approximately one vending machine for every 33 citizens, totaling around 3.8 million machines nationwide. This proliferation reflects both the convenience-oriented culture of Japan and the willingness of consumers to embrace innovative vending options, even if some might find them unconventional or, as you put it, “gross.”
A deep love for mayo is widespread
Mayonnaise gained prominence in Japanese culture in 1925 when Toichiro Nakashima, inspired by his time in the United States, believed it could contribute to the stature of his fellow Japanese. Upon returning home, he founded the Kewpie Corporation, enhancing the recipe with more eggs and apple vinegar for added sweetness.
Nowadays, mayo is ubiquitous, appearing in various dishes like pasta, meats, sushi, pizza, and even cakes. Many restaurants dedicate themed menus to this beloved condiment, reflecting its integral role in Japanese cuisine.
Elevator attendants in department stores
After undergoing a significant renovation, a Tokyo department store reopened its doors in 1929 with notable upgrades such as air conditioning, mail services, and the introduction of charming female elevator operators. These attendants served as guides, assisting customers with inquiries, managing elevator functions, and averting any potential door-closing incidents.
While once a common sight, the tradition of elevator girls has waned over time, with only four Japanese stores retaining them today. Some foreigners have criticized their high-pitched voices as grating, yet their effectiveness in navigating bustling shopping environments remains acknowledged.
Remember to catch some rest during work hours
Japan’s Inemuri practice – “sleeping while present” – goes back, at a minimum, of one thousand years. The art is about preserving your energy; you should nap if you’ve been working hard and diligently. Inemuri displays dedication to the job and its responsibilities.
Amazingly, even if an employee attends a meeting yet falls asleep, they won’t be reprimanded — quite the opposite. Instead, you might impress your boss if you a short nap on the job.
Crowded together tightly, like sardines in a can
Japan has a deep-rooted affinity for rail travel, with millions of Japanese and foreigners relying on state-of-the-art trains daily. Such is the importance of transportation in the country that in 2018, when a train departed 25 seconds earlier than scheduled, the company issued a formal apology for the slight deviation.
During Tokyo’s rush hours, trains and subway lines often become densely packed. According to CNN, uniformed attendants known as “oshiya” or “people pushers” courteously assist in managing overcrowding by gently ushering the remaining passengers on the platform into the train cars. Additional oshiya are called upon if one attendant finds the task overwhelming.
Beer cans tailored for the visually impaired
In contrast to America, where beer and soda are predominantly sold in aluminum cans, Japan showcases a diverse array of beverages in similar packaging. However, in a country where many individuals experience “alcohol flush reaction,” an allergic response to alcohol, Japanese beer and alcohol manufacturers have sought to aid the visually impaired in discerning their products.
To address this, some cans are adorned with braille on the top, offering tactile information. Yet, there’s no consistent standardization across brands; while some cans feature “beer” or “alcohol,” others simply display the brand name. While braille undoubtedly serves as a helpful tool for the visually impaired, it doesn’t entirely mitigate the issue. Nonetheless, this initiative reflects a commitment to inclusivity and accessibility within the Japanese beverage industry, acknowledging the diverse needs of consumers.
Traffic lights with a blue hue
In Japan, unlike the common red for stop and green for go seen in many countries, traffic lights display a distinctive blue hue. This peculiarity stems from historical linguistic nuances. In the evolution of the Japanese language, only four primary colors were initially distinguished: black, white, red, and blue. The term for “green” was introduced much later.
Consequently, when green-colored traffic lights were introduced in Japanese streets during the 1930s, the populace still commonly referred to them as “blue.” Consequently, a law enacted in 1973 mandated that the color used for traffic lights be “the bluest shade of green possible,” reflecting this linguistic legacy. Thus, the distinctive blue traffic lights in Japan are a product of both historical language development and regulatory measures aimed at ensuring clarity and consistency in traffic signaling.
Fruit priced akin to luxury cars
While American grocery stores offer cheap, fresh, and plentiful fruit, the situation is quite different in Japan, where fruit is revered as a delicacy. The cost of fruit in the Land of the Rising Sun is notably high, prompting friends and family to share pieces rather than indulging individually. Apples, for instance, can fetch prices as steep as $24, while designer watermelons, often cultivated in cube-like shapes, can retail for $1,500 or more.
In a remarkable instance, a set of Yubari King melons sold at auction for an astonishing $27,000 in 2016. Despite the exorbitant prices, Japanese farmers invest considerable care in cultivating these sweet treasures, reflecting a cultural reverence for quality and craftsmanship in fruit production.
House numbers that defy logic
With the convenience of GPS, locating street names and house numbers is typically straightforward, especially in America. However, in Japan, this system appears to lack organization, resembling a more antiquated approach. Unlike the grid-like layout adopted in many Western cities, Japanese urban areas were originally developed in a more organic manner.
As a result, house numbers on a given street are not determined by their relative location but rather by their chronological order of construction. Consequently, older buildings are assigned smaller numbers, while newer constructions receive larger ones. This arrangement can lead to situations where, for example, building number five might be situated physically between buildings numbered eight and fourteen—an arrangement that may seem perplexing from a Western perspective.
Cute construction barriers
As you may already know, construction sites are typically not known for their aesthetic appeal. With their array of tools, vehicles, personnel, and barriers, they often present a rather utilitarian and unattractive appearance, reflecting the ongoing work. However, in Japan, the construction industry has taken a decidedly different approach. Rather than settling for drab and uninspiring barriers like those commonly seen in America—think the ubiquitous orange and white cones and barrels—Japanese construction sites have transformed these barriers into delightful, cute, and almost whimsical installations.
While this attention to detail may not directly contribute to the efficiency or progress of a project, it certainly adds a touch of charm and visual interest to an otherwise mundane environment. In essence, these adorable construction barriers serve as a pleasant departure from the typical monotony associated with construction sites, injecting a sense of playfulness and creativity into the urban landscape.
All-Inclusive Driving
In Japan, both young and elderly drivers are distinguished by unique magnets affixed to the rear of their vehicles. The “shoshinsha mark” identifies cars driven by young adults, while the “koreisha mark” is reserved for drivers aged 75 and above. Additionally, there’s a symbol specifically for drivers who are hard of hearing—a yellow butterfly magnet—which alerts others to their potential difficulty in hearing horns, sirens, and other audible signals.
These magnets serve as visual indicators, providing valuable information to other road users about the age and potential impairments of the driver, thereby promoting safer interactions on the road. While these symbols may have both positive and negative connotations, they play a crucial role in fostering awareness and understanding among drivers of varying ages and abilities on Japan’s roads.
The onboard TV system for drivers and passengers
It’s somewhat surprising, but according to Pioneer Corp. spokesperson Hiromitsu Kimura, all navigation systems sold in Japan include a TV tuner function, a feature absent from models sold outside the country. This means that drivers and passengers have the ability to watch live television while on the road. This might raise concerns about safety, but there are two key factors at play here.
Firstly, Japanese drivers tend to be more disciplined, meaning that the presence of live TV is less likely to distract them significantly. Secondly, much of Japan’s traffic moves slowly or gets congested, reducing the risk associated with in-car entertainment. While the idea of watching TV while driving may seem unusual elsewhere, in Japan, it’s a practice that’s been accommodated by both technology and driving habits.
Having KFC for Christmas dinner
Though unconventional, celebrating Christmas at a fast-food restaurant, particularly KFC, is a widespread tradition in Japan. Legend has it that the tradition began when a manager at Japan’s inaugural Kentucky Fried Chicken outlet overheard foreigners lamenting the absence of turkey during the December 25th festivities.
Recognizing an opportunity, the manager deemed fried chicken a suitable alternative and thus introduced the concept. Through effective marketing efforts and enduring popularity, this tradition has endured over time. Similar to Thanksgiving in America, Japanese patrons often place their KFC orders weeks in advance to ensure availability during the holiday season.
A unit that functions as both a shower and a dryer
Due to limited space in many Japanese homes, clothes dryers are not commonly found. Instead, wet laundry is often hung in the bathroom and shower area. Japanese bathrooms are equipped with a fan setting specifically intended for drying clothes, a feature not typically found in Western homes.
Despite the absence of traditional home appliances like dryers, the clothing cleaning process remains largely unaffected. While this practice may require some initial adjustment, such as spreading out or hanging clothes immediately after washing, it offers benefits such as preserving delicate fabrics from potential damage caused by high heat in a dryer. Overall, this approach to laundry reflects the ingenuity and adaptability of Japanese households in optimizing space and resources.
The variety of Kit-Kat flavors available
Es gibt eine Vielzahl von Geschmacksrichtungen, die von fruchtig und erfrischend bis hin zu reichhaltig und exotisch reichen. Unter den Früchten finden sich Banane, Blutorange, Honigmelone, Kiwi, Mango, Orange, Pfirsich, Birne, Ananas und Wassermelone. Aber es hört hier nicht auf. Es gibt auch eine Fülle von köstlichen Dessertgeschmäckern wie Fruchtparfait, Rum-Rosinen, Tiramisu, Karamell mit Salz, Honigwabe und Cookies und Sahne.
Für die Liebhaber von Schokolade gibt es dunkle Schokolade mit einem Hauch von Erwachsenensüße oder schwarze Schokolade für die, die es etwas intensiver mögen. Und wer es gerne etwas ungewöhnlicher mag, kann sich an Aromen wie Gurke, süßer Mais, gerösteter Mais oder sogar Sojasoße und Wasabi erfreuen. Diese Vielfalt an Geschmacksrichtungen bietet für jeden Gaumen etwas, sei es süß, fruchtig, herzhaft oder würzig.
Vehicles with rain guards
Making the right call on prepping your vehicle for a scorching summer day mixed with potential rain can feel like a gamble. Should you crack the windows to release the stifling heat, risking a sudden deluge soaking your seats? Or opt for dry seats and endure a sweltering interior? In Japan, it’s a dilemma easily sidestepped with the prevalence of cars equipped with rain protectors.
These nifty “mini roof” attachments for car windows elegantly tackle both challenges outlined in the scenario. They allow for ventilation while shielding the interior from unexpected showers, offering drivers the best of both worlds: comfort and practicality. With these rain protectors, motorists can cruise confidently through summer’s unpredictable weather, enjoying a cool, dry ride regardless of atmospheric surprises.
The Naki Sumo Infant Wailing Competition
At the Naki Sumo Crying Baby Festival, sumo wrestlers oversee a unique competition where two infants are held in an open-air sumo ring, attracting a large audience. The premise is simple: the first baby to cry is crowned the victor. According to Japanese folklore, the cry of a baby is thought to ward off evil spirits.
Moreover, a loud and robust cry signifies potential future health and physical prowess for the infant. This festival, rooted in religious and cultural significance, takes place annually on May 5th, captivating attendees with its blend of tradition, superstition, and the tender innocence of newborns.
Misaligned Teeth Are Regarded as Attractive
In Japan, the term “yaeba” refers to the charmingly crooked teeth look, often resembling fangs. According to Vietnamese-American Michelle Phan, in Japanese culture, these misaligned teeth are considered endearing, as they symbolize imperfection and approachability, particularly in women. Surprisingly, many Japanese women are now seeking out qualified dentists to deliberately misalign their teeth, embracing the “yaeba” aesthetic.
Additionally, some individuals opt for plastic replicas known as “double tooth” accessories to achieve the same look without permanent alteration. This trend highlights a cultural shift where unconventional beauty standards challenge traditional notions of perfection, emphasizing authenticity and individuality.
Kids Take Care of Their Own Messes
As outlined in “Looking into the Lives of Children,” a book exploring Japanese education, the primary aim of Japanese schooling is to cultivate students’ capacity to seamlessly integrate into and contribute to society. Starting from around first grade, children actively engage in communal responsibilities. This includes various tasks such as serving lunch, maintaining cleanliness in classrooms, and, in some cases, even cleaning toilets.
These activities are designed to instill a sense of responsibility and community among young learners, preparing them to become conscientious and productive members of society as they mature. By involving children in these tasks from an early age, Japanese education aims to foster values of cooperation, cleanliness, and personal accountability, laying the foundation for their future roles as contributing citizens.
“Kawaii”
Kawaii, synonymous with “cuteness,” embodies a pervasive cultural phenomenon in Japan. It encompasses the endearing qualities found in people, pets, animals, and objects, characterized by a childlike innocence, vulnerability, and often a shy yet captivating demeanor. Iconic examples of Kawaii include beloved characters like Hello Kitty and Pikachu. Sugiyama Tomoyuki, author of “Cool Japan,” attributes this cultural trend to Japan’s overarching ethos of inclusivity and affection.
According to Kurita Nobuyoshi, a sociology professor at Musashi University in Tokyo, Kawaii holds a mystical significance, serving as a marker of social acceptability and desirability within Japanese society. This notion suggests that Kawaii serves as a cultural touchstone, embodying ideals of charm, innocence, and societal norms, shaping aesthetic preferences and interpersonal interactions in Japan.
Gratuities Are Viewed as Disrespectful
In American restaurants and service industries, tipping serves as a mechanism to incentivize exceptional customer service by offering financial rewards. However, in Japanese culture, there exists a deeply rooted ethos of taking immense pride in one’s work from a young age. Consequently, the need for tips to motivate workers financially or encourage outstanding service is not prevalent, at least in Japan.
This is because Japanese service industries typically provide employees with a livable wage from the outset. Interestingly, some Japanese restaurants operating in the United States also eschew the practice of tipping, aligning more closely with their cultural norms and values regarding work ethic and compensation. This cultural contrast highlights the diverse approaches to remuneration and motivation across different societies and industries.
The Hikikomori Hermits
Hikikomori, often referred to as “modern-day hermits,” are individuals who withdraw from society and family, remaining in isolation for extended periods, typically exceeding six months. This phenomenon affects over half a million Japanese youths and a comparable number of middle-aged adults. Hikikomori refrain from participating in work or school and remain confined to their parents’ homes.
While some prefer to spend their time indoors, others may occasionally venture outdoors. Many Hikikomori gradually distance themselves from social interactions, leading to a loss of friendships, increased feelings of insecurity, and a decline in communication. Alongside a general sense of unhappiness, affected individuals may exhibit characteristics such as quietness and decreased social engagement. This complex and concerning condition underscores the challenges faced by individuals struggling with social withdrawal and the importance of addressing their needs with empathy and understanding.
Train delays capture national attention
Bill Chappel of NPR highlights the significance of Japan’s railway punctuality, stressing that even minor delays can have significant consequences. As reported by Casey Baseel for Sora News 24, many individuals in Japan synchronize their phones or watches to train station clocks to ensure timely arrivals. Thus, even a 20-second deviation from the usual departure time could result in commuters missing their trains.
This seemingly small delay can cascade into larger disruptions, potentially causing individuals to be late for work or school due to missed connections. The meticulous adherence to schedules reflects the importance placed on punctuality in Japanese society, where efficient transportation is vital for daily routines. This attention to detail underscores the precision and reliability ingrained within Japan’s railway system, where every second counts for ensuring seamless journeys for millions of passengers.
Mr. Kanso’s Restaurants
In the midst of an unusual scene adorned with an array of canned food items, context emerges with the introduction of Mr. Kanso, a prominent restaurant chain in Japan. Branded as “the largest canned foods bar in Japan,” according to their website, Mr. Kanso offers a unique dining experience centered around canned goods. Beyond curating their own line of canned products, Mr. Kanso patrons have the opportunity to select from a vast selection of over 300 canned foods and snacks sourced from various corners of the globe.
This eclectic assortment is complemented by a selection of beverages including wine, sake, and beer, enhancing the culinary adventure for diners. With its innovative approach to dining and emphasis on canned cuisine, Mr. Kanso embodies a fusion of convenience, novelty, and gastronomic exploration within the Japanese dining landscape.
Non-melting Ice Cream
In Kanazawa, Japan, a research institute has pioneered the creation of ice cream that defies melting. Researchers claim that this innovative treat can withstand prolonged exposure to the heat of a hairdryer without liquefying. The secret behind this remarkable achievement lies in the incorporation of polyphenol liquid extracted from strawberries.
According to the researchers, polyphenol liquid possesses unique properties that hinder the separation of water and oil, allowing a popsicle containing it to maintain its original creamy texture for an extended period. As a result, this specially formulated ice cream is notably resistant to melting, presenting a solution to the age-old dilemma of rapidly melting treats in hot weather. This breakthrough not only showcases the ingenuity of food science but also offers the promise of longer-lasting frozen desserts in the face of rising temperatures.
Weird Game Shows
Japanese game shows are renowned for their outrageous and often bizarre nature, featuring scenarios that would be deemed unacceptable in many other countries. Contestants frequently endure humiliating and absurd challenges, pushing the boundaries of entertainment. From using their teeth to locate hidden chocolate objects to enduring graphic violence and even pornographic content, these shows venture into unsettling territory that few other nations would allow on television.
Despite the shock value, Japanese game shows attract viewers with their unique blend of absurdity and spectacle. Similarly, Japanese video games are known for embracing weirdness and eccentricity, incorporating unconventional elements that captivate players worldwide. This cultural penchant for the unconventional has made Japanese entertainment, both on television and in the gaming industry, synonymous with unpredictability and boundary-pushing creativity.
Square Watermelons at Exorbitant Prices
In Japan, watermelon holds the esteemed title of favorite summer fruit, often exchanged as a special gift. However, it’s the square watermelons that truly stand out for their uniqueness, peculiarity, and hefty price tags. Originally designed to fit snugly into refrigerators and facilitate easier cutting, square watermelons have transcended their practical origins to become high-priced decorative items, fetching prices as high as $160.
However, due to the limited success rate in producing watermelons within square molds, the supply remains constrained. Consequently, if demand outstrips supply, the price of these sought-after watermelons could skyrocket. This juxtaposition of innovation and scarcity underscores the intrigue and value attributed to square watermelons in Japanese culture, where they serve not only as a culinary delight but also as a symbol of prestige and extravagance.
Café Offering Cuddle Rental Services
Cuddle cafes, also known as Soine-ya or “sleep together shops,” offer men the opportunity to sleep next to women in a strictly platonic environment. These establishments charge an entrance fee of approximately $25, with options ranging from a quick 20-minute power nap to a luxurious 10-hour sleep or even an entire night’s rest. Prices vary accordingly, with the lowest-priced option starting at $40 and the most extravagant package commanding a staggering $400.
Additionally, customers have the option to purchase additional services, such as three minutes of stroking the girl’s hair, albeit this may be perceived as somewhat unsettling. Despite the unconventional nature of these establishments, they cater to individuals seeking companionship and comfort, albeit in a strictly non-sexual context.
Ramen Noodle Bath
Ramen has become a global culinary sensation, yet the Japanese maintain a deep reverence for their noodle dishes. The Yunessan Spa House in Hakone has capitalized on this trend by offering ramen baths to its clientele. These baths purportedly improve the skin, thanks to the inclusion of synthetic noodles and broth made from ramen pig.
According to Ichiro Furuya, there’s been a growing interest in skincare among people, who are becoming more aware of the collagen benefits found in pork broth. As a result, patrons flock to experience the unique sensation of soaking in a ramen-infused bath, indulging in both relaxation and skincare benefits. This innovative spa treatment combines traditional Japanese cuisine with wellness, catering to individuals seeking rejuvenation and nourishment for their skin.
Festival Dedicated to the Phallus
In Japan, the Kanamara Matsuri festival celebrates the phallus, with everything from food to floats designed in its likeness. Held annually on the first Sunday of April in Kawasaki City, this Shinto festival has deep cultural roots. According to ancient Shinto folklore, a demon inhabited a goddess’s intimate parts, and the festival evolved as a means of warding off this malevolent spirit.
Remarkably, the event welcomes individuals from all walks of life, including prostitutes and those with STDs, fostering a sense of community and acceptance. Moreover, attendees offer prayers for fertility and marriage, highlighting the festival’s significance in Japanese culture. In contemporary times, the Kanamara Matsuri promotes inclusivity and LGBTQ+ acceptance, reflecting evolving societal attitudes and values. This vibrant celebration serves as a testament to Japan’s rich cultural heritage and its embrace of diversity and unity.
Manga printing outpaces toilet paper production in paper usage
For the majority of the Japanese population, the anime and manga industries serve as their primary sources of income. In actuality, Japanese people use more paper for comics than toilet paper. More than 600 different kinds of manga are reportedly released each month. The manga industry in Japan had a net worth of more than 612 billion yen in 2020.
Upon observing this type of manga’s influence on Japanese society, some lighthearted critics made the amusing estimation that the Japanese use more paper for manga than for toilet paper. This highlights the significant cultural and economic impact of manga in Japan, shaping not only entertainment preferences but also consumption habits and industry dynamics.
Historically, Geishas were originally male
When discussing Japan, the geisha—a refined woman skilled in traditional Japanese performing arts—is often evoked, typically depicted as elegant figures in intricate kimonos. Surprisingly, the origins of geishas trace back to men, not women. In the 1730s, male entertainers called taikomochi amused feudal lords. By the 16th century, they evolved into storytellers fostering discussion and amusement.
Female geishas emerged around 1751, although they initially faced limited popularity. This historical evolution underscores the fluidity and adaptation within Japanese cultural traditions, as well as the changing roles and perceptions of gender in society. Geishas, whether male or female, embody the embodiment of grace, talent, and tradition in Japanese culture, serving as symbols of artistic mastery and refinement for centuries.
The number 4 is associated with bad luck
In Japanese culture, the word for “death” is pronounced as “shi,” which coincidentally sounds similar to the pronunciation of the number “4.” Due to this linguistic association, the number 4 is often regarded as inauspicious and associated with bad luck. Similar beliefs are prevalent in other Asian countries as well.
Consequently, certain establishments like hospitals or hotels may omit the fourth floor altogether to avoid any negative connotations. Additionally, specific room numbers, such as 43, are particularly avoided in maternity wards due to the unfortunate association with the term “stillbirth.” This cultural superstition highlights the significance of linguistic nuances and their impact on societal beliefs and practices, shaping everything from architectural design to medical protocols in certain contexts.
Black cats are seen as lucky
In contrast to widespread belief, Japanese culture holds black cats in high regard, considering them harbingers of good fortune rather than symbols of misfortune. Typically represented by the Maneki Neko, or beckoning cat, black felines are believed to bestow wealth and prosperity upon their owners. Furthermore, they are thought to possess the unique ability to attract desirable romantic partners, making them especially favorable companions for single women seeking love.
This positive perception of black cats underscores the cultural significance of superstitions in Japan, where such beliefs influence various aspects of daily life and societal attitudes. Through their association with luck and charm, black cats embody a sense of optimism and positivity deeply ingrained in Japanese folklore and tradition.
