Welcome to the land of the rising sun, where quirkiness and innovation blend seamlessly to create a tapestry of peculiar wonders. From vending machines dispensing everything from hot meals to live crabs, to cafés where you can sip your favorite brew while being surrounded by playful owls or even cuddly hedgehogs, Japan is a treasure trove of the bizarre and the delightful. Prepare to embark on a fascinating journey through a country where the ordinary becomes extraordinary, and the weird becomes a way of life.
Maid Cafes
Japanese costume restaurants can be found all over the country, but maid cafes are unusual dining options.
The venue is equipped with women dressed as maids who perform while serving drinks and appetizers.
Capsule Hotels
A capsule hotel, or pod hotel, is one of Japan's most famous and unique lodging options.
These hostels are usually located near major public transportation hubs in large metropolitan areas, and they cater to individuals looking for a low-cost, one-night stay.
Bizarre Game Shows
The broadcast of some of them is so outrageous that no other country would allow it.
These game shows frequently feature contestants in horribly embarrassing situations.
Smart Toilets
The Japanese super toilets, called washlets, boast an array of high-tech features.
The toilets of the future feature backside sprays, water temperature controls, perfumes, and even noise-masking sounds.
Naked Festival
Hadaka Matsuri, also known as the "Naked Festival" is an annual event held in various regions of Japan.
The festival is characterized by participants, mainly men, wearing only a minimal amount of clothing or going completely naked as they participate in various rituals and activities.
Buying Human Touch
Japan seems to be lacking in love. The younger generation has given up "dating," believing it to be “too difficult.”
Founded around 2012, Soineya was the first shop to monetize the human touch. Customers pay to sleep next to employees or cuddle with them. It is illegal to request or engage in sexual behavior.
Free Tissues
You're likely to find free tissues on the streets of Japan's major transit hubs.
This friendly form of advertising displays a company's logo and information, so you'll rarely need tissues while traveling Japan.
Kanamara Matsuri
Kanamara Matsuri, also known as the "Festival of the Steel Phallus," is an annual festival held at the Kanayama Shrine in Kawasaki, Japan.
The festival takes place on the first Sunday in April and is known for its lively and colorful celebrations centered around fertility and protection against sexually transmitted infections.
Blue Traffic Lights
Japanese drivers stop on red and go on...blue?
While it may seem like Japan uses blue traffic lights, the government assures us it's just a very blue shade of green—green enough to meet international regulations, blue enough to still be called ao.
Public Toilets
Outside bathrooms in Japan, commonly known as "public toilets" or "restrooms," are a vital part of the country's infrastructure.
Japan places great emphasis on cleanliness, efficiency, and convenience in public facilities. The provision of clean, accessible, and well-maintained public toilets contributes to a positive experience for residents and tourists alike.
Masks Are Common
The use of masks in Japan has several cultural and practical reasons.
In Japan, people often wear masks as a way to protect themselves and others from the spread of germs and diseases. It is considered a polite gesture to wear a mask when you have a cold or flu to prevent infecting others.
Love Hotels
Love hotels, known as "rabuho" or "fashion hotels" in Japanese, are a unique type of accommodation commonly found in Japan.
They cater to couples or individuals seeking short-term stays for private and intimate purposes. They serve as an alternative option for couples or individuals seeking privacy and convenience during their stay.
Mayonnaise Obsession
Mayonnaise in Japan holds a unique place in the country's culinary culture.
Its unique taste and texture make it a beloved condiment among Japanese people and a sought-after ingredient for those who enjoy Japanese cuisine.
Sleep Deprivation
Japan suffers from sleep deprivation. The country is known for its long working days and extremely long social evenings.
Sleeping while being present is the art of inemuri. The public library, employees in meetings, and commuters on trains all take advantage of free time to sleep.
Trend Setters
Denim is a popular choice for casual and everyday wear in Japan.
Japan has a vibrant fashion scene with ever-changing trends. Denim is a staple that can be adapted to fit the latest fashion styles and preferences.
Crooked Smile
There is a cultural phenomenon known as "yaeba," which refers to the aesthetic appreciation of crooked teeth.
Yaeba has gained a certain level of popularity in Japanese beauty standards, particularly among younger individuals. It is often considered cute or endearing, with some considering it an attractive feature that adds charm to a person's smile.
Ramen Noodle Bath
Guests at Yunessan Spa House in Hakone can now enjoy ramen baths.
Customers' skin is said to be improved by the bath, which contains synthetic noodles and ramen pig broth.
"Kawaii"
"Kawaii" is a Japanese word that translates to "cute" or "adorable" in English.
It is a concept deeply ingrained in Japanese culture and is widely used to describe things, people, or actions that evoke feelings of charm, innocence, and cuteness.
Luxury Fruit
Luxury fruit in Japan is highly sought after and often regarded as a symbol of status, prestige, and gift-giving.
Yubari melons are known for their exceptional quality and are considered one of the most expensive fruits in Japan. Prices can range from around 3,000 yen (approximately $27 USD) for a single melon.
Baby Crying Contest
The Naki Sumo Baby Crying Contest is considered a cultural tradition that dates back centuries in Japan.
It is believed to bring luck, ward off evil spirits, and promote the healthy growth and development of infants.
Unique Vending Machines
There are vending machines in Japan that sell used women's underwear as well as beverages, foods, and newspapers.
There was an average of one vending machine per 33 citizens as of 2014. The number of vending machines in the country is estimated at around 3.8 million.
Geisha Culture
Geisha, known as "geiko" or "geigi" in Japan, are traditional Japanese female entertainers who are highly skilled in various arts, including classical music, dance, and games.
Geisha culture has a long history in Japan and continues to be a symbol of elegance, grace, and traditional arts.
Street Racing
In the streets of Tokyo, real-life Mario cart racing!
In the hometown where Nintendo was born, MariCar came up with a brilliant idea: go-kart tours inspired by the game.
Elevator Girls
"Elevator Girls" in Japan refers to female attendants who work in department stores or high-rise buildings and operate elevators.
They are often dressed in stylish uniforms and are responsible for greeting and assisting customers as they enter and exit the elevators.
Rice Paddy Art
From June to October, rice paddy illustrations are regularly exhibited in the town of Inakadate in Aomori.
As a promotion campaign for a brand of rice, this painstaking art form began in 1993 by planting different colored strains of rice to form a picture from above.
Foot Bath
"Ashiyu" is a Japanese term that refers to footbaths or foot-soaking experiences.
Ashiyu typically involves soaking your feet in warm water, often with added medicinal herbs or minerals, for a specified period. It is believed to promote blood circulation, relieve fatigue, and provide overall relaxation.
Two Valentine's Days
Following Valentine's Day, Japan celebrates romance again a month later on White Day, March 14.
The general rule is that women will give chocolates on February 14 while men will return the favor on White Day - usually in larger quantities!
Rush Hour Trains
The rush hour in Japan typically occurs during the morning and evening when people are commuting to and from work or school.
To handle the overcrowding during rush hour, certain train stations employ staff members known as "oshiya" or "pushers." Their role is to help pack passengers into the train cars by gently pushing or guiding people to maximize space.
Rabbit Island
One famous location in Japan that is often associated with an abundance of bunnies is Okunoshima Island, also known as Rabbit Island.
Okunoshima Island was previously used as a secret military base during World War II to produce chemical weapons. After the war, the facilities were dismantled, and the island was opened to the public as a tourist destination. Over time, rabbits were brought to the island, likely as pets or test subjects, and they multiplied rapidly without any natural predators.
Toilet Slippers
Toilet slippers provide a welcome barrier between you and the floor.
They are most often encountered in inns, traditional restaurants, and teahouses. Sometimes, you'll have to go barefoot because not all Japanese households have them.
Kit-Kat Flavors
Kit-Kat flavors in Japan are known for their incredible variety and creativity.
Japan has gained a reputation for producing unique and unusual flavors of Kit-Kat that are not commonly found in other countries. Flavors include matcha green tea, cherry blossom, wasabi, sweet potato, and red bean to name just a few.
Noodle Slurping
Slurping noodles is generally seen as a sign of enjoyment and appreciation for the food.
Eating without slurping is rude to the chef because it seemingly shows you are not satisfied with their food or it is sometimes even seen as disrespecting them.
Work Nap
Napping on the job, or "inemuri," is a practice in Japan where individuals take short naps during work hours.
While napping on the job is generally frowned upon in many countries, in Japan, it is sometimes seen as a sign of dedication and hard work.
No Tips
There is not a widespread practice or expectation of tipping in most situations.
In fact, tipping can sometimes be perceived as confusing or even unnecessary, as it is not deeply ingrained in the local culture.
Your Own Janitor
The responsibility of cleaning and maintaining the school facilities often falls on the students.
This practice is deeply rooted in the Japanese education system and emphasizes the values of shared responsibility, discipline, and respect for the learning environment.
Square Watermelons
Square watermelons are a unique and novel fruit that originated in Japan.
Their square shape does not alter the taste or texture of the fruit. While square watermelons have gained international attention, they remain a relatively small and niche aspect of fruit cultivation in Japan.
No Street Names
Streets in Japan often do not have names. Instead, they are typically identified by block numbers or neighborhood names.
They are typically identified by block numbers or neighborhood names. When a new building is constructed, it is assigned a number based on the order of its completion within that particular block or neighborhood.
Anime Obsessed
Anime, a term derived from the word "animation," refers to animated works, specifically those originating from Japan.
Anime holds a prominent place in Japanese entertainment, with a rich history and a continuous stream of new and innovative productions. It serves as a medium for storytelling, creativity, and self-expression.
Construction Cutesy
Seeing construction can be unpleasant, so why not make it a little cuter.
Unlike the unsightly orange and white striped barriers you'd see in America, the cartoon-like barriers in Japan will make you want to keep looking.
Official Citizen
In 2015, Godzilla became an official Japanese citizen and was also employed as a tourism ambassador of Japan.
The Tokyo ward of Shinjuku has granted official residency to the city-destroying monster.
Purikura
Purikura is a popular Japanese photo booth phenomenon that allows users to take and customize their own photos.
Purikura machines provide a variety of tools and features for customization, including adding decorative frames, text, stamps, drawings, and special effects to the photos.
All You Can Drink
The omnipresent all-you-can-drink alcohol courses (nomi-hodai) in Japan allow friends and coworkers to enjoy a night out without worrying about expenditures.
There are some that are as cheap as 3,000 yen, including food, for 2+ hours of free-flowing beer, wine, cocktails, sours, and more.
Shoshinsha Mark
The "shoshinsha mark" is a symbol used in Japan to indicate that a driver is a beginner or a novice.
It is a green and yellow triangular mark that is affixed to vehicles driven by new drivers for a certain period after obtaining their driver's license.
Hikikomori
"Hikikomori" is a term used in Japan to describe individuals who withdraw from social interactions and isolate themselves.
Efforts are being made in Japan to address the issue of hikikomori through public awareness campaigns, community support networks, and government initiatives. It is recognized as a complex issue that requires a compassionate and comprehensive approach to help individuals reintegrate into society and regain a fulfilling life.
Car Rain Protectors
There is no shortage of rain protectors on Japanese cars.
An automatic cover that protects your vehicle from spring showers, summer sun, autumn leaves, and winter snow. A waterproof and anti-theft car cover that can be deployed with the touch of a button.
KFC For Christmas
It has become a unique tradition for some people to enjoy KFC for dinner on Christmas.
This tradition dates back to the 1970s when KFC launched a successful marketing campaign called "Kentucky for Christmas." The campaign promoted KFC as a special holiday meal, particularly for those who didn't have a traditional Christmas dinner.
Bullet Trains
Bullet trains, also known as Shinkansen, are high-speed trains in Japan that are renowned for their efficiency, speed, and safety.
They have become a symbol of Japan's technological advancements and are a popular mode of transportation for both domestic and international travelers.
No Clothes Dryers
Due to limited space in many homes, it is common for families not to own clothes dryers.
Instead, they often rely on air-drying their laundry. It is seen as a practical and eco-friendly method that aligns with the cultural values of efficiency, cleanliness, and longevity of garments.
Unmelting Ice Cream
"Kanjuku ice" or "unmelting ice cream," is a unique type of ice cream product that was developed in Japan.
This ice cream is designed to resist melting even in hot temperatures and maintains its solid form for an extended period.
Kotatsu
A kotatsu is a traditional Japanese heating device that is used during the colder months, typically in the winter.
It consists of a low table frame (chabudai) with a heat source underneath and a heavy blanket or futon draped over the table to trap the heat. The tabletop is often made of wood and can be removable or fixed to the frame.
Drainage Canals
Drainage canals in Japan are so clean that koi fish swim in them.
Shimabara's drainage canals are so clean that they are home to hundreds of pretty koi carp fish.
Randoseru Backpacks
Randoseru is a type of backpack that is traditionally used by elementary school students in Japan.
It is a sturdy and formal-looking backpack made of leather or synthetic materials, often featuring a boxy shape with a firm structure.
Yuru-Kyara Mascots
hey are often cute, quirky, and have distinctive characteristics or designs.
Representing the local identity and fostering a sense of pride and unity. They provide a fun and engaging way to promote regions and organizations while capturing the hearts of people through their cute and endearing charm.
Mr. Kanso's Restaurants
Mr. Kanso's is a chain of unique restaurants in Japan that specializes in canned food.
The concept behind Mr. Kanso's is to offer a dining experience centered around canned food products from around the world.
Black Cats
In Japan, black cats are often considered symbols of good luck and fortune, particularly in some traditional beliefs and folklore.
The positive symbolism and associations with good fortune surrounding black cats have persisted in Japanese culture and continue to be embraced by many people.
Automatic Taxi Doors
A remote control panel allows taxi drivers in Japan to open and close their vehicle's doors automatically, providing an additional bit of customer service.
During the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, this technology gained popularity and reduced the need for taxi drivers to constantly step out of their vehicles, a common surprise for travelers to Japan.
Fake Displays
These displays are designed to give the appearance of a fully stocked and visually appealing store, even though the products on display are not actually available for purchase or use.
Fake displays in Japan play a role in enhancing the shopping experience, showcasing products, and creating an inviting atmosphere for customers.
Ear Cleaning Parlor
There is a traditional practice of ear cleaning known as "mimi-kaki" or "mimi-souji."
It involves the gentle cleaning of the ear canal and has been a part of Japanese culture for centuries.
Still Using Fax
Fax machines are still commonly used in Japan, even in the era of digital communication.
Printed documents tend to fascinate them more than digital documents. Invoices are still sent through the mail instead of e-mail, and documents are still handed out during meetings on paper.
Removing Trash Cans
In this land of ultra-convenience, Japan's lack of trash cans is puzzling.
The vending machines that are available are generally limited to cans and plastic bottles. As a result of the 1995 Tokyo subway attack, many trash cans were removed from Japan.
Colorful Manhole Covers
It is the Japanese's love of art, beauty, and cleanliness that has inspired them to transform black metal manhole covers into beautiful works of art.
Japan's largest manhole manufacturer, Hinode Suido, produces almost 200 manhole covers a day.
Unique Energy Drinks
Vitamin and nutrient-filled energy drinks take the form of small, medicine-like tonics.
Among the most popular is Lipovitan D by Taisho Pharmaceuticals, which contains taurine, vitamin B, caffeine, and inositol, giving sleepless workers or partygoers a powerful boost.
Personal Stamp
The use of personal name stamps, known as "hanko" is common for official documents of handwritten signatures.
Japanese names are written in kanji characters, so creating signs that resemble their names is impossible.
Otoshi Dishes
Otoshi refers to a small appetizer or starter dish that is automatically served to customers at the beginning of their meal, usually without ordering it separately.
The otoshi dish is intended to whet the appetite and provide a taste of the restaurant's specialties. It is often a small portion of a seasonal or regional specialty, showcasing the chef's skills and the restaurant's culinary style.
Themed Trains
With unique decor, exciting activities, and tie-ins to beloved franchises, Japan's themed trains spice up travel.
These trains are designed with specific themes, incorporating elements of Japanese culture, history, entertainment, and more.
Jigokudani Monkey Park
The monkeys at this park enjoy hot springs in winter.
Visiting Jigokudani Monkey Park offers a unique opportunity to observe and appreciate the behavior of Japanese macaque monkeys in a natural and scenic setting.
Number 4 Is Bad Luck
The number 4 is associated with bad luck in certain Japanese cultural contexts.
The superstition surrounding the number 4 is known as "tetraphobia" and is somewhat similar to the Western fear of the number 13.
Ichiban Kuji
Ichiban Kuji is a popular type of lottery or raffle in Japan that offers a chance to win prizes, typically related to anime, manga, video games, or other popular franchises.
Ichiban Kuji has gained a significant following among fans and collectors in Japan and internationally. It offers an exciting and engaging way to obtain exclusive and limited-edition merchandise related to beloved franchises.
Alcatraz ER
In Tokyo, Alcatraz ER is definitely a restaurant that doesn't mind being strange.
Despite closing its doors in 2018, Alcatraz ER isn't the only strange restaurant in Japan. The Lockup is another prison-themed restaurant that has filled the gap left by Alcatraz ER.