Japanese culture is absolutely incomparable to any in our Western world. Their deeply rooted politeness, precision, and dedication to work are rarely seen anywhere else. And though you might know Japan as a home to anime, sumo wrestlers, cherry blossoms and bullet trains, their ingenuity shows in many other aspects of their daily lives. Starting with extremely innovative toilets and vending machines filled with fresh farm eggs, to the unique system of Tokyo subway and drainage canals swarming with Koi fish. These are just a particle of the interesting facts about Japanese culture. Actually, there are so many that this one post couldn't fit them all.
Bored Panda has compiled some of the weirdest inventions, cultural practices and amazing facts about Japan that will make this country your go-to destination.
This post may include affiliate links.
Bus Drivers In Japan Were On Strike But Continued Driving Their Routes While Refusing To Take Fares From Passengers
I have double thoughts about it. Part of me, thinks this is awsome and effective, but the othe other part thinks that, if you don't make regular people uncomfortable too, you make less impact and the people might not want to support your cause because for them, the protest is only beneficial. If everyone's uncomfortable, everyone will be like "Oh, give them what they want, so this can f***ing end!" But then, again, not everyone is the same, and my appreciation for this kind of striking is prevailing. So, I praise these drivers.
You get a lot of support, lots of media coverage and a whole lot of social media coverage too. Plus nobody is hurt, apart from the boss you want to hit where it hurts (money). These are the best kinds of strike!
Load More Replies...This is FAKE, going on strike by offering free public transportation is not common in Japan. The media refers to a very specific case in the city of Okayama. In Japan, all transport companies are private. A new local company came to compete with them (which is the game, my poor Lucette, when we want to privatize). And this new bus line is cheaper! The drivers of Company A decided to make free trips for a FEW HOURS as a symbolic "protest" against the arrival of the competitor. We are not talking about a decline in social rights, but an economic war between two private companies. This sounds like a masterly com hit for company A. Any claims? Not really. A rejection of capitalism in Japan? It is far, but really far ... Anyway, the slightest way out, it is the dismissal that hangs in their noses.
First of all, you have to put things in context. The Japanese rarely strike. Above all, do not wave. Why ? It must be recognized that it is probably the most people subject to authority and enterprise in the world. The diktat of the work on their lives is total and it is not for nothing that there are words here to describe death by work, suicides related to work or those people who decide to disappear suddenly. As for their private life, for lack of free time, do not even talk about it. And this Orwellian nightmare is not culturally clean in Japan, it is the result of the post-war years, the American occupation and industrial capitalism imposed on all spheres of society. I do not count any more the Japanese who confessed to me want to flee this gilded prison.
Load More Replies...This is great, though here in America they'd probably end up sued for property theft or something equally horrible in retaliation.
Yeah because theft of someone else's money, even a big "evil" corporation, is considered a crime.
Load More Replies...money talks, if only a protest were to take place that would cost Trump money, then he'd listen.
You can't do it in France, if you do it you'll get fired.
Load More Replies...This is so ideal. Governments serve the people and if the people get screwded up, you’re toast. These guys did a good job of respecting other people’s lives and schedules, and showing the importance of being paid well!
Serra 8 minutes ago Yep, but the problem is that most of the public transport uses prepay tickets and monthly tickets, the tickets sold by the driver represent a very small (very very small) percentage, so this kind of protest won't affect any company and as result, won't have any effect!!! This post is very misleading. It's only a way of Divide and Conquer!! All the "Anti-Strike" in the world appreciate that....
Load More Replies...Drink Cans Have Names Written In Braille On The Top
Not true. I had a blind staff member who used technology to perfectly navigate her way around websites. Some websites are easier than others but organisations who work to help blind people will advise on how to make your website accessible to people who have sight loss.
Load More Replies...But doesn't this result in fingers touching soda cans and thus passing along pathogens if they're deciding between several types of soda?
Japanese Fans Stayed Behind After The FIFA World Cup 2014 Match To Help Clean Up
every blue bag filled should be a rewarded with a free ticket to the next match
the reward is having a clean place to go back to
Load More Replies...Ugh, European hooligans need to SERIOUSLY learn from this! I have nothing but good things to say about these kind Japanese fans.
Lol :) (never mind me, I was just imagining things :)
Load More Replies...This is a practice taught early. Japanese school children are responsible for cleaning their schools too!
i bet every one of them had to clean their school as children, and have a habit of cleaning public places because they see it as their civic duty
As a Japanese-American, I am embarrassed to live in the united states. We have so many complex issues. It only makes things worse when the people in our government are only concerned about enriching themselves, instead of being decent humans who are empathetic and care about others. Ugh, it's really unfortunate, and I wish there was something I could do about these problems.
There Are Baby Seats Attached To The Wall In Most Bathrooms
There is BOTH a baby sit AND toilette paper, and in some places, there's even an additional foldable wall table to change the diapers.
Load More Replies...We do have these in UK. Mostly in leisure centre changing rooms. I use one every week when I take my toddler swimming in Cardiff
Load More Replies...I Recently Gave Birth In Japan. Here Is Some Of The Hospital Food I Ate
you know what ya get in the UK? toast. I mean, it's damn good toast, but...
In America you just get a bill for $30,000 and then thrown out
Load More Replies...WOW! this is so fantastic. Food is what heals, and this food is perfect for healing.
I'm thinking the same but I definitely want to go to this hospital in particular.
Load More Replies...You're absolutely right. Having baby is not illness, so government don't pay for it. It costs you fortune in Japan, while it's absolutely free in UK.
Load More Replies...You Can Often Find This Kind Of Toilet In Japan. Wash Your Hands And Reuse The Water For Your Next Flush
We the current water scarcity this idea should be incorporated every where
We have a drought here in southern California and the government has been trying to save water. Why don't we have these here?
Load More Replies...I always wonder why this isn't a standard. The sink doesn't even have to be on top of the toilet, but why don't use the used sink water to flush the toilet?
I don't know about you guys, but we have this where I live, the water from washing hands goes to the toilet. the sink isn't above the toilet, it uses pipes.
Japan's Manhole Covers Are Beautiful
This loks so good one could make a small table out of it... :D
Load More Replies...Oh... you mean there are countries with Manhole LIDS? not in mine...Damn Sure about That
in my country their are no manholes instead u get a full view of the inside
Most Japanese Schools Don't Have Custodians. Instead, The Students Do The Cleaning Themselves As A Part Of Showing Gratitude To The School And Learning How To Become More Productive Members Of Society
Japanese here...Every school do have custodians though...the students certainly don't clean the teachers' restrooms... and the custodian usually take care of the garden area too.
We lived in Japan for 2 years and my kids went to school in a normal school there. This practice was really useful because it also taught responsibility, leadership and social cohesion. Nobody messed up anyone else's area because the group responsible for cleaning that area knew and would not be happy. Also, an older student was given responsibility for managing a group of younger students to ensure that everything was done properly. A bit of a sacrifice of jobs but a great teaching moment for the kids.
This is a part of the education system that I imagine contributes to a more collectivist society. I do think the west could learn from this a bit, I think the pressure from living in such a ruthlessly individualistic environment can be very stressful for some
This is true in Sri Lanka as well. Older students paint their own desks and chairs as well
I can see this working to a point . I have a hard time picturing children running a floor polisher or cleaning a bathroom properly. Most schools have clean up things to do for students like after art class and cleaning the chalk board and brushes. Building maintenance is a full time job.
A copy of someone else on here who is Japanese and replied to another comment: "Japanese here...Every school do have custodians though...the students certainly don't clean the teachers' restrooms... and the custodian usually take care of the garden area too.". So yes, they still have janitors. But they do different tasks. I think this Japanese way is amazing! I follow a channel of a family who is partly Japanese and live in Japan. They did videos on how schools work. The things they do in classrooms and around them, of course go up when you get older.
Load More Replies...Its not even just learning to be productive. Its teaching them to be more respectful of their school because then THEY are the ones cleaning it up
This should be done everywhere... all the bubble gums and marker scribblings would be gone in no time... ;)
The Note In Japanese Says, "I Accidentally Knocked Over Your Bike And Broke The Bell. I Am Very Sorry"
You plan on moving to Japan because people write apology letters when they knock bicycles over? That's rather precise.
Load More Replies...I live in the USA. Nearly twenty years ago I was at a grocery store and I noticed a checkbook lying in the bottom of my shopping cart. When I left the store, I drove to the person's house and delivered it to them. Just last summer I returned home from riding my moped and noticed my wallet was missing. I was about to leave to retrace my route to search for it when the doorbell rang. Someone on the street saw my wallet fall out of my pocket and slide under a parked car. They retrieved it and delivered it to my house. I consider this karma. It doesn't matter where you live. Every society has honest people. However, societies that seek to instill a sense of respect are likely to have fewer problems.
Mindfulness of others is what is taught in the Japanese social structure. But in America, not so much.
Hahaha. Where's this? Bikes always get knocked over here. In fact stealing bikes and umbrellas are the biggest crime in Japan and a huge problem. Bike are often being damaged and the police do very little about it.
Good and bad people exist everywhere. I live in Brazil, where people pass by in a bike and steal you cellphone from your hand in broad daylight in a packed street and nobody cares, but I've seen people do things like this here too on occasion. It's pretty obvious they're just picking examples of good behavior, yet it seems to fool people into thinking Japan is some utopia.
Load More Replies...well this does happen occasionally in Canada. It's people who are honest, not "societies"
I used to live in Japan it was so safe I saw a store once with a really expensive bike out front not chained to the pole it was sitting on it was for 100 thousand yen (which is about $1000) and I sat down opposite side of the road and watched it and I wasn’t surprised that no one made a glimpse at it or attempted to steal it
Has to do with the person, not the country. I live in the USA. One time I accidentally bumped a Cadillac in a parking lot and gave it a huge dent. Left an apology note with my phone number. My insurance got it fixed for him. At no cost to him. I could've just driven away. Also, a lady who was a complete stranger on the sidewalk gave me her $1,500 ticket to the Rock Hall induction ceremony. I wasn't asking. She just came up to me!
Japan promotes inclusion for it's citizens, and make sure they're covered with all the basics. And they have a truthful policy, so there's no maiming and oppression going on because people are lacking and have to maim or destroy you to survive. Every contributes and is important. Not just the rich.
This Is How Smooth The Bullet Train Is In Japan
I love their bullet trains! You'll barely feel it's already moving...
It's more comfortable than any other transportation.
Load More Replies...Meanwhile in America... coal powered trains. We are so far behind it is unreal
Amtrak is the best! My parents boarded in NYC bound for Chicago and had a stop in Washington DC.
Load More Replies...Great ride but I don't recommend trying to sightsee from it. Landscape moves so fast that your brain can't process it well. Plus you hit tunnels with no warning at all so it is a shock.
I Dropped My Shopping Bag On The Streets Of Osaka And When I Went Back To Look For It Later That Day, Someone Had Placed It Next To A Tree Untouched
apparently there was once a time when this sort of honesty ruled the world?
Happened to me in Kamakura as well. Left a beautiful sweater in a park. Came back after 30 minutes, only to find it folded on a bench. I was pleasantly surprised to say the least.
Kamakura, aren't you in awe of that place? I miss me some Japan, man.
Load More Replies...Intelligence has nothing to do with it... I've met both smart and not so smart people who were rude and inconsiderate and both that were kind and caring. It's respect. Respect for the environment, the family, other humans, and everything around you. While individuals can be respectful, in groups it tends to disappear (in the US, anyway). In Japan, respect is very highly valued and given regardless of stature. If we had more respect in the US... true, honest respect... I think things would get better... a little, anyway.
I can't even get my packages back from a neighbor if the mailman delivers to the wrong address.
If your neighbor has cameras, try walking around in front of their house and then standing in front of their door disapprovingly. My package ended up next door once, I stood outside at 2am staring my neighbor down. They returned the package the next morning.
Load More Replies...I forgot my phone in an shop in Tokyo... when I went back 30 min after to look for it it was exactly where I forgot it. Crazy
Some cities in Japan have a No-Stray policy.. While strays do exist, you don't typically see them in cities. but in rural areas they're more common place. The chances of that being urinated on by a dog in Osaka is exceptionally rare, as no person would allow their pet to mark it, it's just common courtesy.
Load More Replies...Its sad that today we live in fear and with distrust of others, and it needs to change now
Again when he was in Japan my dad took his expensive lambswool jumper because he was hot. His attention was taken and he walked away leaving his jumper behind. He then went to lunch and it was there at the restaurant when he remembered about the jumper. He went back to where he left it and not only was it still there but someone had taken it from where he had just left it draped over tree branch and folded it up and put it on a nearby wall.
Commuters In Tokyo Pushed A Train Car To Save A Woman Who Fell And Got Stuck Between The Car And The Platform
I'm pretty sure this has happened in an American subway at some point. As long as you can get a few people pushing it, others typically join in.
Load More Replies...To be fair, this kind of thing happens worldwide. In the UK people power managed to lift a double decker bus off of a trapped cyclist.
Happened in Perth, Western Australia too. Conductor stopped the train leaving and almost everyone on the platform (thank goodness they were busy) pushed the train sideways so he could be pulled out. Would have been very scary!
Load More Replies...In the UK this would not be allowed by the authorities even if the people wanted to do it, because health and safety! Followed by a public enquiry.
10 years ago we had a train accident and a guy stuck under the waggon. My father offered to push together but no one cared about him. The guy lost his leg. Sorry for him he was too young. I respect people like this.
I can't believe that no one joined your father, how terrible.
Load More Replies...Hi I'd like to add that after that, the train was only 8 minutes behind schedule.
I hope she was ok afterward, such an act of kindness from all of those people
Koi Fishes Even Live In Drainage Channels In Japan
Japan kinda have a strict rule for cleanliness (even for disposing trash). Though most are unwritten. Still, people follow them and help clean their neighborhoods without being asked to.
Load More Replies...Koi are carp -- sturdy fish well suited to less than perfect water. Their presence is an indication that pollution levels are tolerable to some life forms.
It's a common thing it seems, a lot of little cities have something like this. Some of them have "little rivers" across theyr homes and they share together water. The city of Satoyama is an example, go and check it ^^
You would think heavy rains would take oil spills and other unwanted chemicals into these channels?
This is probably an old water conduit, not just a drainage gutter, as often seen in old towns. The water might be coming from a spring or brought from a stream, and the fish were added as an incentive for keeping it clean.
Imagine coming home to your lovely koi. They'd all have names and there would be a bin with koi kibble next to my gate!
Japanese Toilets Often Have A Button That Plays White Noise/Water Sounds So You Can Poop Without Other People Hearing Your Business
First time I used this toilet I was slightly disconcerted by the accuracy of the water jet but pleasantly surprised by its effectiveness
"disconcerted by the accuracy" -- LOVE your word choice!!!
Load More Replies...Yes! And they even have button to heat up the toilet seats during cold days.... Maybe it's not just in Japan, but coming from a tropical country, I'm so amazed! Hahahah
Excellent if you need to scream (don't pretend you've never screamed whilst pooping)
Also, listening to the sound of water running helps you pee if you are "pee-shy".
WARNING! PEOPLE WHO GROSS OUT, DO NOT READ THIS COMMENT! You have been warned. Now... Pooping once in a public toilette, my digestion wasn't so good, so my a*s was emitting very loud gass explosions. Thankfully, the lady pooping next to my sit kinda had the same problem, so it felt like our asses were communicating. ♥
Another Reason Why I Love Japan
And in escalators, they stay left (I think) if you'll just stand and if you'll walk you go right...
In Korea too. On most escalators they stand right and walk in the left row. However, it is advised not to walk on escalators for security and maintenance reasons. But still it's super annoying when you're in a hurry, and someone decides to stop the flow.
Load More Replies...The entire planet of New York City should take a day off to learn this habit.
In Paris you mean? Because it's quite alright in Toulouse.
Load More Replies...amazing! NYC it's a damn free for all! people going every direction, being rude, being inconsiderate, every man for themself! I really want to experience this kind of respect and consideration once in my life!
we have this here in some parts of the UK too. The difference is we're not that disciplined lol
In Trains You Can Rotate The Seats In Any Direction
This is true in China as well. Makes for some great conversation time on long train rides!
This function is also in many other countries, but the reason is, that a lot of stations are on a side track, meaning most seats will be back towards the driving direction when they leave the station to the next destination. A lot of people get sick from this, so the conductor will go through the train and turn the seats so that most passengers are facing forward.
Brilliant because I"m one of those people that gets nauseated if I have to ride on a train or subway facing backwards.
Technically, yes, but you can’t just leave them sideways. They’re turnable so all the seats always face forward, even when the train changes direction.
Another Great Japanese Invention: Umbrella Lockers. So You Don't Have To Carry Them Around Inside A Building And Nobody Takes Yours 'Accidentally'
What does Snoop Dogg wash his clothes with? Bleotch
Load More Replies...So no one will steal a bike or alcohol out on the street, but people lock up their umbrellas ? Strange
Well the reason for this is because Japanese people steal umbrellas. No joke. It's a huge problem in Japan.
Actually it's also a good way to remember it when leaving. I often found the key in my pocket being like "oh right ! my umbrella !"
I’m surprised in such an honest country they have to actually lock them.
This Toilet In Japan Has A System Of Occupied/Vacant Toilets Information
As an American, I apologize to the entire world for our barbaric public restrooms. I am sorry for the lack of privacy in so-called stalls that anyone can see into, under, and above, and please know I hate them too. Japan gets restrooms (and everything else) right.
Lovely....I get tired of walking down the aisle looking under the door for an empty toilet.....something so small means so much!
Expectations Meet Reality In Japan
This is pretty much the case for all eateries in Japan. Everything is picture perfect. I walked into a bakery, bypassed ALL of the actual food, then stood confused while a cashier tried to tell me that I walked by all the food...that I thought was a display.
Load More Replies...So that is the place where they make all those photos of stuff for the fast foods ;)
Oh my god! This sturbucks cherry pie was kind of hit in (maybe) 2016. And yes, it's pretty good
This is actually quite false. Having lived in Japan for 18 years I cannot tell you how many times the picture of the menu looks absolutely nothing like the item that gets delivered to your table.
The desserts in the Haagen Dazs restaurant in Limassol are as perfect as the the picture of them in the menu booklet.
This Japanese Gum I Have Came With Little Pieces Of Paper Inside For You To Spit Your Gum In To When You’re Finished With It
So that's where it's stickiness come from
Load More Replies...I am liking all this ideas.. here people won't even make use of the paper even if they are given.
I guess I'm a weirdo. I swallow my gum because it's EDIBLE, so I don't annoy others by leaving chewed gum around.
Load More Replies...Sadly the United States is the most litigious society in the entire world; common sense almost never prevails due to freeloaders. Someone would chew the paper, or give the box to their child, who can't read; or their animal would eat the paper and gum. If anyone person/person died of bowel obstruction a lawsuit would be filed.
American gum has this too, it's called the wrapper. Take wrapper off gum, put wrapper in pocket, chew gum, finish chewing gum, place gum in wrapper you saved, throw away.
This Shopping Center In Japan Has Free Refrigerated Lockers For Your Perishables So You Can Keep Shopping After You Get Your Groceries
My O My, do you wanna say goodbye ♬♪ Sorry, I had to.
Load More Replies...I would love this where I shop. Sometimes you have to just get in early to get the produce you want, but it ends up meaning you have to leave right away too. And it helps the mall too since people stay and spend more money. Win win.
I have always wanted too live in Japan. This just proves my gut instinct is correct.
I think I'm in love with Japan. What an amazing country and their people are sensational. I wish I had had them on my bucket list as one of the places to visit.
At Narita International Airport (Tokyo) They Give You Free Origami Instead Of Candy
Photo I Took Of Tokyo Commuters Waiting For Their Train
In the Dominican Republic people can wait patiently too. And if a pregnant woman appears, they let her go to the front immediately.
They do the same in Bangkok Thailand. Lets people off and on faster with no pushing.
The metro system in Mexico City is like a rugby scrum ... head down and push!
not possible in India due to high population, which leads to overcrowding
They wait in very orderly lines, but the second you get on, it’s every man for himself. They will make a beeline for any available seat.
Not always the case. You get the usual toddlers who walk in front of you, and my personal favorite the bastard that stands right in front of the door so people getting off the train slam right into them. It’s not as ‘friendly’ as you think it’d be.
This is all very nice but women being molested by men on crowded trains is such a problem in Japan that they had to introduce women only train cars.
Japanese Being Japanese
Look how disciplined the Japanese dots are... and look at the others..haha
This is great. Makes me almost want to cry. Shows how considerate and practical the Japanese are. Thinking ahead and leaving space for people coming afterwards and also making it easier to count later on. The Japanese have a word called omoiyari which is a concept that means to be caring, considerate, and compassionate towards the needs of others.
Yeah that would be the other country I was most curious about. :-P
Load More Replies...one question, why is there no Russia, because isn't it another major country? or not?
This Smartphone Wiper Dispenser In Japan
McDonald's here in the US have touchscreens for customers to place their own orders. Most people do so without having washed their hands. The glass gets all grungy and smudged up--and no wipes in sight to clean it off! Yuck.
Load More Replies...This is an advertisement for paid wifi coverage for visitors to Japan; not just some crazy altruistic thing placed in the airport for no reason....I live in Japan and the country is awesome, but do please take some of these photos with a grain of salt.
Another example of how the country produces too much waste. Wipe your damn phone on your sleeve.
This is an advertisement for paid Wifi; not just some totally random act of kindness from the airport management. I live in Japan and it IS pretty awesome here, but please do take some of these pictures with a grain of salt....
In Japan, Even The Deer Are Polite
Most of these deers are extremely aggressive!!! They bit me all the way from a snack stand to the entrance of the temple. And bit me again when I'm not feeding them fast enough. I suffered so much trying to save some snacks for the little ones...
They're actually wild deer though so you can't really blame them
Load More Replies...Polite my a*s. I got kicked in the 'nads by one of those deer when I didn't feed it fast enough.
They are considered sacred and they know how to take advantage of this perk...
Load More Replies...In Japan, The Ground Crew Bows And Waves Goodbye To The Departing Aircraft
What I love about them is their sense of courtesy... When you are around a neighborhood and go down for a morning walk, neighbors will greet you a warm "Ohayo!" (Good morning!) It's very heartwarming..
People in my town are that friendly and it makes me so happy. Wish people were always that nice to each other.
Load More Replies...I'm impressed. I haven't been back to Japan since the Viet-Nam era in the middle sixties. It's so great to see their modern implementation in ALL areas of technology. This was the only change, the people were always kind and courteous.
When we moved to Japan, this was the first thing I noticed when we flew from Tokyo to Misawa.
Japanese Airport Staff Sorted Luggages On The Belt By Their Colour
In the US they get thrown onto a large heap... (just look at yesterday's video...)
Occasionally while traveling I have seen highly improbably luggage make it all the way through from the airline counter to the baggage carousel, Chile ristras, cardboard boxes, things in black plastic bags, etc. Not every baggage handler is a proverbial gorilla: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8C-e96m4730
Load More Replies...To be honest, I would do exactly the same thing. They would be in shade order too. And it would be in rainbow order.
My local thrift-store does this with clothes. They're categorized by type, size, and then by color.
Load More Replies...I would be very pleased and feel at home to live in Japan. My border OCD would be a non problematic issue. 😊
This Bedside Lamp At My Hotel In Japan Can Be Half Lit
Stereotype. ALL Hotels with twin beds have 2 way lamps, unless your in a dump.
Ordered This From Japan And It Came With A Little Note And Origami Crane
I ordered one of those kits where you make tiny food out of powder and water, and when it arrived the sender had included a little piece of red washi and a note thanking me for the purchase. It made me so happy, I still have the washi and note!
I've had this happen with about 80% of the items I buy from Japan, it warms my heart every time.
I ordered some matcha from a Japanese country once and got a pretty green origami bird with the package :)
Children's Seat On The Fujikyu Railway Line In Japan
Sorry guys, but I read the visible part of the notice on the window and it says “until elementary school (children)”... “other than children”... “to avoid damage”... “please refrain”.
kids seat or who gets their first seat? Cuz I can run pretty fast. lol.
In what age do they realize that they DON’T drive the train and never have...? 🤔
Toreiyu Tsubasa Train In Japan Is Equipped With Footbaths So You Can Enjoy A Relaxing Trip
Hopefully I can clarify some things about the Toreiyu Tsubasa.. 1. This train moves slowly, it is not like other trains at all. You get on this train when you want to relax and are in no hurry. 2. You can only board this train through prior booking, seats are reserved. 3. The train is not always operating, it's just usually weekends and holidays. 4. There is also a bar and a lounge on this train, as well as tatami seating. 5. The Ashi-yu (foot bath) is sanitary. Your feet are washed thoroughly before putting your feet in the bath. It's no different than when you bathe yourself before entering an onsen.. I hope this has cleared up a few things for a lot of people. ^_^
@Akiko: TY for the info. I think you answered all my questions.
Load More Replies...This one is kind of gross, Imagine how bad some people feet are you are just sticking yur feet in all the nasty soup of fungus and bacteria.
I would like to think that it's a lot like a public pool (I know that's still gross) where the water has chlorine or some other antibacterial something or other in it...plus it also looks like the trains are incredibly clean so who knows maybe it is nice and relaxing??? In my mind I'm gonna make it nice and clean and relaxing because I REALLY want it to be lol
Load More Replies...If I ever get the chance to move out of the cess pit country I live in...I'm moving to Japan. I've always had the highest admiration and respect for their culture, manner, passion, their appreciation of beauty and innovativeness. They have always been, are and always will be in a class of their own, and a class above the rest.
Japanese Often Line Up For Buses, Trains, Restaurants Or Shops And Can Wait In Lines For Long Periods Of Time. Kids Learn How To Line Up As Early As Kindergarten As It Teaches Self-Discipline, Cooperation And Respect
"Kids Learn How To Line Up " Try it in my country and parents would lynch the teacher who restricted the freedom of their little psychopaths!
Wait, lemme guess, you live in the U.S.A. I do too
Load More Replies...As a British person, queuing is second nature; I'm ashamed to say I find that gif quite beautiful!
Why are Americans so amazed by queueing? They treat it as this inconceivable labyrinth of social graces when's it's literally the easiest and most sensible solution to the problem.
I believe this is actually the line for Comiket. A major convention in japan
Oh wow - made me think of the line to Hall H at ComicCon. That line winds around a couple city blocks and people set up tents & everything :)
Load More Replies...Almost Everyone In Japan Reverse Parks
yes they do. almost everyone even managed to park very neatly and as closely together as possible too. I wonder how hard it was to gain a driver's license there, bc I sure as heck won't ever passed them if I took it.
I park in reverse in the States all the time. It's actually a huge safety thing. Think about it, If you park in reverse, assuming a busy parking lot, you are backing into a space that is surrounded on all sides by parked cars a.k.a. a non-variable environment. But if you park forwards, then you are backing into the aisleways in the parking lots where other cars are driving through, or a car on the opposite side is also backing into the aisle, a.k.a. a highly variable region. Not to mention, since you sit at the front of the car as the driver, you gotta back out most of the way before you can see anything to the left or the right. Parking back first means it's easier to avoid parking accidents when you leave your parking spot driving forward.
Load More Replies...While this works in Japan, as the people there will take care near other peoples cars. The people in the UK don't care, I've seen many times people who have reverse parked in supermarket car parks then drag shopping trolleys between their car and someone else's, so they can load the shopping into the boot. I've had scratches all down the side of my car due to people doing this.
Whenever in the US, I get the strangest lools for reverse parking into tight spots. Actually, I find it much more comforting to know that leaving the spot will be quick and easy ...
Yes, but you likely often make people wait for you while you back in. Not strange looks, annoyed looks.
Load More Replies...Yes. And it's annoying. The idea of reverse parking is because it's easier to get out. BUT it's a lot easier to go forward into a small space and reverse out into a big space than reverse into a small space. Plus, when you are shopping it's easier to put things in the car if you go in forward. Your car is also more secure too if you go in forward. Reversing in has no practical benefits - but the Japanese do it because "that's how it's always been" and no one questions it.
I think it's quite the opposite in all ways. Reversing in is the easier way if it's tight. The front of the car is what shifts sideways when you turn, so going in with the back first becomes easier since you keep the swiveling part out in the big space, and the stable back within the tight small space. This is exactly why parallel parking into tight spots is always done by reversing.
Load More Replies...they do this in other asian countries too - what is the reasoning behind it? always was curious
I've never understood it. When parking you have to back out at some point whether it's out or in. And backing in has more potential of damaging the cars around you.
Load More Replies...Tokyo Train Company Tsukuba Express Apologized For 20-Second-Early Departure
Whaaat, wooow :O In my country the trains sometimes doesn't come at all and nobody tells you why :D
In honesty though, departing 20 sec early can actually make some people miss it.
Load More Replies...In my country once i thought the train was a little to early... then i found out it was the previous train that was really late...
You never see people idling around on the platforms in Japan. People show up to catch trains less than ten minutes before departure.
Im impressed with Japanese train system, especially in tokyo. They come on time in minutes precision. 14.27 its mean 14.27.
More than that, these trains and the train system is PERFECTLY on time. That means whatever the time that is shown for the train, is the exact time that the train will depart. If it's late, they apologize. If the train leaves too early, they apologize. You can literally use google maps' directions and know exactly what train to get on entirely based on the timing of the trains. At least in St. Louis, I wonder if the operators are simply not allowed to have clocks or anything that tells time with them. Sometimes they come and go super late, and sometimes super early. People miss the transfers to busses as a result, but if you talk to the operator, they'll fight back...
If the train is more than a minute late, they'll pass out slips that you can give to your boss.
😂😂😂 In Sweden (of all places!) the trains gets cancelled when the snow depths gets over one inch! Ok. That’s a bit sarcastic...
Our trains are considered to be on time if they arrive plus or minus five minutes outside schedule.
This Lift In Japan Has A Seat That Can Be Used As A Toilet In An Emergency
I'm more impressed with the deodorant, so even if you're stuck in the lift for hours, you don't need to worry about the embarrassment of getting stinky : )
That's fantastic... except : what about the other persons standing next to you ?
You gotta do what you gotta do. I'm sure a Japanese person will politely avert their eyes while an American would gawk at you.
Load More Replies...If I ever reach the point where I have to go so bad I'm willing to use a toilet in an elevator full of people I am sure there will not be time to take out the items first!!
Load More Replies...Guys it's for emergency, like when you're stuck in the lift. Not for daily use 😂😂😂
I'm wondering how long they are thinking people may be trapped in the elevator for!
Considering the stuff they have there, I'd say at least 5 minutes!
Load More Replies...Let's not forget that Japan is located in an active earthquake zone. If you are in the elevator and an earthquake strikes, you'd probably be stuck in there for hours, or even days.
Restaurants In Japan Display Fake Food That Looks Just Like The Real One From The Menu
I thought Godzilla in the screen was real and it was happening in my city (in real time). I was so scared and did not understand why people in the theater were so calm.
Load More Replies...They do that in China too. Convenient when you don't speak Chinese!
It originated in Japan and spread to other parts of Asia
Load More Replies...Doesn't only happen in Japan. Seen it in other places. But it is pretty cool.
I’ve seen that a lot in the US too. But it may have mostly been in Asian-owned establishments.
A foreigners dream. Even in a small shop far from any English speaker, you can eat good food. Plus no tipping, plus the food comes exactly as shown.
I hate tipping culture with a passion. Almost every service profession expects a tip these days, not just waiters. I hate that some employers use it as an excuse to not pay well.
Load More Replies...30 years ago, if you did not see price tags also in the restaurant window, that was a STRONG clue the prices were way above your budget!
Japanese ATM's Have Cane Holders Due To The Aging Population
And sad too- because they also have a decline in new births - https://www.ft.com/content/e01629e8-e6f4-11e7-97e2-916d4fbac0da
Load More Replies...Oh! How respectfully, empathic and compassionately! The next boom ever other country shuld import.
No joke, finding a place to put your cane is a PAIN! You don’t want it crashing onto the floor, but you need both hands and the available surfaces are too smooth to stop the cane, really. I just really want these here.
More respect for the elderly. Probably why they have the longest lifespan in the world.
There Are Over 300 Scramble Intersections In Japan Where You Can Cross A Street Diagonally
That was also at the intersection at my university entrance (HUFS, Seoul). So cool! ♥
A couple years ago, the city of Hollywood in CA., did this at Hollywood Boulevard and Highland Avenue!
These types of intersections are in San Francisco, too. Not nearly as well marked as this pic but there are diagonal walk signals.
I remember these in New Zealand, as well. Everyone crosses at once in any direction.
West Seattle in Washington has a couple of these "scramble" crossings. Great idea.
At Some Tourist Spots In Japan There Are Stands To Hold Your Smartphone So You Can Take Good Selfies
I'll be in the constant fear of it getting snatched.. something that may not happen in Japan but still.
When my class was in Japan, one of my classmates lost her iPhone in a museum. We didn't have time to go back, as it was the last day we were there, and we would be going to the airport in a few hours after our next stop. Our guide called the museum, and they said that the phone had been turned in. A week or two after returning to the states, the girl got her phone back, free of charge. They got her information from our guide, and shipped it back to her overseas. That's just incredible to me.
Load More Replies...Japanese Hotel Apologies For One Minute Internet Stoppage At 4am
Everyone obsessing about the "king understanding" part of this note. It's just a typo. When you learn not only a different language but also another alphabet and master it like they do, you can mock it.
I work in a hotel that welcomes a lot of Japanese guests, the point behind this letter is that the guest will actually make a big complaint if there was no notification. In fact Japanese guests are very difficult and have high expectations. Small matters that could easily be resolved at the time are not mentioned directly to the hotel. An example might be Housekeeping setting up 1 toothbrush instead of 2, rather than ask for an extra toothbrush they will wait til they get home and launch an official complaint through their travel agent.
its mostly to stop you from making any transactions or some stuff like that. ita a well reputed hotel and no business man would want money transaction fail or any other bad stuff happen like broke video conference or something. so its better to know in advance so u plan accordingly and fact they did send notice is soooo cool and very important everyone should do it
In Australia we can have no internet for an entire day and they dont even bother to update their status page.
I feel like crying when i see Japanese people apologizing for these minor thing.. that aww so cute feeling I guess. :')
The Elevators In My Office Building Have An Umbrella Sign That Lights Up If It's Raining Outside (Osaka, Japan)
The building where my office is at, like most office buildings in the world, does not have a sign like that. Yesterday, had the lift had this sign, it could have spared me the trip back to the 18th floor to take my umbrella.
In Belgium we have another amazing technology called a window. with it you can look outside a building even when you are still inside. Some have privacy concerns about it because it works both way.
Load More Replies...This Hospital In Japan Offers Glasses With Different Prescriptions For Filling Out Forms
I just started needing reading glasses and still don't carry a pair with me (lazy or vain, you pick). This would save a lot of embarrassment (and squinting lol)
I have a number of reading glasses (5 to a pack) scattered through the house in case I can't find my better glasses at that moment.
Load More Replies...I think I'll get bifocals even tho my distance isn't bad. I keep looking over the top of my reading glasses all the time.
You have a great idea there. My reading glasses are RX. I wish I could just buy them over the counter.
Load More Replies...This has got to be the most awesome I have ever seen. However, here in NC, USA, within the first week, they would be stolen. I hate to say that.
Post offices and banks do also. Not tied down either - just available if you need them.
In our library in Germany you can also lend reading glasses if you forgot them at home. But it is no standard!
This Japanese Taxi Has A Button To Request Slower Speeds
Ikr (I know right) But can't you just ask polliteley? LIke "Hey can you please slow down?"
Load More Replies...They alredy drive like turtles, just to get higher fares.
Load More Replies...Notice the lace. All taxis in Japan are covered on the inside with with lace.
Last time I was in a Taxi I had to shut my eyes as he was tailgating, speeding end weaving through traffic. I'd taken travel sickness tablets so I didn't vomit on him (sitting in front). Only been in a taxi 4 times (one was a black cab) all journeys were equally horrific. This is a great idea, though it might need to be attached to electrodes on the driver's seat to work in UK
In Japan, You Not Only Have To Take Your Shoes Off And Change Them To Slippers At The Entrance, But Also Use Different Slippers When You Go To The Bathroom
I thought this was the common norm... at least in the few countries in SEA I've been to
Yep, in Vietnam too. You take your shoes off when you enter the house, and you have different slippers to wear in the kitchen and the bathroom
Load More Replies...Cleanliness is next to nothing else leads to cleaner environment and less infections.
As far as I've heard / seen, this isn't like... a consistent thing done by all people. That just seems like a pain in the a*s unless you have really dirty bathroom floors.
A Vending Machine Selling Farm Fresh Eggs In Japan
In Finland, there is at least one vending machine that sells tomatoes. Tomaattiautomaatti. It's located by a common road close to the tomato farm in the countryside.
Everybody Lines Up Their Carts Nicely At The Food Court In Costco In Japan
I feel cheated out of living in America.... Most stores are like hell
We've never really worked on creating a disciplined society.
Load More Replies...A Costco food court in the US is like the fall of Saigon during the end of the Vietnam war ... everyone crushing in and just leaving carts helter skelter about.
people care about other... in america many people doesn't give a s**t of other
many people feel they are better than others....and its getting worse
Load More Replies...That's the thing I don't understand about the CostCo food seating areas...? Why the hell are there umbrellas up? It's never going to rain or be really sunny.... You're INSIDE!
These Fitting Room Instructions In Japan. Cover Your Face To Prevent Makeup From Getting On The Garment
I think it is the right one, when you have a make-up, so in this way clothes will stay clean
I’ve said this for years. I carry a silk scarf in my purse for this reason. It also keeps your hair neat.
I hope the face-covering thing isn't as plastic-bag-like in real life as it is in the picture, or there'll be a lot of fainted customers! It's a really good idea though.
Do not worry. The cover is thin and breathable paper.
Load More Replies...Is there a pictograph for keeping your undies on while trying on bathing suits?
this honestly would save stores money since there'll be less complaining about stains and customers wanting discounts due to those makeup stains.
I need this. I have often went too try on clothes with a full face of makeup and legit panic trying too very carefully avoid my face and neck 🤣
My first experience in Japanese fitting room was pretty funny. I had to take off my shoes before I entered it and then they gave me this bag that I had no idea what to do with (no such instructions on the wall). Of course the shop assistants were there to explain how to use it :)
One time I was trying on a shirt in a fitting room and I noticed there was a smudge of beige on the inside of the shirt. Someone else's face apparently came off while putting on the shirt lol
In Japan They Sell Square Watermelons To Fit Better In The Refrigerator
Yes, in Asia, offering fruits is a very common practice. They also have very expensive apples and melons for the sole purpose of gifting. https://kotaku.com/two-melons-just-sold-for-29-000-in-japan-1826365271
Load More Replies...I think this is not right. If I remember correctly this square watermelon was grown using a kind of harness and it was a curiosity, ridiculously expensive!
Nah, you can just grow a melon in a box and that'll happen
Load More Replies...They are used only for decoration. They're picked before they're ripe
pretty sure it's just for novelty reasons. no one stores one whole uncut watermelon in a fridge, I think.
I do until I need to use it. It's actually become quite popular and have seen other countries, including over here in Australia doing this, not only to watermelons but other melons as well as apples.
Load More Replies...I always thought it was mainly for display and transport, more stable and easier to stack
There was a fancy gift fruit shop at the station near where I worked in Yokohama. They had a box of the most perfect looking strawberries for $45!!
is it a really true|??? - to fit the refrigerator. They are growing in steel cubes, and they usually never get "ready", so i think its more a gift or a decoration... no???
It is not to fit the fridge. This is grown at a specialty farm by one grower and they are insanely expensive.
Load More Replies...Toothpick At A Mall In Japan Had A Mint Coated Tip
We have the same in Greece also! And I bet other countries have it too!
I have seen this here in the United States of America. This is a great idea. Kudos go out to the inventor.
In the USA, sometimes the whole toothpick is mint flavored. No color on it though. Just the natural color.
Some restaurants in Japan provide tooth brushes and tiny tubes of toothpaste in the restroom.
This Urinal In Japan Is A Video Game You Play With Your Pee
Note to the "Pee Funnel" guys, we don't need that to pee standing up like you guys do, there is a technique, it's a little "hands on", but no pee funnel needed. No, you won't get pee on your hand if you do it right.. lol.
Load More Replies...I think everything in this post is on the border between super cool and creepy :p
Load More Replies...Only In Japan Would Someone Leave These Out While They Sleep
Note: there are many pickpockets in trains in Tokyo. Like, this guy is either crazy or very very tired. Because I would never do that...
Japan has among the lowest crime rates in the entire world. You're crazy.
Load More Replies...I fell asleep on a train in China and oppsily left out my hand fan (it was 28 celcius inside the train and 37 outside!) and my mobile phone. Woke up a few hours later to find my phone completely untouched, but someone had stolen my fan. Wouldn't leave my wallet unattended anywhere though.
Not many at all, but pickpocketers do exist. Mainly these professionals who were born poor after WWII, I heard. Today, they are way too old and pretty much retired... But wait, I was born in Tokyo and grew up there - but I never heard of anyone who got pickpocketed. Stealing a suitcase while you are sleeping on a train?? No way. It never happen. Sometimes people claim they got pickpocketed, but in reality they simply dropped or left belongings somewhere. People always blame someone else, you know.
I once lost my wallet with ¥30,000 and 3 weeks later the police call me because someone turned it in with all the money. I lost a phone once and got that back too. The honesty of the Japanese is their greatest trait.
No sane person would do this in japan. There are thieves here just like any other country. Violent crimes are uncommon. Theft is still a thing.
People leave their iPhones on tables to reserve their seats in coffee shops in Tokyo ...just left after living there for three years.
Designated Smoking Rooms On Trains In Japan
That’s cool in my opinion. Smoking is bad but it’s mainly a personal choice like drinking alcohol or overeating. Instead of nearly outlawing it, they accommodate.
As an ex-smoker elitist snob.... Don't these people still come out reeking of smoke and sit next to non smokers? I never noticed as a smoker, but after having quit, I can smell a smoker from 100 yards
I never realized how bad smoker's breath is until I quit. After that I avoided standing next to smokers, even if they were not smoking. Clothes smelled like cigarette smoke. Entering a smoker's room in an airport is a good way to shorten your life.
Load More Replies...Airport in Denver use to allow smoking in the bar, not sure if they still do.
Load More Replies...In Japan, you can only smoke outside in designated areas, but inside in certain rooms is OK: In some restaurants, they still have the 80’s smoking and non-smoking section. On the good side, there are also places that have amazing smoking or vape rooms. But all that said, I’m surprised by how much smoking I see.
Common all through Asia, because Asians smoke too damned much. Worse than America.
In Victoria Aus, smoking is prohibited in any enclosed space where the public may go. Certain places ban smoking anywhere on their premises including outside grounds. At a restaurant if you want to go outside for a smoke, you have to be a minimum five metres away from the door. Basically, if you want to smoke in Victoria, forget it. Other states and territories have similar prohibitions.
This Japanese Handrail Bends With The Steps
I don't think this would be safer or easier to use than the straight handrail.
The stepped handrail would be much more ergonomic for someone with arthritis as it would allow for a neutral wrist position.
Load More Replies...This is for blind people to know when a step is coming and when the steps stop.
I suppose in a country with such high population density, orderliness and cooperation are extremely important.
Awesome post! I almost cried at times seeing genius yet simple ideas being implemented and the reason behind them is just humanity and not profit...
Cute idea, very astheticly pleasing, but as one that needs to lean on the hailrail to go down the stairs, and sometimes up, this is a health hazard.
It's not really a cute idea, it's for the blind ;-)
Load More Replies...It's funny how so many of these are both brilliant and awful. I have been many times in Tokyo and while I love the discipline, cleanliness and helpfulness of the Japanese, it can quickly get on my nerves... The reason is simple: the price to pay for this is just too absurdly high. Especially since I'm married with a Japanese woman, because now I need to follow the rules. And trust me, there are lots of them. So many that it's impossible even for a Japanese person to know all of them... And Japanese society (in Tokyo at least) can be very very stressful after a while. Impossible to compare with what we can see in western countries. But at the same time I love Japan. But I hate it... This is why I still don't clearly know if I want to leave in Japan. Part of me says "it's a fantastic country". And it is. But part of me also says "I wouldn't last more than a year in this madness". I've lived in many different countries and Japan is the only one that makes me feel this way...
I like the idea of " take the good, and leave the bad" in regards to different cultures. If it serves you keep it if not, forget it. Nice comment
Load More Replies...Some of the solutions there are super simple and super needed everywhere. With a little effort we could make things a lot faster, nicer and easier.
I went to Japan last summer and saw most of these things. seriously Japan is super awesome. The people are so nice. The country is so clean. Everything there is so amazing. I cannot wait to go back in 2022
This is why i love Japan. I love how people behave, respect each other. I saw mom teach her 3yo son to separated trash. That surprised me. Simple thing that will change everything.
I went to Japan a couple years back, It was honestly one of the most interesting places I've been. There's a fun and controlled chaos to Tokyo and a calm and traditional beauty to the rural area's like Kyoto. I would recommend it to anyone!
One Japanese friend, who was here as a college exchange student in the US went w/ me to a place here in the US that had Japanese-style karaoke (in a small room like they show in the movie Lost In Translation). He told me that this was the better style of karaoke for Japanese people b/c they mostly really dislike standing up in front of the rest of a large group. Lol. Another Japanese person here told me she needed to see a dentist about a tooth issue she had, but wasn't sure when she could go since the dentist' office was only open during her work hours. I told her to just explain that to her boss, that I'm sure the boss would be fine with her missing a little work so she could get a dental issue fixed. She said: 'In Japanese culture we do not do things like that. We cannot ever miss work for ourselves.'
The Japanese are the politest xenophobes you'll ever visit. But try to become a citizen, or marry a native, or start a business and you'll see how quickly they become the biggest racist you'll ever meet. As to wacky idea's, it's because the Japanese as a culture are raised never to be honest with other people - so these stupid idea thrive in Japan but no where else because no one in Japan will say that a Japanese idea is bat s**t crazy.
It's funny how so many of these are both brilliant and awful. I have been many times in Tokyo and while I love the discipline, cleanliness and helpfulness of the Japanese, it can quickly get on my nerves... The reason is simple: the price to pay for this is just too absurdly high. Especially since I'm married with a Japanese woman, because now I need to follow the rules. And trust me, there are lots of them. So many that it's impossible even for a Japanese person to know all of them... And Japanese society (in Tokyo at least) can be very very stressful after a while. Impossible to compare with what we can see in western countries. But at the same time I love Japan. But I hate it... This is why I still don't clearly know if I want to leave in Japan. Part of me says "it's a fantastic country". And it is. But part of me also says "I wouldn't last more than a year in this madness". I've lived in many different countries and Japan is the only one that makes me feel this way...
I like the idea of " take the good, and leave the bad" in regards to different cultures. If it serves you keep it if not, forget it. Nice comment
Load More Replies...Some of the solutions there are super simple and super needed everywhere. With a little effort we could make things a lot faster, nicer and easier.
I went to Japan last summer and saw most of these things. seriously Japan is super awesome. The people are so nice. The country is so clean. Everything there is so amazing. I cannot wait to go back in 2022
This is why i love Japan. I love how people behave, respect each other. I saw mom teach her 3yo son to separated trash. That surprised me. Simple thing that will change everything.
I went to Japan a couple years back, It was honestly one of the most interesting places I've been. There's a fun and controlled chaos to Tokyo and a calm and traditional beauty to the rural area's like Kyoto. I would recommend it to anyone!
One Japanese friend, who was here as a college exchange student in the US went w/ me to a place here in the US that had Japanese-style karaoke (in a small room like they show in the movie Lost In Translation). He told me that this was the better style of karaoke for Japanese people b/c they mostly really dislike standing up in front of the rest of a large group. Lol. Another Japanese person here told me she needed to see a dentist about a tooth issue she had, but wasn't sure when she could go since the dentist' office was only open during her work hours. I told her to just explain that to her boss, that I'm sure the boss would be fine with her missing a little work so she could get a dental issue fixed. She said: 'In Japanese culture we do not do things like that. We cannot ever miss work for ourselves.'
The Japanese are the politest xenophobes you'll ever visit. But try to become a citizen, or marry a native, or start a business and you'll see how quickly they become the biggest racist you'll ever meet. As to wacky idea's, it's because the Japanese as a culture are raised never to be honest with other people - so these stupid idea thrive in Japan but no where else because no one in Japan will say that a Japanese idea is bat s**t crazy.
