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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.
#1
Bus Drivers In Japan Were On Strike But Continued Driving Their Routes While Refusing To Take Fares From Passengers
Daria B 7 years ago
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.
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#2
Drink Cans Have Names Written In Braille On The Top
#3
Japanese Fans Stayed Behind After The FIFA World Cup 2014 Match To Help Clean Up
stellermatt 7 years ago
every blue bag filled should be a rewarded with a free ticket to the next match
#4
There Are Baby Seats Attached To The Wall In Most Bathrooms
#5
I Recently Gave Birth In Japan. Here Is Some Of The Hospital Food I Ate
stellermatt 7 years ago
you know what ya get in the UK? toast. I mean, it's damn good toast, but...
Cory Coker 7 years ago
In America you just get a bill for $30,000 and then thrown out
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Jessica Temple 7 years ago
WOW! this is so fantastic. Food is what heals, and this food is perfect for healing.
BetsyB 7 years ago
I'm thinking the same but I definitely want to go to this hospital in particular.
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Norie Iijima 7 years ago
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.
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Paul Dixon 7 years ago
What they don't tell you is they paid extra for all that. For a private room, longer stay, better food - this is about 6 months salary in Japan. (About $10,000)
bob 7 years ago
Probably a very expensive hospital... I always wonder why having kids in Japan is so expensive, when the country is facing the biggest demographic crisis of all times...
Rafaella Bueno 7 years ago
Kids being expensive are one of the reasons for the demographic crisis. Nobody can afford to have kids, specially when there's also a shortage of day cares so it's hard for both parents to work with a small child. My friends from Japan say that the problem with the country is that it's mostly old people voting for old politicians who govern for them and ignore the needs of young couples and children. A friend said that he saw a day care be closed because the neighborhood association, consisting of mostly elderly women, complained it was too noisy and disrupting. I don't live there though, so I only hear things from people who do.
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Kurt Beyer 7 years ago
Don't what WHAT hospital that is!! I have been in Japanese hospitals MANY times, and the food was absolutely awful -- nothing at all like the pictures here.
Patti 7 years ago
Prescott hospital in Arizona has great food. Order off the menus and guests can order off the menu too. They have great salmon
Andrea Devine 7 years ago
Both Honor Health hospitals in Scottsdale have great food. They also serve salmon and a 6 oz top sirloin steak.
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Dan Brownlee 5 years ago
Giving shell fish to a nursing mother? And they got their medical education where?
Dan Brownlee 5 years ago
And this is NOT typical fare in a typical Japanese hospital. This must be a VIP Suite.
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Michelle Linder 6 years ago
Spending close to a third of last year in the hospital would have been a bit more bearable if they had fed me like this. Yowza.
Sarah Giles 7 years ago
I'm pretty sure that's because they know how important after birth care is due to their own past.
Chris Kirby 7 years ago
My experience with hospital food is that it is delicious, though, truth be told, the chef was so surprised that my plate was cleaned that he came to my room to make sure I hadn't just tossed it.
Tete Lababidi 7 years ago
Japan is the best Country, i lived in Kobe Japan for 32 years. Still missing Japan
Michele Cunanan 7 years ago
OMG!!!! I didn't get anywhere close to that with my 3 children in Canada. 😔
Luisa Vasconcelos 7 years ago
The last one looks like from a 5 star superior hotel restaurant.
Maria Ofar 7 years ago
i remember a short while after giving birth, someone brought in some silverside with veggies and white sauce. if you had asked what i wanted, anything at all i wouldn't have had a clue. THAT was what i wanted though, was so happy
Norman Mizuno 7 years ago
my food in the hospital in New Jersery was very very bad.....and they usually did not give me what i ordered
Trisha Haskett 7 years ago
In the US you get highly processed, fatty, full of nitrates or msg, all the c**p that makes us a sick, obese country because medicine is big business.
Linda Penman 7 years ago
Yes, but was it free? Japan’s health system is not nearly as good as the NHS. I’ve lived in Japan and the patient’s stay in hospital is only partly funded so the patient must pay the rest, which can be substantial.
Lucinda Rodriguez 7 years ago
I like that they give you a lot and that it looks good then get a little and it look gross
Jonathan Friedman 7 years ago
I have had similar experiences with "great food" at a Japanese hospital, but my Japanese colleagues still consider it to be "hospital food" (i.e. less desirable than the food that you can get outside of a hospital.) I was pretty happy with it though.
Emyo Jennifer Nakayama 7 years ago
Yes, it is true! It was fantastic, but I should warn you that ordinary hospitals for sick people don't serve the same kind of wonderful food that Maternity hospitals do. In fact, I had some okayu that was totally awful and I couldn't imagine how anyone could destroy okayu!
Kurt Beyer 7 years ago
I don't know WHAT hospital that is, but I have been in and out of Japanese hospitals many, many times -- and the food was horrible. NOTHING at all like those pics.
BusLady 7 years ago
I was in he Hospital a couple of years ago (US) and the food was really good, and there was a good selection. :-)
ReeRee Yarbrough 7 years ago
im in Wisconsin, USA. I got pizza from a local place called Pizza Doctors all you can eat. They actually sent us home with tickets to take Mom out for dinner
Linda Kvamme Cirocco 7 years ago
I prefer the toast to the garbage we get served in the USA...
Robin Ellison 7 years ago
must have been a private pay patient. For folks treated on the country's dime, their family has to bring the food.
Gay Johnson 7 years ago
Here in America they deliver the kid, hand you the bill and the baby and say “see ya”... you don’t even get to stay for the green jello
Anna Bonet-Carlino 7 years ago
God it looks so good, almost tempted to have another baby, there!
Hiroko Clark 7 years ago
My dinner had been eaten by a student who was not bothered to check if I was still in the hospital. So I was given left over from the kitchen, which were potato and nan bread. Nottingham, UK.
Cherita Barbuto 7 years ago
I should have given birth in Japan. I think they have a great green system.They had the opportunity to rebuild with great thought.
Andrea Devine 7 years ago
The hospitals I go to in the Phoenix metro area have great food. I have a very restricted diet (low calories, low fat, no gluten or soy) and I can always find something to eat. Last visit I had roasted rosemary lemon chicken, whipped sweet potatoes (no butter, no sweetener), steamed asparagus, and a small gf sugar cookie with strawberries.
Gerry Higgins 7 years ago
I was recently in hospital in California and the food was great. I could select from a menu and all it all looked/tasted great. UCSD medical center if anyone wants to combine a vacation with an operation :)
Diane Mackereth 7 years ago
Wow! The cooks look like they treat you as a 5 star restaurant critic!
Laura Hirosawa 7 years ago
This looks much more like a sanfujinka (maternity clinic) than a byouin (hospital). Don’t get me wrong, many Japanese hospitals have decent to good food, just not as fancy as all this.
Jan Virtue 7 years ago
Holy s**t! Are you kidding? His looks like a 5 star restaurant's food. I mean, look at the presentation. WOW! Wish I had this when I gave birth. I'm hungry now.
I dislike Brexit 7 years ago
I haven't given birth yet but in the uk it's probably vile things and boring things
Jarno Flinkers 7 years ago
Well, i guess i should be having a baby in Japan, and a uturus ofcourse, no mensies though
#6
You Can Often Find This Kind Of Toilet In Japan. Wash Your Hands And Reuse The Water For Your Next Flush
#7
Japan's Manhole Covers Are Beautiful
#8
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
Yuka Momoyo 7 years ago
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.
#9
The Note In Japanese Says, "I Accidentally Knocked Over Your Bike And Broke The Bell. I Am Very Sorry"
#10
This Is How Smooth The Bullet Train Is In Japan
Isabel Tamayo 7 years ago
I love their bullet trains! You'll barely feel it's already moving...
#11
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
stellermatt 7 years ago
apparently there was once a time when this sort of honesty ruled the world?
#12
Commuters In Tokyo Pushed A Train Car To Save A Woman Who Fell And Got Stuck Between The Car And The Platform
#13
Koi Fishes Even Live In Drainage Channels In Japan
#14
Japanese Toilets Often Have A Button That Plays White Noise/Water Sounds So You Can Poop Without Other People Hearing Your Business
Aaron Kara 7 years ago
First time I used this toilet I was slightly disconcerted by the accuracy of the water jet but pleasantly surprised by its effectiveness
#15
Another Reason Why I Love Japan
Isabel Tamayo 7 years ago
And in escalators, they stay left (I think) if you'll just stand and if you'll walk you go right...
#16
In Trains You Can Rotate The Seats In Any Direction
Erin Smidt 7 years ago
This is true in China as well. Makes for some great conversation time on long train rides!
#17
Another Great Japanese Invention: Umbrella Lockers. So You Don't Have To Carry Them Around Inside A Building And Nobody Takes Yours 'Accidentally'
#18
This Toilet In Japan Has A System Of Occupied/Vacant Toilets Information
#19
Expectations Meet Reality In Japan
#20
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
#21
This Shopping Center In Japan Has Free Refrigerated Lockers For Your Perishables So You Can Keep Shopping After You Get Your Groceries
#22
At Narita International Airport (Tokyo) They Give You Free Origami Instead Of Candy
#23
Photo I Took Of Tokyo Commuters Waiting For Their Train
Sylvia van der Linden 7 years ago
In the Dominican Republic people can wait patiently too. And if a pregnant woman appears, they let her go to the front immediately.
#24
Japanese Being Japanese
#25
This Smartphone Wiper Dispenser In Japan
#26
In Japan, Even The Deer Are Polite
#27
In Japan, The Ground Crew Bows And Waves Goodbye To The Departing Aircraft
Isabel Tamayo 7 years ago
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..
#28
Japanese Airport Staff Sorted Luggages On The Belt By Their Colour
#29
This Bedside Lamp At My Hotel In Japan Can Be Half Lit
#30
Ordered This From Japan And It Came With A Little Note And Origami Crane
#31
Children's Seat On The Fujikyu Railway Line In Japan
#32
Toreiyu Tsubasa Train In Japan Is Equipped With Footbaths So You Can Enjoy A Relaxing Trip
#33
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
Miklós Nagy 7 years ago
"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!
#34
Almost Everyone In Japan Reverse Parks
#35
Tokyo Train Company Tsukuba Express Apologized For 20-Second-Early Departure
Monika Georgieva 7 years ago
Whaaat, wooow :O In my country the trains sometimes doesn't come at all and nobody tells you why :D
#36
This Lift In Japan Has A Seat That Can Be Used As A Toilet In An Emergency
Happiness is Hippo 7 years ago
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 : )
#37
Restaurants In Japan Display Fake Food That Looks Just Like The Real One From The Menu
#38
Japanese ATM's Have Cane Holders Due To The Aging Population
#39
There Are Over 300 Scramble Intersections In Japan Where You Can Cross A Street Diagonally
#40
At Some Tourist Spots In Japan There Are Stands To Hold Your Smartphone So You Can Take Good Selfies
#41
Japanese Hotel Apologies For One Minute Internet Stoppage At 4am
#42
The Elevators In My Office Building Have An Umbrella Sign That Lights Up If It's Raining Outside (Osaka, Japan)
#43
This Hospital In Japan Offers Glasses With Different Prescriptions For Filling Out Forms
#44
This Japanese Taxi Has A Button To Request Slower Speeds
#45
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
#46
A Vending Machine Selling Farm Fresh Eggs In Japan
#47
Everybody Lines Up Their Carts Nicely At The Food Court In Costco In Japan
UniversalMel 7 years ago
I feel cheated out of living in America.... Most stores are like hell
#48
These Fitting Room Instructions In Japan. Cover Your Face To Prevent Makeup From Getting On The Garment
Cormorry Stroph 7 years ago
I think it is the right one, when you have a make-up, so in this way clothes will stay clean
#49
In Japan They Sell Square Watermelons To Fit Better In The Refrigerator
#50
Toothpick At A Mall In Japan Had A Mint Coated Tip
Elena Ktmr 7 years ago
We have the same in Greece also! And I bet other countries have it too!
#51
This Urinal In Japan Is A Video Game You Play With Your Pee
#52
Only In Japan Would Someone Leave These Out While They Sleep
#53
Designated Smoking Rooms On Trains In Japan
Meowton Mewsk 7 years ago
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.
#54
This Japanese Handrail Bends With The Steps
Kevin Donegan 7 years ago
I don't think this would be safer or easier to use than the straight handrail.
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bob 7 years ago
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...
Cici Snow 7 years ago
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
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Alusair Alustriel 7 years ago
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.
Azure Adams 7 years ago
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
Usernameofgag 7 years ago
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.
Aaron Kara 7 years ago
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!
CbusResident 7 years ago
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.'
Vonskippy 7 years ago
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.
Maria Carter 7 years ago
I live in Okinawa, Japan and even though it seems to be a little more relaxed here, the courtesy and perfect facades are largely the same. I am happy to always be greeted with a welcome and thanked as I leave a store or my work place but I also see the people that carry out these greets and they have to repeat the same sentence for every customer, they work long hours for under what would be considered minimum wage in Western countries and live in crammed accommodations because that's all they can afford on a wage like that. it's a meticulous society but one that makes the people suffer in one way or another. That said, I do love it here but they need to think about the people that keeps the society functioning this way and care for them more. People are not disposables in a hamster wheel.
Diver Driver 7 years ago
I was in Japan for 2 weeks on business 30+ years ago. It was immaculate BUT at that time western toilets were very rare. I should probably go back on holiday.
Stacey Pearce 7 years ago
Japan sounds like it's from another world. Wish Australia was similar in some ways. Here you wouldn't be able to put a wallet down or phone as these days, they won't be there for long.
Jim Lavine 7 years ago
Japan sure is an interesting place. I would like to visit there. I don't think I would enjoy the lifestyle there as a place to live. Far to many rules and I must admit I never have been success driven or to interested in looking wonderful for everyone. Canada suits me fine.
Full Name 7 years ago
I am success driven and I'm Canadian and Canada suits me fine because I can be that, and I can be a**l retentive, or I can be the exact opposite if I choose. I can't imagine HAVING to be certain ways just because, ya know? I'd absolutely love to visit Tokyo just to see this sort of stuff, but only as a visit. I'm too much of an individual.
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JillVille 7 years ago
This is clearly one of those the grass looks greener in Japan but maybe we're really just pretending there's grass in the first place? I would imagine with their extremely highly populated cities, there can't be much green space available. But seeing everything in order and calm like this does feel nice.
Aunt Messy 7 years ago
There are dozens of lovely parks and gardens all over Japan. In Tokyo, there's green space within a ten minute walk anywhere in the city. The Japanese USE their parks as well. Even very little kids get to spend time outdoors when they're in school. You will frequently see little kids in play school walking along park paths holding a rope to stay together.
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Justin Lee 4 years ago
In asian countries, the trains have a designated stopping point and the driver does nothing
imran khan 6 years ago
My cousin live in Japan and i must say its a wonderful country and it will be my pleasure if i could visit to JAPAN n its my DREAM too.
Sandra Torres 6 years ago
I still have no desire to visit Japan or China...I'm sure they are great, beautiful countries, but no thank you.
Andree Carroll 6 years ago
Just got back from Japan on April 4th. experienced so many of these things. Oh, my gosh. Not like the USA, I felt so serene, they are a quiet culture. I too set my purse down and found it. It is very expensive. So, so lovely. I'd go back tomorrow. After living here, I like the rules. The people were so kind and helpful. The country so clean and beautiful. Of course, I was only there for 18 days.
Süleyman Sekman 7 years ago
Some River, Some Road, Some Bush, Some streets Cigarettes butts, full of unwanted rubbish. Racist, uneducated about the rest of the world,(they know some country very well )....Most of Japanese I find it nice people but nothing different than other nations. Good is good everywhere! Best things about of Japan Foods and Tools for Carpenters! Awesome.
Victor Vakaras 7 years ago
Imagine everything the exact opposite of the photos and you'll understand what it's like here in Lithuania.
Robert Rice 7 years ago
I lived in Japan for 4 years And Okinawa for 7 years,love the country,and love the people,my late wife was Japanese. Married for 46 years.
Krystine Patterson 7 years ago
Imagine how slovenly and uncivilised Australians seem when they come and visit or arrive as a student. Four years of our filth, impatience and horrible food service.
Sabal Minor 7 years ago
They still slaughter endangered whales and make a delicacy & call it research. Just last week a rare whale mother that was pregnant was killed. WTF Japan?
Paula Hannon 7 years ago
I love that they come up with things that seem small but definitely improve people's lives and keep things running smoothly. I wish Ireland was more like this.
Miloslava Kalas 7 years ago
All this is very interesting. Their lifestyle is different, everybody has to think like a group instead of like an individual ,as we do. Probably due to gross overpopulation on very small peace of geography they have to be highly organized and disciplined. It's all strong survival instinct , they had problem with living space from beganing of their existence . In past they were known for their expansiveness and aggression toward others (Korea,China,Burma....) Now it is modern , prosperous society which some envy.
Selahattin Olceroglu 7 years ago
I had seen a reincarnation test in a magazine and did it to see what would I be when I come to world again in an unknown future. The test result revealed: I will born again in Japan in the year 2225 as a baby girl and I will be a traffic police when I grow up. :) I was happy with the result, but I feel happier at the moment after reading all these news and comments. :)) Congratulations Japanese people.. All the best to you.
Vincent Jay 7 years ago
When I was in the Navy, my family and I were stationed in Yokosuka, Japan 1980-1987. Some of these items are familiar, and others I've never seen before. Thanks for the memories.
Mike Gómez A 7 years ago
Totally love if these happen in my country. It wouldn hurt anyone over here.
Aileen Grist 7 years ago
The Japanese are very honest. The opposite side to that is that they are very disciplined and do what 'authority' tells them to. My stepson - who lived in Tokyo for 10 years - said that everyone bowed etc., and was massively polite but things like spitting in the street was acceptable.
Carlo Sitaro 7 years ago
I think that despite the usual xenophobia in few cases that obviously need to work on it, and improve, it's a respectful country but like all the countries with deepest History, it needs to be studied and understood. Hi Tech is relatively surprising. The kindness and lovely manners will not surprise you once you study some non competitive martial art concepts (like the beautiful Aikido) and the core of their soul: Shintoism.
Lynne Wolfe 7 years ago
So, who's been to Japan lately? Do you all really think that Japanese mothers create this visual, pleasing, nutritious meals every day?
ispeak catanese 7 years ago
If you're in the US, like me, you are @ Mingi
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Mad Haberdasheress 7 years ago
There are so many things on this list that could - and possibly should - be noticed and implemented more widely for sure. Some of them are just their version of things we have in many places and appeal because of their unique take on it. All of them are interesting, for sure! I would be interested to see someone create an article like this for other countries - or even an article challenging readers to submit pictures of their favorite/most interesting or helpful thing about their country!
Full Name 7 years ago
No country seems to want to implement the best of everywhere else. Go anywhere in the world and it seems to be done "their way", which means some good, some bad. No society seems to want to take a "best of all worlds" approach and it's sad and frustrating. Government policy is at the top of the list of things born of ideology instead of following the lead of what's already been successful elsewhere.
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Jadon 7 years ago
Please don't use these as an excuse to continue to fetishize this country and it's culture. Their are literally people who want to be Japanese because of things like this. To me there's something strange/off putting about that not because of any cultural appropriation but because you really aren't truly being yourself. You can't find any good in your own background no matter where you're from and you're upholding the Japanese as some sort of model minority. It's just not right. Japan as all countries do has it's own issues so please don't treat it like this heaven on earth. I'd love to see similar, more positive portrayals of other countries that are demonized due to politics or other reasons like China, Haiti, Russia, much of Africa, etc
ispeak catanese 7 years ago
Absolutely agree with your ideas, but as you know this website is escapist fun. I loved seeing all the photos and gadgets as well as reading the commentary. It's nice to dream of traveling to a place so different from the US. The apathy here is exhausting. And my home island is not a place I can return to, my family is deceased and the politics and daily life are chaotic.
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Max 7 years ago
not just Japan... these things are there in other countries too like South Korea and more
Daria B 7 years ago
Mmmmhhhh, not suuuuuure. Many of these, maybe, but Korea is far more chaotic than Japan.
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Yuka Momoyo 7 years ago
What's the difference between killing whales and killing cows?
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bob 7 years ago
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...
Cici Snow 7 years ago
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... Alusair Alustriel 7 years ago
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.
Azure Adams 7 years ago
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
Usernameofgag 7 years ago
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.
Aaron Kara 7 years ago
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!
CbusResident 7 years ago
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.'
Vonskippy 7 years ago
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.
Maria Carter 7 years ago
I live in Okinawa, Japan and even though it seems to be a little more relaxed here, the courtesy and perfect facades are largely the same. I am happy to always be greeted with a welcome and thanked as I leave a store or my work place but I also see the people that carry out these greets and they have to repeat the same sentence for every customer, they work long hours for under what would be considered minimum wage in Western countries and live in crammed accommodations because that's all they can afford on a wage like that. it's a meticulous society but one that makes the people suffer in one way or another. That said, I do love it here but they need to think about the people that keeps the society functioning this way and care for them more. People are not disposables in a hamster wheel.
Diver Driver 7 years ago
I was in Japan for 2 weeks on business 30+ years ago. It was immaculate BUT at that time western toilets were very rare. I should probably go back on holiday.
Stacey Pearce 7 years ago
Japan sounds like it's from another world. Wish Australia was similar in some ways. Here you wouldn't be able to put a wallet down or phone as these days, they won't be there for long.
Jim Lavine 7 years ago
Japan sure is an interesting place. I would like to visit there. I don't think I would enjoy the lifestyle there as a place to live. Far to many rules and I must admit I never have been success driven or to interested in looking wonderful for everyone. Canada suits me fine.
Full Name 7 years ago
I am success driven and I'm Canadian and Canada suits me fine because I can be that, and I can be a**l retentive, or I can be the exact opposite if I choose. I can't imagine HAVING to be certain ways just because, ya know? I'd absolutely love to visit Tokyo just to see this sort of stuff, but only as a visit. I'm too much of an individual.
Load More Replies... JillVille 7 years ago
This is clearly one of those the grass looks greener in Japan but maybe we're really just pretending there's grass in the first place? I would imagine with their extremely highly populated cities, there can't be much green space available. But seeing everything in order and calm like this does feel nice.
Aunt Messy 7 years ago
There are dozens of lovely parks and gardens all over Japan. In Tokyo, there's green space within a ten minute walk anywhere in the city. The Japanese USE their parks as well. Even very little kids get to spend time outdoors when they're in school. You will frequently see little kids in play school walking along park paths holding a rope to stay together.
Load More Replies... Justin Lee 4 years ago
In asian countries, the trains have a designated stopping point and the driver does nothing
imran khan 6 years ago
My cousin live in Japan and i must say its a wonderful country and it will be my pleasure if i could visit to JAPAN n its my DREAM too.
Sandra Torres 6 years ago
I still have no desire to visit Japan or China...I'm sure they are great, beautiful countries, but no thank you.
Andree Carroll 6 years ago
Just got back from Japan on April 4th. experienced so many of these things. Oh, my gosh. Not like the USA, I felt so serene, they are a quiet culture. I too set my purse down and found it. It is very expensive. So, so lovely. I'd go back tomorrow. After living here, I like the rules. The people were so kind and helpful. The country so clean and beautiful. Of course, I was only there for 18 days.
Süleyman Sekman 7 years ago
Some River, Some Road, Some Bush, Some streets Cigarettes butts, full of unwanted rubbish. Racist, uneducated about the rest of the world,(they know some country very well )....Most of Japanese I find it nice people but nothing different than other nations. Good is good everywhere! Best things about of Japan Foods and Tools for Carpenters! Awesome.
Victor Vakaras 7 years ago
Imagine everything the exact opposite of the photos and you'll understand what it's like here in Lithuania.
Robert Rice 7 years ago
I lived in Japan for 4 years And Okinawa for 7 years,love the country,and love the people,my late wife was Japanese. Married for 46 years.
Krystine Patterson 7 years ago
Imagine how slovenly and uncivilised Australians seem when they come and visit or arrive as a student. Four years of our filth, impatience and horrible food service.
Sabal Minor 7 years ago
They still slaughter endangered whales and make a delicacy & call it research. Just last week a rare whale mother that was pregnant was killed. WTF Japan?
Paula Hannon 7 years ago
I love that they come up with things that seem small but definitely improve people's lives and keep things running smoothly. I wish Ireland was more like this.
Miloslava Kalas 7 years ago
All this is very interesting. Their lifestyle is different, everybody has to think like a group instead of like an individual ,as we do. Probably due to gross overpopulation on very small peace of geography they have to be highly organized and disciplined. It's all strong survival instinct , they had problem with living space from beganing of their existence . In past they were known for their expansiveness and aggression toward others (Korea,China,Burma....) Now it is modern , prosperous society which some envy.
Selahattin Olceroglu 7 years ago
I had seen a reincarnation test in a magazine and did it to see what would I be when I come to world again in an unknown future. The test result revealed: I will born again in Japan in the year 2225 as a baby girl and I will be a traffic police when I grow up. :) I was happy with the result, but I feel happier at the moment after reading all these news and comments. :)) Congratulations Japanese people.. All the best to you.
Vincent Jay 7 years ago
When I was in the Navy, my family and I were stationed in Yokosuka, Japan 1980-1987. Some of these items are familiar, and others I've never seen before. Thanks for the memories.
Mike Gómez A 7 years ago
Totally love if these happen in my country. It wouldn hurt anyone over here.
Aileen Grist 7 years ago
The Japanese are very honest. The opposite side to that is that they are very disciplined and do what 'authority' tells them to. My stepson - who lived in Tokyo for 10 years - said that everyone bowed etc., and was massively polite but things like spitting in the street was acceptable.
Carlo Sitaro 7 years ago
I think that despite the usual xenophobia in few cases that obviously need to work on it, and improve, it's a respectful country but like all the countries with deepest History, it needs to be studied and understood. Hi Tech is relatively surprising. The kindness and lovely manners will not surprise you once you study some non competitive martial art concepts (like the beautiful Aikido) and the core of their soul: Shintoism.
Lynne Wolfe 7 years ago
So, who's been to Japan lately? Do you all really think that Japanese mothers create this visual, pleasing, nutritious meals every day?
ispeak catanese 7 years ago
If you're in the US, like me, you are @ Mingi
Load More Replies... Mad Haberdasheress 7 years ago
There are so many things on this list that could - and possibly should - be noticed and implemented more widely for sure. Some of them are just their version of things we have in many places and appeal because of their unique take on it. All of them are interesting, for sure! I would be interested to see someone create an article like this for other countries - or even an article challenging readers to submit pictures of their favorite/most interesting or helpful thing about their country!
Full Name 7 years ago
No country seems to want to implement the best of everywhere else. Go anywhere in the world and it seems to be done "their way", which means some good, some bad. No society seems to want to take a "best of all worlds" approach and it's sad and frustrating. Government policy is at the top of the list of things born of ideology instead of following the lead of what's already been successful elsewhere.
Load More Replies... Jadon 7 years ago
Please don't use these as an excuse to continue to fetishize this country and it's culture. Their are literally people who want to be Japanese because of things like this. To me there's something strange/off putting about that not because of any cultural appropriation but because you really aren't truly being yourself. You can't find any good in your own background no matter where you're from and you're upholding the Japanese as some sort of model minority. It's just not right. Japan as all countries do has it's own issues so please don't treat it like this heaven on earth. I'd love to see similar, more positive portrayals of other countries that are demonized due to politics or other reasons like China, Haiti, Russia, much of Africa, etc
ispeak catanese 7 years ago
Absolutely agree with your ideas, but as you know this website is escapist fun. I loved seeing all the photos and gadgets as well as reading the commentary. It's nice to dream of traveling to a place so different from the US. The apathy here is exhausting. And my home island is not a place I can return to, my family is deceased and the politics and daily life are chaotic.
Load More Replies... Max 7 years ago
not just Japan... these things are there in other countries too like South Korea and more
Daria B 7 years ago
Mmmmhhhh, not suuuuuure. Many of these, maybe, but Korea is far more chaotic than Japan.
Load More Replies... Yuka Momoyo 7 years ago
What's the difference between killing whales and killing cows?
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