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.
Drink Cans Have Names Written In Braille On The Top
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
There Are Baby Seats Attached To The Wall In Most Bathrooms
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...
You Can Often Find This Kind Of Toilet In Japan. Wash Your Hands And Reuse The Water For Your Next Flush
Japan's Manhole Covers Are Beautiful
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... ;)
My parents are operating a school here in The Philippines, I suggested this but the main problem is the parents.
And when we finished school and went back to boarding house we also worked an hour on various gardens in the grounds and endless amounts of crafts and cooking/baking on weekends. So thankful for it today.
Load More Replies...My parents are operating a school, I suggested this to them. But the main problem is the parents disliking the idea because they say that they are paying for their child not to be a cleaner.
Ugh, that's so bad mentality! These kids will never understand how to be humble and grateful. Thanks to their own parents. :/
Load More Replies...It also helps prevent the classist attitude many in the U.S. have about janitorial work/cleaning work in general. Sadly it's common for people to look at jobs in cleaning as "bad" jobs and the people who do this kind of work as having lower intelligence, education, etc. which is most often not the case in the slightest.
They do have janitors but they does other needed stuff the students shouldn’t and clean while they are at class
It's true that the students clean the schools, but the schools STILL have a custodian.
They do have custodians who clean other areas of the school. But the students are responsible for keeping their classroom or other parts of the school they regularly use, like the halls they walk in, clean.
I'm only on #8 and it is difficult to think that these points/pictures were just cheery-picked and that Japan is just as messed up as the rest of the world.
in 30+ years i've never seen a school in any major population center without custodial staff, sorry
Most of the time the kids do a very bad job of actually cleaning. They are kids after all. Cleaning the floor is more or less a quick sweep and a damp cloth. Lol. Most schools in Japan, especially juniors high and elementary, do have gardeners who are also janitors. Plus someone comes about once a week to properly clean the toilets (kids wipe the sinks and stock up). I've been teaching here for 8 years and have yet to see a mop and bucket, no vacuuming, no dusting etc - the desks are generally wiped down with a wet cloth (no cleaning agent or sanitizer - even they they spent all morning studying and touching god knows what and then are expected to eat at the desk). Teaching responsibility is fine, but this does very little.
Very Steiner! Our kids had four bins in the room,and the class was rostered over the term to clean the room and empty the bins. Recycle, paper, rubbish and compost. Definitely a very good thing!
This was high school too,bit just primary classes.
Load More Replies...My school did this but we were a small independent private school so they said it was to learn to be a member of the community but we couldn't afford a janitor
When in boarding school, we used to have to clean our boarding areas and sometimes the bathrooms and the rest of the areas.
Such beautiful way to teach respect and gratitude to our future generation 👏👏👏
Again, this shows how wise and honorable the Japanese people (society) are.
I agree with this one - a good idea and a good way to teach children responsibility and respect of others property.
To build a nation that understand, realizes and show true repect for others it has to start early. These children will most likely never look down on a custodian or randomly debrise - ever.
Love this idea but kids cannot do true cleaning they just need to believe that they are doing the heavy cleaning,as they get older you can add more deep cleaning,yes kids should be thankful they have a good education and want to keep their school clean.
My sister complains if her teacher asks them to take up the garbage they littered the class with. Why are the Japanese ahead of every curve??? Enough said...
"Learning How To Become More Productive Members Of Society" Sigh... Capitalism and productivism at its highest perk...
That is great because it show the kids to clean up and to keep the country clean
Newt Gingrich said some yrs back, words to the affect: 'Maybe we should have kids here clean up their school, as in Japan.' He was accused of proposing the permanent lifetime enslavement of children into harsh janitorial labor. Look, I wouldn't vote for the guy for Pres or anything, but that point by itself wasn't so crazy now was it?
We did this when we were kids, I were born in HK where as a kid we had to help to sweep the floor every day there were two kids to conduct their duties every day, name were written on the blackboard also we have to sweep the blackboard as well, another duty was to help the teach to disturbed the home works to the classmates which I love the most as if I have the authority.
This is really a good thing. Our kids are so spoilt and messy and they carry it into their adult life.
C, you can still employ janitors to do the bigger halls and toilets and security officers to keep order in the school especially recent shootings in schools in US. But more important issue here is to teach young children to respect school and teachers. Change the society which produces so many people with 'no formal education' is the most pressing issue in the US, isn't it?
I remember I had to do the cleaning after classes were over. It taught us how to clean after ourselves and how to work as a team at young age.
I like that idea i taught all 4 of my children how to clean from age 2 as I was taught. also cooking lessons
I am sure both concepts could be shared in a society with a consciousness.
Hmm. In my schools they were making children clean the floor all the time. Just because everybody do it. Ukraine.
All other pictures were great but this one smells child abuse....why learn children to become more productive? They already format everybody enough that even when they are retired they want to work and believe they will degenerate and die if they dont. Let children play and dream if you want a beter society obe day. We all need time and peace to invest our dreams during childhood. DON'T STEAL THE CHILDHOOD TO YOUR CHILDREN ANY MORE!
you obviously were playing and dreaming instead of paying attention in English class.
Load More Replies...American students lack real world knowledge, this would be a step towards correcting that short coming.
A pity the same "respect" does not extend as far as the whales and dolphins they kill every year.
Pity the same "respect" does not seem to apply to the whales and dolphins they kill every year.
Here in Switzerland kids are spoiled rotten. They don't get educated by the parents, through their garbage on the sidewalks, hit the teachers if they are brought to order, don't even try to speak correctly, don't play outdoors, are out into the wee hours of the night and so on.
I went to a secondary school that required students to clean their classrooms, as well as designated areas around the compound like the labs, basketball courts, hallways, etc.).
Every student has schedule to do chores before and after classes...and they have to wear "indoor shoes" inside the school building
We did this in Catholic school: Turpentine and linseed oil on wood floors.
The children will respect the schools more, no graffiti because the children care.
Same in here. But sometimes those students who ate the most noisy that day will be asked to stay and clean xD
I work as a cafeteria manager in a poorer American elementary school (700 K-6th graders). Among several issues that reflect just how indulged our American school children (in general) are, you should see the cafeteria on an average day during & following lunch - it commonly resembles a food fight, in spite a the few (ineffectual) cafeteria monitors on duty. When asked why they do not pick up after themselves, some have arrogantly replied, "That's what you're here for". Most custodians ARE hired to do the cleaning, but is that an excuse for this sort of very common American behavior? Who appreciates someone making your already difficult (& low-paying) job harder & unpleasant, while treating you like they're doing you a favor?
Can you imagine if we asked our teens to do this? All hell would break loose
I STILL wonder why the United States doesn't do this. Tsk, tsk... :/
Japanese schools have a janitor at each school. Their job is the maintenance of the buildings not cleaning.
This is so nice and thoughtful, but it isn’t necessary since children already do chores and another work.
Many many families do not require their children to do any chores.
Load More Replies...The Note In Japanese Says, "I Accidentally Knocked Over Your Bike And Broke The Bell. I Am Very Sorry"
This Is How Smooth The Bullet Train Is In Japan
I love their bullet trains! You'll barely feel it's already moving...
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?
Commuters In Tokyo Pushed A Train Car To Save A Woman Who Fell And Got Stuck Between The Car And The Platform
Koi Fishes Even Live In Drainage Channels In Japan
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
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 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!
Another Great Japanese Invention: Umbrella Lockers. So You Don't Have To Carry Them Around Inside A Building And Nobody Takes Yours 'Accidentally'
This Toilet In Japan Has A System Of Occupied/Vacant Toilets Information
Expectations Meet Reality In Japan
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
This Shopping Center In Japan Has Free Refrigerated Lockers For Your Perishables So You Can Keep Shopping After You Get Your Groceries
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.
Japanese Being Japanese
This Smartphone Wiper Dispenser In Japan
In Japan, Even The Deer Are Polite
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..
Japanese Airport Staff Sorted Luggages On The Belt By Their Colour
This Bedside Lamp At My Hotel In Japan Can Be Half Lit
Ordered This From Japan And It Came With A Little Note And Origami Crane
Children's Seat On The Fujikyu Railway Line In Japan
Toreiyu Tsubasa Train In Japan Is Equipped With Footbaths So You Can Enjoy A Relaxing Trip
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!
Almost Everyone In Japan Reverse Parks
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
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 : )
Restaurants In Japan Display Fake Food That Looks Just Like The Real One From The Menu
Japanese ATM's Have Cane Holders Due To The Aging Population
There Are Over 300 Scramble Intersections In Japan Where You Can Cross A Street Diagonally
At Some Tourist Spots In Japan There Are Stands To Hold Your Smartphone So You Can Take Good Selfies
Japanese Hotel Apologies For One Minute Internet Stoppage At 4am
The Elevators In My Office Building Have An Umbrella Sign That Lights Up If It's Raining Outside (Osaka, Japan)
This Hospital In Japan Offers Glasses With Different Prescriptions For Filling Out Forms
This Japanese Taxi Has A Button To Request Slower Speeds
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
A Vending Machine Selling Farm Fresh Eggs In Japan
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
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
In Japan They Sell Square Watermelons To Fit Better In The Refrigerator
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!
This Urinal In Japan Is A Video Game You Play With Your Pee
Only In Japan Would Someone Leave These Out While They Sleep
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.
This Japanese Handrail Bends With The Steps
I don't think this would be safer or easier to use than the straight handrail.
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...Why do so many commenters find it impossible to compliment one society without putting down another? Enjoy Japan for what it is. They have some wonderful cultural attributes, and they have their problems. Just like every other place in the world. It really is possible to appreciate their culture without putting other ones down.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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...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.
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...In asian countries, the trains have a designated stopping point and the driver does nothing
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.
I still have no desire to visit Japan or China...I'm sure they are great, beautiful countries, but no thank you.
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.
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.
Imagine everything the exact opposite of the photos and you'll understand what it's like here in Lithuania.
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.
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.
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?
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.
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.
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.
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.
Totally love if these happen in my country. It wouldn hurt anyone over here.
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.
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.
So, who's been to Japan lately? Do you all really think that Japanese mothers create this visual, pleasing, nutritious meals every day?
If you're in the US, like me, you are @ Mingi
Load More Replies...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!
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...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
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...not just Japan... these things are there in other countries too like South Korea and more
Mmmmhhhh, not suuuuuure. Many of these, maybe, but Korea is far more chaotic than Japan.
Load More Replies...What's the difference between killing whales and killing cows?
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...Why do so many commenters find it impossible to compliment one society without putting down another? Enjoy Japan for what it is. They have some wonderful cultural attributes, and they have their problems. Just like every other place in the world. It really is possible to appreciate their culture without putting other ones down.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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...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.
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...In asian countries, the trains have a designated stopping point and the driver does nothing
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.
I still have no desire to visit Japan or China...I'm sure they are great, beautiful countries, but no thank you.
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.
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.
Imagine everything the exact opposite of the photos and you'll understand what it's like here in Lithuania.
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.
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.
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?
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.
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.
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.
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.
Totally love if these happen in my country. It wouldn hurt anyone over here.
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.
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.
So, who's been to Japan lately? Do you all really think that Japanese mothers create this visual, pleasing, nutritious meals every day?
If you're in the US, like me, you are @ Mingi
Load More Replies...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!
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...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
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...not just Japan... these things are there in other countries too like South Korea and more
Mmmmhhhh, not suuuuuure. Many of these, maybe, but Korea is far more chaotic than Japan.
Load More Replies...What's the difference between killing whales and killing cows?
Load More Replies...