Japan is an intriguing land with a vibrant culture and beautiful geography, boasting many innovative ideas such as Kawaii (cute), Karaoke, Purikura and, of course, Pokemon!
Children in Japan are taught early to respect both parents and bosses, as well as to work hard and set high goals for themselves.
1. Japan is the world’s largest island nation
Japan, known as the Land of the Rising Sun, boasts an astonishing blend of ancient traditions and cutting-edge modernity. Boasting stunning landscapes and unique wildlife, Japan offers an incredible travel experience. However, what truly distinguishes this nation are its rich culture and intriguing rules; here are 30 fun Japan facts to help get to know this beautiful country better.
Japanese are widely celebrated for having one of the highest life expectancies globally, attributable to several factors including healthy diet, reduced stress levels and access to quality healthcare.
Japan is an island nation comprising four main islands – Hokkaido, Honshu (the largest), Kyushu and Shikoku as well as more than 3,500 smaller ones – giving rise to great natural diversity with snow-capped mountains contrasting against steaming hot springs.
There are also numerous beautiful temples and shrines throughout the country. Shinto religion is practiced by an estimated 80% of its population, and many will visit shrines on special occasions like New Year or their birthday to observe this religious practice.
Japan boasts an advanced public transportation system that is widely renowned for its punctuality. Indeed, Tokyo train station alone sees up to one million passengers daily!
Japan is well known for its public transportation systems as well as its high-speed bullet trains, which can reach speeds of 200 miles per hour and represent Japan’s commitment to efficiency.
Japanese culture is well known for being full of cute or funny imagery that brings smiles. This may include characters such as Hello Kitty or Pikachu, but also anything that makes people happy and cheerful.
Japan boasts one of the oldest hereditary monarchies in the world, dating back over 2,600 years to Emperor Jimmu. Today’s Emperor is his direct descendent and his birthday is observed nationally as a national holiday; nonetheless, members of Japan’s royal family rarely make public appearances or speak out publicly about any issues regarding them.
2. The number four is considered unlucky in Japan
Four is considered unlucky in Japan because its sound resembles that of “death”, si (shi). Because of this association between four and death, many Japanese avoid giving gifts that come in packages of four and scheduling important events on April 4th. People also tend to avoid using four as an addressee number and some buildings avoid including it when numbering floors.
The number nine is considered unlucky because its sound echoes suffering, or “ku.” According to superstition, saying the number nine in a sentence will bring bad luck; that’s why so many people opt to say “sine” rather than saying “nine.”
Japanese culture holds many numbers to be unlucky. Notable examples are 3, 4, 13, 15 and 13. Historically, these numbers have been associated with death or evil and remain seen as unlucky in modern Japanese society. Superstitious traditions run deep among the Japanese. This sentiment holds especially true for numbers.
One of the most infamous unlucky Japanese numbers, 49 (pronounced shi ku), is believed to be particularly unfavorable and should be avoided at all costs; even using roman numerals such as writing the number 50 can help!
Another reason to avoid 49 is its similarity to death – or more specifically pain. Saying it aloud in Japanese could come across as asking someone else to die with agony!
Many associate Japan with endless festivals, but few realize that its culture also boasts the unique fundoshi matsuri tradition. This festival involves thousands of men stripping naked in public to secure good fortune for the year ahead and is part of mono no aware philosophy which emphasizes appreciating life’s fleeting moments and appreciating these simple pleasures.
3. Japanese people are very clean
People are often amazed to learn that Japan is generally quite clean. Though large cities like Tokyo may experience trash issues from time to time, Japan generally remains very tidy overall – graffiti is uncommonly found and public areas generally maintain themselves well.
One reason is the Japanese culture’s strong emphasis on cleanliness and order, which can be seen throughout daily life in how people keep themselves and their homes clean, as well as taking great care in maintaining public spaces such as parks and streets.
Japanese culture takes great care in keeping itself clean. This can be seen through their hygiene habits such as frequent handwashing and proper gargling; indeed, children in Japan even learn special songs just for this task!
Japanese are notoriously meticulous about food safety and quality; this is especially evident when it comes to sushi preparation, with their rigorous standards for ingredients and preparation processes ensuring you can rest easy knowing any sushi you eat in Japan will be safe and delicious!
Finally, Japanese are also very careful about how they deal with their trash. One of few countries not burning its waste, they instead recycle most of it instead, contributing greatly to keeping their country so clean by greatly decreasing how much garbage is produced by each country.
Japan may still have some issues with waste, particularly in larger cities, but efforts are being taken to remedy these problems. Overall, Japan remains an exceptionally clean destination and one worth seeing!
4. Japan has vending machines
Japan boasts one of the highest concentrations of vending machines worldwide. Vending machines can be found throughout its cities and towns – no surprise considering Japan has such an abundant population density! These vending machines can be used to purchase drinks, snacks, electronics and even apparel!
These machines accept 100 yen bills, making it even easier for residents of Japan! Many people enjoy vending machines due to their quick and easy usage. Furthermore, their smaller footprint allows them to fit easily in narrow alleyways or under a staircase!
Vending machines in Japan provide both cold and hot beverages, with some even offering popular foods such as ramen. With traditional and modern flavors available in these machines, as well as specialty offerings such as Katsudon or Momiji manju (red bean-filled cakes from Hiroshima).
Japan’s vending machines can also sell cigarettes – however, you must present proof of age such as an ID or an IC type card to purchase any. This way, the government can ensure children do not access these machines!
One of the greatest Japan facts is their high life expectancies, thanks to healthy living practices such as their diet and access to quality healthcare services. They also prioritize protecting their environment – evidenced by many green spaces throughout their nation!
Japan is famed for its stunning cherry blossom trees (sakura). Each spring, Japanese people celebrate this event by gathering under them to take part in an ancient tradition known as hanami that symbolizes life’s beauty.
Transport in Japan is unparalleled. Their high-speed trains, known as Shinkansens, are punctual and reliable – a testament to both efficiency and technology!