45 Japanese Life Rules That Are Hard for Foreigners to Understand

These Customs Might Seem Kind of Strange

The lifestyle in different parts of the world is a result of centuries of local cultures. And visiting a new part of the world exposes one to a new lifestyle. Some are difficult, while others are interesting. Japan is known for its deep roots in culture and its high regard for privacy and respect. It has shaped most of the lifestyle that is unique to the country. Here are some that might be difficult for foreigners.

Japanese Don’t Invite Friends to Their Home

Traveling across the waters to see a dear friend is such a big deal in any part of the world. And the hospitality shown by this host friend shows appreciation. But an invitation to the friend’s family home might not be a part of this hospitality.

Japanese Don’t Invite Friends to Their Home

Privacy is held in high regard in Japan, and most Japanese would prefer to go out to the bar or dinner with friends. A foreigner should not be offended if they do not receive an invitation to visit their friend’s home.

Don’t Honk in Traffic

Metropolitan cities are common in developed countries. And these big cities come with their troubles. An example is the frequent traffic jam one encounters on the way to or back from work. And Japan is no exception.

Don’t Honk in Traffic

But one thing that is not allowed here in Japan is honking in traffic. While in other parts of the world, it is seen as standard, it is believed to be a rude gesture to honk at another car in traffic. Patience is taught at its best here. Lovely!

“I Humbly Receive”

Manners are held in high regard in Japan. And the small things can make such a big difference. One such occasion is before a meal. One should respectfully receive a meal from a host or friend. How is this done?

“I Humbly Receive”

The common thing to say is “Itadakimasu.” This roughly translates to “I humbly receive.” This is seen as cultural and not religious, so everyone expects it. Hands held together in a prayer form is common when saying this phrase.

Vegetarian and Japanese Cuisines

The Japanese culture is one with a vast number of cuisines and delicacies. There are various types of food, and it is one aspect of the lifestyle that tourists or foreign friends look forward to whenever they want to visit. But there is one constant in the dishes.

Vegetarian and Japanese Cuisines

It is almost impossible for one to have a complete meal in Japan without eating any animal product. Even simple, fast foods contain some meat or meat sauce in it. This might pose a challenge for a vegetarian.

Designated Persons Who Push Others Into Crowded Subway Cars

During rush hours in Japan, subway cars are usually so crowded. With everyone that trying to get in and not miss the last train home or to work, it most times becomes almost impossible for the car doors to close.

Designated Persons Who Push Others Into Crowded Subway Cars

In Japan, there are people called “oshiya” or “pushers.” They wear uniforms, white gloves, hats, and face masks. They are designated to push other people into crowded subway cars during these rush hours. They are employed to make sure everybody gets in and doesn’t get caught in the doors.

No Help With Others Work

Helping others is a welcoming gesture in any part of the world. It brings people together and helps them achieve goals faster. But can one get in trouble for helping? While the answer might be no in other parts of the world, in Japan, it is a definite yes.

No Help With Others Work

One would assume helping others with their work is a way to make life easier for all. But in Japan, it is perceived as wanting someone’s job when you help them do it. This comes into play, especially at the office. Be friendly but also be careful.

A World With No Trash Can

The use of a trash can is essential in big cities to keep them clean and tidy. But a trash can is something you would not find in Japan. This is because of a sad past in the country.

A World With No Trash Can

Many just drop dirt indiscriminately in piles. And they are removed later by workers. The best approach for a foreigner is to take any trash home to dispose of it properly. Finding a trash can in Japan is challenging, to say the least.

Handshake or a Simple Bow

Bowing is regarded as a respectful way of greeting across many Asian countries, including Japan. And it is used extensively, even in the workplace. A foreigner coming from a country where a handshake is the form of greeting might find himself in a confusing situation.

Handshake or a Simple Bow

One might want to shake and bow at the same time to show cordial respect. But only one of these greeting types is necessary. Doing both is confusing and might project something other than respect for the recipient. Confusing right?

Women Are Paid Less by Default

The system payment in Japan is not balanced. Though not a formal rule or constitution, but women are paid less than men for doing the same work. While this is mainly unacceptable in many parts of the world, it is seen as usual in Japan.

Women Are Paid Less by Default

But the opposite occurs in marriage. A married woman in Japanese culture is in charge of the spendings at home. In fact, husbands their wives their salaries in the Japanese home.

To the Bar With the Boss

Most companies in Japan treat their employees as family. And they do many things together. It is in a bid to grow the interpersonal relationship in the company. One of the many things done together is going bar-hopping with the boss.

To the Bar With the Boss

A foreigner in the country might find himself in a difficult situation because of the tradition associated with this. While it is not a rule, bar-hopping is seen as necessary. And any employee that does not join this group may be seen as problematic

Stabbing Foods With Chopsticks

Japan, like many Asian countries, has its complexities in the varieties that exist in cuisine and dishes. And the chopsticks are used to enjoy most of these delicacies. But some meals are more challenging to enjoy than others.

Stabbing Food With Chopsticks

When finding it difficult to pick something up from the plate, it is tempting to stab the food with chopsticks. This makes it easier to lift and eat. But this is offensive in Japan and frowned upon. With time, one would master the use of chopsticks.

No Extra Pay for an Extra Hour

Japan is a country with an excellent level of output in production. This often requires that workers have to work before the official hours now and then. But foreigners might find it hard to understand a policy in the country.

No Extra Pay for an Extra Hour

The simple truth is workers are not paid for working extra hours in Japan. So if a worker can fit their schedule into the official hours, good. Any additional time is not rewarded. Hard right?

Respect for Meshi or Business Card

The use of business cards is common and extensive in any part of Japan. A foreigner would receive a card when meeting a business partner for the first time. But there are some essential points to keep one from trouble.

Respect for Meshi or Business Card

The business card, also called Meshi in Japan, is seen as a representative of one’s business. So the business card is respectfully collected with both hands and a small bow. It is gently kept in the pocket. Anything different is found offensive and disrespectful.

You Do Not Point Directions in Japan

Japan is a country that is more developed than most, and it is not hard to find oneself in a difficult situation, especially with finding the way around the big cities. But pointing directions is dangerous in Japan.

You Do Not Point Direction in Japan

Pointing in a particular direction is seen as a threat, according to the custom. For someone new in the country asking for guidance, it is advised to direct such person with the whole hand or use words. Show the way, but never point the way.

The Nearest to the Elevator Door

The use of an elevator presents a unique situation in Japan. And this may present a problem for someone new in the country. There are some basic tips to save one from trouble when using the elevator.

The Nearest to the Elevator Door

The person closest to the door operates the elevator in Japan. He helps others to press their floor button. Especially if they are behind someone, they are also the last to get out when they reach their floor.

When Using Mobile Phones

Privacy is treated with the utmost respect in Japan. And this includes conversations on mobile phones. When receiving a call in public, it is expected to maintain a level of privacy.

When Using Mobile Phones

When receiving calls, one should speak in a calm and low voice. Also, calls should not be received with loudspeakers. Such acts are frowned upon by passerby. So one need to keep soft and quiet to keep the conservation private.

Special Slippers for the Restroom

In Japan, it is common to always find a special set of slippers in front of the restroom either when visiting someone’s home or at a restaurant. It is expected for one to use the provided slippers only while in the restroom and return them exactly to its original position for the next person.

Special Slippers for the Restroom

Forgetting to return these special restroom slippers to its original position is frowned at and can be pretty embarrassing if one walks around outside the restroom.

Sieza Sitting Type

The Sieza sitting position is very common in Japan. This position requires one to sit on their legs. This is a position of sitting needed for many ceremonies and rituals. And this requirement presents a challenge for foreigners.

Sieza Sitting Type

Seiza requires a level of flexibility to master. However, the option of crossing one’s legs in front is also available. Both are not easy to execute. And this makes it difficult for foreigners to participate in ceremonies properly.

The Automatic Taxi Doors

The use of taxis to arrive at one destination is a common concept anywhere in the world. Though Japan is no exception, there are some points to note by a new foreigner in the country.

The Automatic Taxi Doors

Most taxis have automatic doors that open and close at will. A foreigner, especially one in a hurry, might find it necessary to open or close the door manually. This is considered offensive based on the Japanese custom. So it is in the best interest of all to allow for the door to be opened automatically.

Avoiding Keigo

Keigo is a type of speech in the Japanese language that is polite and respectful. Though it is hard to master this form of speech, it is taught in language schools to foreigners. But Keigo presents two problems.

Avoiding Keigo

One, this form of speech is difficult to master, so most people tend to avoid using it when necessary; this is seen as offensive. And two, the polite nature of Keigo might compel one to use it more often. Using it when it is not necessary is also offensive and confusing.

Waiting for Karaoke Turns

Karaoke is a form of entertainment among friends around the world. And it can be fun when many people participate in this fun. But a foreigner needs to be careful when having this fun.

Waiting for Karaoke Turns

People select their different songs during karaoke games and sing as best as they can. But joining the karaoke before our turn might seem offensive. One should allow the person to sing without interruption. Then we participate joyfully when it’s our turn.

Abstinence from Using the Number 4

The number “four” is avoided at all costs in Japan because it sounds almost the same as the word for death. The number “four” is thought to be an unlucky number just as the number “thirteen” is in the western culture. Giving other people anything in fours is always avoided as it can be viewed as a bad omen.

Abstinence from Using the Number 4

In Japan, it is not uncommon to find many elevator labels not having a fourth floor, as well as floors 40 to 49 in extreme cases. The practice of avoiding the number “four” is called “Tetraphobia.”

Blowing One’s Nose in Public Is Offensive

Blowing one’s nose in public is offensive in Japan. It is seen as disgusting if someone blows his/her nose, spits, or performs any kind of mucus-producing bodily action in public. If an individual must perform any of these actions, then he/she must find a way to prevent others from becoming observers.

Blowing One’s Nose in Public Is Offensive

For this reason, it is not strange to find people sniffing until they get to somewhere private. If an individual must blow his/her nose, then it must be done with the utmost discretion.

Never Go Into a Place With a Dripping Umbrella

Sometimes during the rainy season in Japan, the weather becomes quite unpredictable, which is why many always go around with their umbrella.

Never Go Into a Place With a Dripping Umbrella

But when it eventually rains, it is seen as rude to enter any venue with a dripping umbrella. For this reason, special boxes are placed outside each venue for keeping dripping umbrellas. Umbrellas kept in those boxes are never stolen, if an umbrella is taken accidentally by someone else, it would most likely be returned to that same box the next day.

Repeating a Piece of Clothing

It is not strange to see an array of clothes drying outside on a line in Japan very early in the morning. It is a custom for laundry to be done every day in a Japanese household. This is because it is considered inappropriate to wear a piece of clothing twice without washing it.

Repeating a Piece of Clothing

It is not out of place sometimes to hear others describe the people of Japan as perfectionists, and this is because they are very conscious about keeping themselves and their surroundings clean.

Bathing Dirty Is Wrong

Having one’s bath after a day’s work is so refreshing, and it is an excellent way to get the dirt off your beautiful skin. But things are done a little bit differently in Japan. And this might be difficult for a foreigner.

Bathing Dirty Is Wrong

It is expected that one should have a shower first to remove body dirt and clean the body totally before entering the bathtub. Not even soap should be on the body when bathing. Bathing is more of a water relaxation in Japan. Cool!

No Dancing in Night Clubs

Strange right! Dancing is not allowed in the majority of the nightclubs in Japan. In fact, most night clubs put up the disclaimer “Please, No dancing” and one could get kicked out for dancing in these nightclubs.

No Dancing in Night Clubs

According to a law passed in 1984 dancing licenses can only be obtained by clubs with a floor space more than 710 square ft. And because real estate prices in Japan can be overwhelming, finding a space with that much floor space and be expensive and difficult to come by.

Valentine’s Day in Japan Is Different

Valentine’s day in Japan is split into two, unlike what is known in western culture. Gifts are given on two occasions, the first on the 14th of February and the second on the 14th of March.

Valentine’s Day in Japan Is Different

Only women give gifts on the first occasion and during the second occasion, only men give gifts. These gifts given by men on the second occasion to women will be the equivalent of the worth of gifts given by the women on the first occasion. Women are commonly known to gift chocolates to anyone of the opposite sex they like.

Sleeping On a Stranger’s Shoulder

It is a common practice in Japan for an individual to sleep on a stranger’s shoulder while on a train. Due to the number of long hours people spend working and the long distance they commute each day, it is common for many to fall asleep on the train as they are usually exhausted.

Sleeping On a Stranger’s Shoulder

Hence there’s a practice to tolerate people when they fall asleep on other people’s shoulders while on the train.

A Gift Must Be Given to a Host

When someone invites others to their home, it is expected for the guest to come along with a gift for the host. This gift is expected to be packaged in a fancy manner.

A Gift Must Be Given to a Host

When a gift is given by a guest, it is also considered rude to reject such gifts. Although in Japan, it is a common practice for the gift receiver to object to accepting a gift initially. This rule doesn’t apply to those who are hosting others in their homes alone. The moment one is offered a gift, it is expected for them to accept the gift.

Slurping Noodles Shows You Enjoy the Meal

Contrary to what you’d find in certain western cultures, slurping noodles in Japan is considered polite. Interestingly, if an individual eats without making a slurpy sound, it can be taken as the individual isn’t enjoying the meal.

Slurping Noodles Shows You Enjoy the Meal

The Japanese people usually serve their noodles and soups steaming hot which could burn the tongue, so slurping isn’t just being polite but also helps to cool down the meal. But in Japan, unlike some other Asian countries, it is totally unacceptable to belch while at the table.

Sleeping in Hotels With Rooms the Size of a Coffin

Capsule hotels are common in Japan and they have been around since the 1970s. They are used by people who missed the last train home or businessmen who just need a space to pass the night.

Sleeping in Hotels With Rooms the Size of a Coffin

The sleeping quarters are really small, about the size of a coffin but apparently, people don’t care about this as these hotels are cheap when compared with conventional hotels as a bed costs only $65 per night.

Cleaning Your Face With Oshibori

In most Japanese restaurants, customers are provided with a moist towel or piece of cloth called “Oshibori.” These towels are used to clean one’s hands before preying on a meal and kept on a corner of the table.

Cleaning Your Face With Oshibori

It is considered inappropriate, sometimes even rude for someone to use them to clean his/her face or to even use them while eating as a napkin.

Avoid Eating While Walking

In western cultures, it is not so uncommon to find people eating while they are walking. Doing this in Japan is entirely frowned upon. Eating while on a local train or bus is acceptable, but on long-distance express trains, is extremely frowned upon.

Avoid Eating While Walking

However, there are a few exceptions to this rule as eating an Ice-cream on the streets of Japan is not considered rude or sloppy. It is also not considered impolite to drink while standing beside a vending machine.

Tipping Is Considered Rude

Giving a tip in Japan can be considered not just rude, but also degrading. Japanese culture is deeply rooted in dignity, respect, and hard work. Therefore, is not strange to find someone running after another individual just to return a tip that was given.

Tipping Is Considered Rude

But what if an individual has been so helpful or has offered a service that surpassed expectation to the point where it feels compelling to give a tip? Rather than tip someone who has been very helpful, giving a small present is more acceptable.

Leaving Work Before the Boss

Working as a foreigner in many Japanese companies presents its level of difficulties. And many workers can find themselves in unwanted trouble if not careful. One is the issue of leaving work before the boss.

Leaving Work Before The Boss

One might have finished their required part for the day and thereby ready to head home. But it is seen as problematic in the Japanese culture to leave the workplace before the boss. So sit tight and relax till the boss is done for the day.

Use of Phones in Public

Japanese culture is focused on the group, unlike the western culture which is focused on individualism. Therefore, doing anything that would draw attention to oneself in Japan is frowned against.

Use of Phone in Public

So, when in public areas like trains, buses, even in any public indoor space. It is considered inappropriate to have conversations, most especially “loud” conversations that are private on a mobile phone when others are around. Many would suspend those long, private phone conversations till they get somewhere a little more private.

Headlights at Intersections

Intersections in the countryside across different sides of the world are common. But in Japan, foreigners might need to remember a key point when driving around the country.

Headlights at Intersections

When arriving at an intersection, it is expected to turn off the headlight to help the other road users facing one from the opposite direction. Most people forget to do this and sometimes pose a threat to the life of road users.

Pouring of One’s Drink

It is a common practice among westerners to serve other people’s drinks before serving oneself at a dinner party. In Japan, it is seen as rude for an individual to pour his/her drink.

Pouring of One’s Drink

The custom in Japan is for one to fill other people’s cups except their own, then someone else would do the same for that individual. And then, everyone must wait for someone to say “kanpai” which means cheers before they can drink up.

The Soup in the Bowl

Soups are a common part of the Japanese meal. And sometimes, after enjoying the different foods, one is still left with a big bowl of soup. A foreigner might simply assume that the use of a spoon would come in handy in this situation. That is no!

The Soup in the Bowl

The right thing to do in this scenario is to lift the bowl to the head level and drink the soup directly from the bowl. This is appreciated as part of the Japanese culture as opposed to drinking with a spoon. Supper bowl!

Bowing as a Sign of Respect

Almost everyone knows that people in Japan bow in almost every situation. what many do not know is there are different types of bows for different categories of persons and bowing just anyhow can also pass as a form of disrespect.

Bowing as a Sign of Respect

For example, in an informal setting or when meeting a friend, a quick slight 15 degrees bow will suffice; when in a formal setting, like when greeting a superior at work, anything other than a slow 30 degrees bow might be seen as a form of disrespect.

Avoid Physical Touches

Physical touches such as a tap on the shoulder joint among strangers or hugs and kisses among close friends and families are part of the day to day life routine worldwide. But not in Japan.

Avoid Physical Touches

This is another one of the customs of this land that a foreigner might find difficult. Physical touches among strangers, friends, and even lovers are not allowed as part of the Japanese lifestyle. So talk but do not touch.

Unnecessary Use of Chopsticks

Chopsticks are used now and then by the Japanese. But the reality is that people try to avoid using them for anything other than eating. Since they are commonly used for eating, it is considered that they might carry saliva residuals. Hence, chopsticks are not used to point at things or even waved over food.

Unnecessary Use of Chopsticks

In Japan, chopsticks are also viewed as a cultural piece that should be treated with respect. playing with it or using it unnecessarily can easily be considered disrespectful.

The Use of Direct Speech

Discussions among friends or colleagues often to a topic that one might find sensitive or uncomfortable. In other parts of the world, the usual approach in this situation is to tackle it head-on or totally remove oneself from the conversation.

The Use of Direct Speech

But in Japan, the approach is quite different. Japanese generally tend to use indirect speech in this situation to avoid confrontation. A foreigner might find it difficult to use this approach. Hints are dropped in a masked speech to reveal one’s feeling as regards the matter.

Christmas Holiday Is for Lovers

In Japan, Christmas is not a traditional holiday. Christmas in Japan is just like Valentine’s Day in western culture. Christmas eve is seen as a romantic day for couples and lovers to spend time together. On December 24th, it is expected for one to take one’s date out to a fancy restaurant or engage in some form of romantic couple activity.

Christmas Holiday Is for Lovers

Unlike what is popularly known, gifts are rarely exchanged among family members in Japan on Christmas day unless it was prearranged. what is common is for lovers to prepare and exchange romantic gifts.

40+ Startling Photos From Japan the Locals Wouldn’t Even Notice

Startling Photos From Japan the Locals Wouldn’t Even Notice

Japan is known for being a safe, polite, and conservative island nation that introduced the world to sushi, sumo, and green tea. There is also a slew of bizarre and, at times, unbelievable rumors about Japan. Some are true, such as Japanese people wearing surgical masks or slurping their noodles, while others, such as Japanese police officers walking around with ninja swords, are myths. Japan is a high-tech country where comfort and convenience are highly valued. Smart toilets, fast trains, vending machines are just a few of the things that come to mind when we think of Japan. But it appears that the Japanese have no limit to their inventiveness, and they continue to astound the world with their inventions.

Love for Pets

Presently, the lifestyle experienced by this citizen and her beloved puppy is maintained by 18.3% of families in Japan, as per data published by the Japan Pet Food Association (JPFA).

Love for Pets

Also, as the mean lifespan of Japan’s inhabitants has long been gradually growing, so too has the number of domestic dogs and cats as pets have grown to play a greater role in many individuals’ lifestyles, and a much more animal-friendly society has evolved nationally.

Photographs in Beautiful Parks

Although there were many other flowering sakura trees in the park, cameras encircled this one. This was most likely the greatest. Cherry blossoms are the flowers of numerous Prunus. Sakura and Japanese cherries are other names for them.

Photographs in Beautiful Parks

They usually refer to beautiful cherry trees rather than cherry trees that bear edible fruit. It is regarded as Japan’s official blossom. Cherry tropical forests are primarily found in the Northern Hemisphere.

Small Pizza for Sumo Fighters

“The larger they grow, the more they drop,” goes the ancient adage. That is if you can get them to fall over. In sumo, the aim is to topple your adversary, and the larger the adversary, the more challenging it is to knock him or her to the ground.

Small Pizza for Sumo Fighters

Sumo wrestlers, called rikishi, consider it a mission to build muscle for tournaments since stature and power are essential aspects of the game. However, the pizza found in this restaurant was smaller in size than the normal one.

Funny Fashion in Japan

Traditionally, conventional Japanese style has been equally striking, odd, and imaginative as some of the most bizarre fringe style fads and forms in the United States and other nations. Japanese clothing is distinct in that it is marked by vibrant colors, a lot of cosmetics, and a sense of purity.

Funny Fashion in Japan

Those are some strange outfits. Japan is a small nation with a long history of technological innovation, which stems from maintaining many people with few resources. When you mix this with one of the biggest economies and a societal fixation with innovation, you get things like, well, toe-only socks and, hmm, wind trousers.

The Waste Incinerator

Take a look at the picture. Can you figure out what it’s for? This facility, which has superb modern architecture, serves as a garbage disposal facility.

The Waste Incinerator

It’s the best way to keep the Japanese capital pristine, which is recognized as one of the world’s most important cities as well as a leader in environmental preservation. In the central section of Tokyo, there are 19 incinerator facilities.

Two-Step-Wide Houses

The owner lives with a cat in residence. The primary living area is on the second story, where a countertop doubles as a dining room table. It also serves as a landing for a stairway that leads to patios on the upper level and the rooftop.

Two-Step-Wide Houses

There is also a mezzanine room, a washroom, and a bathroom above the sitting room. There is a bedroom and a reading room on the lower level, while the bottom floor serves as a storage place.

What’s on Top of a Building?

Tokyu Plaza Kamata is a recreational park on the seventh level of the Kamata railway station’s business complex. The area has a bouncy castle, open-air seats, and, obviously, the iconic wheel, which spins in a spectrum of pink, yellow, teal, and purple colors.

What’s on Top of a Building?

The engineering company ‘Shinjuku Gardens’ wants to build a two-story car park to create a quality open parking lot with a protected ‘green-wall-gallery’ that would hold an extra 83 parking spots.

Smile Training Gadgets

With the Buruburu Smile Face Lifting Training, the universe of Japanese cosmetic devices has just become stronger and bigger.

Smile Training Gadgets

Pull-on the heart to start vibrating on the “lips” using this anti-aging gadget in your mouth. The “Buru Buru” (movement) will assist in training and strengthening the muscles in your lips and cheeks, activating them and restoring your youthful appearance. Three times a day is suggested.

Add More Hair By Drawing

Putting in your forehead is similar to lining in your eyebrows in that it requires the same amount of effort. It functions as a framing for your face, giving it a more balanced appearance.

Add More Hair By Drawing

All you need is a cosmetic brush for mixing and a matte foundation that resembles your hair naturally if you want to try it out without spending a lot of money on a new product—but tread carefully.

That Ramen Feels

Ramen is a noodle soup dish initially introduced from China and has since become one of Japan’s most popular foods. Ramen is both affordable and readily available, making it an excellent choice for budget visitors.

That Ramen Feels

Ramen restaurants, also known as ramen-ya, may be found in almost every part of the country, serving various regional variants on the popular noodle dish.

Japanese Manholes

You can discover adapted sewer vent covers, every more excellent and multifaceted than the following. Pretty much anyplace in the country, you can find adapted sewer vent covers. For as long as quite a while, photographic artists have gone around Japan capturing imaginative sewer vent covers.

Japanese Manholes

Considering a couple of configuration challenges and resulting distributions, the sewer vent furor took off, and regions were before long rivaling each other to see who could concoct the best plans. As indicated by the Japan Society of Manhole Covers (indeed, that is a thing), today there are just about 6000 creative sewer vent covers all over Japan.

Getting Pictures on Your Macchiato

The Iced Japanese Macchiato (named as such at Roy Street since this beverage was brought into the world in Japan) is set up with whole cold milk.

Getting Pictures on Your Macchiato

It is daintily improved nonfat milk that has been cold frothed with a submersion blender, and afterward, shaken shots of coffee are poured over the highest point of the two kinds of milk.

About These Men

An American living in Japan took this photo. These two had approached the vehicle at a red light. It was not cold outside. The driver promptly thought about that robot chicken sketch where the mother got her child a pink force officers outfit for Halloween, and afterward, the child wound up messing around with the child who was harassing him.

About These Men

Those areolas are excessively close. They were pretty entirely round as well. We genuinely don’t think they were genuine. This makes this, to a greater degree, a “What the Hell Japan” kind of a post.

Kawaiis For Business

Kawaii is the way of life of adorableness in Japan. It can allude to people and non-people who are beguiling, defenseless, timid, and untainted. Models incorporate lovely penmanship, certain classifications of manga, and characters, including Hello Kitty and Pikachu.

Kawaiis For Business

The charm culture, or kawaii stylish, has become a prominent part of Japanese mainstream society, amusement, garments, food, toys, unique appearance, and quirks. Albeit regularly a female-ruled style, a few men participate in the kawaii pattern.

Halloween in Japan

The allure of Halloween in Japan lies in two things: corporate greed and ensembles. Numerous lovers of “cosplay” (outfit play) consider sprucing up to be exceptionally engaging, and this is a particularly famous mentality among those in Harajuku and the otaku (nerds) swarm by and large.

Halloween in Japan

Thinking about this, this implies that Halloween winds up being, for the most part, for grown-ups who need to spruce up. Ensemble parties become places to find liquor and so forth around late October.

This Bathroom in Japan

Truly the most delightful latrines one could at any point have been in! Also, the standard Japanese highlights of warmed latrine seats, full bidet work and discretionary hurrying water sounds at the press of a catch to mask any humiliating commotions! This person visited a washroom in a recreational area in Japan a week ago, and that restroom was cleaner than their office restroom in the U.S.

This Bathroom in Japan

The way of life there appears to put genuine worth on keeping things spotless and usable for everybody. They can have decent things, since individuals adhere to the guidelines and comprehend that screwing something locally up ruins it for them, as well.

Zao Fox Village

It is a spot in the mountains, close to the town of Shiroishi in the Miyagi prefecture in Japan, where you can experience many foxes together.

Zao Fox Village

They consider it an asylum for foxes and the fundamental part within the town is a sort of outdoors fox protect where foxes wander unreservedly outside and where you can enter! The extra charge is 1000 yen for each individual and for an additional 100 yen you can purchase a little pack of fox food to take care of them inside.

The Shop Sign

This person snapped their photo with the one who runs the spot around 8 years prior. Gone through about an hour in his studio talking, and it was effectively the feature of their excursion to Kyoto. Several his prints. Happy to realize he’s actually going.

The Shop Sign

Inverse the principle (south) access to Kennin-ji Temple, the main zen sanctuary in Kyoto. Kennin-ji is a Buddhist sanctuary having a place with the Zen faction. Established in 1202, the establishing minister was Yōsai, who is popular for acquainting Japan with the Zen organization as well as to the practice of drinking tea.

Octopus Balls

Takoyaki was first popularized in Osaka, where it was invented in 1935 by a street vendor named Tomekichi Endo. Takoyaki was inspired by kushiyaki, a small round dumpling made of an egg-rich batter and octopus from the city of Akashi in Hygo Prefecture. A takoyaki pan is typically a cast iron skillet with hemispherical molds.

Octopus Balls

The takoyaki are evenly heated by the heavy iron, which is turned with a pick during the heating process to pull the uncooked batter to the bottom of the rounded cavity. At Japanese festivals or by street vendors, commercial gas-powered takoyaki cookers are used.

Handling Garbage

You might want to reconsider throwing out that garbage. Garbage may appear to be something obvious that you toss into a trash can, but when you see a line of receptacles all with different purposes, you realize the Japanese have mastered the art of waste elimination.

Handling Garbage

Garbage separation is so complicated that each town provides each household with a specific guidebook for clarification. Garbage is separated into two categories: burnable and unburnable. Burnable items include leftover foods, toys, diapers, clothing, and so on, whereas non-burnable items include houseware, batteries, plastic products, etc.

Face Masks Culture

Surgical masks are as common in every Japanese person’s arsenal as mints and tissues. Face masks are rarely seen outside of a hospital or on television during a deadly virus outbreak drama in most countries, but they are sold and worn everywhere in Japan.

Face Masks Culture

Face mask packs are available in pharmacies, supermarkets, convenience stores, and vending machines. There are several other reasons why Japanese people enjoy wearing masks. In the winter, most Japanese people wear face masks while commuting on trains and even in the office to avoid catching others’ colds or spreading their own.

Manga is for All Age Group

No matter their age, Japanese people buy, consume, and enjoy manga or Japanese comics. In North America, you’ll see a lot of teenagers or kids reading superhero comics on the bus or during their lunch breaks, but you’ll be hard-pressed to find an adult reading a Spiderman adventure.

Manga is for All Age Group

However, in Japan, children and teenagers, and men and women of all ages can be seen reading their favorite comic books on trains, cafes, and even standing outside bookstores and convenience stores. Japanese manga, like video games and movies, provides an escape from everyday life for Japanese people.

Pachinko Parlors

Although gambling is illegal in the country, pachinko or slot machine centers are common. Pachinko parlors are large, loud, and usually smoky, but they are always packed with Japanese men and women hoping to strike it rich.

Pachinko Parlors

The machines shoot tiny pinball-like balls with a variety of levers, obstacles, and cups. Pachinko parlors are similar to slot machine casinos, but the payout is in the form of silver balls. The parlor then exchanges these payouts for plastic coins.

Morning Exercises at Work

Japanese companies believe that starting the day with physical stimulation makes workers more productive and efficient. Many companies begin the day with a morning meeting and an exercise routine that includes stretching, bending, and squatting to improve the health of their employees and increase job productivity.

Morning Exercises at Work

The exercise is usually set to the tune Rajio Taiso, which translates to “radio exercise.” This exercise routine was developed and used for soldiers during World War II, but it is now used in various schools, gyms, workplaces, and hospitals.

Take your Shoes Off

From a young age, everyone in Japan learns that places where “shoes on” and “shoes off” are severely enforced. The most noticeable location in Japanese residences, which is due to their cleanliness. Shoes were removed before entering a dwelling in ancient times when roads were not paved to avoid mud and dirt from entering the home.

Take your Shoes Off

The floors were also made of tatami, a Japanese mat type flooring that is rather sensitive. Thus shoes were removed to avoid damage. Japanese people eat on the floor and sleep on futons on the floor, so keeping these locations clean is natural.

Bullet Trains

In Tokyo, a stylish and attractive bullet train. These trains are thrilling to travel and may reach speeds of hundreds of mph. The Shinkansen bullet trains are the most economical and easy method to travel through Japan.

Bullet Trains

The Japan Rail (JR) system is large, and trains can travel at speeds of up to 320 km/h (199 mph). This permits you to get where you need to go in a short amount of time. The nine Shinkansen trains go around Japan in opposite places.

Arashiyama Bamboo Forest

This grove is very popular in Kyoto. Probably the most popular attractions for a good reason: standing among these towering stalks of bamboo feels like you’re in another world.

Arashiyama Bamboo Forest

If you’ve been thinking about visiting Kyoto, you’ve probably seen photos of the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, along with the torii tunnels of Fushimi-Inari-Taisha Shrine and Kinkaku-ji Temple, is one of the city’s most photographed attractions. But no photograph can capture the sensation standing in the middle of this enormous bamboo forest.

Torii Gates

The bright orange Torii gates at Kyoto’s Fushimi Inari Shrine. Shinto shrines are easily identified by the presence of a torii at the entrance. On Japanese road maps, they are represented by a little torii symbol.

Torii Gates

The first torii gates in Japan can be traced back to at least the mid-Heian period; they are mentioned in a text written in 922. The oldest surviving stone torii dates from the 12th century and is located at the Hachiman Shrine in Yamagata prefecture. A rybu torii is the oldest existing wooden torii.

A Park for Deers

Nara Park is a public park in Nara, Japan, located at the foot of Mount Wakakusa. It is one of Japan’s oldest parks, having been established in 1880. Nara Prefecture is in charge of the park administratively.

A Park for Deers

While most people associate Nara Park with the temples and the park itself, previously private gardens are now open to the public. The temple buildings are used as accents in the landscapes of these gardens. The park is home to the Nara National Museum and Todai-ji, the world’s largest wooden building, which houses a 15-metre (50-foot) tall Buddha statue.

Restroom Boredom

There are alternate approaches to invest energy in the washroom (besides the main job, obviously). Here are a couple of thoughts to rouse you to accomplish some different options from gazing at your telephone during restroom breaks.

Restroom Boredom

If you’re in a public lavatory, set aside the effort to peruse the Sharpie spray painting that unavoidably finishes the dividers. In some cases, there’s a pleasant statement or a very much attracted picture to take a gander at. Open your eyes; you may see something that makes you grin or chuckle.

Love for Queuing

Japanese will join a line if one exists. Many instances of Japanese people lining up can be found throughout the city. Some prominent locations include the bus, a tourist attraction, and the restrooms.

Love for Queuing

On the other hand, the line-up outside is a sure sign that a restaurant or shop is popular. Lines outside ramen shops, bubble tea cafes, clothing stores, and restaurants, much like lines outside nightclubs, indicate the establishment’s quality and attract even larger crowds to join in.

Sushi Love

Sushi is a popular Japanese dish that is available in restaurants, supermarkets, and convenience stores. Despite its stereotypical appearance, sushi is available and consumed throughout Japan.

Sushi Love

Sushi is available everywhere and tastes great, whether at trays sold at the supermarket or even a convenience store, a small sushi business, the fun and renowned conveyor belt sushi restaurants. Traditional sushi is simple and fresh, and with a dab of wasabi and soy sauce. It’s a fantastic dish for all ages and events.

Vending Machines

From the center of Tokyo to Japan’s most distant fishing port, and even further amid farms and fields, it appears that there is always a vending machine selling drinks to quench your thirst. There is a vending machine around every corner in Japan, with over 5 million vending machines.

Vending Machines

These 24-hour machines, located near stations, schools, offices, tourist attractions, and residential areas, are ideal for those staying out late to work or party. Vending machines may even be found in secluded woodlands and near shrines to keep everyone hydrated.

Japan is Safe

Japan is widely regarded as a safe haven not only for people but also for their belongings. Many people in Japan have lost their wallets, jewelry, phones, or other valuable possessions only to have them returned quickly and intact.

Japan is Safe

Wallets are returned with the money, purses and bags are returned with nothing missing, and even cash is turned in to the police. Many objects that might be forgotten or lost, such as keys, clothing, shoes, and canes, are usually unharmed.

What Is He Doing?

He looks so zen, almost as if he’s discovered his spot in the universe, and it incidentally turns out to be on a duck and in a dance outfit. We don’t know, man.

What Is He Doing?

He appears as though he’ll self-destruct if somebody simply eliminates the phony nipple. That isn’t a duck that is a potty. He is most likely “going.” We assume that he cut an essential opening in that leotard.

Workaholics in Japan

The Japanese work culture is so stressful and demanding that there is a Japanese word for dying from overwork: karoshi. The pressure is so intense that many Japanese who can’t take it any longer and want to resign are barred from doing so, and their resignation is denied. Many Japanese companies require their employees to get up early and commute long distances, only to return late at night with little time to sleep or recuperate.

Workaholics in Japan

People are the backbone of the Japanese economy and the country’s prosperity because they are the country’s most valuable resource. Overtime and working weekends are not uncommon in certain industries, and many employees choose not to take personal days, vacation days

Elementary Schools

At school, Japanese children learn far more than math and science. They learn skills such as cleaning, sweeping, washing, food preparation, serving, and sharing. Japanese students are responsible for keeping not only their lockers and desks clean, but also the entire school clean.

Elementary Schools

Every day, a specific time is set aside at school for cleaning. Students are divided into groups that are in charge of specific chores and lunch responsibilities. These groups rotate every day to ensure that all of the children complete all of the tasks.

ATM are not 24/7

In Japan, even ATMs require some downtime to decompress. Unlike in many other countries, where ATMs are available 24 hours a day to provide cash during the bank’s off-hours, many ATMs in Japan close down in the evening.

ATM are not 24/7

Many Japanese banks that close their doors to the public in the late afternoon also close their automated systems in the late evening. Furthermore, many people will not have access to their bank accounts during long Japanese holidays such as Oshogatsu (New Year’s) and Obon (summer holidays). They will need to withdraw money ahead of time.

Bagging Up Garbage

Garbage is carefully separated and processed, but the first step is to find a place to put it. People walking around Japan, both in the city and in the countryside, will notice a lack of garbage cans. Even in major cities or tourist destinations, finding places to dispose of your garbage is difficult.

Bagging Up Garbage

The exception is pet bottle receptacles, which are typically found near vending machines. However, all other types of garbage cans appear to be missing. Convenience stores and train stations are two places where you can be sure to find garbage cans. There is usually a place at the entrance for burnable, non-burnable pet bottles and plastic bins.

No Tipping

Although one of the world’s leading providers of services, tipping in Japan is not the norm. In North America, failing to tip at a cafe or restaurant may result in ugly glances or even an argument, but in Japan, the staff merely expects a “thank you.”

No Tipping

Not only restaurants but most establishments where you’d expect to leave tips don’t ask for or take them. Staff in hotels, cabs, hair salons, and food delivery services all perform services and refuse to accept suggestions. Unlike in nations where tipping is expected and employees are paid less and rely on tips, wages in Japan are more outstanding and all customers must receive excellent service at all times.

Loud Slurping

Noodles are one of the many delicacies where making loud slurping noises while eating is socially acceptable. Japan and its culinary delights are always served and eaten with chopsticks, placemats, and precision.

Loud Slurping

On the other hand, Noodles appear to be an exception, as the most common and recommended method of eating noodles is to suck up as many noodles as possible while making loud slurping noises. Slurping noodles rather than chewing them, according to the Japanese, serves two purposes.

Speaking Keigo

Japan prides itself on providing speedy, competent, and friendly service, unlike any other country. In Japan, service entails more than just greeting clients and attending to their requirements. Many companies, retail stores, restaurants, hotels, and offices require a tight uniform, hair, and make-up guidelines to begin with. In Japanese culture, image and first impressions are extremely important.

Speaking Keigo

Therefore employees must display their best selves upon the first contact. The Japanese language is also distinct in that it has multiple levels of politeness. When conversing with clients, the Japanese word keigo (which means “very courteous”) is utilized.

Japanese Ojigi

The Japanese bow, also known as Ojigi, is a respectful gesture used all day, every day in Japan. Bowing is a significant and profound gesture in Japanese culture, signifying humbling yourself and thanking the other person.

Japanese Ojigi

Not only for greetings but also for several different reasons, Japanese people bow politely. How to turn in Japan varies depending on the situation. A small bow is customary for welcomes, thanking, and informal circumstances.

Policemen with Guns

Although Japan has strong gun laws, a low crime rate, and few guns in the general population, nearly every police officer on the street must carry a pistol as part of their regular police uniform.

Policemen with Guns

As gun violence and discussion escalate in the United States, particularly in the wake of so many mass shootings, Japan has been fortunate in avoiding gun violence, with Wikipedia reporting only three gun-related deaths in 2017, compared to almost 15,000 in the United States.

Resting Inside Trains

Tokyo and several other critical Japanese cities are commuter hubs, with the majority of people living on the outskirts traveling into the city for work. And, with long hours of overtime and often working on weekends, Japanese people have very little time to relax or even sleep.

Resting Inside Trains

Even early morning school club practice and after-school juku (cram schools for extra tutoring) take a toll on students’ sleeping habits. Everyone gets up early, stays up late, works, studies, or takes the train.