[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”-30px||-50px||false|false” custom_padding=”2px|||||” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” text_text_color=”#000000″ text_font_size=”16px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
Japan is a country that seems to be taken from another planet. Its blend of millennia-old tradition and futuristic modernity creates a culture so fascinating that it captivates anyone who visits or studies it. From implicit social norms to unique everyday phenomena, Japan has so many fun facts that understanding them helps you appreciate why this country is so engaging. Here we tell you what makes it so different and 10 curiosities that surprise anyone. <\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_heading title=”Why Japan is so different (and why it's so engaging)” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” title_level=”h2″ title_font=”|600|||||||” title_text_color=”#000000″ custom_margin=”||-2px|||” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” text_text_color=”#000000″ text_font_size=”16px” custom_padding=”0px|||||” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Japan has developed a society with strong values of respect, harmony, organization, and efficiency, while embracing technological innovation and pop culture. That duality means that even the simplest things \u2013 like going to the supermarket or taking a train \u2013 can become a unique experience. The coexistence between the traditional and the modern generates contrasts that you will not see in any other country and that explain why Japan attracts so much attention. <\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_cta title=”Would you like to experience Japan for real and not just see it from the outside?” button_url=”https:\/\/dokidokijapan.com\/en\/living-in-japan\/” button_text=”Living in Japan” button_text_tablet=”Living in Japan” button_text_phone=”Living in Japan” button_text_last_edited=”on|desktop” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_level=”h3″ header_font=”Fredoka One||||||||” body_font_size=”15px” background_color=”#0C71C3″ custom_button=”on” button_text_size=”18px” button_text_color=”#000000″ button_bg_color=”#FFFFFF” button_border_width=”0px” button_border_radius=”25px” button_font=”|700|||||||” custom_margin=”||30px||false|false” hover_enabled=”0″ border_radii=”on|20px|20px|20px|20px” locked=”off” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n At Doki Doki Japan we accompany you to fulfill your dream: language, visa, preparation and advice so that you can live in Japan safely and clearly from the first step.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_cta][et_pb_heading title=”10 Fun Facts About Japan That Surprise Anyone” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” title_level=”h2″ title_font=”|600|||||||” title_text_color=”#000000″ custom_margin=”||-2px|||” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_heading title=”Punctuality of transport (and why it's almost sacred)” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” title_level=”h3″ custom_margin=”||-1px|||” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” text_text_color=”#000000″ text_font_size=”16px” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n Japanese trains are famous for their extreme punctuality. So much so that if one is late for any reason, railway companies usually issue certificates of delay to justify it at work or school. This level of precision reflects the discipline and cultural value placed on time. <\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_heading title=”Vending machines for (almost) everything” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” title_level=”h3″ custom_margin=”||-1px|||” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” text_text_color=”#000000″ text_font_size=”16px” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n In Japan, you can find vending machines on every corner: from hot and cold drinks to ready meals, umbrellas, toys, and curious products. There are millions of these machines throughout the country, and their variety of products is almost endless, which makes Japanese vending machines a cultural icon of the country. <\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_heading title=”Silence in public: trains, streets and unwritten rules” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” title_level=”h3″ custom_margin=”||-1px|||” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” text_text_color=”#000000″ text_font_size=”16px” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n In Japan, it is very common for people to remain silent or speak quietly in public spaces such as trains, elevators, or busy streets. This is not written in any law, but it is a highly respected social norm that seeks to avoid disturbing others and maintain collective harmony. <\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_heading title=”The obsession with order: queues, recycling and cleaning” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” title_level=”h3″ custom_margin=”||-1px|||” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” text_text_color=”#000000″ text_font_size=”16px” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n Japan has a very strong culture of order and cleanliness. You’ll see perfectly formed queues to get on the train, bins divided by waste type to recycle, and surprisingly clean public spaces even without as many bins as in other countries. <\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_heading title=”The culture of 24\/7 stores (konbini)” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” title_level=”h3″ custom_margin=”||-1px|||” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” text_text_color=”#000000″ text_font_size=”16px” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n Japanese convenience stores, known as <\/span>konbini<\/span><\/i>, are much more than just a place to buy fast food. They operate 24 hours a day, offering services such as bill payment, printing, package shipping, fresh bento, desserts, freshly brewed coffees, and even event tickets. Their role is so central to daily life that many consider them a cultural institution. <\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_heading title=”Japanese baths: technology, hygiene and custom” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” title_level=”h3″ custom_margin=”||-1px|||” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” text_text_color=”#000000″ text_font_size=”16px” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n Baths in Japan are a mix of tradition and innovation. In addition to the classic thermal baths ( <\/span>Onsen<\/span><\/i>) With rules of etiquette, modern toilets often include heated seats, adjustable water jets, sound for privacy, and automatic functions that look like something out of a sci-fi movie to many foreign visitors.<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_heading title=”Vending + konbini + services: the land of convenience” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” title_level=”h3″ custom_margin=”||-1px|||” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” text_text_color=”#000000″ text_font_size=”16px” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n The combination of ubiquitous vending machines, ultra-equipped convenience stores, and efficient utilities make everyday life in Japan extremely practical. Whether it’s buying a full meal, sending a letter, or finding a doctor, there’s always an option nearby that works without complications. <\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_heading title=”Eating alone is not uncommon: the normality of "solo dining"” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” title_level=”h3″ custom_margin=”||-1px|||” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” text_text_color=”#000000″ text_font_size=”16px” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n In Japan, it’s not uncommon to see people eating alone in coffee shops, restaurants, or even large ramen chains. This practice of eating alone \u2014 called “solo dining” \u2014 is completely normal and accepted, something that in many other countries can be uncomfortable or unusual. <\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_heading title=”Traditions that coexist with the ultra-modern” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” title_level=”h3″ custom_margin=”||-1px|||” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” text_text_color=”#000000″ text_font_size=”16px” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n While Tokyo shines with neon lights, skyscrapers, and futuristic technology, in the same cities you can find ancient Buddhist temples, traditional rituals, or festivals that have been celebrated for centuries. This coexistence between past and future is a hallmark of Japan. <\/span> <\/span><\/a><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_heading title=”Social norms that are not explained, but are expected” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” title_level=”h3″ custom_margin=”||-1px|||” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” text_text_color=”#000000″ text_font_size=”16px” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n Japan has a myriad of implicit cultural norms: from not talking on the phone on trains to not tipping in restaurants because it’s considered already included in the service. Although they are not always taught, they are expected to be understood and respected. <\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_heading title=”Curiosities about Japan that are noticeable on a daily basis” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” title_level=”h2″ title_font=”|600|||||||” title_text_color=”#000000″ custom_margin=”||1px|||” custom_padding=”||0px|||” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_heading title=”How to greet, thank and ask for forgiveness (more than you imagine)” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” title_level=”h3″ custom_margin=”||-1px|||” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” text_text_color=”#000000″ text_font_size=”16px” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n Politeness is a cornerstone of Japanese culture. Greetings with bows ( <\/span>ojigi<\/span><\/i>), the frequent use of expressions of gratitude and apologies even for small inconveniences are integral to everyday life, and reflect the social value of not making the other person uncomfortable.<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_heading title=”Basic etiquette: "normal" things outside that collide there” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” title_level=”h3″ custom_margin=”||-1px|||” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” text_text_color=”#000000″ text_font_size=”16px” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n Certain practices that seem basic in the West \u2014 such as talking loudly on the phone or wearing shoes into certain spaces \u2014 are considered rude in Japan. Understanding these subtleties helps make the experience of traveling or living in Japan more fluid and respectful. <\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_heading title=”The concept of "disturbing" (meiwaku) and its social impact” _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” title_level=”h3″ custom_margin=”||-1px|||” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″][\/et_pb_heading][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.27.4″ _module_preset=”default” text_text_color=”#000000″ text_font_size=”16px” hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n