17 Weird Things That Are Found Only In Japan
Japan is an incredible land of surprises! During my first visit to Japan, I would have described my expectations based on what is Japan best known for—sushi, cherry blossoms, and a selection of incredible temples. But boy, was I in for a treat. I saw the weirdest things in Japan, things I could only dream of. Nobody believed when I told them about a ramen noodle bath—yes, an actual bath filled with noodles. Only in Japan, right?
In Japan, some things that seem unusual to us are totally normal. The country is full of little quirks that make their culture so unique. While I came across a lot of unusual things that are normal in japan, there are some that caught my eye. Let’s take a look at 17 weird things that are found only in Japan that make you curious enough to visit this country at least once.
1. Japanese Vending Machines
Walking through Japan, you can’t help but notice the Japanese vending machines—they’re literally everywhere! But these aren’t your usual snack dispensers. Nope. In Japan, vending machines are stocked with ‘only in Japan products’ you didn’t even know you needed. From fresh eggs to hot meals, and even underwear—talk about convenience.
You can literally find all the weird things Japan sells in these vending machines. Some machines even sell quirky stuff like anime merchandise, art, and natto. This unusual thing that’s normal in Japan makes staying in the country so convenient because everything is available at all times.
Fun Fact: According to statistics, there is 1 vending machine for every 31 people in Japan. With around 4.4 million machines across the country, Japan has the highest number of vending machines in the world.
2. Capsule Hotels
Capsule hotels, invented in Japan in the late 1970s, are a clever solution to limited space and high accommodation costs. These tiny, pod-like rooms provide just enough space for a bed and essential amenities, offering an oddly futuristic yet cozy, sci-fi-like sleeping experience. There are some really unique things in Japan, and these unique capsule hotels belong on that list.
While you may think that it’s just amongst the weirdest things in Japan that’s impractical, it’s actually very common for quick and affordable overnight stays. These capsule hotels uniquely cater to solo travelers and busy professionals who need a safe, efficient place to rest. With features like secure lockers, charging stations, and shared showers, they cover all the basics for a comfortable night’s sleep, making them an exciting, practical option for travelers in Japan.
I also found them quite safe as a single woman. It’s such convenient and fun things about Japan that make your visit more exciting. I hope this interesting information about Japan comes in handy if you are planning a budget trip.
3. Cuddle Cafes
Japan has this really unique concept of cuddle cafes, known as “soine-ya.” Here, exhausted office workers can pay to simply rest next to someone—no romance, no funny business! These cafes offer unusual yet comforting services, like:
- Staring at each other for one minute
- Stroking hair for three minutes
- 20-minute nap
- 10 hour sleep
- Sleeping on a girl’s lap
- Cuddling or spooning
According to research, loneliness is also a big problem in Japan. Societal pressures and long working hours often lead to isolation in Japan. Concepts like cuddle cafes and renting a family in Japan help combat the dark side of Japanese culture. It’s definitely a unique thing in Japan, that offers companionship to address a growing need for human connection in a culture where seeking emotional support is stigmatized.
These cafes are mostly visited by those living in Japan as single men. For them, these services provide a safe space to experience “couple things” that they otherwise wouldn’t. This concept is especially important because it acknowledges and caters to the emotional needs of individuals in a way that feels culturally acceptable.
While it may seem unconventional, these services are a testament to how Japan creatively adapts to societal challenges, providing individuals with the companionship that might be hard to find in traditional social settings.
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4. (Almost) No Trash Cans
You know what you won’t find in Japan? Trash cans. As weird as it sounds, it’s pretty strange that in a country known for its convenience, there are almost no trash cans in public places. It is one of those odd Japanese facts that you only believe when you see for yourself.
You’ll only find a few, usually near vending machines for cans and plastic bottles. I found this really surprising because I expected such an advanced country to have trash cans in public spaces.
This all started after the 1995 Tokyo subway attack, a dark chapter in their history, when trash cans were removed for safety. This incident was a coordinated sarin gas attack by the Aum Shinrikyo cult. They released toxic gas in the Tokyo subway system which killed 13 people while injuring over 5,000. After this attack, Japan removed or restricted trash cans in many public spaces due to fears that they could be used to conceal dangerous items or substances.
Due to this, trash cans are still rare in public spaces and busy areas as a precautionary measure against future attacks.
5. Plastic Foods
Plastic display foods, known as Shokuhin Sampuru, are totally normal things in Nippon. These are highly detailed, realistic replicas of menu items. Weird? Yes, but totally normal. While plastic food might sound like an odd concept, it’s actually a genius idea.
Instead of menus full of confusing words or photos, restaurants use these realistic plastic models of their dishes showcased outside restaurants to help customers see what they can order. This interesting information in Japan lets you see exactly what you’re going to get, and it’s a huge help when you’re hungry and can’t read the menu. It is amazing for tourists like me with a language barrier.
This practice has evolved into a unique Japanese art form. Each dish is handcrafted with precision, often by skilled artisans, using materials like resin to mimic textures, colors, and even steam rising off a bowl of ramen. Seeing these remarkably lifelike food models on nearly every restaurant might seem odd at first. However, this adds a quirky, unforgettable touch to the cultural experience of exploring Japan’s culinary scene.
6. Toilets
Let me tell you about one of the weirdest things in Japan—public toilets talk to you! Japan has super high-tech toilets and some of them are even voice activated who guide you while you do your business.
These toilets have water jets (with adjustable temperature), poo music that help you cover the sound, deodorizing functions and even heated seats. Some toilets open automatically, have touchless flushing, and offer ambient lighting for nighttime convenience. You may be in for some funny surprises every now and then. Once, I pressed a button thinking it was “flush,” but it started playing music instead.
Who would have thought that such a simple visit to a bathroom could be such a unique experience. Strange things that happen only in Japan, right? Honestly, after experiencing it, I may never look at a regular toilet the same way again. These advanced, thoughtful designs reflect Japan’s commitment to comfort, hygiene, and innovation, making bathrooms here surprisingly memorable and futuristic for visitors. I guess such good things about Japan really enhance your overall experience.
You know what they say, there are things that only exist in Japan that you didn’t even know you needed in life. These high-tech toilets are one of them.
7. Noodle Slurping
Now let me share an interesting aspect of Japanese culture that I learnt on my trip. Most places think it’s rude to slurp, right? But in Japan, it’s the opposite. The louder you slurp, the better! It actually shows the chef you’re enjoying their food. I remember sitting at a ramen shop, unsure of what to do. This lesser known fact can be a nightmare for people who get annoyed by eating noises.
Everyone around me was slurping like there was no tomorrow. At first, it felt strange, but soon I joined in and got a big smile from the chef.
Fun Fact: Did you know that being overweight is banned in Japan? It’s one of the weirdest laws to combat obesity and encourage a healthy lifestyle.
8. Square Watermelons
Square watermelons in Japan aren’t just for eating—they’re often used as decorative items and can cost up to $160! At first, farmers made them square so they’d fit better in fridges and be easier to cut, but now they’re a luxury. They are often given as gifts and religious offerings. Gifting someone these specially crafted watermelons shows a sign of respect towards the receiver. The extravagant price of these fruits is also seen as proof of gratitude making the gift more valuable.
And they didn’t stop at squares. Some watermelons are shaped like hearts or pyramids, which take years of careful growing in special containers. Trivias about Japan like this shows just how creative and unique the country can be.
9. No Kissing Rule
In Japan, I quickly learned that public displays of affection are not the norm. Kissing in public is considered a little odd, especially among the older generations. Japanese people save their hugs and kisses for private moments. This is due to cultural norms in Japan that emphasize modesty and personal boundaries in public settings.
In fact, physical contact of any sorts, even shaking hands or hugging your parents is uncommon. It felt a bit strange to me, but then I saw how people were greeting others instead. Japanese culture tends to express affection through subtle gestures rather than direct physical contact, reflecting an emphasis on indirect forms of communication and respect for shared spaces. This interesting information about Japan will come in handy if you are visiting the country with your partner.
Additionally, bowing is a normal thing in Nippon – it’s used for “hello”, “thank you”, and even “I’m sorry”. The deeper the bow, the more respect or apology is being shown. You’ll come across many such interesting facts about Japanese culture when living in Japan as natives.
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10. Jigokudani Monkey Park
If you are looking for weird things to do in Japan, look no further. I had the chance to visit the Jigokudani Monkey Park in Japan, and let me tell you, it is on top of the most crazy things I’ve ever seen. Instead of just monkeys running around, these macaques were soaking in hot springs, relaxing just like humans would after a hard day. These monkeys are the only ones in the world known to soak in hot springs, a behavior that they developed to stay warm in the region’s snowy climate.
At first, they only visited in winter, but now they hang out there year-round. It felt like a perfect harmony between humans and animals. Jigokudani Monkey Park offers visitors a rare opportunity to observe these playful and relaxed macaques up close as they enjoy the warmth of the springs, making it a unique destination and an adventurous experience in Japan’s natural beauty.
11. Penis Festival
The most unusual celebration in Japan is the Kanamara Matsuri, or the “Penis Festival.” Yep, you read that right. Every spring, in the town of Kawasaki, people gather to celebrate this festival, and it’s as lively as it is unusual.
Legend has it that a demon hid in the private parts of a goddess. This demon bit off the intimate parts of two of the goddesses’ suitors. To break the curse and the demon’s teeth, a blacksmith created an iron phallus. This has now become a penis shrine dedicated to paying homage to the male body part. During the festival, everything from food to decorations are in the shape of phalluses.
Prostitutes and those affected by STDs visit the shrine to seek protection. The festival is meant to honor ancient beliefs about fertility and health. It has also become an LGBTQ friendly occasion to promote inclusiveness and awareness. It’s a time for people to have fun, laugh, and celebrate life together.
It’s one of those things you will find strange but fascinating about Japan’s culture. Such interesting facts about Japanese culture highlight Japan’s open-mindedness toward traditions that bring people together.
12. Robot Restaurants
Ever been to a restaurant where robots put on a show while you eat? In Japan, the famous robot restaurant in Tokyo is like being in a world of flashing lights, loud music, and giant robots. These restaurants are unusual things that are normal in Japan that make you experience a mix of a carnival and a futuristic sci-fi movie. As you eat, robots dance, battle, and put on a wild show with performers in colorful costumes. The whole experience is loud, fun, and totally over-the-top.
Unknown facts about Japan like these show how creative and unique the country is, turning something simple like dining into an unforgettable adventure. From huge robot dinosaurs to glittery light displays, it’s more than just dinner—it’s like being part of a show.
13. Purikura – A Real Life Photoshop Experience
During my visit, I stumbled upon a really weird yet interesting photo booth. Purikura, short for “print club” in Japanese, refers to photo booths that are immensely popular in Japan. Unlike regular booths, this one lets users interact and have fun with the experience. What makes purikura unique is its ability to instantly enhance and personalize photos, with features that allow users to add makeup, change skin color, add decorations, create smooth skin, larger eyes, and other “kawaii” (cute) effects. It’s like a real-life Photoshop experience.
The booth also lets you add funny things like stickers, notes, filters and even change the background on your photos. After a few minutes, out comes your new, flawless picture—ready to share with friends. The word ‘interesting’ doesn’t even begin to describe this one of a kind experience.
The resulting photo stickers are then printed on the spot, making purikura a lasting, tangible souvenir and a fun part of the Japanese experience.
14. Themed Trains
Have you ever thought about taking a train ride that feels more like an adventure? In Japan, you can hop on themed trains that make traveling fun and exciting. Themed trains in Japan are uniquely decorated trains that offer a fun, immersive experience for passengers, often inspired by local art, scenery, or popular characters. They turn regular travel into an adventure, with features like art installations, footbaths, and anime decor.
I saw the coolest ones in the Genbi Shinkansen, where the train is decorated with amazing art inspired by the views around Niigata. And even Toreiyu Tsubasa in Fukushima, a unique bullet train that is decorated to celebrate Japan’s history and culture.
You can relax in a footbath and watch the beautiful scenery pass by. And for fans of Pokémon, there’s even a train just for you. These are just some weird things to do in Japan that make the country so interesting. Cool facts like this show why Japan is famous for making travel an experience in itself.
15. Maid/Butler Cafes
Did you know that in Japan, you can actually visit cafes where maids and butlers serve you in the cutest outfits? It might sound a bit strange, but it’s a totally normal thing, especially in Tokyo’s Akihabara district. These themed cafes offer customers an immersive experience where waitstaff, dressed in elaborate costumes as maids or butlers, provide personalized, almost theatrical service, treating patrons as “masters” or “mistresses” in a fantasy setting. The maids don’t just bring you food—they sing, dance, and even perform little skits to make you smile.
And the food? It’s decorated with fun designs like cats and hearts, turning your meal into a work of art.
Butler cafes cater mostly to women. Here they offer a more refined experience with male staff dressed in formal attire, providing a more gentlemanly atmosphere.
These cafes are unique because they create an escape from daily life, providing a safe setting where customers can indulge in a fantasy of being pampered and treated with special attention. While this may seem unusual to outsiders, maid and butler cafes have become iconic in Japan’s service industry. They not only offer a fun and immersive experience but also show the diverse nature of Japanese culture.
16. Anime Cafe and Restaurants
Have you ever thought about dining with your favorite anime characters? In Japan, you can do just that. Anime might be the top thing that comes to your head when you think of what is Japan best known for? And you are not wrong.
Anime cafes are a dream come true for fans of Naruto, Sailor Moon, Doraemon, and more. These anime cafes serve up delicious treats, from pancakes to ice cream, all designed to look just like the colorful characters we love. These kinds of random facts about Japan for kids make it a wholesome experience for your entire family during your visit.
Japanese food isn’t just tasty, it’s an experience in itself, with cakes and drinks that bring anime to life. But hurry—many of these cafes are only open for a limited time. Amongst many weird things to do in Japan, visiting an anime cafe is one of them.
17. Rice-Paddy Art
In Japan, rice paddy art is a thing, and it’s absolutely stunning. The town of Inakadate in Aomori started it back in 1993 as a fun way to attract tourists to the rural town. The art is made by planting different varieties of rice with varying colors, creating patterns or images that become visible as the rice grows.
Some of the artwork is jaw-dropping, like portraits of Audrey Hepburn, Godzilla, or even characters from Star Wars. It’s one of those weird things to do in Japan that’ll leave you amazed and show you just how normal things can be interesting in Japan.
These are just a few of the weirdest things in Japan that make it such a fascinating place to visit. We hope you have learnt some new, crazy facts about the land of the rising sun? Japan is full of surprises and mysteries—each visit will offer something new and unique. There’s so many interesting things in Japan that you’ll never stop discovering new stuff, from quirky traditions to unexpected experiences that add to the country’s charm.
So, if you’re planning to visit, make sure you leave extra space in your brain—things Japan is famous for will definitely keep coming at you.
Do you know any fun trivias about Japan? Share with us in the comments.
