14 Fun Facts About Japan

Japan is located on the east cost of Asia and is a top destination for travellers worldwide. Japan offers an unforgettable experience for every kind of explorer. It is famous for its stunning temples, delectable cuisine and lively cityscapes. This country is a whole package of fun and adventure like hiking on the iconic Mount Fuji, experiencing Tokyo’s vibrant night lights or walking through the enchanting Bamboo Forest. It is no surprise that Japan is a dream destination for many with its rich culture, fascinating wildlife and adventure.

Want to know more and deeper about the culture and history of your next destination? This article is your go-to companion for finding the most interesting insights of Japan. By the end of your trip, you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation of Japanese traditions, history, and plenty of fun stories to share with loved one’s back home.

Before you start your journey, here are 15 fascinating facts about Japan to improve your travel experience.

14. Japanese have Highest Life Expectancies in the World

Japan have one of the highest life expectancies globally with average lifespan of 84 years which is almost 8 years longer than in the United States. Moreover, 1 out of 10 Japanese citizens are above 80 and more than 92,000 individuals have crossed the age of 100.

Okinawa stand out and is often known as the island of longevity, among Japan’s regions. This group of 160 islands in the East China Sea is renowned for its exceptional lifespan and low disease rates. There are many Okinawans live more than 100 years which shows leading healthy and fulfilling lives. Their lifestyle is deeply connected to the concept of Ikigai, meaning “reason for being,” which plays a vital role in their well-being and happiness.

13. KFC is Japan’s a Christmas Tradition

In Japan, Christmas is not an official holiday as almost 70% of the population follow Shinto which is the country’s oldest religion. Despite of this many of them still celebrate the season in a rather unique way. Instead of the usual traditions, people go to their local KFC to enjoy a KFC Christmas Dinner. Long queues are very common sight and many place their orders weeks in advance to secure their festive fried chicken meal.

This tradition sees an estimated 3.6 million Japanese people participating each year. It all began with Takeshi Okaware, the manager of Japan’s first KFC, which opened in 1970. Takeshi had the innovative idea to introduce a special Christmas “party barrel” filled with fried chicken, and the concept quickly became a beloved holiday custom.

12. Japan Have Rabbit Island

Okunoshima, a small island in Japan which is famously known as Rabbit Island due to its adorable rabbit population. With around 1,000 bunnies roaming freely, the island has become a favorite destination for tourists looking to cuddle and interact with these furry creatures. The rabbits thrive here thanks to the absence of natural predators.

Located in Japan’s Inland Sea, Okunoshima has a contrasting history. During World War II, the island served as a testing site for chemical weapons. Workers had minimal protective equipment, leading to widespread health issues from exposure to toxic gases. Today, visitors can explore this somber chapter of history at the Poison Gas Museum.

Reaching Okunoshima requires a ferry ride, so it’s essential to check ferry schedules before planning your trip. The island, about 4 km in circumference, is perfect for a leisurely one-hour walk. If you’re a nature enthusiast or simply love unique experiences, this island is a must-visit!

11. Over 80% of the country is Covered with mountains

Japan, a country characterized by its mountainous landscape that offers an incredible experience for adventurers. In the heart of Honshu lies a region often called “the roof of Japan” because of its towering peaks that soar over 3,000 meters. The formation of these mountains, including the Japan Alps, is the result of a collision between Asia’s continental crust and the Pacific’s oceanic crust, which caused the land to rise and shaped the Japan we see today.

This rugged terrain is home to more than 100 active volcanoes, accounting for around 10% of the world’s total. Among the most renowned are Mount Fuji, Mount Aso, and Sakurajima. Additionally, Japan is a paradise for skiing enthusiasts, offering world-class snow conditions. In fact, Nagano was the proud host of the Winter Olympics back in 1998, further cementing Japan’s reputation as a hub for winter sports.

10. Number 4 Considered Unlucky In Japan

In Japan number four that is pronounced “shi,” is viewed as highly inauspicious because it closely resembles the word for death in the Japanese language. This belief leads to widespread avoidance of the number in various areas of life.

For instance, many buildings skip the fourth floor entirely, and products are frequently packaged in groups of three or five, deliberately excluding sets of four. This cultural practice underscores the deep-rooted superstition surrounding the number.

9. Japan Have World Oldest Company

Japan is home to the world’s oldest active business, Kongo Gumi, which dates back to 578 AD. This company, established just a century after the Roman Empire’s collapse, focuses on building and maintaining shrines and temples.

Kongo Gumi remained an independent entity for more than 1,400 years. However, in 2006, it faced financial challenges and became a subsidiary of Takamatsu Kensetsu. Despite this transition, the company continues its operations today, specializing in the construction, restoration, and upkeep of Buddhist temples. With Japan’s rich cultural heritage, their expertise remains in high demand. Interestingly, Japan also boasts six of the world’s oldest companies and over 1,000 businesses that have existed for more than a century.

8. Pokémon Is Originated from Japan

Pokémon is a globally renowned franchise that continues to thrive and expand. Initially launched in Japan under the name Pocket Monsters, it gained worldwide recognition shortly after. The series began with its first video games, which debuted in 1997, and Pokémon games are still being developed and released today. The core objective of the games is to train Pokémon, battle to become the strongest, and capture all 151 creatures to complete the Pokédex. Beyond gaming, the Pokémon Trading Card Game and the anime series have also achieved immense popularity.

However, on December 16, 1997, an incident involving the Pokémon anime caused health concerns for approximately 700 children. A specific episode featured intense strobe light effects, which triggered medical reactions in viewers, including seizures for some. Many affected children required hospitalization. At the time, Pokémon was among the most-watched shows in Japan, drawing a large audience of young viewers. Fortunately, this issue was isolated and did not recur.

7. Slurping Noodles is Considered Polite

In many countries, slurping noodles might be viewed as impolite or annoying, but in Japan, it’s the preferred way to enjoy them! Slurping is a cultural norm that signals appreciation for the meal and communicates to the chef that you’re enjoying the dish. It’s also believed to enhance the taste of the noodles while helping them cool down.

Since slurping can sometimes get a bit messy, restaurants may offer bibs to visitors, especially those unfamiliar with this style of eating. For travelers who aren’t confident using chopsticks or want to keep their favorite outfits spotless, a bib can be a handy solution for a worry-free dining experience.

6. People are Hired as ‘transit pushers’

Public transportation in Japan is widely favored due to its exceptional reliability and punctuality. To illustrate, approximately 61% of students and 57% of employees rely on public transit for their daily commute. However, this heavy usage, combined with Tokyo’s massive population, often leads to severe congestion on trains.

Interestingly, many train lines operate at an astonishing 199% of their intended capacity during peak hours. This overcrowding forces passengers to squeeze tightly together, with some even pressed against windows. To address this issue, “train pushers” are employed during busy times to help maximize the number of people boarding by gently pushing them into the train.

5. Solo Dining Is Common In Japan

Japan has earned the title of the world’s solo dining hub. With a growing number of single-person households and a declining population, dining alone has become a common trend across the country.

If you’ve been eyeing a new restaurant but feel hesitant about going solo, there’s no need to worry. Missing out on exciting cuisines or new dining experiences simply because you have no company is far from ideal! Embrace the joy of dining alone and make it a rewarding experience.

4. Tokyo Is Considered as The World’s Biggest Country

Tokyo, a famous urban hub, comprises various districts and surrounding areas, forming a megacity with an estimated population exceeding 38 million. Remarkably, this number surpasses Canada’s total population, making Tokyo the world’s most populous megacity.

In addition to central Tokyo, neighboring regions like Chiba, Saitama, Kawasaki, Sagamihara, and Yokohama contribute significantly to this massive population. Over the years, these areas have grown and merged into a single extensive urban zone. Housing 28% of Japan’s population, Tokyo stands as a dynamic and lively metropolis, buzzing with activity and energy.

3. Japan Has The Highest Number Of Vending Machines

Japan is home to an incredible variety of vending machines that offer nearly anything you can imagine—from essentials like batteries and flowers to hot meals like ramen.

With a staggering 3.97 million vending machines across the country, Japan holds the record for the highest vending machine density worldwide. This equates to approximately one machine for every 24 residents.

2. Japan Have Different Festivals

Japan is famous for its vibrant festivals, but some of them are uniquely unusual.

One of the most eccentric celebrations is the Hadaka Matsuri, where thousands of men participate by shedding their clothes in public. This bold tradition is believed to bring good fortune for the coming year. The largest Hadaka Matsuri takes place in Okayama, attracting around 9,000 participants annually.

Another peculiar event is the Kanamara Matsuri, often referred to as the “Festival of the Steel Phallus” or the “Penis Festival.” Held every year on the first Sunday in April, this festival celebrates the male reproductive symbol through colorful decorations, themed treats, and a lively parade. It’s undoubtedly one of the most extraordinary cultural experiences in Japan.

1. Japan Consists of Over 6,800 Islands

Japan comprises over 6,800 islands, with approximately 430 inhabited. It is the largest island nation in East Asia and ranks as the fourth largest globally. The country’s major urban centers are situated on its four main islands: Honshu, Hokkaido, Kyushu, and Shikoku. Among these, Honshu stands out as the largest and most densely populated, housing the capital, Tokyo.

Millions of years ago, these islands were connected to Asia’s eastern coastline. However, about 15 million years ago, tectonic shifts caused them to break away from the mainland, forming the Sea of Japan as it exists today.

Conclusion

Japan is a country rich in fascinating traditions and unique quirks. From its strange yet intriguing festivals like the Hadaka Matsuri and Kanamara Matsuri, to its cutting-edge technology and fascinating history, Japan offers endless fun facts for anyone eager to explore. Whether it’s the country’s love for quirky vending machines, elaborate tea ceremonies, or its cultural emphasis on respect and politeness, Japan never fails to surprise and inspire with its blend of the old and the new.