Japan is famous for bringing a variety of incredible things to the world stage, captivating people from all over the globe to travel there. With a juxtaposition between the old and new, it’s a fascinating country to explore. To keep your travel inspiration for Japan well and truly alive, we’ve compiled a list of seven fun facts about Japan.
1. It’s good manners to slurp your noodles.
This is one country where you’ll get away with slurping your noodles! This is shown as a sign of enjoyment of your meal and is said to both add flavour to your noodles and cool them down at the same time. Make sure you try as many different noodle types as possible while in Japan – udon, ramen, soba…the list goes on!
2. There’s a Rabbit Island.
Make your way to Okunoshima island to indulge in never-ending rabbit cuddles. The island is predator-free so the rabbit population is constantly growing. Back during World War II, the island was used to test chemical weapons. Once the war was over, it’s said that the test subject were set free to rule Okunoshima.
3. Japanese trains are (almost) always on time.
Did you know that the average delay of a Japanese train is 18 seconds? This incredible punctuality is drilled into drivers during their training with ultra-realistic simulators. Most drivers only work on one train line as well, helping them hone their skills down to the wire.
4. The variety of Kit Kat flavours is amazing.
If you think of a flavour, it will likely be in Kit Kat form in Japan. Green tea? Wasabi? Strawberry cheesecake? Delight in all the colours and flavours in a department store, where the full range is likely to be stocked. We won’t judge if your suitcase comes back filled with these treats…
5. There is 1 vending machine for every 24 people.
With approximately five million vending machines across the country, it’s no surprise that you’ll find a vending machine around what feels like every corner! You’ll find ramen, batteries, hot drinks, flowers, umbrellas and more on offer.
6. The bow is an important form of greeting.
Taught from a young age, the Japanese will work hard to perfect the bow. In particular, the depth of the bow is very important – you will notice that the lower the bow, the more respect is given.
7. A Japanese lifetime has a solid longevity.
The life expectancy of a typical Japanese person is 85 years, second only to Hong Kong. Roughly 28% of the population is aged 65 and older which works out as the highest proportion in the world. There are even over 70,000 people who are over 100 years old!
Check out our Globus and Cosmos tours through Japan in 2022 today!
