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Japan’s Unique Culture-Weird Habits

Japan’s Unique Culture-Weird Habits and Things in Japan

Definition of weird

weird

(wɪəʳd )
Word forms: comparative weirder, superlative weirdestADJECTIVE If you describe something or someone as weird, you mean that they are strange

Introduction

Japan is a country that is known for its unique culture and traditions. From its delicious cuisine to its stunning architecture, Japan has a lot to offer. However, there are also some weird habits, places, things, and inventions that are unique to Japan. In this blog, we will take a closer look at some of the weird things in Japan and explore the cultural significance behind them.

Weird Habits:

  1. Eating Raw Horse Meat: One of the most unusual things about Japan is its love for raw horse meat. Known as basashi, this dish is a delicacy in Japan and is often served as sashimi. While it may seem strange to many people, basashi has been a part of Japanese cuisine for centuries. It is believed to have originated in the northern region of Japan, where horses were used for transportation and farming. Today, basashi is enjoyed by many Japanese people and is considered a symbol of their unique culinary culture.
  2. Sleeping in Public: Another weird habit of Japanese people is their tendency to sleep in public. It is not uncommon to see people sleeping on trains, in parks, and even in the office. While this may seem strange to outsiders, it is actually a sign of the Japanese work culture. Many Japanese people work long hours and have busy schedules, which leaves them with little time for sleep. Sleeping in public is seen as a way to catch up on rest and recharge for the day ahead.
  3. Wearing face masks: Wearing face masks: Japanese people often wear face masks to protect themselves from germs and pollution, as well as to prevent the spread of illness. It is also seen as a way to show consideration for others and to avoid spreading germs. While the rest of the world has only recently adopted the practice of wearing masks due to the COVID-19 pandemic, that too only to save ourselves, wearing masks has been a common practice in Japan for many years. Japanese people have been wearing masks as a way to protect not just themselves but also others when they are ill long before the pandemic.
  4. Taking off shoes before entering a home or building: In Japan, it is customary to take off shoes before entering a home or building. This is a sign of respect and cleanliness, as it helps to keep the floors clean and free of dirt and germs.

Weird Places:

  1. Robot Restaurant: The Robot Restaurant in Tokyo is a bizarre and unique experience. It is a restaurant that features a show with giant robots, dancers, and neon lights. The show is loud, colorful, and over-the-top, and is a must-see for anyone visiting Tokyo.
  2. Cat Island: Tashirojima, also known as Cat Island, is a small island in Japan that is home to hundreds of cats. The island is a popular tourist destination for cat lovers, and visitors can interact with the cats and even stay in cat-themed accommodations.
  3. The abandoned island of Hashima: Hashima, also known as Battleship Island, is an abandoned island off the coast of Nagasaki. It was once a thriving coal mining community, but it was abandoned in the 1970s. Today, it is a popular tourist destination for those interested in urban exploration.
  4. The Aokigahara Forest, also known as the “Suicide Forest“: The Aokigahara Forest is a dense forest at the base of Mount Fuji. It is known for its high number of suicides, and it is considered one of the most haunted places in Japan.

Weird Things in Daily Life:

  1. Vending Machines for Everything: Japan is known for its vending machines, which can be found on almost every street corner. While vending machines for snacks and drinks are common in many countries, Japan takes it to a whole new level. In Japan, you can find vending machines for everything from umbrellas to underwear. This weird habit is a reflection of Japan’s convenience culture, where people value efficiency and convenience above all else.
  2. Wearing Face Masks: Another weird habit of Japanese people is their tendency to wear face masks. While this may seem strange to outsiders, it is actually a common practice in Japan. Japanese people wear face masks to protect themselves from germs and pollution, as well as to prevent the spread of illness. It is also seen as a way to show consideration for others and to avoid spreading germs.

Weird Inventions:

  1. Square Watermelons: In Japan, watermelons are often given as gifts and are considered a luxury item. To make them easier to transport and store, Japanese farmers have developed a way to grow square watermelons. These watermelons are grown in a square container and are harvested when they are still small. They are then sold for a premium price and are often used as decorative items.
  2. Selfie Sticks for Dogs: In Japan, pet owners can buy selfie sticks for their dogs. These sticks are designed to hold a smartphone and allow the owner to take selfies with their dog. While it may seem strange to some, it is a reflection of Japan’s love for pets and their desire to capture every moment with them.
  3. Heated toilet seats with built-in bidets: Japanese toilets are known for their high-tech features, including heated seats and built-in bidets. These toilets are a reflection of Japan’s love for technology and efficiency.
  4. Sleeping pods in public places like airports and train stations: In Japan, it is common to find sleeping pods in public places like airports and train stations. These pods are designed to provide a comfortable and private space for people to rest and recharge.

Conclusion: Japan is a country that is full of surprises. From its unique cuisine to its unusual habits, places, things, and inventions, Japan has a lot to offer. While some of these things may seem strange to outsiders, they are an important part of Japanese culture and should be respected. By understanding these weird habits, places, things, and inventions, we can gain a deeper appreciation for Japan’s unique culture and traditions.

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