5 Things You Didn’t Know About Japan

There are some things that most of us think we know about Japan. Some of those things may be true – it’s the home of anime and karaoke bars. Some of those things may be unfair stereotypes – that all Japanese girls love Kawaii and everyone eats sushi every day. And there are some things about Japan that you may be surprised to learn.

Here are few lesser known facts about Japan that may enlighten or surprise you:

It may come as a surprise but the country that pioneered the computer and mobile phone industries is not that tech-friendly. They do have an internationally-renowned communications, electronic and automotive companies, think Nintendo, Panasonic and Yamaha, but the day-to-day running systems within the country are largely analogue. Hotel or visitor bookings are made over the phone, in person, or by fax (if you can find one). Shops and restaurants are largely cash-based too. 

Valentine’s Day is celebrated in Japan but not in the same way as many western countries. Rather than the mutual gift-giving that takes place in Europe, the US and Aus, women are the only ones who come bearing gifts for their significant others on the 14th February.

What’s more, women are expected to hand out chocolate to their male co-workers. This is a custom known as ‘girichoko’ and it simply won’t do to buy a couple of bars of Meiji. The occasion requires thoughtful gift sourcing and presenting. The payback comes the following month when men have to give their female colleagues three times the amount they received on Valentine’s day. Every girl’s a winner. 

If you thought that eating a tired-looking salad at a table for one was rather sad, the Japanese beg to differ. Perhaps their high-work ethic accounts for the fact that many meals are eaten out or hastily grabbed between meetings, so eating alone is a necessity. But for whatever reason, the Japanese have no fear of dining or doing anything alone, even singing solo in a karaoke bar.

If you’ve heard of Japan’s ‘Love hotels’ then what you’ve heard probably isn’t the whole truth. Many Japanese families share their homes with multiple generations and space is limited. A private place to spend time with a significant other is important and love hotels facilitate that need.

However, they’re also popular as business or budget-friendly accommodation as they generally offer lower rates and are more available than other types of hotels. Don’t associate them with anything seedy either, they are legitimate establishments which serve their clientele with dignity.  

Automation is one thing the Japanese love and the vending machine has taken off since the first one was constructed in 1888 to dispense tobacco. Now you will find them all over the country with a range if interesting items from cup noodles to tiny hats for your cat. Which might seem strange if it wasn’t a fact that there are more registered pets in Japan than children.