We all love Japan for its quirky things. Isn’t that true?
Japan is known for its unique traditions and distinctive culture. Some Japanese creations are so bizarre and beyond the comprehension of laymen, that it adds a unique touch that one can enjoy only in this island nation. From blue traffic lights to miniature capsule hotels, Japan has taken its quirk to a whole new level. Read on to check out five crazy things you can only find in Japan.
Futuristic Mini Capsule Hotels
Capsule hotels in Japan are futuristic accommodation facilities. They provide a cozy and cheap space to rest your head. These compact sci-fiction-esque sleeping pods can accommodate people, who are looking for a place just to crash in for a nap. But you don't have to compromise with luxury - capsule hotels in Japan are furnished with shared entertainment rooms, baths, food service, books, television, and more!
Wet Towels or Oshibori Before Meals
While the world is gradually adopting this custom, the practice of wiping one’s hands with “oshibori” or a wet towel before starting a meal is typically a Japanese mannerism. In Japan, you will find a wet towel placed on the table, and you are expected to wipe your hands before starting your meal.
Kotatsu for Chilly Winter Days
In Japan, homes are built without insulated walls and central heating systems. To keep away the cold, people use super cozy kotatsu — an electric-heated blanket and table combo that offers an energy-efficient and comfy way to survive the chilly winter of Japan.
Blue Traffic Lights
As we all know, green traffic lights suggest "go" and red says "stop." But not in Japan. Here, drivers go on blue and not green. It is because, in Japanese, there was no word to describe the color "green." They only had words for some colors like red, black, blue, and white - and they used these color names to describe other colors. For this reason, many things that people from other countries would consider green are called blue in Japan.
Free Public Footbaths
Free public footbaths or “ashi-yu” can be spotted across Japan’s hot spring villages and in other places too. These free facilities provide a place for people to dip their feet in pristine waters from natural hot springs to warm up their tired feet. Take off your shoes, immerse your feet, and relax!
