17 Things You Should Know About Japan

Japanese Lanterns

I visited Japan when I lived in China and here are a few things that the world should know about this amazing country! I made this list to try and share as much as I can from what I experienced. 

1. It’s soooo clean, safe and organized! – It’s crazy that with so many people, everything is spotless and everyone manages to move around in perfect harmony. It’s also mind blowing how safe it is, however, you should always take basic precautions. I have lived and visited cities all around the world and all of them should be jealous of Tokyo  

2. Numbers matter, 38 of its 126 million people live in Tokyo, it’s a huge metropolis! – You can definitely get a sense of the amount of people during rush hour at Shibuya Crossing

3. Their toilets are out of this world! – It’s definitely a new experience for most people

4. Incredible architecture, both the old and the new – Just walk around and observe as much as you can, everything is incredibly thoughtful and detailed 

5. Tokyo has the world’s largest fish market – The Tsukiji Market will take you to an unknown world of seafood with unimaginable diversity. Best to go early in the morning to see it in action

6. Anime is still thriving! – Don’t miss the shops that will bring back lots of childhood memories and get up to date on japanese anime

7. One of my favorites! The Golden Gai, A MUST SEE IN TOKYO!!! – A large collection of miniature bars, each one with a distinct personality that will make for a perfect night out and great conversations with the local bartenders. 

8. They still conserve so much of their traditions and culture – After visiting a few asian countries, Japan is definitely the one that has managed to keep most of its ancient sites 

9. Their take on sex will definitely make you open your eyes – Lots of kinky stuff, specially around Shinjuku in Tokyo

10. Fantastic food for all tastes – This is an obvious one but you will be amazed by the diversity and platter presentations you find across the country

11. A city with deer running around, Nara – If you love animals this is one for you. On your way to Osaka from Kyoto stop in Nara for a pretty cool deer experience

12. Very comfy sleeping cubicles – If you travel solo this is the cheapest and most comfortable way to do so. It’s also a great way to get into the local culture

13. Public baths and shared spaces- These might be a bit uncomfortable at first but it’s definitely one of the most japanese experiences you will get 

14. Very exciting parking facilities – In a country that is so dense, parking facilities had be reinvented 

15. Very cool statues – Plenty of eye catching warrior statues 

16. Lots of slot machines, Pachinko is the thing! – A very common activity in Japan, these places can definitely suck you in for a bit

17. People are very kind and respectful – Japanese tend to be very shy for western standards but they are lovely human beings that will make you feel at home