Every country boasts its unique charm, whether it’s the people, the food, the nature, or anything else, for that matter, that creates it. And while what captivates people the most differs from visitor to visitor, some places seem to leave many of them fascinated with what they’ve seen or experienced.One of such places, likely to leave its visitors in awe, is Japan. Home to everything from bustling cities to breathtaking nature, and so much more, it also surprises travelers with some rather unexpected sights, such as fried chicken vending machines and public air showers for those suffering from pollen allergies, just to name a couple. Scroll down to find more examples and explore what other unique features add to the charm of Japan.This post may includeaffiliate links.
Every country boasts its unique charm, whether it’s the people, the food, the nature, or anything else, for that matter, that creates it. And while what captivates people the most differs from visitor to visitor, some places seem to leave many of them fascinated with what they’ve seen or experienced.
One of such places, likely to leave its visitors in awe, is Japan. Home to everything from bustling cities to breathtaking nature, and so much more, it also surprises travelers with some rather unexpected sights, such as fried chicken vending machines and public air showers for those suffering from pollen allergies, just to name a couple. Scroll down to find more examples and explore what other unique features add to the charm of Japan.
This post may includeaffiliate links.
There is no such thing as one dream destination as it differs with each traveler. But for those seeking a dynamic and inspiringtravel experience, Japan is likely to be it; or at least it appears somewhere near the top of the bucket list.With a population of nearly 123 million people, it is home to13 citieswith more than a million inhabitants, as well as 34national parks, and a number of mountains—12,516 named peaks, to be exact—one of the most significant ones being Mount Fuji, standing tall at 12,388 ft (3,776m).
There is no such thing as one dream destination as it differs with each traveler. But for those seeking a dynamic and inspiringtravel experience, Japan is likely to be it; or at least it appears somewhere near the top of the bucket list.
With a population of nearly 123 million people, it is home to13 citieswith more than a million inhabitants, as well as 34national parks, and a number of mountains—12,516 named peaks, to be exact—one of the most significant ones being Mount Fuji, standing tall at 12,388 ft (3,776m).
The fact that it’s the tallest one in Japan is not the only reason, which makes Mount Fuji stand out from the rest. (Pun intended.) A populartourist attractionto visitors, the peak is a site of spiritual importance and a source of artistic inspiration for locals.
Over time, their devotion grew into fanaticism, which was eventually banned; however, the tradition of worshiping mountains persisted, rendering such wonders of nature respected sites of spiritual significance.
In addition to an impressive number of peaks, Japan also has quite a fewislands. As a matter of fact, it has quite recently discovered thousands of them the country arguably didn’t know of before.
But it’s not onlyincredible naturethat makes the country an exceptional place. Creating a Japan itinerary might not be easy because of an abundance of man-made wonders that ought to be added to it, too, whether modern or dating back hundreds of years.
While it’s impossible to praise every city and town in Japan, its capital, Tokyo, is definitely worth mentioning; and, of course, visiting, if the opportunity arises. Home to roughly 37 million people (according to2024 estimates), it is reportedly the world’s most populous metropolis, which boasts a little something for every type of traveler, from nature lovers, to museum enthusiasts, and history geeks, among others.
While both the natural and the man-made wonders in Japan ought to leave a lasting impression, the customs and traditions prevailing in the country are likely to do so, too. Similar to some of the unexpected items or occurrences on this list, they tend to be completely commonplace to locals yet quite unusual to those visiting the beautiful country.Take slurping, for instance; something that can get you in trouble at the dinner table as a child in other countries, is not considered bad table manners in Japan. On the contrary, it is believed to allow the person to enjoy their noodles to the fullest and lets the cook know that they clearly like the meal.
While both the natural and the man-made wonders in Japan ought to leave a lasting impression, the customs and traditions prevailing in the country are likely to do so, too. Similar to some of the unexpected items or occurrences on this list, they tend to be completely commonplace to locals yet quite unusual to those visiting the beautiful country.
Take slurping, for instance; something that can get you in trouble at the dinner table as a child in other countries, is not considered bad table manners in Japan. On the contrary, it is believed to allow the person to enjoy their noodles to the fullest and lets the cook know that they clearly like the meal.
Another rather unique food-related feature Japan tends to surprise its visitors with is the abundance of all sorts of vending machines. According toRough Guides, you can find one distributing bananas for a healthy snack on the go, as well as those selling beers as a less healthy alternative. There are even vending machines for purchasing live crabs.
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In fact, it might be passed on to another generation. It is solidly made and also serves as protection in an earthquake. But it is an investment. This one is on sale for $517.
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