22 Lesser-Known Facts About Japan (2024 Edition)
Japan is a top contender on many travelers’ bucket lists, and for good reason. Each visit reveals something new about this fascinating country. Located in East Asia, nestled in the Sea of Japan, the archipelago is an incredible destination that offers so much more than just its renowned cuisine and historical significance during World War II.
Fun Facts About Japan
Did you know that Japan boasts the world’s second-highest life expectancy, surpassed only by Hong Kong? In 2024, there were 2.31 million Japanese citizens over the age of 90, with over 71,000 exceeding the century mark! Could it be that the Japanese have unlocked the secret to longevity?
With a rich cultural heritage dating back thousands of years, Japan stands as one of the most technologically advanced nations since 1950. Governed as a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary system, the currency used here is the Japanese yen.
Education holds paramount importance in Japan, contributing to its status as one of the most literate countries globally. The national consciousness reflects a deep appreciation for natural beauty alongside an interest in aesthetics and balance.
You might find some surprising habits and facts about Japan intriguing. For instance, sumo wrestling is not just a sport but has roots in ancient rituals meant to entertain deities; sumo wrestlers lead disciplined lives that reflect their commitment to this tradition. Moreover, natural hot springs known as onsen are integral to Japanese culture—not only for relaxation but also serving ceremonial purposes in Shintoism and Buddhism.
There’s so much more to discover about Japan beyond what meets the eye; let’s explore some truly interesting facts about this remarkable nation.
1. Japan is Extremely Clean
One striking feature of Japan is its cleanliness; even urban centers like Tokyo maintain spotless streets free from litter. How do they achieve this? It stems from a collective mindset where residents take pride in their environment and often engage in volunteer efforts to keep their city tidy.
2. Tokyo is the World’s Most Populated City
The greater Tokyo metropolitan area consists of three regions and serves as home to Japan's capital city. With an estimated population of 38.14 million people, Tokyo ranks as the world’s most populous megacity.
3. Japan has the World’s Largest Fish Market in Tokyo
The Tsukiji Fish Market in Tokyo holds the title for being the largest fish market worldwide—a bustling hub since 1935 that symbolizes Japan's seafood industry prowess. Handling over 2,000 tons of seafood daily, Tsukiji is famous not just for its sheer size but also for its vibrant tuna auctions where buyers fiercely compete for prime catches.
Although inner wholesale operations moved to Toyosu in 2018, Tsukiji remains a must-visit destination with its lively outer market offering fresh seafood and local street food delights—showcasing Japan’s ability to harmonize tradition with modernity.
4. Japan’s population is 98.5 percent Japanese.
While many countries are embracing multiculturalism, Japan remains predominantly homogeneous with 98.5 percent of its population identifying as Japanese. This is largely due to stringent visa requirements and a cultural mindset that emphasizes the preservation of its distinctive heritage and ancient traditions.
5. Japan Has Canned Foods Restaurants
For fans of canned food, Japan offers a unique dining experience with numerous restaurants and bars dedicated to this culinary niche. The most popular chain, Mr. Kanso, showcases an impressive selection of canned goods from around the globe, ensuring that even the pickiest eaters will discover something new.
In addition to these specialized eateries, Japan boasts an abundance of vending machines scattered throughout the streets, selling everything from sake and beer to tea and snacks.
6. Japan Has a High Life Expectancy
Japan ranks among the top countries globally for life expectancy, closely trailing Hong Kong with an average lifespan of 83.6 years. Contributing factors include economic stability and dietary habits that favor fish over red meat, ample vegetables, and smaller portion sizes.
The presence of natural hot springs, known as Onsens, also plays a significant role in promoting longevity in Japan. These healing waters are popular among locals seeking relaxation and wellness.
7. Japan Has Many Active Volcanoes
Japan is home to 110 active volcanoes! Scientists actively monitor 47 of these due to their recent eruptions or potential activity.
8. Each Year There Are Over 1,500 Earthquakes
Indeed! Situated atop three tectonic plates—the Eurasian, North American, and Filipino—Japan experiences over a thousand earthquakes annually due to its geological positioning. While most tremors are minor and go unnoticed by residents, larger seismic events do occur occasionally.
9. Forests Cover 67% of Japan
When envisioning Japan's landscape, bustling cities often come to mind; however, it may surprise you that approximately 67 percent of the country is covered by lush forests.
, It's not uncommon for hikers on forest trails to encounter signs warning them about black bears roaming in these woods—yes, there are black bears in Japan!
10. The Japanese are Extremely Attached to Nature and Their Culture
The Japanese have a profound appreciation for nature, deeply rooted in the spirituality of the ancient Shinto religion. This belief system attributes spirits to natural features such as rivers, mountains, and rocks, reflecting the beauty of their environment and its significance in their culture.
11. Japan Is Home to the Deepest Underwater Postbox
In Wakayama Province, Susami boasts the world’s deepest underwater postbox, recognized by Guinness World Records in 2002. Situated 30 feet underwater, this unique postbox has collected over 32,000 pieces of mail since its installation in 1999.
12. Mount Fuji is a Holy Site
Mount Fuji is not only Japan’s highest peak but also a sacred site for the Shinto religion since the seventh century. According to tradition, Princess Konohanasakuya is considered the Kami (divine spirit) of Mount Fuji, with cherry blossoms symbolizing her presence. Visitors often remark on the tranquility and eerie atmosphere that surrounds this iconic mountain.
13. Japan Has Ice Cream That Does Not Melt
One fascinating fact about Japan is its creation of non-melting ice cream! While it will eventually melt, this special ice cream takes several hours to do so—making it an exciting treat for kids. This discovery was made accidentally during research aimed at helping strawberry farmers affected by the 2011 earthquake.
14. Portugal Was the First European Country to Visit Japan
In 1543, Portugal became the first European country to reach Japan when they docked at Nagasaki’s port. This marked the beginning of the Nanban trade period (1543-1614), during which cultural exchanges flourished between Japan and Portugal. Notably, this era introduced new technologies such as firearms and naval ships to Japan along with culinary delights like tempura.
15. Japan Was Locked Down for a Whole Period When the Shogun Closed Japan
16. Japan Has a Highway that Passes Through a Building
In Osaka, the Hanshin Expressway runs directly through the 5th, 6th, and 7th floors of the Gate Tower Building. This unique feature allows vehicles to traverse the highway without causing disturbance to the building’s occupants.
The walls and floors of the building are soundproof, ensuring that employees remain unaware of the highway above them. Interestingly, the highway does not physically touch the structure.
17. Japanese Follow a Healthy Diet
The Japanese diet is celebrated as one of the healthiest in the world, primarily consisting of traditional foods like rice, fish, and vegetables.
With an emphasis on low-fat foods rich in minerals and vitamins, this diet plays a significant role in contributing to Japan's impressive life expectancy.
18. The Last Emperor in the World
Japan is unique as it is home to the world’s only Emperor. Though his role is largely symbolic with minimal governing power, he remains a vital figure in Japanese culture and tradition.
Naruhito currently holds the title of Emperor, having ascended to the throne on May 1, 2019, following his father Emperor Akihito's abdication on April 30 of that year.
19. Japan is a Hiker’s Paradise
While many may not immediately associate Japan with hiking, it offers an abundance of mountains and trails for enthusiasts. The country's varied geography provides hikers with numerous options suited to different skill levels.
For those seeking adventure, climbing Mount Fuji presents both physical and mental challenges. Additionally, there are UNESCO-recognized trekking routes through the picturesque Japanese Alps on Honshu island.
20. Japan Has the World’s Sixth-Longest Coastline
Japan boasts the sixth-longest coastline globally, measuring approximately 18,486 miles—surpassing Australia, the United States, and Antarctica among others.
This extensive coastline features scenic hiking trails along cliffs and tranquil coastal towns alongside some of the largest fishing ports in the world.
21. The Famous Kitayamazaki Cliffs
'Kitayamazaki Cliffs' stretch over five miles along the Rikuchu Coastline in Northern Iwate region and rise impressively to heights of 650 feet.
'Famed for winning first place in natural resource categories back in 1999,' these cliffs offer breathtaking views from various vantage points provided by three observation decks at different elevations within Kitayamazaki Observatory.
22. Unique Customs and Traditions in Japan
Japan is a country rich with unique customs and traditions. One of the most prominent is bowing, which serves as a greeting or farewell. The depth and duration of the bow depend on the context and the status of the individuals involved, symbolizing respect that is deeply rooted in Japanese culture.
The Japanese hold a profound respect for nature, evident in their traditions such as cherry blossom viewing, known as hanami, during springtime. People gather under blooming cherry trees to admire the blossoms' beauty, which symbolizes the impermanence of life.
Japanese cuisine also reflects this respect for nature, emphasizing seasonality and freshness. Many dishes incorporate ingredients available only during specific seasons, ensuring that food remains fresh and aligned with nature's cycles.
The traditional Japanese tea ceremony—chanoyu, sado, or ocha—is a highly ritualistic practice where green tea is meticulously prepared and served to guests within a specially designed room. This ceremony transcends mere tea drinking; it embodies spiritual harmony, respect, purity, and tranquility.
Gift-giving plays a significant role in Japanese culture. Gifts are thoughtfully chosen and elegantly wrapped to convey respect and appreciation towards recipients across various aspects of life, from business interactions to personal relationships.
Respect for elders features prominently in Japanese society. Numerous customs revolve around honoring older generations who are held in high regard.
In Japan, it's customary to remove shoes before entering homes or traditional buildings. Guests are often provided with slippers or socks to maintain cleanliness and show respect for the space.
Japan hosts numerous festivals and celebrations, each imbued with its own unique customs. Events like Oshogatsu (New Year) and Tanabata (Star Festival) are celebrated with immense enthusiasm and reflect deep cultural significance.
Politeness and respect permeate daily life in Japan. This manifests through honorific language use and courteous behavior among individuals. The traditional art of calligraphy—shodou—is also highly esteemed; many artists dedicate their lives to mastering this ancient craft.
Japan: An Interesting Country
'There you have some fascinating insights into Japan! The country possesses an endless array of intriguing facts waiting to be discovered.' With over 2,000 years of history layered with captivating traditions, we hope this exploration allows you to appreciate just how remarkable Japan truly is—a nation rich with diverse cultural facets.