The Top 6 Things Japan Is Known For and What People Love and Hate About It

When you think of Japan, what comes to mind? Some common answers might be Mt. Fuji, groundbreaking technology, respectful culture, and rich heritage. The truth is that this country is the birthplace of several phenomena that have captured the attention of a worldwide audience. Whether you love these things or you hate them, it’s hard to deny that they’re undeniably unique. Let’s dive into six things that Japan is best known for, and discuss how the masses have reacted!

1. Unique Food

Let’s be honest, Japanese food is some of the most delicious in the world. Some traditional Japanese meals have grown so popular, that they’ve become common offerings on foreign menus as well. Ramen, sushi, tofu, and tempura have become Western favorites throughout the years. However, there are some Japanese meals that others are slower to warm up to. For example, Katsu ika odori-don is a Japanese meal in which soy sauce is poured over fresh squid. Upon contact, the limbs of the squid begin to squirm around which gives it the appearance of dancing. Although it’s perfectly safe to eat, some people are hesitant to try it.

2. Onsen / Hot Springs

If there’s one thing that Japanese people love after a long, hard, or stressful week, it’s taking a visit to the hot springs to unwind. In fact, people from all over the world plan their trips around this relaxing activity. Although you might be eager to hit the onsen on your trip to Japan, you might not be able to. Individuals with tattoos might have trouble partaking in this activity. According to Kashiwaya Magazine, “This is because there is recognition in Japan from a historical background that tattoo, so-called Irezumi in Japan, is “something anti-social people get” or “something members of illegal organizations such as gangsters get.”

3. Cherry Blossom Season

While we’re on the subject of activities that foreigners plan their vacations to Japan around, we can’t forget cherry blossom season. The entire country transforms during this time of year, which spans from the end of March to the middle of April. The trees are in full bloom with little pink flowers, and many restaurants and bakeries offer limited-time cherry blossom-flavored treats. However, because this is such a popular tourist attraction, transportation can be inconvenient during this time of year. Hotels are more expensive on average and flights often cost more. Once you’re in the country, you might be plagued by large amounts of traffic, crowded trains, and long lines. Despite this, many travelers still report that it’s worth enduring regardless.

4. Animation

Among all things Japan is famous for, animation has to be one of the most popular of all. Shows like Dragon Ball Z and Sailor Moon have become household names throughout the years. In fact, many Japanese animes have been dubbed into dozens of languages to accommodate a worldwide audience. Studio Ghibli’s “Spirited Away” even won an Oscar in 2003 for Best Animated Feature. This phenomenon shows no signs of slowing, and each year, the fandom for Japanese animation only grows in its size. Although some people don’t see the appeal of these shows, others are utterly devoted. However you feel about them, it’s hard to deny how iconic they are.

5. Bold Fashion

Japanese fashion, also known as J-fashion, has its own devoted fanbase as well. Some people might remember when Harajuku fashion took the Western world by storm back in the early 2000s. Bright colors, bold patterns, and unique hair were all part of this subculture. This was likely the catalyst for many Americans’ interest in other J-fashions like Lolita, Gyaru, Decora, and Fairy Kei. Some people might find these styles extreme (and to be honest, some of them are intentionally extreme). Even if you dislike it, there’s no denying that Japan has been on the cutting edge of fashion for decades. They aren’t afraid to push boundaries, and because of this, they’ve gained a loyal, global audience.

6. Japanese Pop

Japanese Pop, much like Japanese fashion, has become a subject of interest among a global audience in recent years. J-pop had its inception in the 1990s, and by the mid-2000s, its reach had expanded far beyond the country of Japan. Artists like Lisa, Babymetal, and Kyary Pamyu Pamyu have all risen to incredible levels of stardom for their unique artistic vision and raw talent. You might have heard of virtual idols as well, the most popular of which is likely Hatsune Miku. Although this pop star is fictional, thousands of fans still gather to see her live performances. Many people can’t imagine paying money to watch a hologram perform live, and who can blame them? The music these artists make may not be everyone’s cup of tea. But, as with almost everything Japan does, they’ve created something completely unique.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © Phubet Juntarungsee/Shutterstock.com