Funny (but true) facts about Japan that will surprise you (Part 1)

1. You can buy canned bread from a vending machine

Yes, it’s soft. Yes, it’s weirdly sweet. Yes, it exists.

2. Trains have 'Women Only' carriages – but not always clearly marked

So, keep your eyes open for the pink signage before settle in for the train ride!

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3. You can rent a dog (or a goat, or a friend)

Pet cafés, rental goats for gardens, and agencies offering rental family members. Japan has options.

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4. Toilets have sound effects to mask awkward noises

From babbling brooks to flushing noises – some even have heated seats and built-in bidets. The future is here, and it’s in a loo.

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5. Mascots are a big thing – even for the Tax Office

Every town, event, train company and government agency seems to have a cuddly character.

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6. You can get a Degree in Ninja studies

Mie University offers a course in ninjutsu.

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7. People queue for lifts (and escalators!)

Orderly, quiet and always to the left (unless you're in Osaka, where it’s to the right – of course).

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8. Japan has a museum dedicated to parasites

Located in Tokyo. It features an 8.8 metre tapeworm. That’s all you need to know.

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9. You can buy KitKats in flavours like soy sauce and baked potato matcha

We’ve seen miso, sake, purple sweet potato, and corn soup.

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10. There’s a café where staff are people with dementia

Customers are told orders may be forgotten – and they’re encouraged to laugh with, not at. It’s heart-warming and unique.

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11. You Can Order a Banana-shaped phone

Yes, this is real.

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12. Pigeons in Japanese Parks are surprisingly well-behaved

No chips stolen, no flapping at toddlers. Almost… polite.

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13. There’s a sport where competitors try to make babies cry

Naki Sumo: sumo wrestlers bounce babies and pull faces to encourage tears. First one to cry wins. (No babies are harmed, only confused.)

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