11 things familiar to the Japanese that would seem crazy to the rest of the world (12 photos)

Japan is a mysterious country for any foreigner. Its inhabitants know how to surprise not only with their first-class technological inventions, but also with their rather extravagant habits. This applies to everything: food, communication, movement and even sleep. The creativity and ingenuity of the Japanese sometimes exceeds all expectations, appearing as strange antics.

The Japanese, like many Russians, love mayonnaise. And its composition is similar to ours, so nothing strange yet. But the use of this culinary additive makes us think about the unusual gastronomic preferences of the people of Japan. In this country, mayonnaise is eaten with chips, sweet pancakes and even ice cream. An unusual combination, right?

2. Transport

There were some surprises here too. It’s no secret that Asian countries are statistically very densely populated, so it’s logical that the Japanese have difficulties getting around by public transport. To ensure that everyone can fit on the subway train, there are specially trained people who carefully but persistently push all passengers into the car. And for those who do not want to experience such pleasure, there is an alternative - a scooter, which many Japanese are very fond of.

3. Tips

The Japanese hate tips. This may seem strange to foreigners, but everything becomes clear if you look at the essence of the issue. In Japan, tipping is a symbol of poor service performance. Therefore, they are regarded not as a reward and encouragement, but as an insult.

4. Toilet slippers

In Japan, compliance with sanitary standards, cleanliness and hygiene is held in high esteem. Sometimes even too much, which seems unusual to foreign guests of the country. For example, the Japanese came up with special slippers for going to the restroom. They are needed to prevent your feet from coming into contact with an insufficiently clean floor in the toilet, and then not transfer germs to other rooms.

5. Vending machines

Vending machines are a common thing in any country. However, the Japanese were able to stand out here too, because although not the appearance, the contents of the vending machines will definitely surprise any visitor. You can find anything in them, from batteries and religious objects near ancient temples, to various foods: pancakes, yogurt, fresh eggs. In the numerous vending machines located almost everywhere, you can even find underwear or an umbrella in case of sudden weather changes.

6. Unusual gastronomic tastes

The Kit Kat bar is loved in many countries, and Japan is no exception. But the Japanese choose rather strange flavors for their chocolate treats. How much do soy sauce or baked potato flavored bars cost? If these unexpected fillings do not surprise you, you can try Kit Kat with wasabi flavor; you will certainly not be left indifferent. This type of candy bar is quite popular in Japan, as is ice cream with unusual additives: the taste of octopus, cactus, horse meat or coal.

7. Pillows for single people

Nobody likes loneliness. But only Japanese manufacturers thought of correcting such an unpleasant feeling with the help of unusual pillows. For men, pillows are made in the shape of women's knees; these definitely won't go anywhere and will be ready to support you at any time in difficult times. But for single women, local manufacturers have prepared a manly shoulder, although it’s artificial, but you can’t complain.

8. Capsule hotels

The Japanese came up with this amazing invention back in 1979. The first capsule hotel appeared in the capital of Japan and has only gained popularity since then. Those who own hotels also do not complain, since there is no end to customers, and the area of ​​the “rooms” is very small, so one establishment brings in quite a lot of income. Capsule hotels accommodate a wide range of visitors: from respectable businessmen to ordinary drinkers who, after a good party, do not want to return home late at night.

9. Sleeping on the subway

In Japan, hard work and career growth are held in high esteem. It is not surprising that people are often so tired that they fall asleep on public transport. However, exactly how they do this and what they do to maintain a stable position is truly amazing. In the Japanese subway there are special helmets above the seats that fix the position of the head. But those who ride standing up have gone even further - they use a headrest, which is painfully reminiscent of a high crutch. Yes, life is hard for workaholics in Japan.

10. Artificial fangs

There is a lot of amazing things in this country, and the canons of beauty are no exception. Many Japanese women like to walk around with pointed teeth, which have a special name “yabea”. Beauty salons offer special services that allow you to attach artificial fangs to your real teeth. They are not cheap, equivalent to more than one hundred dollars.

11. Warm toy

When it gets cold at home, you don't have to run for a blanket. You can simply heat the toy in the microwave and warm up. This is exactly what most Japanese do.