Japan is a country of wonders with ancient traditions and futuristic innovations. It has unique customs and breathtaking landscapes, so there’s always something fascinating to discover. Whether you’re a fan of history, food, or quirky traditions, Japan has plenty to surprise you.
I will discuss 20 fun facts about Japan that might leave you amazed. From bizarre vending machines to historic samurai culture, each fact will give you a deeper look into this extraordinary country. Some of these interesting facts about Japan might even change the way you see it!
So, if you’ve ever wondered why Japan has square watermelons or how a train can run without a driver, keep reading. Get ready to uncover some of the most fun facts about Japan that you probably didn’t know before!
1. Japan Has More Than 6,000 Islands
One of the most fun facts about Japan is that it consists of 6,852 islands! The four largest—Honshu, Hokkaido, Kyushu, and Shikoku—make up about 97% of Japan’s total land area. Honshu, where Tokyo is located, is the biggest and most populated.
Many smaller islands are known for their unique attractions. For example, Miyajima Island is famous for its floating torii gate, while Okinawa’s islands are home to stunning beaches and rare wildlife. In 2021, a volcanic eruption even created a new island near the Ogasawara archipelago.
This interesting fact about Japan shows how the country is constantly evolving. Whether it’s an ancient island or a newly formed one, Japan’s geography is always full of surprises!
2. Japan Has the World’s Busiest Train Station
A fun fact about Japan is that it has the busiest train station in the world. Tokyo’s Shinjuku Station serves over 3.6 million passengers daily, earning it a Guinness World Record. With more than 200 exits, it’s a massive transportation hub.
To handle the rush, special station staff, called oshiya (“pushers”), literally push people into overcrowded trains during peak hours. Despite the chaos, Japan’s trains are incredibly punctual—if a train is late by even one minute, staff will apologize to passengers.
This is one of the most interesting facts about Japan, showcasing the country’s efficiency and discipline. No wonder Japan’s railway system is admired worldwide!
3. Japan Produces Over 24 Billion Chopsticks Annually
Another fun fact about Japan is that the country goes through 24 billion disposable chopsticks every year—about 200 pairs per person! Most are made from cedar or bamboo, but luxury versions are crafted from lacquered wood with artistic designs.
Recently, Japan has been promoting reusable chopsticks to reduce waste. Many restaurants now offer washable chopsticks, and some people carry their own personal sets.
Another interesting fact about Japan is its strict chopstick etiquette. For example, never pass food directly from one pair of chopsticks to another, as this resembles a funeral custom. Knowing these traditions helps visitors avoid cultural mistakes!
4. Japan Has More Vending Machines Than Any Other Country
One of the most interesting facts about Japan is its obsession with vending machines. There are over 4 million vending machines across the country, making it the nation with the highest vending machine density in the world!
These machines sell more than just drinks and snacks. You can find vending machines offering hot meals, fresh eggs, umbrellas, and even canned ramen. Some high-tech models even use facial recognition to suggest drinks based on the weather and your age.
This fun fact about Japan shows how convenience is a top priority. No matter where you go, you’re likely to find a vending machine ready to serve you, even in the most remote locations!
5. Japan Has a Train That “Floats” Above the Tracks
A truly interesting fact about Japan is that it has some of the most advanced trains in the world. The Maglev (magnetic levitation) train can reach speeds of 603 km/h (375 mph), making it the fastest train on Earth.
Unlike traditional trains, Maglev trains don’t run on tracks. Instead, they use powerful magnets to float above the rails, reducing friction and allowing for ultra-high speeds. The Chūō Shinkansen, a Maglev line connecting Tokyo and Nagoya, is set to open by 2027.
This fun fact about Japan highlights the country’s dedication to futuristic technology. With bullet trains and Maglev systems, Japan is leading the way in high-speed travel!
6. Square Watermelons Exist in Japan
A truly bizarre fun fact about Japan is that the country grows square watermelons! These uniquely shaped fruits were first developed in 1978 by farmers in Kagawa Prefecture to make them easier to store in refrigerators.
Farmers grow these watermelons inside glass boxes, forcing them to take on a square shape. However, they aren’t meant for eating—most are used as decorative gifts and can cost up to ¥10,000 (about $70 USD) each!
This is one of the most interesting facts about Japan, proving how the country blends creativity with agriculture. From heart-shaped strawberries to white peaches, Japan’s fruit industry is full of surprises!
7. Japan Has the World’s Oldest Company
One of the most interesting facts about Japan is that it’s home to the oldest company in the world. Kongō Gumi, a construction company specializing in building temples and shrines, was founded in 578 AD and operated independently for over 1,400 years before merging with another firm in 2006.
Kongō Gumi played a key role in building some of Japan’s most famous religious sites, including Shitennō-ji Temple in Osaka. The company survived centuries of wars, economic crises, and political changes, making it a symbol of Japanese resilience.
This fun fact about Japan highlights the country’s deep respect for tradition and craftsmanship. Even today, many Japanese businesses focus on long-term success rather than short-term profits.
8. Japan Has More Elderly People Than Children
A surprising fun fact about Japan is that it has one of the oldest populations in the world. As of 2023, nearly 29% of Japan’s population is 65 or older, while only 11% are under 14. This is the highest elderly population percentage of any country.
Japan even has more than 90,000 centenarians (people aged 100 or older), a number that has been increasing for decades. The oldest verified Japanese person, Kane Tanaka, lived to 119 years old before passing away in 2022.
This is one of the most interesting facts about Japan because it presents both challenges and innovations. With fewer young workers, Japan is turning to robotics and AI to support its aging society.
9. Japan Holds the Record for the Shortest Escalator
One of the quirkiest fun facts about Japan is that it has the world’s shortest escalator! Located in the basement of More’s Department Store in Kawasaki, this tiny escalator is only 83.4 cm (32.8 inches) tall, with just five steps.
The escalator, known as the Puchicalator, was built in the 1980s and remains a popular tourist attraction. Though it may seem unnecessary, it perfectly reflects Japan’s attention to detail—even when it comes to minor conveniences.
This is one of the most interesting facts about Japan because it shows how the country embraces both practicality and fun in its daily life. Many visitors stop by just to take a ride on the world’s tiniest moving stairs!
10. Japan Has Cat Islands with More Cats Than Humans
A fun fact about Japan that animal lovers will enjoy is that the country has several “cat islands” where felines outnumber humans. The most famous one is Aoshima Island, located in Ehime Prefecture, where the cat-to-human ratio is about 36 to 1!
These islands originally had large cat populations because fishermen encouraged them to control rodent problems. Over time, the cats became the main attraction, drawing tourists from around the world. Locals feed and care for the cats, making them an essential part of island life.
This is one of the most interesting facts about Japan because it highlights the country’s love for animals. In addition to cat islands, Japan also has bunny islands (like Ōkunoshima) and even fox villages where people can interact with friendly wildlife.
11. Japan Has a Festival Where People Carry Giant Phallic Statues
One of the most interesting facts about Japan is the Kanamara Matsuri, also known as the “Festival of the Steel Phallus.” Held every April in Kawasaki, this festival features massive, brightly colored phallic statues paraded through the streets.
The festival dates back to the 17th century when local prostitutes prayed to a steel phallus for protection against sexually transmitted infections. Today, the event promotes safe sex and fertility, attracting thousands of tourists who buy phallic-shaped candies, decorations, and souvenirs.
This fun fact about Japan shows how the country blends ancient traditions with modern celebrations. Despite its humorous appearance, the festival carries deep cultural and historical significance.
12. Japan Has Cafés Where You Can Cuddle Hedgehogs
A fun fact about Japan is that it has some of the most unique cafés in the world. While cat cafés are famous worldwide, Japan also has hedgehog cafés, where visitors can hold and play with these tiny, adorable creatures.
One of the most popular spots is Harry Hedgehog Café in Tokyo, where customers can interact with various species of hedgehogs for around ¥1,400 ($10 USD) per 30 minutes. Some cafés also offer otters, owls, and even micro pigs!
This is one of the most interesting facts about Japan because it highlights the country’s love for animals and its ability to turn everyday experiences into fun attractions. If you love cute creatures, Japan’s animal cafés are a must-visit!
13. Japanese Toilets Are Among the Most High-Tech in the World
A truly fun fact about Japan is that even its toilets are high-tech wonders. Many Japanese toilets come with features like heated seats, built-in bidets, automatic lids, and even music to cover up sounds.
The most famous brand, TOTO, introduced advanced toilets in the 1980s, and now over 80% of Japanese households use them. Some newer models even analyze your health and connect to smartphone apps for tracking hydration and diet!
This is one of the most interesting facts about Japan because it shows how the country prioritizes comfort and cleanliness in every aspect of life. Once you experience a Japanese toilet, regular toilets will feel outdated!
14. There’s a Town in Japan Where Almost Everyone Is a Doll
One of the creepiest yet most interesting facts about Japan is that in the remote village of Nagoro, life-sized dolls outnumber actual people. The town once had hundreds of residents, but as younger generations moved to cities, the population declined to fewer than 30 people.
A local artist named Ayano Tsukimi began creating dolls to replace former villagers, placing them in schools, bus stops, and fields. Now, Nagoro is home to over 350 handmade dolls, each representing a former resident.
This fun fact about Japan highlights the country’s rural depopulation issue while also showcasing its unique artistic traditions. Visitors to Nagoro describe it as both fascinating and eerie—like stepping into a forgotten world.
15. Japan Has the Deepest Underwater Postbox in the World
One of the most interesting facts about Japan is that it has the deepest underwater postbox in the world. Located 10 meters (32 feet) beneath the sea in Susami, Wakayama Prefecture, this postbox has collected more than 38,000 waterproof letters since it was installed in 1999.
Divers can purchase special water-resistant postcards, write messages with oil-based markers, and drop them into the underwater postbox. The letters are collected daily and delivered just like regular mail!
This fun fact about Japan highlights the country’s creativity when it comes to blending tourism and tradition. Whether on land or underwater, Japan ensures you can always send a postcard home!
16. Japan’s Capsule Hotels Are Extremely Space-Efficient
A unique fun fact about Japan is its capsule hotels, which offer tiny sleeping pods instead of regular rooms. The first capsule hotel opened in Osaka in 1979, and since then, these space-saving accommodations have become a popular and affordable option for travelers.
Each capsule is about 1 meter (3.3 feet) wide, 2 meters (6.6 feet) long, and 1 meter (3.3 feet) high, just enough space for a bed and some personal belongings. Despite the small size, many capsules come with TVs, USB chargers, air conditioning, and privacy screens.
This is one of the most interesting facts about Japan because it reflects the country’s innovative approach to urban living. With limited space in big cities, capsule hotels provide a practical yet futuristic way to stay overnight.
17. Japanese Snow Monkeys Love Hot Springs
A truly adorable fun fact about Japan is that Japanese macaques, also known as snow monkeys, love to bathe in hot springs. The best place to see them is Jigokudani Monkey Park in Nagano, where wild monkeys soak in steaming natural onsen pools during the winter.
These monkeys learned to enjoy hot springs in the 1960s, when they were first spotted imitating humans at nearby onsens. Since then, they have made hot spring bathing part of their daily routine, especially when temperatures drop below -10°C (14°F).
This is one of the most interesting facts about Japan because it’s rare to see wild animals behave this way. The sight of relaxed monkeys enjoying a hot bath is one of the cutest attractions in Japan!
18. Japan Has a Train Station with No Entrance or Exit
A fun fact about Japan that confuses many visitors is that there’s a train station with no entrance or exit! Seiryu Miharashi Station, located along the Oigawa Railway in Shizuoka Prefecture, exists purely as a scenic observation stop.
Built in 2019, this station has no roads, ticket booths, or exits—passengers can only get off, enjoy the breathtaking view of the Oigawa River, and wait for the next train. The goal is to provide travelers with a quiet moment in nature before continuing their journey.
This is one of the most interesting facts about Japan because it showcases the country’s appreciation for scenic beauty. Instead of rushing from place to place, Japan encourages people to slow down and enjoy their surroundings.
19. Japan Has the World’s Cleanest Public Transport
Another fascinating fact is that Japan’s trains and buses are some of the cleanest in the world. Even the busiest stations, like Tokyo’s Shinjuku Station, remain spotless thanks to strict cleaning protocols and a culture of respect for public spaces.
One of the best examples is the Shinkansen bullet train. After each journey, a team of cleaners, known as the “7-Minute Miracle” crew, cleans an entire 16-car train in just 7 minutes! They wipe down seats, collect trash, and make sure everything is spotless before the next departure.
This is one of the most fun facts about Japan because it shows the country’s dedication to efficiency and cleanliness. Visitors are often amazed by how pristine Japan’s transportation system is, even with millions of passengers using it daily!
20. Japan Has a Town That Celebrates Halloween All Year Round
A fun fact about Japan that surprises many people is that there’s a place where Halloween never ends! The small town of Kawasaki, just outside Tokyo, hosts Japan’s biggest Halloween parade every October, but some shops and attractions keep the spooky spirit alive all year.
Kawasaki’s Halloween parade began in 1997 and now attracts over 2,000 costumed participants and 120,000 spectators annually. The town also has permanent horror-themed restaurants, ghostly escape rooms, and spooky cosplay events.
This is one of the most fun facts about Japan because it shows how the country embraces creativity and fun. Whether you visit in October or any other time of the year, you can always find a touch of Halloween magic in Kawasaki!
Conclusion
Japan is a country full of surprises, from square watermelons to floating trains. These fun facts about Japan showcase its unique blend of tradition, technology, and creativity. Whether it’s the world’s busiest train station, the cutest snow monkeys, or islands ruled by cats, Japan never fails to amaze visitors with its quirky and fascinating culture.
If you love discovering fun facts about different countries, check out 20 fun facts about Australia or 20 fun facts about Canada. You can also explore 20 fun facts about Cuba or find entertainment with these 10 best movies to watch when bored. There’s always something new and exciting to learn!
Great job! Keep it up.