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35 Fascinating Facts About Japanese People And Their Culture

Japan is known as the birthplace of cool and handy technology as well as magnificent ancient culture. It is also a mishmash of traditional palaces and temples, idyllic natural landscapes, futuristic cities, and a rich and distinct past. The country’s contemporary culture is something that only Japan can provide there is no other nation with the same characteristics. To begin with, it is steeped in thousands of years of deep traditions, and on the other, it is a society in constant flux, with constantly shifting fads and fashions and technological development that constantly pushes back the boundaries of what is possible. As a nation whose culture emphasizes harmony and unity, this produces overall ideals of being polite, respectful, and helpful to others (especially foreigners), which is why so many Japanese will appear to have these traits. Let’s see what’s fascinating about the Japanese people and their culture.

Read also; Best Japanese Cities to Visit for Culture

1. The Japanese monarchy is the world’s longest-continuous hereditary monarchy

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Did you know that Japan has been ruled by the same dynasty for over 2,600 years? Emperor Jimmu is credited with establishing the Japanese monarchy in 660 B.C. after waging conflict with local chieftains. The Japanese monarchy has been in existence since around 660 B.C. and physical proof of its reign extends to around 300 A.D. as the world’s oldest continuous hereditary dynasty sometimes revered for its link to Shinto gods. The Imperial House of Japan now serves as a symbol but has no executive or military authority within the Japanese state. Nonetheless, the monarchy has historical significance, despite the fact that it has no state political authority.

2. The Japanese people have the world’s highest lifespan

According to 2016 OECD data, Japanese people are expected to live for more than 80 years on average, regardless of gender, which is about 10 years longer than the global average. But how do Japanese people maintain their health and enjoy such long lives? Is there anything concealed behind Japan’s longevity? Japanese people have a longer life expectancy due to a low obesity rate, low consumption of red meat, and high consumption of seafood and plant foods such as soybeans and tea.

3. The kanji (Wa), is important in the Japanese language and culture

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‘Wa’ is a Japanese cultural idea that translates to “harmony” in English. It denotes peaceful unity and conformity within a social organization in which members prioritize the continuation of a harmonious society over their individual interests. ‘Wa’ is also a term for “Japan; Japanese,” replacing the original graphic pejorative transcription Wa “dwarf/submissive people.” Wa is an important part of Japanese culture and stems from traditional Japanese family ideals. Individuals who violate the ideal of ‘Wa’ to further their own ends are brought back into line, either openly or covertly, by reprimands from a superior or the tacit disapproval of their family or coworkers.

4. Japan has a long and varied art tradition

Arts and crafts are inextricably linked to daily living in Japan. They evolved from everyday necessities and were highly influenced by China, Buddhism, and, later, the West. Arts and crafts lost their practical aspect over time, becoming purely aesthetic objects created for the viewer’s contemplation and decoration. Painting, calligraphy, architecture, pottery, sculpture, bronzes, jade carving, ukiyo-e paintings and woodblock prints, ceramics, origami, and, more recently, manga and anime, and other fine or decorative visual arts created in Japan over the ages are examples of Japanese art.

5. Modern Japanese is written in three fundamental scripts

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The Japanese script is actually three interconnected writing systems. Hiragana, katakana, and kanji are the three methods. Don’t stress if that sounds overwhelming. Because Japanese is a language with many borrowed words, katakana instantly alerts the reader that the word is an import, and hiragana is used to symbolize Japanese words. There are a few thousand Kanji characters, while Hiragana and Katakana each have 46. Although there is a general rule for when to use which script, there are many exceptions, and words written in Kanji frequently have multiple pronunciations, depending on the context.

6. Sakura flowering trees represent the fleeting nature of existence

The Japanese term for cherry blossom is sakura. Cherry blossoms are a flower that represents spring, a time of renewal, and the fleeting essence of life. Their lives are brief. The blooms begin to fall after their beauty has peaked, which takes about two weeks. People in Japan enjoy having cherry blossom parties with coworkers, neighbors, and family during this season. Sakura is also frequently depicted in Japanese art, writing, and music.

7. ‘Sumo’ is a living manifestation of traditional Japanese culture

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Sumo is a type of competitive full-contact wrestling in which a rikishi (wrestler) tries to drive his opponent out of a circular ring (dohy) or to touch the ground with any part of his body other than his feet’s soles (usually by throwing, shoving, or pushing him down). Sumo originated in Japan, the only country where it is professionally practiced and regarded as a national sport. It is classified as a Gendai bud, which alludes to modern Japanese martial arts, but the sport has a long history.

8. Japanese food is famous all over the world

Japanese cuisine is recognized for being visually as well as aesthetically pleasing. Japanese cuisine includes the country’s regional and traditional foods, which have evolved over centuries of political, economic, and societal change. Traditional Japanese cuisine (Japanese: washoku) consists of rice with miso soup and other dishes, with a focus on seasonal ingredients. Fish, pickled veggies, and greens cooked in broth are common side dishes. Seafood is popular, and it is frequently grilled, but it is also offered raw as sashimi or in sushi. Tempura, seafood, and veggies are deep-fried in a light batter. Aside from rice, pasta such as soba and udon are common. There are many simmered foods in Japan, such as fish in broth called oden or beef in sukiyaki and nikujaga.

Read also; 45 Amazing Traditional Foods from Japan

9. Japan leads the world in producing high-tech innovations

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The nation is home to seven of the top ten industrial robotics firms in the globe. It also has the highest concentration of robot workers in the entire globe. The market for service robotics is booming, and elder care is one of its many applications. The nation is a technological force in fields like artificial intelligence, machine learning, and vision. The creation of powerful robotic hardware depends on these technologies. The nation is also renowned for having a highly developed physical infrastructure of highways, roads, and transit options.

10. Japanese martial arts traditions are famous all over the world

Budo, or Japanese martial arts, originated from the need for defense and conflict. The term “bushi” or “samurai” was used to describe members of the highest social elite during the Edo Period (1603–1867). After years of diligent training in combat, these warriors ultimately passed on their philosophies and methods to succeeding generations. Japanese martial arts are no longer used for fighting in the modern era. They have developed into trustworthy self-defense techniques over time. These days, they are used as instructional tools with the goal of fostering spiritual, moral, cultural, and physical development.

11. Japanese people have long appreciated nature

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One of the most intimate, harmonious, and close connections between man and nature exists in Japan. It is ingrained in Japanese culture to love nature wholeheartedly, care for it constantly, and responsibly transmit this respect to coming generations. Promoting the value of being in nature serves multiple purposes because it makes people feel more connected to the natural world and increases their sense of urgency to preserve it. Japanese forest bathing (shinrin yoku) is a tradition that revitalizes both the body and the psyche. Japan is lucky to have many natural areas that have largely escaped human interference. 

12. The Japanese might be the hardest-working people in the world

Extreme dedication to one’s job is emphasized in Japanese traditional workplace culture. According to a 2015 Expedia Japan study, 53% of Japanese people are unaware of how much annual leave they are entitled to. Employees frequently feel guilty for taking paid breaks, despite this. Furthermore, only 52% of the participants concurred that maintaining a work-life balance is crucial.

13. The Japanese tea ceremony is a very popular cultural experience

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Japanese refer to the tea ritual as Ocha, Chanoyu, or Sado. Matcha, a type of Japanese green tea, is prepared and served in a choreographed ceremony along with traditional Japanese sweets to counteract the tea’s bitter flavor. In this ceremony, preparing tea entails giving the predetermined movements one’s full concentration. The entire procedure is more about aesthetics and making a bowl of tea from the heart than it is about drinking tea. Every action and motion made by the ceremony’s host always takes the attendees into account. Even the positioning of the tea utensils is taken into account from the viewpoint (angle) of the guests, particularly the principal visitors known as the Shokyaku.

14. Japan is full of  Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples

Shrines are structures created to support the Shinto religious practice and are distinguished by an entrance torii gate. Temples have a sanmon gate at the entrance and are constructed to support Buddhist religious practice. In Japan, it is difficult to walk through a neighborhood without coming across at least one temple or shrine.

15. Japanese people are so fashionable

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When it comes to fashion, the Japanese have never failed. Students, in particular, are frequently seen donning the most recent clothing that they discovered on the internet or saw on their favorite celebrity. One feature shared by Japanese fashion trends is a focus on self-expression and taking chances. On average, Japanese people are fashionable because fashion is a common method for people to differentiate themselves in homogeneous societies. High-conformist societies, such as Japan, are frequently perceived as more fashionable, as more emphasis is put on fashion to express an individual’s personality.

16. ‘Omotenashi’ is deeply embedded in Japanese culture

Omotenashi is a deeply ingrained part of Japanese culture and can be seen in everything from how hotels, restaurants, and shops treat their customers. It is about creating a comfortable and enjoyable experience for the guest without waiting for them to ask or expecting anything in return. Although omotenashi is common in the service industry, it can be practiced by everyone when inviting others to their home, hosting a party, and such. Some people describe omotenashi as “wholehearted hospitality,” “selfless service,” and other similar phrases. Paying attention to small details, anticipating others’ needs, and going above and beyond to satisfy them are key components of omotenashi.

17. Japanese people use onsen to heal their bodies

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The Japanese swimming culture is well-known and distinctive. It includes bathing rituals performed at home, in public bathhouses, or in one of Japan’s renowned Onsen. An Onsen is a Japanese hot spring with water temperatures ranging from 104 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit. The hot spring water can relax tense muscles, and most Japanese hot springs have natural or serene surroundings that can help you clear your thoughts. After leaving the hot spring, your body rapidly cools, allowing you to relax and fall deeper asleep.

Read also; 10 Best Wellness Retreats in Japan

18. The rich tradition of Japanese theater comprises three major forms

The Japanese theater heritage is rich and fascinating. Three of the many forms are the most popular including kabuki which depicts emotional tales in a lively manner, noh, which is known for its unique expressive masks, and bunraku, or puppet theatre. To become a performer, years of training are required. Dances and movements are complex and fascinating, and emotions are communicated through music, masks, and costumes. Participating in a Japanese play is a sensory-stimulating event.

19. There are countless local festivals in Japan

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As stated by “eight million gods,” the Japanese thought that God dwells in everything. Matsuri (Japanese cultural festival) is conducted to thank God for nature, life, and community development. It’s also a chance for Japanese people with serious and industrious personalities to let loose their energy. It is unknown how many Japanese celebrations, or matsuri, take place each year. 200,000 festivals is a reasonable number. Japan has roughly 190,000 temples and shrines. Every year, the majority of them host at least one festival.

20. Japanese people honor their ancestors

Obon is a Japanese holiday celebrated to commemorate one’s ancestors. Obon, which takes place from August 13 to 16, is a traditional event that has been honored in Japan since the early seventh century A.D. Obon is often observed by Japanese residents returning to their family’s ohaka, or traditional gravesite.

21. Japanese gardens are serene and simple places of calm

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Japanese gardens are simple and serene places of calm that offer a peaceful retreat for contemplation and meditation. They avoid the excesses of many Western garden designs by focusing on evergreens, rocks, pebbles, sand, ponds, and cascades. Garden architecture is typically minimalistic, with an emphasis on the natural landscape rather than elaborate and ornate designs. The gardens incorporate worn and natural elements, and bright colors are used directly to symbolize seasonal changes.

22. Japan has developed a unique culture of public baths

Sento (public baths) have a long history in Japan, going back hundreds of years. Though public bathing dates back to the sixth century, bathhouses gained popularity during the Edo era (1603–1868). A new form of sento known as “super sento” has spread throughout Japan since the traditional mento has decreased. Super sento is a larger facility with a variety of baths and saunas, restaurants, and a large parking lot where people can spend extended amounts of time with family or friends. Meanwhile, because it is run by a private company, it frequently encounters intense competition from other super sento and exits the market.

23. ‘Nengajo’ is an important part of the New Year’s celebrations in Japan

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Nengajo, like holiday cards and greetings in the West, is an essential part of Japan’s New Year’s celebrations. Japanese nengajo, or New Year greetings cards, are a fun and simple way to express your gratitude to those you care about during the holidays. They’re also an excellent method to send cool Japanese greetings to friends and family back home.

24. Japanese people greet each other by bowing

Unlike in Western culture, bowing, known as ojigi in Japan, is an essential etiquette that is taught from a young age. A bow can be a small nod of the head or a deep bend at the waist, depending on the circumstance. A deep, longbow shows reverence, while a smaller nod is less formal.

25. ‘Kawaii’ is the culture of cuteness in Japan

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Kawaii, which roughly translates as “cuteness,” is one of the most commonly used Japanese terms. In a wider sense, it refers to the culture of celebrating all things adorable and embracing fictional characters as positive role models. Originating as a distinctively Japanese cultural trend, the idea quickly grew into the global phenomenon that it is today.

26. The ‘yuru-kyara’ concept of mascots is exclusive to Japan

Mascots, or Yuru Kyara as they are called in Japan, are extremely popular. It is believed that Japan has around 1200 local area mascots, not to mention countless corporate and product mascots. Yuru-kyara, literally ‘loose characters,’ are cute, friendly, and occasionally bizarre mascots developed in Japan for public relations purposes by government organizations, local governments, businesses, and people.

27. Japanese people are known to be kind, quiet, and polite

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Are Japanese people polite? The Japanese are the most polite and courteous people in the world, and they place a high value on social manners and etiquette in their daily lives. Are Japanese people quiet? Being quiet or calm is considered a virtue in Japan, dating back to the Samurai era, so Japanese people are not fond of being overly friendly, particularly when speaking with strangers. Why are Japanese folks so kind? Japanese people are generally trained to be considerate and respectful of others. They value harmony and peaceful relationships and strive to avoid conflicts whenever feasible.

28. Respect for elders is ingrained in Japanese culture

Japanese people are taught from an early age to respect both family members and strangers. They are taught to act appropriately in the company of adults. They are introduced to a new form of the Japanese language dubbed “KEIGO” when they are teenagers. They typically pick up this completely new way of speaking in class while studying other subjects. It progresses from the already formal way they address their parents to a higher degree of formality reserved for teachers, professors, and the elderly. They typically bow as a show of respect when speaking with elders. There are many social hierarchies in Japanese society that are respected, and as one moves up the ladder, one gets to talk less formally and receive more and more respect and politeness from others.

29. Many Japanese people engage in Shinto and Buddhist rituals

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The majority of Japanese are both Buddhist and Shintist. As a result, ancestor worship remains an essential part of modern Japanese culture. In a typical Japanese home, there are two family altars, one Shinto for their tutelary kami and the goddess Amaterasu Mikami, and another Buddhist for the family ancestors. Pure Shint families, on the other hand, will have all ceremonies and services performed in the Shint manner.

Read also; 20 Interesting Facts about Buddhism

30. The kimono is a traditional Japanese garment and Japan’s national attire

The kimono is a traditional Japanese garment and the country’s national attire. Unless the wearer is dead, the kimono is a wrapped-front garment with square sleeves and a rectangular body that is worn left side and folded over the right. The kimono is typically worn with a broad sash called an obi and is frequently paired with zri sandals and tabi socks. It is still a recognizable symbol of traditional Japanese society today.

31. The Japanese people are also very punctual

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Many people have different ideas about how important punctuality is and what time frame is deemed ‘on time.’ This is very important in Japan and can be the difference between creating a good impression, being a good employee, and being respected at work as well as basic etiquette. Punctuality is prevalent in Japanese culture. Many travelers to Japan will notice that trains are rarely late, and when they are, an apology is broadcast through the train.

32. Wabi Sabi is a captivating Japanese aesthetic idea

Wabi-sabi is a worldview focused on the acceptance of transience and imperfection in traditional Japanese aesthetics. The aesthetic is sometimes defined as enjoying beauty in nature that is “imperfect, impermanent, and incomplete.” Wabi Sabi is essentially about the beauty of imperfection. Otherwise, consider it the Japanese equivalent of “less is more.” That, however, would be an overly simplistic explanation for such a deeply ingrained concept in Japanese aesthetics. Wabi Sabi can be found all over Japanese society.

33. Hygiene is important in Japanese culture

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The cleanliness of Japan is one of the many aspects that make people admire the country. Japan has exceptional hygiene! Indeed, the world’s cleanest nation. Historically, cleanliness has been regarded as an essential part of religious practice in Buddhism and Japanese Shintoism. Cleaning is thought to be a simple but powerful method to improve one’s mental health by maintaining one’s surroundings beautiful in these religions. Japanese people cleanse their hands and gargle when they get home from being outside, they take a bath and cleanse their hands before going to bed and they even use shower toilets to cleanse their bottoms. All of these activities are typical Japanese lifestyle practices.

34. Eating while walking is a big no for most Japanese

The Japanese do not consume while walking or standing on the street. It is, however, acceptable to consume while standing next to a vending machine. Eating on the go is considered bad manners because it prevents one from fully appreciating food. Eating and drinking on municipal trains is also prohibited, but not on long-distance express trains.

35. Gift-giving is a common part of Japanese culture

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Gift-giving is an important aspect of Japanese society as various kinds of gifts are given on various occasions including anniversaries, weddings, births, graduations, and housewarmings. The packaging of gifts receives a lot of attention. If the gift is not nicely wrapped, it should be handed over in a bag, ideally one provided by the store where the gift was purchased. Gifts in sets of four are generally avoided because the number four is considered unlucky(the Japanese word for four is pronounced the same as the word for “death”). When giving a gift, both the giver and the recipient use both palms.

The Japanese culture has accumulated a strong historical past, generating and possessing a vast amount of homogeneous traditional influences that have rested its presence in their collectivist society, and up to this day has demonstrated the ability to protect its cultural values while also prioritizing reflect and pass on these values to its future generation.