Table of Contents
13 Odd Japanese Customs
Japan is a country rich in tradition and cultural practices that can seem unusual or surprising to outsiders. These customs, rooted in centuries of history and social norms, offer a fascinating glimpse into the unique ways of Japanese life. Here are 13 odd Japanese customs that highlight the intriguing and sometimes perplexing aspects of this vibrant culture.
1. Slurping Noodles
In Japan, slurping your noodles is not only acceptable but encouraged. It’s believed to enhance the flavor and show appreciation for the meal. This contrasts with many Western dining etiquettes where slurping is considered impolite.
2. Napping at Work (Inemuri)
Inemuri, or napping at work, is a common practice in Japan. It’s seen as a sign of dedication and hard work, implying that the person is so committed to their job that they’ve exhausted themselves.
3. Eating KFC on Christmas
For many Japanese families, eating Kentucky Fried Chicken on Christmas day is a beloved tradition. This custom started in the 1970s due to a successful marketing campaign by KFC and has since become a nationwide phenomenon.
4. Festival of the Steel Phallus (Kanamara Matsuri)
The Kanamara Matsuri, or Festival of the Steel Phallus, is an annual celebration held in Kawasaki. The festival features parades with giant phallus-shaped decorations, symbolizing fertility and sexual health.
5. Crying Sumo (Nakizumo)
Nakizumo is a contest where sumo wrestlers compete to make babies cry. It’s believed that a baby’s cry can ward off evil spirits and bring good health. The louder the cry, the better the blessing.
6. Random Use of English
In Japan, it’s common to see random English words on clothing, signs, and advertisements. Often these words are used for their aesthetic appeal rather than their meaning, resulting in amusing and sometimes nonsensical phrases.
7. Taking Shoes Off Indoors
Removing shoes before entering a home or certain traditional establishments is a deeply ingrained custom in Japan. This practice maintains cleanliness and shows respect for the living space.
8. Lucky Bags (Fukubukuro)
During New Year’s celebrations, many stores in Japan sell fukubukuro, or lucky bags, filled with mystery items at a discounted price. The contents are a surprise, making it a fun and popular shopping tradition.
9. Bathing Together (Sento and Onsen)
Public baths (sento) and hot springs (onsen) are popular in Japan, where bathing together in a communal setting is a common practice. It’s a social activity and a way to relax and cleanse oneself.
10. Eating Raw Horse Meat (Basashi)
Basashi, or raw horse meat, is a delicacy in some regions of Japan. It’s typically served thinly sliced with soy sauce and ginger. While it might seem odd to some, it’s enjoyed for its unique flavor and texture.
11. Using Masks
Wearing surgical masks in public is a common sight in Japan. People wear masks to prevent the spread of illness, protect themselves from pollen and pollution, and even as a fashion statement.
12. Silent Karaoke (Uta Hiroba)
Silent karaoke, or uta hiroba, involves singing karaoke with headphones in individual booths. This allows people to enjoy karaoke privately without disturbing others, making it a unique twist on the popular pastime.
13. Ehomaki Eating
During the Setsubun festival, it’s common to eat a whole Ehomaki sushi roll in silence while facing a specific lucky direction. This practice is believed to bring good fortune for the coming year.
Conclusion
These 13 odd Japanese customs illustrate the rich tapestry of traditions that make Japan a unique and fascinating country. From slurping noodles and napping at work to celebrating with phallic symbols and silent karaoke, these practices offer a window into the cultural quirks that define Japanese life.
Have you seen these categories?