Quirky things you can only find in Japan
When it comes to the countries with the best technology in the world, Japan tops the list. This reputation is well-deserved, as the country boasts a plethora of unique innovations, some bizarre but others highly practical and useful. These distinctive creations contribute to Japan's futuristic image, which is recognized worldwide. Here are some of the many quirky things you can find exclusively in Japan.
Smart washlet toilets
Japan has smart toilets called "washlets" that come equipped with features to improve personal hygiene such as sprays, perfumes, water temperature control, and even noise-canceling. Additionally, they offer seat warming or cooling options, bidet washing, and adjustable water pressure settings. Interestingly, there's also a "massage" function button, which produces a gentle, fountain-like water pulsation to provide comfort and relaxation for your buttocks.
Limited edition Kit Kat chocolates
Kit Kat chocolates are available around the world but the ones sold in Japan can't be found elsewhere. The country produces one-of-a-kind Kit Kats of unique flavors that you may have never even thought of in your wildest dreams! Well, to name a few, there's Kit Kat available in flavors like chestnut, matcha green tea, melon, lemon, apple, cheesecake, sweet potato, pudding, peach, etc.
You get free tissues on streets
Yes, you read that right! As you stroll on the beautiful streets of Japan, you may be handed out free tissue papers by locals. Their packaging has different advertisements printed on them and distributing these packs for free accounts for a great marketing strategy. You may find information related to newly opened restaurants, sports clubs offering deals, easy money loans, cramming schools, etc.
Blue traffic lights
While the world stops when the traffic signal turns red and moves to the green, Japan moves on the blue! As per the International Commission on Illumination, the color of the traffic light in Japan is technically green but its shade is closer to blue. However, with time, locals started referring to the light as blue, leading to the commission accepting the same.
Purikura
This one is for all the selfie kings and queens. Japan is home to several photo booths where you look no less than a celebrity in the pictures you click inside them. The machine allows you to add make-up, improve skin tone, widen your eyes, photoshop your weight/body image, change hairstyles, etc. You can also add colorful stickers, tags, and notes to your pictures.
Luxurious expensive fruits
Visit any supermarket in Japan and you'll chance upon swanky-looking fruits that will cost you a fortune. Fruits in Japan are exorbitant because they are seasonal, take into account a farmer's hard work, and are akin to luxurious gifts in the country. You will find jet-black Densuke watermelon priced somewhere at 650,000 yen (Rs. 367,000) and Ruby Roman grapes at 40,000 yen (Rs. 22,500).
Automatic taxi doors
In Japan, taxi doors open and close automatically to amp up a traveler's experience. The cab driver can control the gates using a remote control panel to make the customer service smooth and hassle-free. You may not believe it but this technology came to Japan in 1964, curbing the need for drivers to get out of the vehicles to manage the doors.
Anime-themed cafes and restaurants
Japan has given the world some of the most memorable and obsession-worthy anime including Pokemon, Doraemon, Naruto, Dragon Ball, One Piece, and so much more. And to maintain its legacy, the country is home to innumerable cafes and restaurants with anime themes. They make cakes, pancakes, cupcakes, ice creams, drinks, and other foods based on the colors, designs, and styles of the popular characters.
