Japan is a country that effortlessly blends ancient traditions with cutting-edge technology, creating a culture that’s both fascinating and, at times, downright bizarre. While many people know about sushi, cherry blossoms, and bullet trains, there’s a whole world of weird and wonderful facts about Japan that often fly under the radar.
From vending machines that sell everything but the kitchen sink to bizarre festivals that defy explanation, Japan never fails to surprise. Here are seven weird but true facts about Japan that will leave you scratching your head—or maybe even booking a flight to experience them firsthand.
1. Vending Machines Sell Everything (Including Used Underwear)
Japan has one of the highest densities of vending machines in the world—over 5.5 million of them! While most countries stick to sodas and snacks, Japan takes things to the next level. You can find machines selling:
- Hot meals (ramen, burgers, even full bento boxes)
- Fresh eggs (straight from the farm)
- Umbrellas (for those sudden downpours)
- Live crabs (yes, really)
- Used underwear (a controversial but real phenomenon, mostly found in Akihabara)
The sheer variety is mind-boggling, proving that if you can imagine it, there’s probably a vending machine for it in Japan.
2. There’s a Rabbit Island Where Bunnies Rule
Forget cat cafes—Japan has an entire island overrun by friendly rabbits. Ōkunoshima, a small island in Hiroshima Prefecture, is home to hundreds of wild bunnies that hop around freely, unafraid of humans.
Legend has it that the rabbits were originally brought to the island for chemical weapons testing during World War II, but today, they’re the island’s biggest tourist attraction. Visitors can buy rabbit food and spend hours being swarmed by adorable, fluffy creatures.
3. Square Watermelons Exist (And They’re Crazy Expensive)
Ever seen a square watermelon? In Japan, they’re a real (and very expensive) thing. Farmers grow them in glass boxes to force them into a cube shape, making them easier to stack and store.
But here’s the catch: they’re not bred for eating. These melons are mostly decorative and can cost upwards of $200 each. They’re often given as luxury gifts rather than sliced up for a summer snack.
4. Japan Has a Train Station Just for One Passenger
In the rural town of Kyūshū, there’s a train station called Kishi Station that was kept open for just one passenger—a high school girl. The station was scheduled to close due to low traffic, but officials kept it running until she graduated.
This heartwarming (and slightly surreal) story highlights Japan’s dedication to community and service, even when it doesn’t make financial sense.
5. You Can Rent a Fake Family or Friends
Feeling lonely? In Japan, you can rent a family, friends, or even a fake spouse for the day. Companies like “Family Romance” offer actors who will pretend to be your loved ones for events, dinners, or even just to keep up appearances.
Why? Social pressure in Japan can be intense, and some people hire stand-ins to avoid embarrassment at weddings, funerals, or corporate events. It’s a strange but booming industry.
6. There’s a Themed Hotel Where You Sleep in a Coffin
If you’ve ever wanted to know what it feels like to sleep in a coffin, Japan has you covered. The Vampire Café in Tokyo offers coffin-shaped beds for guests who want a gothic experience.
But that’s not the weirdest hotel option—Japan also has robot hotels, prison-themed rooms, and even a Hello Kitty suite where everything is pink and covered in bows.
7. A Town Pays You to Move There
Japan’s rural areas are struggling with depopulation, so some towns are offering cash incentives to attract new residents. For example, the town of Okutama pays families up to $9,000 per child to relocate there.
Other perks include free housing, job assistance, and even farm animals to help newcomers settle in. If you’ve ever dreamed of living in the Japanese countryside, now might be the time!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are square watermelons edible? A: Yes, but they’re usually grown for decoration and are much more expensive than regular watermelons.
Q: Why does Japan have so many vending machines? A: Convenience, low crime rates, and a culture that values automation make vending machines extremely popular.
Q: Can tourists visit Rabbit Island? A: Absolutely! Ōkunoshima is open to visitors, and the bunnies are very friendly.
Q: Is renting a fake family legal? A: Yes, it’s a legitimate (if unusual) service in Japan.
Japan is a land of endless surprises, where the line between tradition and eccentricity often blurs. Whether it’s coffin hotels, square fruit, or rabbit-filled islands, the country never fails to amaze. So next time you think you’ve got Japan figured out, remember—there’s always something weirder just around the corner.
Would you visit any of these places? Let us know in the comments!