Interesting Things You’ll Only See in Japan

Welcome to Japan, the land of overly complicated toilets, wine baths, and McDonald’s weddings. Here are some of the most bizarre and, let’s be honest, absolutely awesome things that you can only try out in Japan.

Astro Boy Traffic Light

Where else but Japan would you see a traffic light which depicts a popular anime character? Astro Boy, one of the earliest Japanese animation stars, can be seen here helping pedestrians to know when to cross the road (without using rocket boots, of course).

Buddhist Amulet Vending Machine

Do you need some spiritual protection or guidance but don’t want the hassle of talking to a human being? If so, this vending machine, which dispenses Buddhist amulets, will be perfect for you! If only all matters of spirituality could be solved by inserting coins into metal slots.

Hands-Free Umbrella

The genius of the hands-free umbrella is that you get to stay dry without needing to take your hand out of your pocket. Sure, you end up looking a little strange, but isn’t that worth it for the convenience of never once having to let go of your phone?

Toilet Slippers

Slipper culture is incredibly important (and incredibly complex) in Japan. Wearing shoes in people’s homes, in hotels, or in public baths would be very rude.

These slippers are designed to make sure you don’t take anything gross or dirty from the bathroom floor to the rest of the building, which is understandable, because bad stuff happens in the bathroom.