If you love to travel and explore, you probably have a list of all the places you’d like to visit. Even though there are many excellent options, certain countries have become a part of everyone’s travel wish list. Japan is undoubtedly one of them. There are many ways Japan is different from the rest of the world. Here are some of them.
1. Japanese cuisine is something else
Its cuisine is one of the most important reasons Japan is different from the rest of the world. For many, food is what makes Japan one of the must-visit places. It’s something that, without a doubt, had to take the number one spot on this list. There’s so much to choose from.
The infamous ramen, the delicious takoyaki, all the excellent sushi, and udon cannot be compared to any other rendition across the globe.
Something that also stands out about this particular country is that there are many ways to get fresh food. Anyplace else, you’d probably expect to find the freshest food only in restaurants of certain status. In Japan, this is entirely different.
Not only can you find fantastic street food all around, but you can also get almost anything from – you’ve guessed it – a vending machine. Especially the tourist from the US cannot fathom just how affordable food in Japan is. Most places charge about $5-$10 per portion.
2. The people live differently
Another thing that surprises and even shocks tourists who come to Japan is how different the way of life is how people behave differently. Everyone is very polite. To someone who isn’t used to this type of behavior, this can even seem a bit fake at first.
However, it’s all just a part of their humble culture. Even if they’re having a bad day, the Japanese won’t let it show, and they’ll treat others kindly. Another big thing is eye contact, or lack thereof. Don’t take this as rude or dishonest; it’s just the way people in this country have learned to behave.
The first place where you’ll notice the difference between Japanese and any other culture is if you wait in any line. No matter how much they’re in a hurry, they’ll never be impatient or try to cross the line. Although you’ll need some time to adapt to this type of behavior, you’ll see how much everyone benefits from it.
3. The culture is special
Although you probably could’ve guessed this one without even reading about it, Japanese culture is extraordinary. Even though the Japanese praise and cherish tradition above all else, they’re actually very modern in many ways.
This blend of old and new should perhaps clash if you look at it from a logic-driven point of view. However, it strangely and marvelously works excellent. Since its history is thousands of years old, you’d expect a lot to be forgotten.
Nevertheless, that isn’t the case. The Japanese keep it alive in many different ways. You can stumble upon ancient temples in the streets of the capital right next to all the latest technological inventions.
4. Safety and peace of mind are guaranteed
Anyone who relocates to Japan, especially from the west, takes quite a bit to adjust to the pace of life here. It’s incredible to see just how peaceful and serene life can be. There’s no need to constantly be cautious around people on the streets and during the late hours. Although it’ll take you some time to see this for yourself, it’ll probably become one of your favorite things about the city.
Until you experience an environment like the one here, you never really understand just how much you keep your guard up daily. This might be one of the best ways Japan is different from the rest of the world. Of course, there is some crime here, but the crime rates are significantly lower than in NYC.
5. Japanese efficiency is on another level
In Japan, you can expect everything to be as efficient, practical, and smooth as possible, and you’ll never be let down. Everything from public transportation to usually chaotic events such as football games works like a well-oiled machine.
Trains and buses are known to be some of the best and most punctual in the world. They’ve even gone so far as to calculate the average time for delays (it comes to around an astonishing 0.18 seconds). It’s no wonder that there are so many popular jobs among foreigners since you can expect the best working conditions possible.
6. Cleanliness is substantial
If you’re a fan of a clean and organized environment, you won’t find a better place. No matter where you go, the whole country is almost unbelievably spotless. This is primarily because Japanese people like to take care of their surroundings, no matter where they find themselves.
There’s no chance that you’ll see anyone litter. Everything is so tidy and in place that it is shocking, but when you consider that this is one of the most populated places in the world, the shock just keeps on coming. Something that might annoy most tourists and foreigners is that there aren’t that many bins outside. This means that you need to keep your trash on hand until you get a chance to get rid of it.
Moving to Japan?
If you’re one of the many people mesmerized by this country and wish to relocate there, why not just do it? Make sure to do this in an authentic Japanese organized manner. Hire a reputable moving company and plan your move. If you’re not sure how to transport your items long-distance, you can always store them in a warehouse for the time being.
This is temporarily the best solution for your belongings. Once you settle in, you can easily move everything back in.
Final words
Apart from these reasons why Japan is different from the rest of the world, there are many more. However, before you relocate, make sure to visit this country and see whether it’s a good fit for you personally.
Author: Jassica Mendez