8 Interesting Facts About Japan
For two hundred thousand years, it has been human nature to explore. Our curiosity drives us to discover new places and learn about the world. It is an important component of our lives, a driving force behind human progress, a bridge for peace through cultural understanding, and, as we believe at Venture Road, it is also the culprit behind an 'Interesting Facts' list being written. Today, our curiosity takes us to Japan as we share 9 Interesting Facts about the country that might surprise you.
1) The world's deepest underwater mailbox is located in Susami, Japan.
Divers are able to descend to this functioning mailbox on the sea floor, at a depth of 30 feet, where they can drop off waterproof cards in the mailbox. Each day, a dive shop owner dives down and collects the cards for delivery to the post office. This brilliant idea was thought of by the town's postmaster when they were looking to increase tourism. The idea worked, and to date, nearly 38,000 cards have been sent from under the sea.
2) 69% of Japan is covered in forest
3) There are millions of vending machines that sell anything from food to hats for your cat.
In Japan, there is approximately one vending machine for every 23 people. You can find they offer anything from flowers, fruits, vegetables, and toys, to fortunes, clothing, or even cars.
4) Employees are hired to push people inside of trains during rush hour.
Tokyo, Japan is the most populated city in the world, and during rush hour, many rail lines operate at 200% over capacity. The city has personnel that are responsible for cramming additional people into the train cars.
5) Japan is an island nation.
Japan is actually a group of islands, roughly 6,852 in total.
6) Japan is the 3rd Largest Economy in the World
An island nation - primarily covered in forest - with a highly developed economy. This country is complex, intriguing, and full of contrasts.
7) A Banned Pokemon Episode
In 1997, an episode of the incredibly popular show, Pokemon, caused a few hundred children to suffer health problems due to its use of flashing lights. After the discovery, this episode was banned to prevent further problems.
8) It is a Nature Lover's Paradise
Japan boasts the Kitayamazaki Cliffs, a 5-mile section on the Rikuchu Coastline that has 650-foot cliffs stretched along its border. The country is also full of mountains and trails to hike. A large quantity of limestone caves, formed over millions of years, are spread throughout the country. One of the most famous is the Ryusendo Cave. And if you love waterfalls, you will want to experience Nachi Falls, standing at over 400 feet.
Thank you for joining us on this adventure today as we were captivated by some of the lesser-known characteristics of this Pacific Island country.
Where does your curiosity take you?
A look inside the Ryusendo Cave
Nachi Falls
“I have no special talent. I am only passionately curious.”
The Kitayamazaki Cliffs
“Curiosity is a willing, a proud, and eager confession of ignorance.”