When I first landed in Japan back in 2020, I thought I was ready for everything — the language, the culture, the food.
Spoiler: I wasn’t.
Even after five years, I still remember those first few weeks — a mix of awe, confusion, and constant “Wait, what just happened?” moments.
If you’re planning to move to Japan, here are the 10 things that will absolutely surprise you — no matter how many anime or travel vlogs you’ve watched.
1️⃣ The Deafening Silence on Trains
Forget small talk. Forget music leaking from headphones.
In Japan, public transportation is peacefully quiet.
The first time I got on a Kyoto subway, I whispered to my friend — and still got a polite stare.
Silence is a sign of respect here, not awkwardness.
Pro tip: save your phone calls for outside the train.
2️⃣ Cash Is Still King 👛
Japan loves technology — but for some reason, cash is still everywhere.
Even in 2025, many restaurants and small shops don’t accept cards.
I once tried to pay with my card at a ramen shop, and the owner looked at me like I had tried to hand him a UFO.
💡 Tip: Get a local Suica or IC card — it’s life-changing.
3️⃣ No Trash Bins Anywhere — Yet No Trash
You’ll quickly notice this mystery: there are almost no public trash cans, yet the streets are spotless.
People carry their trash home, and somehow… it works.
It’s an unspoken social contract — everyone’s part of keeping things clean.
4️⃣ Endless Bowing 🙇♂️
In Japan, bowing is the universal “hello,” “sorry,” “thank you,” and “goodbye.”
I once had a bowing exchange that lasted so long we both laughed — and bowed again.
It’s polite, but also strangely contagious.
5️⃣ Apartment Rules Are Next-Level Strict
I still remember getting a “gentle” note from my neighbor for doing laundry too late.
Japan values harmony (wa), and even small noises can disturb it.
👉 If you’re planning to rent here, check out my full guide:
🏠 How to Rent an Apartment in Japan as a Foreigner (Complete 2025 Guide)
6️⃣ Convenience Stores Are Basically Heaven 🍙
“Convenience” doesn’t even begin to describe it.
Need a full meal, clean restroom, or a bill payment? 7-Eleven’s got you.
Japanese convenience stores (konbini) are clean, efficient, and surprisingly cozy.
👉 Read more: 🍙 Why Japanese Convenience Stores Are the Best in the World
7️⃣ You Can Leave Your Wallet — and It’ll Still Be There 💼
This one still amazes me.
I once left my bag in a café in Kyoto for an hour — came back, untouched.
Japan’s low crime rate isn’t a myth; it’s part of everyday life.
Even at 2 a.m., walking alone feels safe.
👉 Related: Why Japan Feels Safer Than the U.S. (Even at 2 A.M. in Tokyo)
8️⃣ Customer Service Feels Like a Performance
Every “irasshaimase!” (welcome!) feels like a mini act.
From convenience stores to hair salons, the politeness is genuine — but incredibly rehearsed.
It’s hospitality taken to a cultural art form.
9️⃣ Everything Is Tiny — But Perfectly Efficient
Apartments, hotel rooms, cars — everything’s smaller here.
At first, it feels claustrophobic. Then, you realize it’s smart design.
Every inch serves a purpose.
👉 Curious? Read: 🏠 Why Japanese Apartments Are So Small — and What They Teach About Life
🔟 You’ll Fall in Love With the Order
Japan runs on quiet rules: stand on the left, don’t eat while walking, don’t talk loudly.
At first, it feels restrictive — then, peaceful.
That order creates comfort. And honestly, after a while, you start to miss it when you travel elsewhere.
🌸 Final Thoughts
Moving to Japan isn’t easy — but it’s deeply rewarding.
These “shocks” are exactly what make Japan fascinating.
Over time, you don’t just adapt; you evolve.
Japan doesn’t just change your habits — it changes how you see the world.
Discover more from Ali in Japan
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