Daily Life

JAPAN IN ONE MINUTE ~ Japanese Superstition: Plastic Bottles to Keep Pecco Away ~ Summary In Japan, you might spot plastic bottles filled with water placed along streets or near houses. Though there’s no scientific proof, many people believe they help keep stray cats and dogs away.

JAPAN IN ONE MINUTE ~ Why Japanese Toilets Make Noise: Meet Otohime, the Sound Princess ~ Summary Some Japanese public toilets feature a function called Otohime (the sound function), which plays water or nature sounds to mask bathroom noises and protect privacy. It helps users feel more comfortable, especially in quiet places.

JAPAN IN ONE MINUTE ~ Japanese Bidet Toilets: Why Tourists Are Amazed by Washlets ~ Summary Japanese toilets often come with a washlet, a built-in bidet feature that lets you clean with water. It’s a super hygienic and comfortable experience with adjustable settings and self-cleaning nozzles.

JAPAN IN ONE MINUTE ~ The Sacred Side of Japanese Toilets: From Ancient Rituals to High-Tech Wonders ~ Jomon Period (around 13,000 BCE):Japan’s oldest toilets were known as kawaya, where people relieved themselves directly into rivers. Heian Period (794–1185): Commoners typically relieved themselves outdoors, while nobles used indoor boxes for waste. Kamakura to Edo Period

JAPAN IN ONE MINUTE ~ Why Japanese Toilets Are So Clean and Comfortable Even in Public! ~ Summary Japanese toilets are famous not just for their high-tech features like heated seats, but also for being clean, comfortable, and free to use, even in public places. This reflects a cultural value of caring for shared spaces

JAPAN IN ONE MINUTE ~ Neither Fork Nor Spoon: The Unique World of Japanese Chopsticks ~ Hashioki (chopstick rest) Summary Chopsticks are utensils made of two thin sticks held in one hand to pick up and move food. There is also a partner item called a hashioki, which is used to rest chopsticks.

JAPAN IN ONE MINUTE ~ Why were “tatami” mats chosen by Japanese? ~ Summary “Tatami” is becoming less common in modern homes, and while it’s important not to step on the edges. Its color naturally changes from green to yellow over time.

JAPAN IN ONE MINUTE ~ Why were “tatami” mats chosen by Japanese? ~ “Tatami” dates back to the 8th century, used by aristocrats and samurai during the Nara period. At first, it was more like a mat rather than covering the whole floor. By the Edo period, “tatami” had spread to ordinary people’s homes, becoming

JAPAN IN ONE MINUTE ~Safety, Cleanliness, and Respect~ Summary In Japan, vending machines are surprisingly safe and clean thanks to strong public manners and respect for shared spaces.

JAPAN IN ONE MINUTE ~Variety, Hot & Cold Drinks, 24/7 Service~ Summary Japanese vending machines are everywhere, offering many kinds of hot and cold drinks 24/7 for everyday convenience.