Discover Japan: Top 9 Amazing Fun Facts for Kids to Uncover!

1. Cat Islands of Japan

Imagine a place where whiskers are important politics and where "Hello Kitty" could be president: Japan has 11 cat islands where feline populations outstrip humans in number, initially brought to control rat infestations near silkworm nurseries and fishing boats. Tashirojima, a well-known cat island, hosts over 150 kitties, sees droves of tourists every day, and doesn't permit dogs, all while dealing with natural disaster threats like the 2011 tsunami.
Source => a-z-animals.com

2. Shizuoka's Fruit Wonderland

If Shizuoka were any sweeter, it would give you cavities: This Japanese prefecture, nestled at the foot of Mount Fuji, is a fruity paradise of luscious strawberries, zesty spring onions, and heavenly honey! It boasts 13% of the nation's farmland and is a hotspot for roadside strawberry picking and ice cream indulgence.
Source => everintransit.com

Did you know that in South Korea, the number 4 is often skipped in elevator labels due to its eerie connection to the word for "death"? Discover this and more fun facts about South Korea! 🇰🇷💡

=> Fun Facts about South-Korea-For-Kids

3. Ramune: The Marble-Sealed Fizz

When life hands you lemons, just call a Scottish pharmacist named Alexander Cameron Sim: He introduced the famous Japanese soft drink Ramune in 1884, based on lemonade and cleverly sealed using a Codd-neck bottle with a marble for that pop-and-fizz experience we all dig.
Source => pragmaticmom.com

4. Nagoro's Scarecrow Village

Forget Disney World; there's a village in Japan where the scarecrows outnumber the humans, and they're just dying to meet you: In Nagoro, Japan, Tsukimi Ayano has crafted over 200 life-sized scarecrows, commemorating the village's dwindling population and adding some straw-stuffed spirit, attracting visitors worldwide and even running workshops on scarecrow-making every fourth Wednesday from April to November, all before they need replacement after three years, ensuring a ceaseless loop of stuffed sensations.
Source => cnn.com

5. Panda Desserts Galore

Whoever said you can't have your cake and eat a panda too clearly wasn't aware of Japan's sweet wildlife-turned-treats: In Ueno, they've turned the adorable pandas into a scrumptious collection of desserts such as pandayaki at Ginza Cozy Corner, handmade panda yokan at Miyage Kasen, happy panda cupcakes at Morozoff, and even a cube-shaped l'Ueno Anpan bread with a snoozing panda face from Ueno no Mori no Panyasan.
Source => livejapan.com

6. Sakura Cherry Blossom Kit Kats

Attention all chocoholics and flower enthusiasts, we've got the ultimate snack fusion for you: In Japan, a special Sakura Cherry Blossom flavored Kit Kat is released solely during hanami cherry blossom viewing season, with unique packaging and shapes varying by region, making it the perfect springtime treat to munch on while soaking in the floral sights.
Source => takaski.com

7. Kani Douraku's Mechanical Crabs

Who needs a red carpet when you have red crab? Feast your eyes on the clawsome star of the seafood world, making a grand entrance in the bustling streets of Japan: Kani Douraku, a legendary restaurant in Osaka, showcases giant mechanical crabs inspired by the horse hair crab (kegani) which are famous for their tender meat and rich flavor. This crustaceantastic eatery has over 20 locations in Tokyo's Ginza and Shinjuku areas, serving up amazingly fresh seafood at reasonable prices.
Source => happyjappy.com

8. Real-Life Mario Kart Experience

Buckle up, Mario Kart enthusiasts: In real-life Japan, you can zip through Tokyo's vibrant streets on a go-kart tour, as long as you have a valid Japanese driving license or an International Driving Permit, and adhere to safety rules provided by the tour operators!
Source => tokyocheapo.com

9. All-Japan Pillow Fighting Championship

Forget counting sheep: In Japan, they're throwing pillows in their sleep! In the quirky annual All-Japan Pillow Fighting Championship in Ito, teams gather to battle it out with fluffy projectiles, complete with comforter shields and a 100,000 yen prize for the best pillow pugilists.
Source => plutopillow.com