Japan Travels: Japan doesn’t do ‘Normal’: 5 unique things and places you’ll rarely see anywhere else

By Sandy Verma On Feb 25, 2026

It’s a fact that Japan is among the world’s most interesting travel destinations. A number of travellers who have been to Japan, would vouch for it. It’s a nation of ancient traditions where a futuristic and modern world lives in harmony. Beyond iconic temples, and bullet trains, Japan offers some truly unique and unusual sights. We are talking about experiences you’ll hardly find anywhere else. A look at five such uber cool things you only see in Japan:Manga Cafes And Manga cafes are small cubicles which are full of thousands of comics. Here you can read for hours, chill and enjoy free drinks. If you want, you can also sleep overnight. It’s part library, part lounge. This is one unique experience only Japan has to offer. The Nagoro Doll Village

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Now this is really unique. The Nagoro Doll Village is all about life-size dolls in silent streets in the remote Iya Valley on Shikoku Island. The place is surreal: it used to be a lively rural community but today, the place has less than 30 residents. But its streets, bus stops and empty houses are home to more than 270 life-size dolls! These are made by local resident Tsukimi Ayano. Rare. Capsule hotelsJapan is a creative country. From creating capsule hotels to Manga Cafes, the country has given the world several interesting ideas. One of the first things many first-time travellers notice here is its creative response to space scarcity. Capsule hotels and pod hotels are quintessentially Japanese experiences. These compact capsules are loaded with all modern amenities, including a bed, TV, lighting and power outlet.Ojisan ArtifactsJapan has a rich folklore. The stories include monsters, ghosts and other supernatural beings known as yōkai. Japan celebrates them through art and museums. One such place is the Shodoshima Yokai Art Museum, where people can find out more about shape-shifters and ghostly apparitions.Vending machines for almost everything

japan vending machines

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Japan has vending machines for almost everything! There are over 5 million machines across the country. Here you’ll find machines that sell cold drinks, food, hot meals, cakes, fresh fruit, clothing, and collectibles, among others. These machines have become a beloved part of travel culture. For many travellers, finding the most unusual vending machine has become a game in itself. Zao Fox Village

japan fox

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If you’re an animal lover or an offbeat traveller, do not miss out on exploring Japan’s Zao Fox Village in Miyagi Prefecture. This place feels like stepping into an animal kingdom storybook. This sanctuary is home to over a hundred foxes which are friendly enough to roam freely in a forested setting. You can feed them, and also take selfies with these creatures. Unlike typical zoos, it offers an immersive encounter. The foxes have become local icons.With so many interesting and fascinating places to visit and things to do, Japan has become an offbeat travel destination attracting curious travellers from all over the world.