Travelers often rave about the extraordinary range of leisure activities in Japan. Some of these are rooted in centuries-old traditions, while others sprouted in the modern age — yet all reflect a culture keen on finding comfort in fresh, innovative ways.

It’s not surprising to see ear-cleaning salons nestled between futuristic shops in Tokyo, or a “cuddle café” just blocks away from a historic shrine. Japan’s urban centers cultivate a blend of old and new, satisfying people who seek both calm moments and fun distractions in the heart of bustling city life.

And then there’s the fascinating world of bathhouses unlike any you might imagine, the invitation to snuggle with cats or owls at a cozy café, or even the option to rent an “uncle” figure for a few hours. Below is a peek into this landscape of service-minded creativity — unique experiences that stand apart from what you’d find elsewhere.

Ear-Cleaning Salons

Many people in Japan see ear-cleaning salons as a soothing, nostalgic treat. Staff members use a traditional bamboo ear pick and often cradle a guest’s head on a lap pillow (sometimes in a tatami-style setting), reminiscent of affectionate family time. Sessions may involve shoulder taps and temple rubs before finishing with tea — offering a momentary break from life’s rush.

What sets these salons apart from anything in the West is the intimacy and cultural background. In Japanese households, ear cleaning is often linked with parental care. Salons capture that warmth for busy adults. Outside of East Asia, most ear care is handled by an ENT doctor or done at home with cotton swabs, so it’s easy to see why travelers might be surprised.

Cuddle Cafes

Cuddle cafes welcome customers who want safe, platonic “skinship” — lying next to another person or having their hair gently stroked. Staff typically wear relaxed outfits like pajamas, charging by the minute for each form of contact, including optional add-ons such as an arm pillow. The environment is designed to be comforting, with curtains for privacy yet firm rules preventing anything beyond innocent cuddling.

Many visitors find these services puzzling at first. Yet in dense cities where people can feel isolated, a warm presence can fill an emotional gap. Compared to one-on-one cuddle therapy in other countries, Japan’s version is more commercial and often tied to the cute, welcoming vibe found in maid cafés or anime culture.

Soapland Bathhouses

Soaplands merge bath culture with more adult-oriented entertainment. A client typically shares a tub with an attendant who helps “wash away” stress with plenty of suds and light body-to-body massage. The concept developed out of post-war “Turkish baths,” eventually rebranded in the 1980s, and it remains a well-known part of Japan’s red-light districts.

Unlike most Western brothels, the hallmark of Soaplands lies in their hospitality and the ritual of bathing together. While the law frames the experience as a soapy massage, participants can request sexual services (for an extra fee given directly to the worker). This blend of spa-like pampering and sensual fantasy is tied to Japan’s broader fondness for onsen (hot springs) and sentō (public baths).

Animal Cafes

Animal cafés — especially cat cafés — are popular escapes for residents lacking the space or lease conditions to own pets. Customers pay a cover charge, sip coffee, and spend quality time with furry (or feathered) companions. These cafés now cater to fans of rabbits, hedgehogs, and even owls, each featuring calm corners to watch animals nap or roam around.

In major cities elsewhere, you might find a cat café or two, but Japan’s range and scale outshine most. Reservations, sanitizing protocols, and an emphasis on animal welfare keep the experience smooth for both customers and creatures, making it a top entry on many Tokyo bucket lists.

Renting Companionship

Japan’s knack for inventive personal services extends to rentals of human companionship. “Ossan Rental,” for instance, lets you hire a friendly middle-aged man to chat, shop, or grab coffee with — no romantic or sexual aspect involved. Clients might be younger people looking for an older perspective, individuals needing a wedding date, or someone who just wants company without any long-term commitments.

Such services appear in other places in small forms (like “rent a friend” websites), but in Japan, they’ve turned into an accepted niche. It’s one more instance of combining practical support with a culture that prioritizes personal connections, even if they’re temporary.

A big part of Japan’s charm stems from its ability to reinvent everyday activities or human connections into something captivating — sometimes playful, sometimes deeply comforting. Whether it’s the gentle scrape of an ear pick, the hush of an owl café, or the warm bubble massage of a Soapland, you’ll find experiences that blend tradition, hospitality, and an ever-present quest for a little break from life’s pressures.