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30 Fascinating Cultural Facts from Around the World

1. Japan Has Vending Machines for Almost Everything

From hot meals to umbrellas and even flowers, Japan is known for its incredibly diverse vending machine culture.

2. In India, the Left Hand is Considered Unclean

Traditionally, the left hand is used for personal hygiene, so it's considered rude to eat or offer gifts with it.

3. Iceland Has No Surnames

Instead of family names, Icelanders use patronymics or matronymics, meaning their last name is based on a parent's first name.

4. The Maasai Tribe of Kenya Drinks Cow Blood

This traditional practice is part of their rituals and considered a source of nourishment and strength.

5. South Korea Celebrates a Separate Valentine's Day for Men

On March 14th, known as White Day, men give gifts to women in return for what they received on Valentine’s Day.

6. Italy Has a “Wine Fountain” That’s Free

In the town of Ortona, a free wine fountain flows for pilgrims on the Cammino di San Tommaso trail.

7. In Thailand, the Head is Sacred

Touching someone's head is considered extremely disrespectful as it is believed to be the most spiritual part of the body.

8. China Has a Festival Dedicated to Ghosts

The Hungry Ghost Festival is held to appease the spirits of the dead, with offerings of food and incense.

9. France Has Over 400 Types of Cheese

Cheese is a cultural cornerstone in France, with varieties from every region and even laws protecting traditional methods.

10. In Bolivia, Zebras Help Cross the Street

People dressed in zebra costumes assist children and pedestrians in crossing streets safely as part of a road safety campaign.

11. In Scotland, the Unicorn is the National Animal

The mythical unicorn symbolizes purity and power and has been part of Scotland’s heraldry for centuries.

12. Russian People Greet with Bread and Salt

This traditional welcome shows hospitality and respect for guests, especially during formal ceremonies.

13. In Ethiopia, Time is Measured Differently

The day starts at 6 a.m. instead of midnight, so 7 a.m. is considered the 1st hour of the day.

14. Australia’s Aboriginal Culture Is Over 60,000 Years Old

It is one of the oldest continuous cultures in the world, rich in oral tradition, art, and spirituality.

15. Mexico Celebrates the Day of the Dead

Día de los Muertos honors deceased loved ones with altars, marigolds, and sugar skulls, blending indigenous and Catholic traditions.

16. In Finland, Saunas Are a Way of Life

There are more saunas than cars in Finland, and they’re used for relaxation, socializing, and even business meetings.

17. Iran Celebrates the Persian New Year on the Spring Equinox

Nowruz marks the start of spring and includes 13 days of celebration with traditions like the Haft-Seen table.

18. Canada Has Two National Languages

English and French are both official, reflecting its colonial past and cultural diversity.

19. In Germany, Punctuality Is Highly Valued

Being late is considered rude and unprofessional; people are often early for meetings and events.

20. Spain Takes a Midday Break Called Siesta

Although less common today, many regions traditionally close businesses for a few hours in the afternoon for rest and lunch.

21. In Bhutan, Gross National Happiness Is Prioritized Over GDP

Bhutan measures success by well-being rather than economic output, balancing development with culture and environment.

22. In China, Red Is the Color of Good Luck

Used in weddings and festivals, red symbolizes happiness, prosperity, and good fortune.

23. In New Zealand, the Māori Haka Is Performed to Show Unity

Originally a war dance, the haka is now used in ceremonies, sports, and community events to express strength and solidarity.

24. In Nigeria, Weddings Are Major Celebrations

Traditional weddings often last several days and include colorful attire, music, dancing, and feasting.

25. In Sweden, Fika Is More Than a Coffee Break

Fika is a cultural ritual of slowing down to enjoy coffee and pastries with friends or coworkers.

26. In Japan, Slurping Noodles Is a Compliment

It shows appreciation for the food and enhances the flavor by cooling noodles while eating.

27. In Greece, Name Days Are Bigger Than Birthdays

Celebrating the feast day of a saint you are named after is often more important than your actual birthday.

28. In the Philippines, Karaoke Is a National Passion

You'll find karaoke machines in almost every home and public space, as it's a key part of social life.

29. In Nepal, Cow Is the National Animal

Cows are considered sacred in Hinduism, and harming one is illegal in the country.

30. In the USA, Thanksgiving Is a Major Cultural Holiday

Celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November, it commemorates a harvest feast shared between Pilgrims and Native Americans.