Socks

One of the crazier things that I've seen so far in Japan are the strange collection of socks each store has.

You might be able to find some obscure designer socks in America but they won't hold a candle to the quality and weirdness of socks in Japan.

You might be thinking, "Why would the Japanese spend so much time and money on crazy socks, who's going to ever see them?"

In Japan? Just about everyone.

Don't forget that it is customary to take off your shoes when ever you enter anyone's house and there are some restaurants in Japan where you have to take off your shoes in the foyer before entering the dining area. Even in school, you take off your shoes when entering the building, so your crazy and flashy socks will be seen by all!

Keep in mind that the socks also have to be of high quality and comfort because you are going to be taking your shoes on and off all day, not only that, but you might spend time walking around in nothing but your socks for long periods of time; so they have to be able to take a beating and keep on looking great (and crazy).

I've even seen gray socks with the Batman emblem on them, complete with black cape that dangles from your calf...