Why is Japan different?

Having been to Japan, and being at a loss to describe it, I was hoping to be enlightened by this article in Foreign Policy.

Unfortunately, the article doesn't explain any of the following.

I'd like to see this. For research purposes.

I was going to see the Robot Cabaret, but my traveling companion took ill, and we skipped it.

French-fry phone case.

The idea of spaghetti with ketchup reminds me of a friend of mine who had nothing to eat but pasta and ketchup while on an expedition to the Rwenzoris.

Harajuku fashion.

Hello Kitty becomes a teenager.

Akihabara.

Hard times.