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UNSEEN JAPAN

Day: November 2, 2022

Dancers at the Shinjuku Moulin Rouge

Shinjuku’s Moulin Rouge: The Theater That Danced Through War and Censorship

Japanese imperial authorities frequently raided it and censored its scripts. Despite this, the women at the Shinjuku Moulin Rouge danced on.
Scales of justice with faces in the background

Saitama Lawmaker States Foreigners in Japan Have “No Fundamental Human Rights”

The lawmaker later backtracked on the statement, saying that he only meant they didn't have "the same rights" as Japanese citizens.
A Sukesan Udon ad that reads, "Happiness in a single bowl"

Why This Kyushu Udon Chain Is Drawing Tokyo Crowds

Sukesan Udon, Kitakyushu’s iconic soul food, has landed in Kanto, sparking long lines and a social media buzz. What makes it so special?
Woman holding fake Japanese driver's license behind a toy car

Japan Closes Tourist Driver’s License Exchange Loophole

Tourists to Japan used to be able to get a powerful souvenir: a Japanese driver's license. But that's all changed.
Deer at Todaiji Temple in Nara. Deer stands in front of a massive gate while looking sideways at the camera. Deer bombastic side-eye.

Japanese Politician Says Tourists Are Kicking Nara’s Deer. But Where’s Her Evidence?

Are foreigners mistreating the deer in Nara? One prominent Japanese politician says so - but the facts don't back her up.
Muslim woman in scarf with Japanese flag at sunset

False Claim of “Muslim Lunches” Makes Japan’s Kitakyushu a Hate Target

No, the city of Kitakyushu isn't offering "Muslim lunches" to students. Other schools in Japan, however, have - and with heartwarming results.

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