- Unseen Japan

In Japan, Oshidan Let Fans Idolize Their Idols

Do you have an idol you worship? Buy an oshidan and take your worship even further. Learn what oshidan are for and why a struggling Japanese company specializing in Buddhist death altars decided it had to appeal to a new generation.

Kaiwai: What this Japanese Word Means – and Why it’s Trending

Trying to keep up with your Japanese slang? Then you'd better learn "kaiwai" - one of the year's most-trending terms.

Resellers Turn Hello Kitty 50th Anniversary Exhibit into Chaos

A new exhibit honoring Hello Kitty on her 50th anniversary devolved into chaos in Tokyo thanks to resellers looking to make a fast buck. Learn what happened and how the Tokyo National Museum is working to tame unruly crowds.

Japan Sake Exports Boom Thanks to New Overseas Fans

People in Japan are drinking less sake than ever, a trend that hasn't stopped since the 1990s. So why is it becoming so popular abroad? Learn what's driving Japan's rising sake exports - and how the drink may soon officially become part of the country's intangible cultural heritage.

Entire Staff Quit At Four Nursing Homes in Japan

After being forced to work for months in horrible conditions, staff at four nursing homes in Japan quit en masse, simultaneously. How did things get so bad? And what is Japan's government doing to safeguard care for its elderly citizens?

Minoh: Ten Places to See in This Beautiful Osaka City

Most people know about Minoh Falls. But what else is there to do in this beautiful city in Osaka? Here are some of the other great attractions, shops, and cafes to visit while you're in the area.

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