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UNSEEN JAPAN

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Sign for Tokyo Regional Immigration Services Bureau

Japan to Increase Residence Permit Fees Amid Rising Immigration Costs

The move is meant to align with fees set by Western countries - but many residents complain the new rates are exorbitant.
Lovel hotel district near Uguisudani Station, Tokyo

Love Hotel Scandal Claims Career of Japanese City Mayor

Ex-mayor Ogawa Akira insists the 10+ times she went to a love hotel with another city employee were strictly business.
Two onnagata kabuki actors in elaborate matching make-up and costume look towards each other on the poster for the film Kokuho.

‘Kokuho’ Becomes Biggest Live Action Hit in Japanese Film History

Japan has a brand-new top live-action box office record holder in the form of Kokuho, an epic kabuki drama.
Picture of soba on a bamboo plate with an Irasutoya man in front of it crossing his arms and saying "no"

No Tourists at Lunch? Japanese Soba Store Sparks Controversy with Sign

The chain's owners ultimately ordered the store to take the sign down. Here's why many Japanese netizens defended it.
Chinese and Japanese flags against a wooden background

[Insider] China Warns Citizens to Avoid Japan. Here’s How Both Countries Are Reacting

Why is China using tourism to Japan as a political cudgel? And how are ordinary Chinese citizens reacting to it?
Lawson Store 100 sign with nikutare rice off to the side

Is Japan Poor? Combini’s New “Rice and Sauce” Dish Sparks Social Media Debate

Is Lawson Store 100's new dish a sign of Japan's dire economic straits? Or is it just responding to consumer demand?

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