Women
Japan’s Youngest Female Mayor Says She’ll Take Maternity Leave, Ignites a Backlash
Kawata Shoko, Japan's youngest female mayor, said she's taking maternity and parental leave. Here's why some in Japan say that's wrong.
Articles by Jay Allen
1,144 articles · Page 4
Women
Insider
[Insider] The Three Tactics Japan’s Hosts Use to Saddle Women with Soul-Crushing Debt
The rules and agreements meant to help save women from the worst abuses aren't helping, as clubs have already figured out a…
Law & Crime
GPS Trackers on Stalkers? Japan’s Ruling Party Pushes Solution to Rising Problem
Japan may soon fit stalkers with GPS ankle monitoring devices that would alert their victims when the offender draws near.
Japanese Language
Why This Japanese Phrase from Kansai Sounds Strange to the Rest of Japan
It's a phrase that confuses Tokyoites. But to many in the Kansai region, it's a daily expression rooted in the region's unique…
Entertainment
Galapagos Rock: Why It’s So Hard for Foreign J-Pop Fans to Buy Concert Tickets in Japan
Some overseas fans of Japanese music say the hassle is proof that "Japan hates foreigners." The truth is more complicated.
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The Ultimate Okinawa Travel Guide: Japan’s Tropical Paradise
Beyond the neon glow of Tokyo and the manicured temples of Kyoto lies a version of Japan that feels entirely separate from…
Insider
[Insider] “Utility Pole Girls”: Japanese Media Has a Demeaning New Buzzword for Women
A survey of 3,000 women found 58% identified with the phenomenon. But it's the label that has people riled up.
Food
Nekomanma: The “Ill-Mannered” Japanese Food That Used to be a Commonfolk Staple
Is pouring miso soup onto rice bad manners? It is in modern Japan. But this "cat food" was a commoner staple for…