Essay

Japanese Writing: The 80-Year Battle for “Genbun Itchi”

How did written Japanese come into accord with the spoken language? A short history of the movement to bring Japanese writing to the masses.

How Japan’s Press is Covering Trump’s Assault on Democracy

Japan's right-wing goes all-in for Trump - but coverage in Japanese news slowly reflects the truth that Trump's act is all hat and no cattle.

Yasukuni Shrine: Founded in War, Haunted By Controversy

How Yasukuni Shrine, a shrine to commemorate Japan's fallen soldiers, became a politically-charged breeding ground for controversy.

Japan’s Whiteness Problem, Part 3: The Diaspora and Whiteness

How does the perception of Whiteness in Japan impact mixed-race Japanese? Two members of the Japanese diaspora give us their perspectives.

Why Sugita Mio’s Hate Speech Was Fully Predictable

A social critic in Japan describes Sugita Mio's rise in Japan's right wing - and why her recent bigoted statements aren't at all unexpected.

Justice For “Comfort Women” in the 2000 Women’s Tribunal

In 2000, several organizations in multiple countries banded together to put Japan's Imperial regime on trial for its crimes against women. Here's what happened.

These Strange Japanese YouTube Manga Ads Are Offending Everyone

Offended by these Japanese ads on YouTube? It's not just you - they're universally despised in Japan as well.

Oscars Exhibit Gives Miyazaki the Recognition He Never Wanted

The Academy Museum of Motion Pictures' first exhibit is all about Miyazaki. But the master director and the Oscars have a complex history.

The Rice Bowl: Japan’s Unbalanced American Football Playoffs

Yes, there's an American football playoff in Japan with a long and proud tradition - but some wonder whether it's really a fair contest.

Essay

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