Essay

Shinto’s Heart: The Unique Architecture of Japan’s “God Havens”

How did the homes of the gods of Japan's native religion take shape? A look at Shinto architecture - and its outsized influence in Japan.

White Day is a holiday in Japan believed to solve the gender gap issues created by Valentine's Day. But does it really?

Why are Japanese kitchen knives so popular? Learn the history behind the blades - and how to buy one that's right for your kitchen.

A long fight by Japan's indigenous Ainu results in a hard-won victory - but much more remains to be done.

You probably know wasabi as the spicy, sinus-clearing green paste that goes on sushi. But would you ever pair it with chocolate?

How Japan went from a paternalistic relationship with the US after WWII to a co-dependent one that reified whiteness.

Dependence, or "amae", is by no means unique to Japan. So how - and why - did it become viewed as a Japanese-only concept?

Can you adhere to a vegan lifestyle while traveling in Japan? Survey says... YES! Here's all you need to know about veganism in Japan.

Thalia Harris analyzes Japan's preference for whiteness in foreigners, where it comes from, and why it continues to persist.