Featured

FEATURED

Saigo Takamori: The Making of a Legend

Saigo Takamori would ultimately tear down the samurai system he so dearly loved. But first, he had to survive an ordeal that…

FEATURED

The Indigenous Ryukyu People of Okinawa

Discover the history of the indigenous Ryukyu people, the culture that inhabited Okinawa before it was ever even a part of Japan.

FEATURED

How Agnes Chow Made Herself Fluent in Japanese

How did Agnes Chow Ting, Hong Kong's "Goddess of Democracy," get so good at Japanese? The answer: self-study, anime, and sheer necessity.

FEATURED

Blackface in Japan: Its History – And Its Consequences

A look at the unfortunate (and continuing) history of blackface in Japan - and a discussion with black residents in Japan on…

FEATURED

Ama-San: A Look at Japan’s Female Free Divers

Learn about the culture, skills, and economic developments of the ama-san, a dying culture of sea-faring women with historic roots.

BOOK REVIEWS

Japanese Alcoholic Drinks: The Complete Guide

There's so much more to Japanese alcoholic drinks than sake and whisky. And this book gives a complete guided tour.

CULTURE

Enka Music: From Political Protest to Cultural Tradition

How a form of political protest music came to be regarded as an art form that captures "the heart of Japan."

CULTURE

Manhole Covers: Japan’s Unique Art Trend

They're expensive, colorful, and have their own devoted fan following. Learn how Japan's manhole covers have crossed over from utilitarian objects to…