Unseen Japan Insider

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[Insider] Japan’s Polls on an Empress Miss an Important Distinction

Princess Aiko is very popular. Many wouldn't mind her becoming Empress. But critics say the polls are misleading. And they're right.

[Insider] Shibuya, Burning: How Japan’s Right Exploits the Information Void to Foster Hate

A Japanese nationalist started a fire in Shibuya Crossing and then fled the scene. Japan's right wing blamed the attack on...foreigners?

[Insider] Japan Is Sick to Death of Bicyclists Behaving Badly

Japanese police are doling out fines to misbehaving cyclists. Many on Japanese social media say it’s about damn time.

[Insider] How I Found Myself Locked in a Love Hotel

Many love hotels don't like it when you leave before your stay is up. Indeed, some older ones make sure you can't.

[Insider] Why Japan Opposes Trump’s Iran War

As Japan struggles with rising prices at home, the public reigsters its displeasure with what's happening in the Middle East.

[Insider] Japan’s First Female PM Doesn’t Want an Empress

Takaichi Sanae has signaled she opposes changing the law to allow for an empress to rise again. And the Japanese Diet seems to agree.

[Insider] Where Will Japan’s Bruised Opposition Go After Takaichi’s Big Win?

PM Takaichi secured a supermajority in the Lower House election as the opposition fractured. What comes next for Japan’s politics?

[Insider] “Itadaki Ojisan”: How a Japanese Throuple Ran a Sugar Daddy Scam

In Japan, you can sue someone who's had an affair with your spouse. One Japanese couple used that to run a daring scam.

[Insider] Shinjuku Station: How to Navigate It Like a Pro

It's rated as Tokyo's most confusing train station for a reason. But it's easy to get around once you know a few simple rules.

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