Business and Economy

Unseen Japan Kaiwa 4: An Inconvenient Conbini

Why has the 24-7 Japanese convenience store suddenly become controversial? How critical are such stores to daily life in Japan? And why did Anthony Bourdain always head to a conbini when he landed in Japan?

MUJI: Is Japan’s “Brand-less” Brand Taking Over the World?

With stores popping up globally, copycats abounding in China, and even a hotel in Ginza, MUJI is on a roll. What's the secret of its success?

Is AirBnB Japan Back From the Dead?

The popular service took a nosedive after a new law passed last year. Listings have returned - but should travelers be concerned?

A Major Inconvenience? Citing Overwork, 7-11 Owner in Osaka Stops 24/7 Operation

A 7-11 franchisee who's "on the verge of working to death" said he's shortening his store's hours - a move that has 7-11 Corporate fuming.

Unseen Japan Kaiwa 2: Teacher, Teacher – Reader Response to Teacher in Japan Who Hit Student

English language YouTuber and former Japanese schoolteacher teacher Misaki joins Unseen Japan to discuss our reader's top comments about the teacher who won public support after slugging a student.

Why Subway is Dying in Japan – and Why Starbucks Keeps Growing

While Subway stores in Japan shutter left and right, Starbucks thrives. Why has the one failed where the other succeeded?

Zero-Second Chicken Ramen?! How Instant Ramen’s Creator is Bringing Sexy Back to Its Products

How do you boost sales of an instant noodle product that's been around for 60 years? Nissin found a way.

Is Disneyland Japan’s Latest “Black Industry”?

Disneyand Japan becomes the latest in a long line of Japanese companies accused of abusing employees.

Business and Economy

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