Culture

Sapporo Christmas Market Celebrates Its 20th Anniversary

The sister city relationship between Sapporo and Munich has gifted the former with a splendid Christmas market now entering its 20th year.

Unmannerly Hikers Doom Buddhist Temple Toilet in Japan

This is why Japan can't have nice things. A Buddhist temple is bulldozing its toilet because some hikers can't behave themselves.

Japan’s Wild Boar Problem Keeps Growing

As the hunters who would normally hunt them get too old, Japan finds itself under attack by an onslaught of wild boars.

Hachiko: Japan’s Most Famous Dog (and His Statues)

Who's a good boy? For many in Japan, the answer is Hachiko. Learn about the dog who touched a nation's heart.

Will Japan’s Press Finally Leave Komuro Kei and Mako Alone?

The Japanese and New York press' hounding of former Princess Mako and her husband Komuro Kei has been nothing but disgraceful.

Naomi Osaka Announces Upcoming Manga About Tennis in Space

A new manga centered on Naomi Osaka has fans excited - and its publisher seems intent on making sure they do right by their subject.

Blaming Foreigners for Coronavirus: Cultural Prejudice or Fake News?

Did a government panel in Japan blame foreigners for the spread of COVID-19? The truth is a little more complicated.

Japan Isn’t a Painting in a Museum

Why Westerners who treat Japanese culture as a finished, unchanging product need to learn more about Japanese history - and about life in modern Japan.

How Roppongi Became a Hotspot for Foreigners in Tokyo

Roppongi is famous for its high population of foreigners. Why is it so popular with tourists? And how do Tokyo residents feel about it?

Culture

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