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Area near Okubo Park frequently used for prostitution in the evening

Has Tokyo’s Prostitution Alley Become a Tourist Destination?

The recent arrest of four women in a prostitution ring operating near Okubo Park highlights how the area has grown in popularity.
Banner for Sanseitō reading "Japanese First"

Sanseitō: How The Far Right Party is Bringing MAGA Tactics to Japan

A far-right party in Japan is slated to outperform in next week's Upper House election. And they're using Trump-like tactics to do it.
Poster for Japanese political candidates ahead of the July 2025 Upper House election

Japan’s Political Parties Explained: Who They Are, What They Stand For

Confused about who's who in Japanese politics and what they advocate? Here's a complete guide to all the major parties.
A playground with a Closed sign displayed on top of it

As Japan’s Birth Rate Dwindles, Its Nursery Schools Keep Closing

Japan wants more women to give birth to counteract its declining birth rate. That's hard to do when nursery schools are rapidly shuttering.
The famous Lawson near Mt. Fuji in Kawaguchiko

No Place to Sleep? Lawson Offers New Options for Japan’s Night Travelers

Japan’s night travelers are growing, but roadside rest spots aren’t. Lawson steps in with a new safe—and paid—option.
A Twitter post in Mongolian showing an image of Emperor Naruhito laughing while interacting with students, juxtaposed next to an illustration of Naruto the anime ninja.

Fact Check: No, a Mongolian Student Did Not Call Emperor Naruhito “Naruto” During Visit

A popular social media story claims that a Mongolian student accidentally called the Japanese emperor the name of a fictional anime ninja during a school visit. But did it actually happen?
Mimaru Pokémon Room

I Stayed In This Japanese Hotel Chain’s Pokémon Room and It Was Amazing

Fans of the popular game and animated series will say "I choose you!" to these comfortable renovated spaces.
Ramen Jiro bowl

Japanese Ramen Store Rescinds “20 Minute-Rule” for Eating Titanic Bowl

There are many unspoken rules at Ramen Jirō. One store in the chain added one more to the list, sparking an intense debate online.
Abe Akie, Abe Shinzo, and Donald Trump against a background of lightning

Fact Check: Did Abe Akie Fake Not Speaking English with Trump?

A popular meme says the former Japanese Prime Minister's wife went to great lengths not to speak to the MAGA Mafia leader. But is it true?

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