TRAVEL
Shirakawago, a World Heritage Site, Strains Under Record Tourism Numbers
The village, which sees a swell of tourists in the winter, wants to remind people it's a living community, not an open-air…
News
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TRAVEL
HISTORY
Shinjuku: The History and Origins of the World’s Biggest Nightlife District
The world's largest nightlife district, Shinjuku is nearly synonymous with Tokyo itself - yet wasn't even part of old Tokyo. Where do…
TRAVEL
Osaka Ramen Shop Threatens to Ban Chinese Customers After Two-Tier Pricing Dispute
Social media users in Japan have accused the store of discrimination and of "embarrassing" Japan with its blatant double pricing.
ENTERTAINMENT
How an AI Manga Became a Bestseller on Japan’s Largest e-Book Store
How did a fully AI-generated manga hit number one in Japan? And what does its success portend for the future of the…
ENVIRONMENT
Tokyo’s Plan to Charge for Garbage Service Has Some Residents Howling
Garbage fees have successfully reduced waste in West Tokyo. Here's why some residents are up in arms over the proposal.
LIVING IN JAPAN
Why Japan Hates the New “Bachelor Tax” Aimed at Reversing Population Decline
The new levy is intended to secure the country's future - but some are calling for the agency that instituted it to…
SOCIETY
Why Foreign Workers Have Become Essential to Japan’s Elderly Care System
With a dwindling workforce, Japan is increasingly dependent on foreign workers to care for its rapidly aging population.
TRAVEL
Japan’s National Museums May Institute Two-Tier Pricing for Inbound Tourists
You could pay up to three times more to visit some of Japan's best museums if their boards heed the government's call.