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The arch leading to Kabukicho in Shinjuku is highlighted in red, while the busy nighttime street behind it is in black and white. Text beneath arch reads: "Shinjuku: Origins of the World's Biggest Nightlife District."

Shinjuku: The Birth of Kabukicho

How Kabukicho, Japan's biggest red light district, arose from the ashes of post-war Japan.
Shirakawago - snow-covered houses in winter

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 museum.
The Kabukicho Ichibangai Arch in Shinjuku superimposed over the old Yotsuya Okido gate from the samurai era.

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 Shinjuku's origins lay?
Two ramen bowls on a scale with the one paid for in dollars shown as heavier

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.
妻よ、僕の恋人になってくれませんか？ 第1話

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 industry?
Pile of garbage in bags on the street

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.
A mom and dad walking hand in hand with their child

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 be dissolved.
Health care worker helping an elderly woman to stand

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.
Tokyo National Museum

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.

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