News

LAW & CRIME

Hokkaido Man Asks for Money at Konbini, Gets Arrested

The man wasn't drunk and didn't threaten anyone or brandish a weapon - his only crime appears to be being poor.

SOCIETY

Poll: Over Half of Married Japanese Women Wanted to Keep Their Maiden Names

Politicians are still duking out the merits of changing the Meiji-era law forcing joint spousal surnames.

WOMEN

Ito Shiori’s Next Goal: Releasing BLACK BOX DIARIES in Japan

It's the first documentary by a Japanese director ever nominated for an Oscar - but it still hasn't screened in Japan.

FOOD

Noodle-Only Ramen: Japan’s New Hot Food Trend?

Does a big bowl of noodles sound tempting to you? With rising prices in Japan, some are viewing it as an economical…

LAW & CRIME

Japanese Boy Band Member KENSHIN Booted After Sexual Assault Arrest in Hong Kong

Stardust Promotions says it's dropped the rapper and dancer like a hot potato after his March 2nd arrest for attacking an interpreter.

ENTERTAINMENT

Japan’s Prince Hisahito is an Otaku Who Loves Light Novels – Including Writing His Own

The Japanese prince, second in line to the throne, apparently has a hobby that'll endear him to many geeks both in Japan…

TRAVEL

Japan Says Tourists Getting Japanese Driver’s Licenses is Fine, Actually

The government's official response to a request to close a license exchange loophole is, "don't worry about it."

LIVING IN JAPAN

Study: Hokkaido Residents Would Make Millions If Paid to Shovel Snow

There's less snow to shovel in Hokkaido than ever - but still enough that residents would make bank if paid for their…