Race in Japan Archives - Unseen Japan

An illustrated red pagoda ringed with cherry blossoms, superimposed over a blurred figure in a white shirt and orange flames

Fact Check: No, Muslims Aren’t Burning Down Japan’s Temples and Shrines

A common right-wing trope on Japanese social media alleges a Muslim-led arson wave in Japan that doesn't exist.

Stone entrance pillar of Hokkaido University engraved with a nameplate reading 北海道大学, beside a wrought-iron gate

Hokkaido University Apologizes for a Century of Ainu Remains Research

After many years of calling its actions "extremely regrettable," Hokkaido University has finally apologized for how it handled Ainu remains.

Collage of author Yu Miri in glasses beside her book covers, including the English edition of Tokyo Ueno Station

RACE IN JAPAN

Award-Winning Author Yu Miri Harassed Online After Criticizing Japanese Government

Yu Miri is one of Japan's most celebrated authors. Yet some feel that, due to her background, she has no right to…

Japan's National Diet building in Tokyo, seen from the front gate on a clear day

RACE IN JAPAN

Hundreds Rally at Japan’s Diet Against Anti-Foreigner Politics

The rallies are a response to both anti-foreign sentiment and specific policies, such as changes to the business manager visa.

A convenience-store clerk in a blue apron scans a receipt at the cash register

RACE IN JAPAN

A Nepali Konbini Clerk Foiled a Scam in Japan, Even as Politicians Cast Foreigners as Threat

A 24-year-old Nepali convenience-store clerk in Kobe sensed an elderly customer was being scammed and stepped in.

Person in a traditional Ainu robe with indigo and white appliqué patterns, one hand resting on the knee

RACE IN JAPAN

Ainu Group Demands Return of 279 Remains Held by Japan’s Government

The lawsuit, the first of its kind, argues that Ainu burial tradition vests the right to manage their remains in the kotan…

RACE IN JAPAN

Does Tokyo Medical Clinic Form Discriminate Against Chinese People?

A Chinese family says a medical clinic in Tokyo engaged in anti-Chinese discrimination when it handed them a survey that asked if…

RACE IN JAPAN

Civic Group Protests Event Alleging Hate Speech Against the Ainu

A supposed "Ainu History Learning Association" has been holding "learning sessions" that promote disinformation about the indigenous group. Last month, a local…