Latest Japan News & Analysis

Japan Researchers Make Breakthrough Link Between Baths and Happiness

No need to be shy about taking extra soaks in the tub. A research team in Japan says more bath time may equal increased happiness.

JoJo’s Bizarre Cancellation: Live Show Woes Leave Fans Distraught

The new live production of JoJo became a bizarre adventure in its own right this month as its production company canceled the first shows. What happened? And how will they make it up to the fans?

Cancellation Calls for Kurdish Spring Festival in Saitama Renew Tensions

Why a conflict over a spring musical festival is renewing tensions between Kawaguchi and Saitama cities and the local Kurdish population.

Why Japan’s Ramen Restaurants Keep Going Out of Business

As prices of goods keep rising, ramen shops in Japan are going out of business at an increasing pace. Many blame the ramen "price wall."

You Can Write These Japanese Loan Words in Kanji (But Probably Shouldn’t)

We typically write them in katakana now - but these Japanese words originally had kanji. How many of these can YOU read?

Japan’s LDP: Permanent Residency On The Line If Taxes Go Unpaid

Legal hassles used to be the only exit threat for foreign residents in Japan. Not anymore — now unsettled bills could be their ticket out.