Latest Japan News & Analysis

Japan’s Gender Gap Widens, According to 2022 Global Gender Gap Report

The 2022 annual Global Gender Gap Report by the WEF ranks Japan's gender gap at 116 of 145 countries. What accounts for this downward trend?

Mr. Yakult: Shirota Minoru, the Microbiologist Behind Japan’s Favorite Health Drink

Learn how tragedy inspired Shirota Minoru, father of popular Japanese drink Yakult, to pursue a career in preventive medicine.

In Japan, Anger at Anti-LGBT Booklet Circulated at Ruling LDP Conference

Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party courted controversy when it circulated an anti-LGBT tract at a recent pre-election conference.

Japanese Star SHELLY Defends Trans People in Abortion Remarks

A Japanese talent defends her use of transgender-inclusive language in the wake of the U.S. Supreme Court overturning Roe v. Wade.

Abuse in the Geisha World: Former Maiko Speaks Out

June 27, 2022
News, Women

A former apprentice geisha at a Kyoto geisha house has created a flurry of online activity after describing abuses in the traditional industry.

Handsy Japan Innovation Party Politician Draws Online Ire

A Japan Innovation Party politician caused an online firestorm when filmed being a bit too touchy-feely with candidate Ebisawa Yuki during a stump speech.