The latest Japan travel and culture news

Book Reviews

Review: Poetry and Prose Dance in Ito Hiromi’s The Thorn Puller

Ito Hiromi's The Thorn Puller tackles subjects like aging, death, and suffering while also illuminating the bittersweet joy of being alive.

Social Media

“Silent Hill” Sign: A Frightening Warning Draws Attention in Japan

A fitting sign for "Silent Hill": A warning sign in Shizuoka Prefecture's Izu City is so spooky it's gone viral. But who…

Travel

Japan (Finally!) Announces Full Opening for Visa-Free Tourism

Japan is finally open for tourists again! Details on what's been changed - and when you can start packing your bags.

Business and Economy

It’s Official: Japan’s “High-End” Shokupan Bread Boom is Bust

It was fun while it lasted. But it seems that Japan's boom of classy shokupan bread shops (yes that's a thing) has…

Entertainment

Comedian Yuki Nivez Talks Stand-Up in Japan; Upcoming Show

Western-style stand-up is a relatively new genre of comedy for Japan. The scene, however, is flourishing. Comedians Yuki Nivez and Bobby Judo…

Sex & Nightlife

Suzuki Suzumi: Hostesses in Japan Aren’t Paid to be Harassed

A writer and former adult star claps back at men who keep soft-pedaling actor Kagawa Teruyuki's sexual harassment of a Ginza hostess.

Society

Middle-Age Divorce in Japan Is (Still) On the Rise

The divorce rate in Japan has been stable for years. But one number keeps going up: older couples who've gotten sick of…

Food

Momiji Tempura: A Unique Japanese Snack for the Fall

Fall leaves mean gorgeous colors - but for some, they also mean a scrumptious snack. Learn about the momiji tempura of Minoh.