The latest Japan travel and culture news

New Japan Tech Lets You Zoom in Your Pajamas

A new software app from a Tokyo-based company promises to make you look ready for your next meeting - even if you…

Women Grab Spotlight in Japan’s Fall 2020 Drama Season

A truckload of female characters and an increased focused on women's issues show how Japanese drama reflects a changing Japan.

BUSINESS AND ECONOMY

Two Konmaris: How Cleanliness Guru’s Marketed in the West

Two different YouTube channels for Kondo Marie fans highlight fundamental differences in Western vs. Japanese marketing.

ENTERTAINMENT

These Strange Japanese YouTube Manga Ads Are Offending Everyone

Offended by these Japanese ads on YouTube? It's not just you - they're universally despised in Japan as well.

LIVING IN JAPAN

Halloween in Japan: From Kid’s Marketing to Shibuya Chaos

How did Halloween in Japan go from being a holiday for foreigners to an annual event that draws out millions across the…

JAPANESE LANGUAGE

Putsun! The Sound That Japanese Telephone Makes Has Evolved

A recent tweet by a Japanese novelist about a correction she received from her proofreader shows how Japanese is changing with the…

JAPANESE LANGUAGE

Japanese Business Etiquette: How To Say You “Got It”?

Have trouble with your Japanese business etiquette? You're in good company: a recent Twitter thread highlights how even native speakers struggle with…

FOOD

Why Japan’s Vanishing Ramen Shops Might Be Good News

The pandemic is putting more ramen shops than usual out of business. One expert argues that this might not be a bad…