The latest Japan travel and culture news

WOMEN

Ichikawa Fusae: The First Woman of Japanese Politics

In an age when women had few rights, Ichikawa Fusae fought for hers - and used her hard won career to give…

CULTURE

Valentine’s Day in Japan: Vaunted Tradition or Sexist Standard?

Why is a popular Japanese chocolate-giving tradition once rooted in gratitude and appreciation now being called out as a form of power…

SOCIETY

“Wild Beast” of Japan Women’s Judo Retires to Sell Ice Cream

A judo champion leaves a room full of reporters in shock with her plans for the future.

SOCIETY

The Kurihara Mia Case: Should Dead Girl’s Mom Be Charged for Staying Silent?

Kurihara Mia died at the hands of her father, but now her mother is under arrest for neglect. How much culpability does…

BUSINESS AND ECONOMY

Unseen Japan Kaiwa 2: Teacher, Teacher – Reader Response to Teacher in Japan Who Hit Student

English language YouTuber and former Japanese schoolteacher teacher Misaki joins Unseen Japan to discuss our reader's top comments about the teacher who…

SOCIETY

The Shocking Consequences of Mental Illness Stigma in Japan

Despite having a fairly efficient health care system, Japan lags behind in providing both awareness and support for mentally ill people.

PATREON

“Furariimen”: The Japanese Men Who Avoid Returning from Work

As Japanese wives demand more participation from their husbands in home life, some husbands are responding by simply not going home.

FEATURED

Hikikomori: A Path Forward for Japan’s Recluses?

Why does Japan drive some to remain secluded their entire lives? A look at Japan's hikikomori and how some are working to…