The latest Japan travel and culture news

CULTURE

New Years in Japan: Its History and Traditions

How the oldest celebrated holiday in Japan has changed throughout the years, and the traditions that have come along with it.

CULTURE

Mottainai Culture: The History and Philosophy of Waste in Japan

Though sometimes honored more in the breach than the observance, Japan's philosophy of "waste not, want not" strongly influences everyday culture.

WOMEN

Kimura Komako: The Dancing Feminist

Born in an era in Japan when women's rights were more oppressed than ever, Kimura Komako never gave up the fight -…

CULTURE

Shinto: The History and Practice of Japan’s Native Religion

Shinto is more than a religion - it's also an indelible part of Japanese culture. Krys Suzuki discusses the structure, beliefs, and…

LAW & CRIME

50 Years Later, Japan’s Most Brazen Robbery Remains a Mystery

50 years ago, someone managed to steal 300 million yen without firing a shot. Was it, as some say, the perfect crime?

CULTURE

How Japanese Christmas Traditions Have Evolved Over Time

How do Japanese Christmas traditions differ from those around the world? A look at how the holiday has evolved over the years.

POLITICS

The 2 Billion Yen Ascension: Japan’s Budget-Busting Royal Ritual

When the new Emperor takes his throne in 2019, Japan’s taxpayers will spend billions on a Shinto religious rite. Some - including…

SOCIETY

Life in Limbo: How Japan is Failing its Institutionalized Children

Alyssa Pearl Fusek on how Japanese law and cultural attitudes leave foster kids in limbo.