business

LIVING IN JAPAN

In Praise of the Japanese Toilet Seat

When is a toilet not just a toilet? We have the straight poop on Japan's mighty contributions to the art of elimination.

TRAVEL

Japan to Finally Relax Some Border Restrictions

After a year and a half of almost no movement, Japan's strict border control is finally being relaxed for business, trainee, and…

HISTORY

Banei Racing: Hokkaido’s Stubborn Settler Sport of Strength and Spirit

Hokkaido's fascinating Banei Racing, where massive draft horses pull weighted sleighs up slopes, is an intriguing remnant of a colonial history.

FEATURED

Melonpan: The Japan Sweet Bread’s Armenian History

Melonpan, the sweet baked good that delights people across East Asia, was the creation of one Armenian man living in the diaspora…

SOCIAL MEDIA

FamilyMart Socks Take Over Japanese Social Media

FamilyMart, one of Japan’s major convenience store chains, recently released a collection of cheap necessity items, including underwear, t-shirts, and socks. But…

SOCIETY

Moomin Brand Cuts Ties with DHC Mid-Collab in the Name of Diversity

"Neither the Moomin Characters brand in their home country nor in Japan will tolerate discrimination of any kind. This was a lack…

ENTERTAINMENT

Crying Freeman and the 1980s Home Video Revolution in Japan

How an absolutely ridiculous anime released for home video sparked interest in OVAs both in Japan and abroad.

TRAVEL

Promoting Prefectures Through Punny Pokemon

The Local Acts initiative is helping promote prefectures through pokemon, including many that were affected by the Tohoku Earthquake.