JAPANESE LANGUAGE
The “Dead” Slang Words a Japanese Dictionary Officially Killed
In English, words are rarely deleted from dictionaries. So why in 2021 did a Japanese dictionary publisher give 1,100 words the boot?
culture
JAPANESE LANGUAGE
TRAVEL
Hanabi Taikai: A Traveler’s Guide to Japan’s Summer Fireworks Festivals
Japanese summer is impossible to imagine without hanabi taikai, the riverbank fireworks displays that pack millions onto seawalls every July and August.…
FOOD
Nekomanma: The “Ill-Mannered” Japanese Food That Used to be a Commonfolk Staple
Is pouring miso soup onto rice bad manners? It is in modern Japan. But this "cat food" was a commoner staple for…
CULTURE
Japan’s Zine Boom: Self-Made Magazines Take Off in the AI Era
Why more people in Japan are forsaking YouTube and TikTok videos and crafting their own magazines by hand.
TRAVEL
Exploring Naoshima: The Stunning Art Islands of Seto Inland Sea
The islands used to be known for copper production. These days, they're one of the most-discussed art destinations worldwide.
TRAVEL
Kissaten: Are Japan’s Old-School Coffee Shops Fading?
Japan’s kissaten are fading fast, but their retro charm is drawing new fans. Explore what's keeping these old-school coffee shops alive.
CULTURE
“Friendflation”: Japanese Youth Are Saving Money By Cutting Out Friends
Japan joins a worldwide trend of limiting your social network as the cost of having friends becomes prohibitive.
TRAVEL
Safe Solo Female Travel in Japan: a Bit of Helpful Advice
Japan is a safe place to travel if you're a woman on your own - but it's still wise to take a…