culture

TRAVEL

“Nothing But a Castle”: Nagoya Left Behind in Japan’s Tourism Rush

While some locals may not mind, businesses and city leaders are disappointed tourists are sleeping on one of Japan's most populous cities.

JAPANESE LANGUAGE

Event in Kyoto Celebrates Area’s “Culture of Unkindness”

How about some bubuzuke? A recent event in Kyoto tested people's ability to pick up on the REAL meaning behind seemingly bland…

TRAVEL

Japan Retro Toy Museum Closes Because Customers Keep Breaking Things

The owner says he's "heartbroken" that he has to close the toy museum in Niigata Prefecture because some parents can't control their…

TRAVEL

I Bought Something from Akihabara’s “Cursed” Vending Machines

There's still a lot of fun stuff to see and do in Akihabara. Then there are the vending machines selling oden, bugs,…

BUSINESS AND ECONOMY

“Employee-San”: Why Japan’s Managers Are Shifting to Honorifics for Their Staff

Gone are the days of "chan" and "kun" in Japanese business. Recent research finds bosses are striking a more respectful tone.

TRAVEL

Swedish Embassy’s Japan Vending Machine Promotes “Swedish Culture,” Such as Tacos

Want to try a taste of Sweden in Japan? Who wouldn't?! Now you can thanks to a limited edition vending machine in…

TRAVEL

Square Enix Cafe in Akihabara to Close

Bad news for Square Enix fans: The company has announced its cafe in Akihabara will shutter as of March 31st, 2025.

TRAVEL

Toyama Hopes to Become Japan’s Hot New Travel Destination

The New York Times has named Toyama City as one of its must-see travel gems for 2025. Here's what makes the Japanese…