culture

FOOD

How a “Killer” Pasta Dish is Taking Japan by Storm

"Assassin's Pasta" has been a favorite dish of Italy's Bari for decades. Now, thanks to one chef, it's taking off big in…

ADVERTORIAL

Explore Japanese Minimalism with Setsugekka

Taking its name from a poem dedicated to the world of natural beauty, Setsugekka is a new select shop focusing on Japanese…

BUSINESS AND ECONOMY

Why Japan’s Umeboshi Business is Suddenly Drying Up

Umeboshi manufacturers are freaking out as fewer people in Japan eat dried plums and warehouse stockpiles keep growing.

CULTURE

Loose Socks and the Rise of the “Heisei Retro” Trend

Wanna feel old? The Heisei Era just ended and it's already considered "retro". A look at loose socks and other Heisei "throwbacks".

CULTURE

As Adult Age Lowers, Japan’s “Coming of Age” Ceremonies Rebrand

Japan's Coming of Age ceremonies are rebranding thanks to the age of adulthood changing this year from 20 to 18.

CULTURE

Marie Kondo: My Cleaning Method is “Tidying Up the Past”

Don't call it "cleaning": Japanese cleanliness guru Marie Kondo says her "magic" method is more than just mere "tidying up".

FOOD

Spain’s “Otaku Burger” Draws Attention on Japan Twitter

'Tis the season for...geek burgers? Japanese Twitter users express their confusion and amusement over a new Spanish KFC offering.

CULTURE

No Pokémon Cards on the Shinkansen?! A Game Sparks Debate

There are basic rules you should follow when riding Japan's shinkansen bullet trains. But is abstaining from Pokémon card games one of…