BUSINESS AND ECONOMY
Village Vanguard: Why Japan’s Iconic Subculture Stores Are Struggling
Village Vanguard is a bookstore and then some. But its recent financial troubles indicate it might have stretched itself too thin.
economy
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BUSINESS AND ECONOMY
LIVING IN JAPAN
As Japan’s Foreign Population Grows, So Does A “Japanese First” Mindset
Japan has more foreign residents than ever. Will that change as the conviction that "Japan is for the Japanese" gains ground?
TRAVEL
New Japan Theme Park Has Two-Tier Pricing for Foreigners. Will People Pay?
A new nature theme park on Okinawa Island is betting it can appeal to inbound tourists - despite charging them more than…
TRAVEL
More Than a Budget Stay: The Controversy Behind Japan’s APA Hotels
APA Hotels in Japan are ubiquitous and affordable. Behind the cheap prices lies an aggressive business strategy and war crimes denialism.
TRAVEL
No Place to Sleep? Lawson Offers New Options for Japan’s Night Travelers
Japan’s night travelers are growing, but roadside rest spots aren’t. Lawson steps in with a new safe—and paid—option.
WOMEN
2025 Gender Gap Report Finds Japan Still at Bottom of G7
While Japan made progress in several areas, it took a huge step back in representation at the highest level of government.
LIVING IN JAPAN
“Old, Old, Old Rice”: Why Japan’s Lining Up To Buy 2021’s Crop
People in Japan are forming long lines to spend half of the current market price for the strategic reserve rice - some…
ENTERTAINMENT
Otaku Apocalypse: Good Smile Restricts US Purchases Amidst Trump Tariff Chaos
The retailer of manga and anime figures says it won't allow pre-orders or send shipments to the US until things settle.