CULTURE
Yosakoi Festivals: The Global Phenomenon of a Local Dance
Kochi's Yosakoi festival has spread around the world due to the way it uniquely centers creativity and freedom.
festival
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CULTURE
TRAVEL
Aichi Prefecture: What’s Good (and Not So Good) About Traveling There?
With overtourism rocking Japan, people are looking for less crowded places to visit. A new survey rates how Aichi Prefecture stacks up.
TRAVEL
It’s End of March – Where Are Japan’s Cherry Blossoms? (Updated)
Everyone's been waiting in Japan for the cherry blossoms to bloom. But thanks to the weather, sightseers may be waiting a little…
LIVING IN JAPAN
Cancellation Calls for Kurdish Spring Festival in Saitama Renew Tensions
Why a conflict over a spring musical festival is renewing tensions between Kawaguchi and Saitama cities and the local Kurdish population.
FOOD
Hit Drink Calpis Celebrates its Birthday on Tanabata
July 7th isn't just tanabata in Japan - it's also Calpis Day. Learn why this vaguely yogurt-flavored drink has become so popular.
SOCIETY
Activists: Shinto Shrine’s Horse Jumping Festival is Animal Abuse
Tado Shrine in Mie Prefecture says it's preserving tradition with ageuma, its horse jumping festival. But activists call it cruel.
CULTURE
Sapporo Snow Festival: What to See, How to Enjoy
Sapporo's iconic snow festival is back! Some background on its history, what to expect, and how to make the most of your…
CULTURE
Namahage: In Japan’s Akita, Demons Ring in the New Year
The namahage are wild, Krampus-like New Year's mountain gods of Akita Prefecture. But what's the story behind the horns and straw coats?