POLITICS
Uniqlo Pulls Pokémon Collab in China Over Yasukuni Shrine Controversy
The incident, along with another anime-related collab controversy, is a sign of increasing tensions between Japan and China.
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POLITICS
HISTORY
Hanafuda: How a Banned Card Game Defined the Pre-Pokémon Era
Before Mario, Nintendo sold hanafuda cards to the yakuza. Read the 400-year forbidden history of the flower cards that tricked the Shogun.
FOOD
Edomae Sushi: A Classic Take on a Modern Dish
Sushi is popular around the world. But if you're not down with eating fish totally raw, Edomae sushi offers an alternative.
CULTURE
Setsubun: Japan’s Demon-Expelling Festival for Kids of All Ages
Demons out, luck in! How the festival of Setsubun evolved into a tradition enjoyed by kids across Japan every year.
HISTORY
Shinjuku: The Birth of Kabukicho
How Kabukicho, Japan's biggest red light district, arose from the ashes of post-war Japan.
HISTORY
Shinjuku: The History and Origins of the World’s Biggest Nightlife District
The world's largest nightlife district, Shinjuku is nearly synonymous with Tokyo itself - yet wasn't even part of old Tokyo. Where do…
TRAVEL
Edo-Tokyo Museum Finally Set to Reopen in March 2026
One of Tokyo's most beloved and culturally significant museums is finally set to reopen to the public on March 31st.
LIVING IN JAPAN
Vacation Guilt: Why Japanese Workers (Still) Can’t Rest
Social mores play a big role in why Japanese workers say they report to the office even when they're sick.