history

CULTURE

Japan Isn’t a Painting in a Museum

Why Westerners who treat Japanese culture as a finished, unchanging product need to learn more about Japanese history - and about life…

PATREON

Justice For “Comfort Women” in the 2000 Women’s Tribunal

In 2000, several organizations in multiple countries banded together to put Japan's Imperial regime on trial for its crimes against women. Here's…

LIVING IN JAPAN

Halloween in Japan: From Kid’s Marketing to Shibuya Chaos

How did Halloween in Japan go from being a holiday for foreigners to an annual event that draws out millions across the…

JAPANESE LANGUAGE

Japanese Business Etiquette: How To Say You “Got It”?

Have trouble with your Japanese business etiquette? You're in good company: a recent Twitter thread highlights how even native speakers struggle with…

ENTERTAINMENT

Did Shiina Ringo Write a Right-Wing Nationalist Pop Song?

Why a 2014 song by the popular songstress stirred controversy - and why seemingly "nationalistic" songs draw such controversy in Japan.

CULTURE

How Roppongi Became a Hotspot for Foreigners in Tokyo

Roppongi is famous for its high population of foreigners. Why is it so popular with tourists? And how do Tokyo residents feel…

ENTERTAINMENT

The Rice Bowl: Japan’s Unbalanced American Football Playoffs

Yes, there's an American football playoff in Japan with a long and proud tradition - but some wonder whether it's really a…

LIVING IN JAPAN

New Harajuku Station Leaves People Pining for Its Predecessor

Many people aren't happy with the new Harajuku Station building. But why? For many, it seems, it was more than a mere…