SEX & NIGHTLIFE
In Japan, Oshikatsu is Fostering an Underage Sex Work Pipeline
Oshikatsu has girls turning to sex work to give money to their favorite performers. Some are as young as 15.
idols
SEX & NIGHTLIFE
ENTERTAINMENT
Galapagos Rock: Why It’s So Hard for Foreign J-Pop Fans to Buy Concert Tickets in Japan
Some overseas fans of Japanese music say the hassle is proof that "Japan hates foreigners." The truth is more complicated.
ENTERTAINMENT
Swimsuit Snow Performance Lands Japanese Idols in Hot Water (and They Don’t Give a F$*!)
Planck Stars isn't a group to shy away from controversy. Indeed, it seems to be reveling in its latest affront to Japanese…
ENTERTAINMENT
Why a 20-Year-Old Japanese Racing Idol Went Searching For a 50-Year-Old Fan
It's common for fans to become obsessed with their idols. But what happens when an idol is worried about one of her…
POLITICS
Japanese Lawmaker Says Anti-Spy Law Could End Oshikatsu Culture
One lawmaker warns that proposed spy legislation could tread on a booming business in Japan: support for one's favorite idol or star.
CULTURE
The Hidden Culture Behind Japan’s Bag-Charms Craze
Experts say "oshi-katsu" and this age-old religious trend have helped fuel the rise of character dolls dangling from bags and backpacks.
ENTERTAINMENT
Real-Life Love Live!: Japanese High School To Start Official School Idol Club
Nagano Nichidai High School even says it'll fast-track non-students for matriculation if they're accepted into the club.
ENTERTAINMENT
Japanese Idol Fired After Alleged Boyfriend’s Picture Caught in Cup’s Reflection
The controversy renews the debate around the implied (and, sometimes, contractual) rule that idols don't deserve a personal life.