mental health

JAPANESE LANGUAGE

Rōnin: Why Being a “Masterless Samurai” in Modern Japan Sucks

Saying "rōnin" in English conjures up images of cool, lone-wolf samurai. But in modern Japan, being a rōnin kinda sucks.

LAW & CRIME

#MeToo in JET: Verdict in Sexual Assault Case

A former JET Program participant who suffered sexual assault has won a civil lawsuit against Nagasaki Prefecture.

POLITICS

Reiwa Shinsengumi Under Fire for Diet Member “Rotation” Scheme

Other political parties in Japan are lambasting Reiwa Shinsengumi's scheme to turn one of its Diet seats into a game of musical…

WOMEN

Self-Defense Forces Soldier Speaks Out on Her Double Harassment

A former member of Japan's Self Defense Force (SDF) talks about the online abuse she's received since reporting on her sexual assault.

SOCIETY

In Japan, Rental Family Services Let You Hire Actors to Play Family Roles

Would you hire a stranger to be your spouse or your parent? For some in Japan, the rental family is the answer…

SOCIETY

Danchi-Dwellers and Office Denizens: Two More Lesser-Known Tribes of Japan

How post-WWII economics and office culture created two communities whose existence isn't well-known outside of Japan.

BUSINESS AND ECONOMY

Hikidashi-ya: The Shady Business Disguised As Hikikomori Rehabilitation Centers

Hikidashi-ya are self-proclaimed hikikomori “rehabilitation facilities” that claim to be able to treat social withdrawal in children and adults as well as…

JAPANESE LANGUAGE

Kotobagari: The Banned Words of the Japanese Language

It's often said that there are no swear words in Japanese. But while profanities may be rare, taboos - and banned words…