TRAVEL
Kissaten: Are Japan’s Old-School Coffee Shops Fading?
Japan’s kissaten are fading fast, but their retro charm is drawing new fans. Explore what's keeping these old-school coffee shops alive.
Showa era
TRAVEL
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.
HISTORY
Shinjuku’s Moulin Rouge: The Theater That Danced Through War and Censorship
Japanese imperial authorities frequently raided it and censored its scripts. Despite this, the women at the Shinjuku Moulin Rouge danced on.
TRAVEL
Japan Retro Toy Museum Closes Because Customers Keep Breaking Things
The owner says he's "heartbroken" that he has to close the toy museum in Niigata Prefecture because some parents can't control their…
TRAVEL
Be a Japanese High Schooler in New Tourist Experience
Wanna attend a Japanese high school like in your favorite anime? A company in Japan is inviting tourists to attend an abandoned…
TRAVEL
Overtourism Helps Revive Retro Ghost Town Near Mt. Fuji
It was a shopping center on its last legs. Learn how a "retro" Showa-era location near Mt. Fuji has gone viral -…
FOOD
Japan Debates: What’s the Best Raw Egg on Rice Recipe?
Do you stir before putting the egg on - or after? And IS there one right way to eat tamago kake gohan,…
FOOD
Takoyaki: The History of Japan’s Popular Street Food
It's now so popular you'd think it was ancient - but in truth, takoyaki isn't even a century old. Learn more about…