society

FOOD

Why Konbini May Become a Tourist Luxury in Japan

As inflation keeps rising in Japan, more residents are deciding that there are better ways to spend their money.

SOCIETY

80% of Japan’s Singles are Exhausted From Seeking Marriage, Survey Shows

As Japan's population continues to decline, many singles say the pressure to get hitched is taking a toll.

TRAVEL

No Tourists at Lunch? Japanese Soba Store Sparks Controversy with Sign

The chain's owners ultimately ordered the store to take the sign down. Here's why many Japanese netizens defended it.

BUSINESS AND ECONOMY

Is Japan Poor? Konbini’s New “Rice and Sauce” Dish Sparks Social Media Debate

Is Lawson Store 100's new dish a sign of Japan's dire economic straits? Or is it just responding to consumer demand?

INSIDER

How Using a Self-Checkout in Japan Can End in Arrest

A recent incident involving a tired rapper and a self-checkout stand reveals anxiety around the growing use of the technology.

CULTURE

Rail Enthusiasts in Japan Keep Causing Headaches for Passengers, Locals

Tourists aren't the only ones causing ire in Japan: incidents of badly behaved railway photographers are on the rise.

SOCIETY

Vaccine Hesitancy Persists in Japan Despite Government Efforts

A combination of government missteps and online disinformation has steadily eroded public trust in the life-saving practice.

TRAVEL

Japan’s Kamakura Tries Crowdfunding to Fight Overtourism. It Isn’t Going Well

The city, which hosts a famous anime pilgrimage site, is way behind in its campaign to combat street congestion and littering.