INSIDER
[Insider] Is Japan’s Gateball a Gateway to Murder?
Japan's sport of gateball is increasingly unpopular. Is that because it leads to violence? The truth, it turns out, is more complicated.
sports
INSIDER
CULTURE
Why the Japanese Sport of Gateball is Dying in Japan
Gateball, Japan's homegrown version of croquet, once had over half a million enthusiastic and engaged fans. Where did they all go?
WOMEN
Japanese Man Arrested for Infrared Camera Pics of Underage Swimmers
The arrest is part of a larger disturbing trend in which men attempt to take "see-through" shots of female athletes.
SOCIETY
In Airsoft Game, Civilians Fight Japan’s Self Defense Forces to Draw
What happens when you pit highly-trained soldiers against civilians who play army on the weekends? Turns out you get a tough fight.
JAPANESE LANGUAGE
2024 Kanji of The Year Is, Once Again, All About Money
The people have spoken: The Kanji of the Year for 2024 is, once again, 金 (kin, kane), meaning money or gold -…
WOMEN
How Men in Japan Harass Female Athletes with Infrared Cameras
Some men in Japan have been violating female athletes with nonconsensual photography for years. But now they've found a new method of…
SOCIETY
This Shinto Shrine in Tokyo Appeals to Runners, Foodies, and Manga Fans
Planning a run? One shrine in Tokyo, made famous by a long-running manga, has a protective charm just for you. Plus ,…
TRAVEL
Is Hokkaido’s Niseko Overpriced? Tourists Can’t Seem to Agree
It's beautiful - but is it overpriced? Domestic ski enthusiasts to Hokkaido's Niseko think so - but inbound tourists beg to differ.