SOCIETY
Is Japan REALLY Trying to Ban Saying “Itadakimasu” at Schools?
Japan's "War on Christmas" is a viral online claim framed as an attack on Japanese culture. Just one problem: it isn't true.
tradition
SOCIETY
TRAVEL
Hanabi Taikai: A Traveler’s Guide to Japan’s Summer Fireworks Festivals
Japanese summer is impossible to imagine without hanabi taikai, the riverbank fireworks displays that pack millions onto seawalls every July and August.…
FOOD
Nekomanma: The “Ill-Mannered” Japanese Food That Used to be a Commonfolk Staple
Is pouring miso soup onto rice bad manners? It is in modern Japan. But this "cat food" was a commoner staple for…
WOMEN
Japan’s Prime Minister Avoids Challenging Sumo’s Gendered Ring Ban
Takaichi Sanae sidestepped an issue that would likely have caused a row amongst her right-wing supporters.
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.
TRAVEL
Ryokan vs. Hotels: Inside Japan’s Unique Accommodation Culture
Should you stay in a "modern" hotel or a more "traditional" ryokan in Japan? Here's what to consider when deciding.
SOCIETY
Survey: 1 in 4 Japanese Kids Can’t Use a Japanese-Style Squat Toilet
The times they are a-changin', with 26.7% of elementary school kids saying they can't use the old-style devices.
JAPANESE LANGUAGE
Event in Kyoto Celebrates Area’s “Culture of Unkindness”
How about some bubuzuke? A recent event in Kyoto tested people's ability to pick up on the REAL meaning behind seemingly bland…