CULTURE
Japan Doesn’t Trust JR East’s Suica Mascot Vote. Blame the Takanawa Gateway Affair
JR East is letting riders vote on its new mascot. But some expressed skepticism that their opinion would be taken seriously.
trains
CULTURE
TRAVEL
Why Japan’s New “Sleeper Shinkansen” is a Big Hit with Japanese Women
A "sleeper" run of JR Central's Tokaido shinkansen was a huge hit. It also offered something other shinkansen don't: safety for women.
WOMEN
“Foul-Smelling Men”: Demand for Women-Only Shinkansen Seats in Japan Goes Viral
Should Japan's bullet trains have women-only spaces? Proponents say it would protect women, but implementation wouldn't be easy.
TRAVEL
Inside Supreme Class: Japan’s New Private Shinkansen Cabins
Now you can travel Japan's smoothest ride in luxury. JR Central's new Supreme Class offers lockable doors, dedicated Wi-Fi, and personal amenities.
TRAVEL
JR East’s New “Luna Azul” Overnight Express Revives Japan’s Sleeper-Train Era
Do you miss Japan's sleeper trains? If JR East has its way, they may be mounting a comeback. Learn how to ride…
SOCIETY
Japan Chain’s Women-Only Gyms Spark New Debates Over Safety vs. Fairness
A gym chain in Japan has come under fire from women for not enforcing gender restrictions - and from men for having…
TRAVEL
Scenic Train Journeys in Japan That You Can’t Miss
Sometimes, it really is more about the journey than the destination. Here are some romantic train rides in Japan that prove it.
TRAVEL
Can You Walk Tokyo’s Yamanote Line? Many Do!
It'll take you all day. But yes, you can walk the distance of Tokyo's most famous train line - and here's why…