SOCIETY
An Empress of Japan? New Poll Shows a Majority Support It
Will the next emperor of Japan be an empress? A new poll shows a clear majority support it - but there are…
women
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SOCIETY
SOCIETY
Japan Considers Making Childbirth 100% Free
As Japan continues to face rapid population decline and aging, its government considers a new tactic to grow families: make childbirth free.
LGBTQ
Japanese LGBTQ Couple Win Political Asylum in Canada
A lesbian couple in Japan say conditions for them were so bad in their home country that Canada has granted them refugee…
ENTERTAINMENT
Film Review: “Snack Sakura” Reflects Ambiguity of Japan’s Vintage Nightlife
In his new short documentary, "Snack Sakura," photographer Greg Girard embraces the retro charm and social ambiguity of Japan's ubiquitous snack bars.
NEWS
Are You Holding Your Backpack on Japanese Trains Wrong?
Common wisdom holds that there's a polite way to hold your backpack on a crowded train in Japan. But is common wisdom…
CULTURE
Why Shinto Shrines Are Abandoning Their Controversial Association
Since 1969, the Association of Shinto Shrines has overseen most shrines in Japan. But ongoing controversies are driving some away.
BUSINESS AND ECONOMY
Japan’s First-Ever Weight Loss Drug Is Approved. But Does It Need It?
Japan - already one of the world's thinnest nations - has its first-ever approved weight loss drug. Will users dig its nasty…
LAW & CRIME
Why Everyone in Japan Could Be Named Sato-san By 2531
In a future Japan where couples can't choose separate surnames, 2531 could be the era of the Sato-sans, one Japanese university claims.