Tokyo is still waiting for its sakura to start blooming, but Hirosaki Castle, in the frozen north, is already beautifully pink.
Japan (Page 811)
Famous woodblock print from master painter Hokusai adapted to sneakers that leave the naughty bits to your vivid imagination.
Freebie given to moviegoers for newest Fate/stay night anime movie turns into a major windfall for one fan willing to part with the images of the heroine.
Mail-order fashion company opens Harajuku showroom so fans can see the shirts before they buy, and also offers in-store exclusive patterns.
Hardcore anime fans like to travel and snap pics like anyone else, but there’s something that’s always just out of frame.
This teabag-shaped envelope that looks like a clutch bag should get you plenty of attention just by carrying it!
If you don’t like changing trains, Tokyo Station is probably your best bet for a starting point.
Many of the people in the video spent their early lives living in a Japan that was ruled by a shogun.
Animal psychologists from Kyoto University create public service video that’s not about cats, but for the animals themselves to watch and learn from.
This huge plush ferret is so gigantic you might have to have someone else hold it up while you hug it.
“Refresh your soul and hair!” is the slogan of the first white-hair-removal specialty store in Japan.
No loyalty program or first-class ticket required for this traveler’s oasis with free drinks, loaner Nintendo Switch systems, and shower booths.
Passersby were treated to the jazzy refrain of Kenshi Yonezu’s Lemon, as played by a gigantic mop-headed monster.
Cafe Lattes served in fluffy cup holders, sweet steamed Kitty head buns, and a special lunch are all on the menu at Lawson.
The least-faithful prefecture in the survey is often laughed at for being uncool, but responding residents seem to be plenty popular.

















Salomon releases Japan-exclusive Mt. Fuji hiking gear that doubles as an amazing souvenir
Don’t judge this Kiki’s Delivery Service book by its cover, because it’s not actually a book!
The quest for Dragon Quest Yoshinoya figure sets: Worth taking for fans, tricky for scalpers[Pics]
How to cook shiitake mushrooms like a Japanese manga character
Japan triples departure tax, foreign tourists and locals now must pay more to leave country
Udon pudding is about to shake up the noodle scene in Japan
One Piece docking at Round 1 amusement centers in both Japan and the USA
Starbucks Japan teams up with Converse Tokyo for a new limited-edition collection in honour of Tanabata
Studio Ghibli releases a musical diorama based on a touching anime scene from My Neighbour Totoro
7-Eleven Japan releases chocolate cookies that taste like freshly baked melon bread
Sanrio Character Poll announces winners, Hello Kitty absent from top 10 in many countries
Live-action Spirited Away stage play announces world tour with first-ever U.S. and Canadian dates
Japanese overnight sightseeing train returns for summer with ramen stops and ocean views
Tokyo has only two barley tea makers, and we visited one to see how mugicha is made
Blind Tokyo commuter explains the easiest place for him to stand while riding the train
Sleep at Hoshinoya Nara Prison, one of the most unique hotels in Japan
Pikachu brings electric style to brand-new Pokémon G-Shock watch featuring every stater trio
Japan announces sudden 400-percent increase in visa fees for foreigners entering the country
Japanese ninja certification exam attracts 131 candidates from Japan and abroad
Studio Ghibli store Donguri Republic announces opening of first-ever store in America
New Japanese overnight train coming to connect Tokyo with Tohoku in sleep-travel style
Japan launches first overnight Shinkansen bullet train between Tokyo and Osaka this summer
Japanese sweets shop sells an ohagi so exquisite it sells out by noon
Forget Tokyo go-karts – there’s a new way to sightsee on four wheels in Japan
Japanese sweets brand creates new drinkable Cigare and we’re totally here for it
Japan’s human washing machines will go on sale to general public, demos to be held in Tokyo
Starbucks Japan releases new drinkware and goods for Valentine’s Day
We deeply regret going into this tunnel on our walk in the mountains of Japan
Starbucks Japan releases new sakura goods and drinkware for cherry blossom season 2026
Japan’s newest Shinkansen has no seats…or passengers [Video]
Put sesame oil in your coffee? Japanese maker says it’s the best way to start your day【Taste test】
Japan reportedly adding Japanese language skill requirement to most common foreigner work visa
Japan’s 5.3 million beautiful Hitachi Nemophila flowers are now in full bloom[Photos]
Udon pudding is about to shake up the noodle scene in Japan
One Piece docking at Round 1 amusement centers in both Japan and the USA
Starbucks Japan teams up with Converse Tokyo for a new limited-edition collection in honour of Tanabata
Studio Ghibli releases a musical diorama based on a touching anime scene from My Neighbour Totoro
7-Eleven Japan releases chocolate cookies that taste like freshly baked melon bread
Japanese overnight sightseeing train returns for summer with ramen stops and ocean views
KFC Japan creates spicy summer fried chicken chips together with Calbee
Taco Spaghetti appears in Japan, and our taco fan rushes to try it[Taste test]
Foreign resident of Japan arrested after spraying bear repellant inside post office
Sanrio Character Poll announces winners, Hello Kitty absent from top 10 in many countries
Sanrio collaborates with Sesame Street for adorable merch and sweets in Japan[Photos]
Sanrio’s new McDonald’s Japan Happy Meals give the spotlight all to Cinnamoroll[Photos]
Blind Tokyo commuter explains the easiest place for him to stand while riding the train