Bears have been getting bad press for both their real-life and anime actions this month, which has some bristling at the idea of a Kuma Miko-themed promotion in Akita.
The Japanese government has passed a bill relaxing its decades old prohibition on dancing, but the new law may not be much better than the old one.
We’re guessing that this is the only place where you can find a yukata featuring a Loch Ness Monster design!
Our Japanese-language writer gets a visual kei makeover as part of her quest to join the all-female follow-up to X Japan.
Parents often worry that too many video games will rot their kids’ brains, but maybe they should be worrying about their children’s feet instead.
The digital image created captures kitty in a moment of quiet determination, with a face of uncertain triumph.
From whacky, head-scratching sights to mysterious places of exotic beauty, this video clip reveals Japan through the eyes of travelling foreigners.
Tokyo finally has an actual store filled with beauty and fashion goods aimed at anime-loving adults!
A new 63-page encyclopedic picture book provides a great reference to the whimsical rides of Studio Ghibli films.
For most women, when it comes to things to do in a one-piece mini-skirt, lying on the hood of a police car probably isn’t very high on their list…
A boat-inspired vehicle and a three-wheeler with built-in protection from the elements have been created in conjunction with a respected Japanese architect.
Just what is it about Japanese style umbrellas that captured Salvador Dali’s heart? HIYOSHIYA may give you a hint or two.
Our resident UFO catcher expert reveals six tips for when you’ve got your eyes on the prize in the glass case.


















Salomon releases Japan-exclusive Mt. Fuji hiking gear that doubles as an amazing souvenir
Japan triples departure tax, foreign tourists and locals now must pay more to leave country
Japanese overnight sightseeing train returns for summer with ramen stops and ocean views
Sanrio Character Poll announces winners, Hello Kitty absent from top 10 in many countries
7-Eleven Japan has a lot of famous food, but its new burrito needs to be on your radar
Sleep at Hoshinoya Nara Prison, one of the most unique hotels in Japan
Japan’s Mocchurin donuts declared too popular to exist by creator Mister Donut, will disappear soon
Why you shouldn’t feel guilty about using manga for studying and the top series for learning
Japan’s new pettably fuzzy cat-shaped earbud chargers meow to let you know their status[Video]
Family Mart Japan installs red-eyed “Monster Wolf” to keep bears away from convenience store
Live-action Spirited Away stage play announces world tour with first-ever U.S. and Canadian dates
Starbucks Japan reopens Shinkansen platform store after redesigning it for speed
Pikachu brings electric style to brand-new Pokémon G-Shock watch featuring every stater trio
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
Japan launches first overnight Shinkansen bullet train between Tokyo and Osaka this summer
Japanese man’s gross conveyor belt sushi social media prank video gets him a 500,000-yen fine
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
Even at twice regular Daiso price, this handy item is still great for summer travel in Japan
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
Uniqlo reveals third round of massive 100-year-anniversary manga T-shirts for Jump’s Shueisha
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]
Sleep at Hoshinoya Nara Prison, one of the most unique hotels in Japan
Japan’s Mocchurin donuts declared too popular to exist by creator Mister Donut, will disappear soon
Why you shouldn’t feel guilty about using manga for studying and the top series for learning
Japan’s new pettably fuzzy cat-shaped earbud chargers meow to let you know their status[Video]
Studio Ghibli adds a new Jiji mini bag to its anime merchandise shop in Japan
Sanrio collaborates with Sesame Street for adorable merch and sweets in Japan[Photos]
Blind Tokyo commuter explains the easiest place for him to stand while riding the train
Mos Burger opens fancy burger shop and bar in Ginza, Tokyo
Japan’s Pokémon mailboxes saved from removal with last-minute extension on final day
Studio Ghibli combines anime and craftsmanship in new Totoro and Jiji Gobelin tapestry bags
Studio Ghibli mini towels add anime flair to a Japanese cultural tradition
Tokyo has only two barley tea makers, and we visited one to see how mugicha is made
Live-action Spirited Away stage play announces world tour with first-ever U.S. and Canadian dates