This multi-block queue has to be seen to be believed, as people spend hours lining up due to traditional beliefs.
Our reporter also spotlights some of her favorites from across the kawaii eras of Hello Kitty, whose 50th anniversary celebration is next year.
MOST POPULAR
Today
Studio Ghibli’s Calcifer is ready to light up your home as a magical-looking candle lamp [Photos]
It’s been raining in Tokyo for more than a month now, breaking a record at least 150 years old
Japan’s new travel route literally through the mountains links two other beautiful alpine courses
Foreign tourists get free Shinkansen tickets in Japan, and here’s how to claim them
Japanese eSports prodigy becomes youngest-ever gold medalist at Asian Games
Starbucks Japan unveils new Pokémon collaboration with Pikachu Latte and exclusive goods
Pickling Shine Muscats was not on our bingo card, but were we grapeful we tried?【SoraKitchen】
Family Mart releases 47 convenience store socks and stickers, one for every prefecture in Japan
Tons of used books in Japan being bought up by someone or something
Japan now has facial-recognition ticket gates, but why aren’t people using them?
Weekly
- Starbucks Japan unveils new Pokémon collaboration with Pikachu Latte and exclusive goods
Lady Gaga and Family Mart team up for a Japanese convenience store work video [Video]
Studio Ghibli releases new plush mascot character collection with a focus on friendship
Do Japan’s new single-minded convenience store bento show depressing poverty or satisfying focus?
Beautiful Studio Ghibli coin/card cases recreate scenes and props from anime classics [Photos]- Family Mart releases 47 convenience store socks and stickers, one for every prefecture in Japan
Japan’s Cell Phone Memory Restart event reunites users with old photos and past selves
Studio Ghibli unveils new anime stationery collection, with a Spirited Away River God memo stand- Japan now has facial-recognition ticket gates, but why aren’t people using them?
Converse Japan and one of Japan’s greatest painters combine for fine fowl shoes [Photos]
Monthly
- Starbucks Japan unveils new Pokémon collaboration with Pikachu Latte and exclusive goods
- Family Mart releases 47 convenience store socks and stickers, one for every prefecture in Japan
- Lady Gaga and Family Mart team up for a Japanese convenience store work video [Video]
Solo travel in Japan: Hidden beer garden in Tokyo is a haven for single visitors
New Gundam Base superstores coming soon in the U.S., with one opening this month
Kyoto temple bans visitors from wearing kimono- Studio Ghibli releases new plush mascot character collection with a focus on friendship
Studio Ghibli releases new onigiri rice ball-shaped lunch bag for Kiki’s Delivery Service fans
How to watch Studio Ghibli’s new anime in Japan, with a special after-dark outdoor screening for Halloween- Do Japan’s new single-minded convenience store bento show depressing poverty or satisfying focus?
Yearly
Japan announces sudden 400-percent increase in visa fees for foreigners entering the country
Japan’s human washing machines will go on sale to general public, demos to be held in Tokyo
Studio Ghibli has a new anime out, and there’s only one place in the world where you can see it
Starbucks Japan releases new drinkware and goods for Valentine’s Day
Starbucks Japan releases new sakura goods and drinkware for cherry blossom season 2026
Japan’s newest Shinkansen has no seats…or passengers [Video]
Tokyo subway installing new ticket gates that don’t accept payment through Suica or other IC cards
Japanese ninja certification exam attracts 131 candidates from Japan and abroad
Salomon releases Japan-exclusive Mt. Fuji hiking gear that doubles as an amazing souvenir
Put sesame oil in your coffee? Japanese maker says it’s the best way to start your day【Taste test】
RECOMMENDED STORIES
Starbucks Japan unveils new Pokémon collaboration with Pikachu Latte and exclusive goods
Pickling Shine Muscats was not on our bingo card, but were we grapeful we tried?【SoraKitchen】
Family Mart releases 47 convenience store socks and stickers, one for every prefecture in Japan
Tons of used books in Japan being bought up by someone or something
Japan now has facial-recognition ticket gates, but why aren’t people using them?
How to get into this beautiful off-the-beaten-path Kyoto temple earlier than the general public
Robot bartender bar opening in Kyoto, and no, they’re not controlled by AI
Here’s why you’ll never want to hit a hole-in-one in Japan
Robbers in Japan steal drunk man’s shoes and one million yen in cash
Lady Gaga and Family Mart team up for a Japanese convenience store work video [Video]
Famous Kyoto shrine has a message for foreign tourists who think it’s okay to dance at sacred sites
Japan’s Cell Phone Memory Restart event reunites users with old photos and past selves
Japanese bookstore dares to be different with common-sense fix to weird industry hassle
Osaka’s amazing budget-luxury hotel has free takoyaki, craft beer, and comedy shows
-
