Mascot characters, a hometown hero, and creative ice cream make this a great place to pull over in Japan’s northernmost prefecture.
Asahikawa
The journey of kendama, from a childhood toy to an extreme sport, is being celebrated at this small shop in Japan’s north.
Unique visitor’s record tells the story of a ramen dish that remains unchanged for decades.
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Today
Studio Ghibli unveils new anime stationery collection, with a Spirited Away River God memo stand
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Emperor of Japan poses for photo with Studio Ghibli’s No Face [Video]
Japanese convenience store is very focused with its new bento…maybe TOO focused
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Weekly
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Monthly
Japan’s final Penguin Suica train cards have already shipped, and when they’re gone, they’re gone
Studio Ghibli unveils new anime calendars and diary planners for 2027- Family Mart releases 47 convenience store socks and stickers, one for every prefecture in Japan
Japan approves foreign resident visa renewal fee increases of up to 967 percent, starts soon
Japan tripled its departure tax to fund tourism but is using the money on cherry blossoms and bears
Solo travel in Japan: Hidden beer garden in Tokyo is a haven for single visitors
Kyoto temple bans visitors from wearing kimono- New Gundam Base superstores coming soon in the U.S., with one opening this month
Hobonichi unveils new 2027 planners, diaries and stationery with One Piece, Suica Penguin, Hello Kitty and a must-buy Mini Techo
Farewell Final Ceremony announced for Tokyo’s life-size Gundam statue, will stream live
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】
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New Gundam Base superstores coming soon in the U.S., with one opening this month
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Gang of angry monkeys surrounds and attacks Japanese man in hot spring town
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