800 years after its creation, the Scrolls of Frolicking Animals are still inspiring new content, thanks to the anime studio Hayao Miyazaki built.
culture (Page 39)
While many believe the tradition of making the ghost-like doll can be traced back to a bald-headed monk, history suggests it actually began with a small girl.
Kuraberu Tōzai presents an easy-to-understand compilation of regional differences between Tokyo and Osaka in terms of cuisines, art, and cultural traditions.
The man who kneads rice at incredible speeds of three hits per second lets us into his world and tells us why he lives for making mochi.
A lesser-known Yamagata Prefecture custom may just be what Obon needs to stave off invasive species of the holiday kingdom like Halloween, Christmas, and Easter.
Japan may be the only country in the world that insures golfers in the event they hit a hole-in-one during a round of golf.
Contribute to the cause and keep a centuries-old tradition alive on the streets by wearing 450 years of history on your feet.
Loan services could be set to disappear with organisations now running dangerously low on stock.
While men are understandably drawn to it, it’s women who are said to benefit the most from worshipping here.
There’s no better way to look after the roads than with built-in protection from one of Japan’s most revered deities.
Culturally cool tenugui let you show your love of Eva Units, kaiji, and your favorite Japanese prefecture all at once.
Seattle-based chain adapts to Kyoto style with summertime seats that offer a taste of traditional culture as you sip your coffee.
Now you can practice your master swordsmanship skills with chopsticks and a miniature ceramic opponent.
With rules regarding everything from tea to elevators, some new employees think it’s all too much.
Centuries-old earthenware plate gets a special assist from a kitty in becoming an ultra-rare, ultra-cute antique.
Tradition and community are great, but there’s one more thing this Nagano celebration gets a boost from.


















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
Tokaido Lumière Express: Stay overnight inside the Shinkansen from Osaka to Tokyo
McDonald’s Japan reveals exclusive new Tsukimi moon viewing collection for 2026
Nike x One Piece collection brings Devil Fruits to sneakers and streetwear in Japan
Nephew of Studio Ghibli director Hayao Miyazaki serves up Totoro Shaved Ice in Tokyo
Data suggests increased bear sightings have led to a decrease in mountain climbers across Japan
Ministop brings bulked up Okinawan-style rice balls to mainland Japan for one week only
Starbucks Japan adds new Customisation Bar to stores, with free ways to hack your food and drink orders
Domino’s puts a new spin on moon viewing with Tsukimi dango-inspired tarts in Japan
7-year-old boy left behind on Mt. Fuji by his own dad
Sushi Bus: Japan’s first conveyor-belt bus lets you eat sushi while sightseeing around Tokyo
Studio Ghibli unveils new interactive stationery dioramas that bring anime movies to life on your desk
Anime fans can now wear a Seiko watch inspired by Japan’s One Piece Shinkansen
7-Eleven Japan brings back best-selling flat croissant that became a hit on social media
Studio Ghibli composer Jo Hisaishi just set three Guinness Records
Foreign hiker on Mt. Fuji loses consciousness and dies, becoming climbing season’s second fatality
We recommend not buying one pack of Japan’s new convenience store corn soup-flavor fried chicken
12-year-old British girl who went missing in Tokyo found safe after visiting anime sites around Yokohama
Air-conditioned dress shirts arrive in Japan to save working professionals from sweltering heat
Pokémon Center Online designates first Pokémon items that will require Japanese ID card to buy
Japanese toilet aims to attract foreign tourists but not everybody is happy about it
Tokyo’s newest viral dessert is like a Japanese parfait inside a bread bun [Taste test]
New Japanese vending machine at Shinkansen station sells cups of ice on platform
Study finds hundreds of people in Indonesia legally named after Naruto, Inuyasha, other anime stars
Japanese vending machine sells freshly squeezed lemon juice with a futuristic light show
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】
Nephew of Studio Ghibli director Hayao Miyazaki serves up Totoro Shaved Ice in Tokyo
Data suggests increased bear sightings have led to a decrease in mountain climbers across Japan
Ministop brings bulked up Okinawan-style rice balls to mainland Japan for one week only
Starbucks Japan adds new Customisation Bar to stores, with free ways to hack your food and drink orders
Domino’s puts a new spin on moon viewing with Tsukimi dango-inspired tarts in Japan
We recommend not buying one pack of Japan’s new convenience store corn soup-flavor fried chicken
Amid foreign sex tourist rise, Japanese government considering outlawing paying for prostitution
Police in Japan looking for who’s responsible for dumping 80 loaves of bread on side of road [Video]
Pikachu and other Pokémon evolve into hydration types with Thermos drinkware collaboration [Pics]
Dragon Ball Z theme park, financed by Saudi Arabia, to be built in France
Winnie the Pooh cosplays as Yuzuru Hanyu for new plushie collaboration
Sushi Bus: Japan’s first conveyor-belt bus lets you eat sushi while sightseeing around Tokyo
Japan’s double-decker portable rice cooker/bento maker is better than ever with new version
Anime fans can now wear a Seiko watch inspired by Japan’s One Piece Shinkansen