inspiring
Hirotada Otatake was born with no arms or legs, but it didn’t keep him from trying to do good things in this world.
Musician Norm Nakamura’s movie-like story is a real-life example of how far you can go if you really chase your dreams.
Will this flame of hope light the way for those still recovering from the Tohoku earthquake?
With a little re-branding and a helping “leg” from technology, this wheelchair is ready for the 21st century.
Athletes who compete in amateur sports have one of the most difficult tasks. To compete on the world level, these athletes have to train their butts off and since they aren’t paid to compete, have to hold down a job as well. What they are able to accomplish when facing severely stacked odds is pretty spectacular.
With the conclusion of the 2014 Asia Games, Japan has once again had the chance to cheer on their storied athletes. It’s important to see these sportsmen in high level competitions because they inspire an entire generation of young athletes to continue to do what they love. A commercial airing during the television broadcasts for the Asia Games is also showing the incredible hearts of these great athletes. Find out who is giving back and what their special message is after the jump.











Cherry blossom forecasts map shows Japan’s OTHER sakura season is starting right now
Ghost in the Sheel goes traditional with Japanese porcelain Tachikoma robots, only 50 to be made
Japanese women sound off on their minimum height requirements for a husband【Survey】
Is Mario’s Birdo a boy or a girl? Years after her first appearance, the debate rages on
Japan has a new bar just for people thinking about quitting their jobs, and the drinks are free
Spirited Away adds a dash of Ghibli beauty to hanafuda flower cards【Photos】
Cat owner who sold car to pay for pet’s treatment gets huge surprise from world’s best buyer
Major Japanese hotel chain says reservations via overseas booking sites may not be valid
Totoro sequel anime short inspires cuddly T-shirt, adorable plushies at Ghibli Museum shop【Pics】
Nintendo’s controller capsule toys are so cool, even the machine you buy them from is awesome【Pics】
Yokai are descending upon Tokyo this spring in the latest immersive art experience
Japan’s Naruto theme park now offering real-world version of Minato’s kunai ninja weapon
New Studio Ghibli stamps leave an impression on your stationery…and your heart
Japan cherry blossom forecast update moves up sakura dates for many parts of the country
Archfiend Hello Kitty appears as Sanrio launches new team-up with Yu-Gi-Oh【Pics】
Studio Ghibli turns My Neighbour Totoro characters into bag charms for everyday adventures
If you haven’t tried an antenna shop in Japan, you’re missing out
Studio Ghibli releases Spirited Away bags in Japan, based on a mysterious festival
Morning-after pill finally available in Japan without a prescription, must be taken at pharmacy
Starbucks Japan releases new drinkware and goods for Valentine’s Day
Japan releases first official sakura cherry blossom forecast for 2026
10 times to avoid traveling in Japan in 2026
Starbucks Japan releases new Frappuccino and latte for Valentine’s Day
Our 52-year-old pole dancing reporter shares his tips for achieving your New Year’s exercise goal
China’s don’t-go-to-Japan warning looks to be affecting tourist crowds on Miyajima
Studio Ghibli releases new “komorebi” plush toys from Princess Mononoke and Spirited Away
Ramen restaurant’s English menu prices are nearly double its Japanese ones, denies discriminating
Survey asks foreign tourists what bothered them in Japan, more than half gave same answer
Japan’s human washing machines will go on sale to general public, demos to be held in Tokyo
We deeply regret going into this tunnel on our walk in the mountains of Japan
Studio Ghibli releases Kodama forest spirits from Princess Mononoke to light up your home
Put sesame oil in your coffee? Japanese maker says it’s the best way to start your day【Taste test】
No more using real katana for tourism activities, Japan’s National Police Agency says
Starbucks Japan reveals new sakura drinkware collection, inspired by evening cherry blossoms
Updated cherry blossom forecast shows extra-long sakura season for Japan this year
Spirited Away adds a dash of Ghibli beauty to hanafuda flower cards【Photos】
Cat owner who sold car to pay for pet’s treatment gets huge surprise from world’s best buyer
Major Japanese hotel chain says reservations via overseas booking sites may not be valid
Totoro sequel anime short inspires cuddly T-shirt, adorable plushies at Ghibli Museum shop【Pics】
Nintendo’s controller capsule toys are so cool, even the machine you buy them from is awesome【Pics】
Senkoji: The Japanese temple that’s more like a theme park to heaven and hell
Japanese Cabinet to officially announce new romanization spelling recommendation next week
If you haven’t tried an antenna shop in Japan, you’re missing out
Trouble making friends? Sticker collecting works surprisingly well
Anime’s Tetsuwan Atom/Astro Boy shows up on a pedestrian walk signal in Japan
Princesses, fruits, and blacksmiths: Study reveals the 30 most unusual family names in Japan
Maximum matcha! Tokyo sweet shop sells the strongest green tea chocolates physically possible