islands
Created completely by nature, this is a hidden gem you won’t want to miss during your Japan travels.
There are a lot of surprises in store for our city-dwelling, Honshu-native Japanese reporter.
Sleep in a traditional Japanese house while surrounded by rice paddies, beaches, tree-houses, zip lines and a lighthouse on your very own private island.
Need a background for your Katy Perry “Roar” cosplay photo shoot? Sarushima may be the perfect destination!
When we were young, most of our parents or teachers probably taught us not to judge a book by its cover. Well, here’s the continuation that we didn’t see coming. Don’t judge a cat by its back.
The HOTAC (Heart of Taiwan Animal Care) recently chanced upon a really unique cat that made their staff burst out in laughter. Are you curious to find out why? Photos of the funny feline after the jump!
In an interview with well-informed sources on December 28, Japanese newspaper Sankei Shimbun discovered Chinese diplomatic papers created in 1950 used the Japanese name Senkaku to identify the Japanese-controlled islands in the East China Sea. The same document also contained language recognizing the Senkakus as a part of Okinawa.
Currently China claims the islands are its territory as “a part of Taiwan.” Recognition by China in 1950 that the islands are a part of Okinawa is contradictory to its current claim and weakens the foundation of its present position.
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A well-known Chinese writer with some controversial views on education got into dire straits in September after attempting to climb Mount Fuji with his children. The purpose of the climb was a combination of a strict education regiment and as a way to promote Chinese patriotism.
Unaware that the climbing season ended at the end of August, they were turned back short of the summit, but not before being given extra clothing by a Japanese first aid officer.









Japanese beef bowl chain Sukiya’s 2026 Smile Box lucky bag basically pays for itself
What did Shibuya really look like after the crowds on New Year’s Day?
7 great places to see Mt. Fuji from without having to climb it
Japanese airlines offer discounted fares to international tourists
Japan Airlines is giving away free domestic flights to international tourists
“Deflowering” services for virgin women are now a thing in Japan, apparently
We go behind the scenes at Japan Airlines’ in-flight meal factory【Photos】
Haunted hospital near Mt Fuji re-opens after renovation at Fuji-Q Highland, and it’s terrifying
Daiso unveils new official mascot, Daizo the elephant
Shimane’s hidden travel sites, where you can escape the crowds and enjoy traditional Japan
Starbucks Japan ready to get Year of the Horse started with adorable drinkware and plushies【Pics】
Cyberpunk anime meets traditional culture in Ghost in the Shell gold leaf Japanese changing screens
Hayao Miyazaki says Happy New Year to Studio Ghibli fans with new art for Year of the Horse
Hello Kitty Choco Egg figures are an adorable trip through three periods of Japanese pop culture【Pics】
We found possibly the quietest Japanese-style hotel in Tokyo’s bustling Shinjuku district
7-Eleven Japan’s ramen-cooking robot whipped us up a bowl of noodles【Taste test】
Sumo Sanrio! Hello Kitty and pals team up with Japan Sumo Association for new merch【Pics】
Japan’s oldest largetooth sawfish in captivity back on display in Mie Prefecture
More Than a Capsule Stay: Why Solo Travelers Choose “global cabin Yokohama Chinatown”
7-Eleven Japan starts new temporary luggage storage service in over 300 branches
Disillusionment at Tsukiji’s tourist-target prices led us to a great ramen restaurant in Tokyo
Starbucks teams up with 166-year-old Kyoto doll maker for Year of the Horse decorations【Photos】
Tokyo considering law requiring more trash cans following litter increase in heavily touristed area
Tokyo’s Tsukiji sushi neighborhood asks tour groups to stay away for the rest of the month
Tokyo event lets you travel back in time, for free, to celebrate 100 years since Showa era start
Sanrio theme park in Japan announces plans to expand into a Sanrio resort
Japan may add Japanese language proficiency, lifestyle classes to permanent foreign resident requirements
Stamina-destroying “Paralysis Noodles” are Tokyo’s newest over-the-top ramen innovation
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
Japan’s deadliest food claims more victims, but why do people keep eating it for New Year’s?
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
Major Japanese hotel chain says reservations via overseas booking sites may not be valid
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
“Deflowering” services for virgin women are now a thing in Japan, apparently
We go behind the scenes at Japan Airlines’ in-flight meal factory【Photos】
Haunted hospital near Mt Fuji re-opens after renovation at Fuji-Q Highland, and it’s terrifying
Daiso unveils new official mascot, Daizo the elephant
Shimane’s hidden travel sites, where you can escape the crowds and enjoy traditional Japan
All-you-can-eat Häagen Dazs among 200 other frozen foods at Osaka’s Chin! Suru Restaurant【Pics】
Sukiya beef bowl chain makes Japanese New Year fun with limited-edition fukubukuro
Hypnosis bar opens in Tokyo, with prizes for those who don’t fall into a hypnotic state
Pizza Hut Japan’s hot lucky bags are perfect for a New Year’s pizza party
A century of love – How dating and marriage have evolved in Japan
Japan has an awesome one-person bento box rice cooker, and here’s what we made with ours