Bringing you yesterday's news from Japan and Asia, today.
Kyuzo Mifune
At 159cm (5’2″) tall, Kyuzo Mifune was not a big man. But as this amazing video of the judo master shows, strength doesn’t come from size alone. Mifune is considered to be one of the finest judo technicians ever, and this video of him accepting challenges from high-level younger students shows his incredible power and skill.
Join us after the jump for a sprightly energy burst, as the man they call the “God of Judo” skips, jumps and runs rings around his young challengers.
Cherry blossom forecasts map shows Japan’s OTHER sakura season is starting right now
Japan’s job-quitting service claims bosses contact it to try to make their employees quit
Anti-NHK activist recommends “magic words” that will drive away fee collectors instantly
Here comes a new katsudon: ice cream katsudon?!?
We try Lotteria’s new shrimp burger with unique crust, end up seriously impressed【Taste Test】
Sapporo Snow Festival now officially open online!
Japan has a new bar just for people thinking about quitting their jobs, and the drinks are free
Former SMAP member Shingo Katori announces marriage to woman he’s been dating for 25 years
Starbucks Reserve Roastery Tokyo unveils exclusive sakura cherry blossom drinkware range for 2020
In Kyoto, “Hey, you’ve got a really nice watch” is NOT a compliment, Japanese businessman says
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 weaponJapan has a new bar just for people thinking about quitting their jobs, and the drinks are free
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 2026Archfiend Hello Kitty appears as Sanrio launches new team-up with Yu-Gi-Oh【Pics】
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 discriminatingJapan’s Naruto theme park now offering real-world version of Minato’s kunai ninja weapon
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 TokyoStarbucks Japan releases new drinkware and goods for Valentine’s Day
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
Sapporo Snow Festival now officially open online!
Japan has a new bar just for people thinking about quitting their jobs, and the drinks are free
Former SMAP member Shingo Katori announces marriage to woman he’s been dating for 25 years
Starbucks Reserve Roastery Tokyo unveils exclusive sakura cherry blossom drinkware range for 2020
In Kyoto, “Hey, you’ve got a really nice watch” is NOT a compliment, Japanese businessman says
Ghost in the Sheel goes traditional with Japanese porcelain Tachikoma robots, only 50 to be made
Tokyo sex industry worker arrested for saying she needed tuition money, spending it on hosts
One thing you should be careful of when visiting Japan’s Laputa Island
Japanese airlines offer discounted fares to international tourists
Eight Ways You Really, Really Shouldn’t Use a Japanese Toilet
Japanese women sound off on their minimum height requirements for a husband【Survey】
Let’s try all the melon bread types sold by Japanese convenience store Family Mart【Taste test】
Japan’s suicides fall to lowest recorded number ever, but one demographic hits all-time high