So, mint is an extraordinarily versatile, exceedingly summer-appropriate ingredient. It can add a refreshing bite to savory dishes, is the essential main ingredient in basically all of the world’s best ice cream flavors, and is the star of the show in that most refreshing of summer beverages, the mojito (without which would basically just be watery rum).
Mint is the miracle substance that makes Asia’s hellish, your-buddy-just-spontaneously-combusted-hot summers just the slightest bit tolerable; a fact that beverage and snack makers in Japan are finally catching onto, with each passing year seeing better and more diverse mint-infused offerings.
But lemon and mint? That’s the new flavor combo Pepsi is banking on to be the next big thing with its new “Pepsi Special Lemon Mint” drink offering, and we’re just the slightest bit wary.

Unique inclined elevator in Japan leads to a town that inspired Studio Ghibli’s Spirited Away
Tokyo police found our lost wallet, but the story of how they did made us feel empty
Studio Ghibli releases new Ursula’s blanket from Kiki’s Delivery Service
Hello Kitty and twin sister celebrate birthday at Baskin-Robbins Japan with special merch, sweets
Real takoyaki is almost impossible to find in Tokyo, but this place has it, our hardliner says
Tokyo all-you-can-eat senbei deal is perfect for newbies to the world of beloved Japanese snacks
Hello Kitty learns sign language in newest friendship with Japanese artist
National Geographic names Yamagata Prefecture on its “Best of the World 2026” travel destinations
Japanese military called in to deal with increasing bear attacks in rural prefectures
Starbucks Japan unveils new limited-edition Frappuccino for autumn
Sanrio and Sonic the Hedgehog characters become fast friends with new plushie collection
Step into Japanese culture with Converse’s new Japan-exclusive shoes featuring gods, sushi style
Top Japanese baby names for 2025 feature flowers, colors, and a first-time-ever favorite for girls
Totoro fountain figurine recreates the sights and sounds of one of anime’s most memorable scenes
Starbucks Japan releases new Christmas drink that can be topped with whipped cream
Tokyo hotel lets you make your stay a Sanrio one with special My Melody and Kuromi rooms【Pics】
New Kyoto experience package lets you film epic samurai battles with your friends
This Japanese restaurant chain’s triple-decker sushi bowls are a crazy feast for the eyes/stomach
Starbucks Reserve Roastery Tokyo releases exclusive Christmas goods in Japan
Human washing machine pods coming to Japanese hotels【Photos】
Studio Ghibli releases new “komorebi” plush toys to brighten your days
JR Hokkaido train driver in trouble for reading book about trains on stopped train
Studio Ghibli releases new anime tea and mugs in Japan
Japanese hotel chain’s new service: A bed and pajamas for otaku travelers’ plushies
Tokyo bento boxed lunch shop charges different prices depending on how heavy your laptop is
Studio Ghibli anime stoles are here to keep you warm with a range of famous characters
Japan has vending machines that put protective film on your phone for you — Here’s how to use them
Starbucks Japan unveils new Christmas Frappuccino and holiday drinks for 2025
Survey asks foreign tourists what bothered them in Japan, more than half gave same answer
Possessing Harry Potter’s Sword of Godric Gryffindor is now illegal in Japan
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】
The top 10 annoying foreign tourist behaviors on trains, as chosen by Japanese people【Survey】
No more using real katana for tourism activities, Japan’s National Police Agency says
One of Japan’s most beautiful hot spring towns announces new limits on number of day trippers
Tokyo all-you-can-eat senbei deal is perfect for newbies to the world of beloved Japanese snacks
Hello Kitty learns sign language in newest friendship with Japanese artist
National Geographic names Yamagata Prefecture on its “Best of the World 2026” travel destinations
Japanese military called in to deal with increasing bear attacks in rural prefectures
Starbucks Japan unveils new limited-edition Frappuccino for autumn
Awesome new Gundam manhole covers coming to Japanese prefecture for first time
How to travel from Tokyo to Kyoto on the overnight bus and not lose your sanity
Oodles of noodles! Udon chain pays homage to all 47 prefectures of Japan with 47 dishes【Photos】
University of Tokyo announces new department with all classes taught in English
Our Japanese reporter visits Costco in the U.S., finds super American and very Japanese things
Top Japanese baby names for 2025 feature flowers, colors, and a first-time-ever favorite for girls
Japan has vending machines that put protective film on your phone for you — Here’s how to use them
Coffin meditation sessions being offered by Tokyo relaxation parlor
Suntory announces massive price spike for Japanese whisky, some types more than double in price