news

Family Mart opens new “Famima” flagship store in Tokyo that’s like a tourist attraction

With fitting rooms, an official mascot and a takeaway stand, this is not your average Japanese convenience store.

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Japanese airport rebrands itself as “Sushi Airport” to attract foreign tourists

Soon you’ll be able to book a flight to Toyama-Takayama Sushi Airport in Japan.

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Foreign tourists injured in Nissan GT-R crash near Tokyo’s Shibuya Scramble Crossing

Late-night incident highlights concerns over Japan’s illegal “white taxi” operators.

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Tokyo revises accommodation tax amidst tourism boom, Airbnb rentals now included

Both Japanese and overseas travellers could soon be paying more to stay in Tokyo.

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Japan announces plans for twenty-fold increase in permanent residency fees, alongside higher visa costs

Government reveals long-awaited fee schedule ahead of proposed October implementation.

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Japan moves to enforce language requirements for foreign nationals seeking permanent residency

Programmes on community etiquette may also become part of the screening process.

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Starbucks Japan reopens Shinkansen platform store after redesigning it for speed

Japan’s only Starbucks on a bullet train platform now has faster ways for passengers to get their coffee before boarding.

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Family Mart Japan installs red-eyed “Monster Wolf” to keep bears away from convenience store

The giant wolf emits loud warning sounds and shouts out phrases like, “What are you looking at? Do you really think you can beat me?”

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Japan launches first overnight Shinkansen bullet train between Tokyo and Osaka this summer

Late-night high-speed service allows passengers to travel while they sleep, making better use of time and cutting hotel costs.

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Japan opens shrine for plush toys in Kyoto, offering memorial rites and a resting place for remains

A heartwarming way to say thank you to the plush toys you have loved, and who have loved you in return. 

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Japanese ninja certification exam attracts 131 candidates from Japan and abroad

Shadow warrior test includes a written exam, with marks given for shuriken throwing and ninja attire.

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7-Eleven Japan debuts new black-and-white rice ball packaging…but is it because of a naphtha shortage?

Convenience store range strips everything back to basics, including the rice balls.

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Anne Hathaway creates PR frenzy in Japan after mentioning Tottori in Devil Wears Prada interview

Casual mention elicits enthusiastic response from commonly overlooked tourist destination.

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Japanese convenience store gives away free ice cream with creative ad at Shinjuku Station

An even more convenient way to get ice cream. 

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Injuries on stairs in Tokyo highlight an overlooked design flaw

Japan is usually known for its world-class design, but this site didn’t see the optical illusion.

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Tokyo turns its phone booths into free Wi-Fi hotspots, and here’s how to use them

A vital service you’ll need to know about in the event of a disaster. 

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Fatal stabbing at Pokémon Center in Tokyo reignites concern over rising stalking cases in Japan

Assailant had previously been arrested on suspicion of violating the Stalker Regulation Law.  

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Studio Ghibli director Hayao Miyazaki releases new artworks, still wants to make movies

Four years in the making, the new Panorama Box series shows Miyazaki’s art is “evolving”.

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Studio Ghibli director Hayao Miyazaki is still drawing…and walking in his Vans

Evangelion director Hideaki Anno shares heartwarming photos of recent meeting with Miyazaki in his Tokyo atelier.

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Sanrio changes Hello Kitty lead designer for first time in 46 years

A new dawn calls for Japan’s most famous cat…but who will be picking up the baton?

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