Plus, we share our recommendations for off-the-beaten-path places to visit in each of them.
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Japanese idol units and songs about not giving up strike big in this year’s list of the most influential TikTok tracks in Japan.
Take a bite out of one of these popular places where you can see the behind-the-scenes manufacturing process of some of your favorite foods in Japan.
Gransta Tokyo have selected the best travel lunches for your next long train ride.
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Cat got your tongue on where to stay? Choose one of these lodgings where the felines play a purrfect part of the customer service.
Next time you’re passing through, keep an eye out for one of these station bento to treat yourself during your travels.
Only three other countries from East or Southeast Asia scored lower on the global ranking.
My Hero Academia now accepting votes for “World Best Hero” from its vast roster of quirky characters
Japanese kindness leaves a lot to be desired in World Giving Index, but there may be a reason for it.
Here are the most popular picks for cherry blossom-viewing in both eastern and western Japan, based on bookings.
You may want to consider one of these wards chosen by Japanese survey takers if you’re planning on settling in Tokyo during your golden years.




















Starbucks Japan releases first-ever gacha capsule toys, featuring iconic menu items as plush coffee charms
Okayama man arrested for catching butterflies in central Japan
Starbucks Japan unveils new coffee drinks… for people who don’t drink coffee
Katana of one of Japan’s most famous swordsmen goes on display to help Kumamoto earthquake victims
Kyoto receives more foreign tourists than ever before, but fewer visitors say they’ll return
Sanrio’s newest item looks like dog butt, exactly like it’s supposed to [Photos]
Foreign tourists in Japan eat far more rice than previously thought, according to new data
JR releases prediction of peak Shinkansen crowdedness for Japan’s Obon travel season
Kumamoto Castle left illuminated all night long as symbol of hope for earthquake victims
Starbucks Japan unveils exclusive new Frappuccinos limited to three regional areas
Tokyo subway installing new ticket gates that don’t accept payment through Suica or other IC cards
Japanese Shinkansen becomes an overnight hotel for three nights this summer
New Shinkansen luggage drop-off system begins in Japan, making train travel even easier
99-year-old woman rescued while attempting to climb Mt. Fuji
Which country’s foreign tourists spend the most money per-person in Japan? Hint: Not the U..S. or China
Starbucks Japan releases a miniature display rack so you can create your very own store at home
Giant Evangelion Spear of Longinus to be installed at Japanese train station with Eva art trains
Face lettuce appears in Japan, with the face of Death Note’s Light Yagami, but why?
Kodama Shinkansen trains on popular Japan route get a whole new look this winter
Pokémon Card Stores requiring facial recognition scans for entry in Japan in latest anti-scalper move
Studio Ghibli has a new anime out, and there’s only one place in the world where you can see it
Salomon releases Japan-exclusive Mt. Fuji hiking gear that doubles as an amazing souvenir
Japan now has human refrigerators inspired by Japanese vending machines
Hatsune Miku collaborates with Hokusai’s art in new Vocaloid ukiyo-e illustration series [Pics]
Japan triples departure tax, foreign tourists and locals now must pay more to leave country
Studio Ghibli releases anime T-shirts that pay homage to one of Hayao Miyazaki’s most personal films
Family Mart opens new “Famima” flagship store in Tokyo that’s like a tourist attraction
Uniqlo looks back to the very start of Pokémon with new black-and-white pixel art T-shirts[Pics]
Japan announces sudden 400-percent increase in visa fees for foreigners entering the country
Japan’s human washing machines will go on sale to general public, demos to be held in Tokyo
Starbucks Japan releases new drinkware and goods for Valentine’s Day
Starbucks Japan releases new sakura goods and drinkware for cherry blossom season 2026
Japan’s newest Shinkansen has no seats…or passengers [Video]
Japanese ninja certification exam attracts 131 candidates from Japan and abroad
Put sesame oil in your coffee? Japanese maker says it’s the best way to start your day【Taste test】
Sanrio’s newest item looks like dog butt, exactly like it’s supposed to [Photos]
Foreign tourists in Japan eat far more rice than previously thought, according to new data
JR releases prediction of peak Shinkansen crowdedness for Japan’s Obon travel season
Kumamoto Castle left illuminated all night long as symbol of hope for earthquake victims
Starbucks Japan unveils exclusive new Frappuccinos limited to three regional areas
Cup Noodle unveils first-ever cold-water instant ramen in Japan
Official Final Fantasy beers are going on sale in Tokyo this month, giant Aetheryte appearing too
Life-size Legendary Pokémon Mega Rayquaza digitally greeting travelers at Tokyo train station [Vid]
Maximum entry fee for sento public baths in Tokyo increases slightly for adults next month
Tokyo subway installing new ticket gates that don’t accept payment through Suica or other IC cards
Japan has a maid hotel you can stay in, and it’s now taking reservation applications
Tokyo Pokémon Center announces reopening after months-long closure following stabbing death
Pikachu and Ditto Pokémon desserts at Baskin-Robbins Japan look AND feel like their inspirations
Hatsune Miku collaborates with Hokusai’s art in new Vocaloid ukiyo-e illustration series [Pics]