Here’s a guide to finding the right gym for you in Japan, a surprisingly difficult endeavor.
survival guide
A hashtag has been trending on Twitter in Japan recently that roughly translates as “the Comiket tips no one ever teaches you”. While a lot of the suggestions are tongue-in-cheek, there are actually some extremely useful tidbits hidden in there. People often say that Comiket is a battlefield, and it really is; thousands of otaku jostle for the chance to get their hands on limited-edition merch before it sells out, and if you’re not being crushed half to death like you’re on a rush hour train, you’re struggling to stay on your feet in the hours-long queues (here’s a bonus tip – portable folding chairs come in handy here).
Summer Comiket truly is hell on earth, so Winter is recommended for newbies, but if you really insist on going this summer, we’ve got this handy guide to help you out.
Getting a haircut in another country – in a foreign language – can be a daunting experience. We’ve all heard stories about that one unfortunate soul who, just wanting a trim, indicated a few centimetres between thumb and forefinger, only for the hairdresser to think that was how much they wanted to remain on their head and start lopping off hair left, right and centre.
Japan being Japan, of course there are a few surprising and funny things they do at salons that are different from back home too! But with some simple words and phrases under your belt, you can visit a Japanese hair salon with confidence. Join us after the jump for a guide to surviving – and hopefully enjoying – a haircut in Japan!



Lacquerware supplier to emperor of Japan and Pokémon team up for new tableware
Japan may add Japanese language proficiency, lifestyle classes to permanent foreign resident requirements
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Starbucks Japan releases new zodiac chilled cup drink for 2026
Citizen celebrates the 140th anniversary of Ueno Station with cool train-themed watch designs
Autonomous beverage and snack car now testing in Chiba City
This Hakata hotel is worth a little extra thanks to its all-you-can-eat steak breakfast buffet
Site of Japan’s most famous samurai murder is now a Kyoto karaoke joint
Japan’s 10 best Ferris wheels for beautiful views, as chosen by travelers【Survey】
Doraemon found buried at sea as scene from 1993 anime becomes real life【Photos】
7-Eleven Japan starts new temporary luggage storage service in over 300 branches
Starbucks teams up with 166-year-old Kyoto doll maker for Year of the Horse decorations【Photos】
Tokyo’s Tsukiji sushi neighborhood asks tour groups to stay away for the rest of the month
Street Fighter Hadouken Churros to be launched and eaten in Tokyo, Okami pudding on offer too
Is this the most relaxing Starbucks in Japan?
Starbucks on a Shinkansen bullet train platform: 6 tips for using the automated store in Japan
Large amount of supposed human organs left in Osaka marketplace
Japan’s human washing machines will go on sale to general public, demos to be held in Tokyo
Japanese train company is letting fans buy its actual ticket gates for their homes
Tokyo considering law requiring more trash cans following litter increase in heavily touristed area
Is China’s don’t-go-to-Japan warning affecting tourist crowds in Tokyo’s Asakusa neighborhood?
Nintendo’s Kirby now delivering orders at Kura Sushi restaurants, but not in Japan
Tokyo event lets you travel back in time, for free, to celebrate 100 years since Showa era start
Survey asks foreign tourists what bothered them in Japan, more than half gave same answer
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
Starbucks Japan reveals new sakura drinkware collection, inspired by evening cherry blossoms
Autonomous beverage and snack car now testing in Chiba City
This Hakata hotel is worth a little extra thanks to its all-you-can-eat steak breakfast buffet
Site of Japan’s most famous samurai murder is now a Kyoto karaoke joint
Japan’s 10 best Ferris wheels for beautiful views, as chosen by travelers【Survey】
Doraemon found buried at sea as scene from 1993 anime becomes real life【Photos】
Satoshi/Ash’s voice actress almost couldn’t make it through final Pokémon anime recording session
Japan’s top 10 travel experiences in the sky【Survey】
Here’s why it’s worth lining up for this street food donut from a Taiwanese night market
Is the new Shinkansen Train Desk ticket worth it?
Japan’s Gelato Pique isn’t a gelato company, so is their gelato any good?
Ultra-premium matcha, koji rice mold star in Starbucks Japanese New Year’s Frappuccino and drinks