Although some kids’ games will always be more popular in certain parts of the world than others – rock, paper, scissors is probably played more times in a single day in Japan than in the U.S. each year, for example – there are a handful of classics that kids all across the globe enjoy equally, one of them being hide-and-seek.
According to chatter between Japanese Twitter users, however, the classic game of hide-and-seek is evolving in the digital age, and where once the game was all about speed, stealth and cleverly planted decoys, mobile technology now has a role.

Cherry blossom forecasts map shows Japan’s OTHER sakura season is starting right now
New Studio Ghibli stamps leave an impression on your stationery…and your heart
Amazing exhibition of Japan’s legendary “cursed katana” is going on right now【Photos】
How to make a lucky sushi roll with KFC fried chicken skin【SoraKitchen】
Real-world Nausicaa Ghibli anime glider completes its final flight in Japan【Video】
W.T.F. Japan: Top 5 most difficult Japanese tongue twisters (with videos!) 【Weird Top Five】
420 million yen in cash-filled suitcases stolen on Tokyo streets, incidents at Haneda and Hong Kong follow
“The revolutionary way to pick your nose!” We try out the Nose Picker
The most ingenious David action figure is here to strut his stuff and show his new moves【Photos】
Don’t forget that the best convenience store in northern Japan has branches farther south too
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 weapon
Japan has a new bar just for people thinking about quitting their jobs, and the drinks are free
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 2026
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 discriminating
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 Tokyo
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
W.T.F. Japan: Top 5 most difficult Japanese tongue twisters (with videos!) 【Weird Top Five】
420 million yen in cash-filled suitcases stolen on Tokyo streets, incidents at Haneda and Hong Kong follow
“The revolutionary way to pick your nose!” We try out the Nose Picker
The most ingenious David action figure is here to strut his stuff and show his new moves【Photos】
Don’t forget that the best convenience store in northern Japan has branches farther south too
Japanese women sound off on their minimum height requirements for a husband【Survey】
Japan has abolished advance deportation notifications to foreigners’ lawyers
Japan’s all-anime-themed hotel previews rooms, is ready to welcome guests
Ghibli action figures bring Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind soldiers to life in 3-D form
The mystery of the phantom “sake pass card” at Japanese alcohol vending machines
Busty models from Hiroshima celebrate local baseball team’s league championship with bikini pics