If the rest of the world would have its way, they would have you see only the negative images of Fukushima. But if the citizens of Fukushima would have their way, guess what–they would want the world to know that they are quite happy, thank you very much, and more than keeping their chins up!
Japan’s third-largest prefecture has been at the center of controversy since the nuclear crisis occurred amid the devastating earthquake and tsunami of March 2011. But the producer of a new cover video inspired by Pharrell Williams’ megahit “Happy” is out to paint a different picture of Fukushima to the world. One that is not full of sickly people dying from radiation, nor terror-stricken families anxiously fleeing its borders.
She’s out to show the world, quite simply, a “Happy Fukushima.”

Pokémon and Ikea Japan cross over into each other’s worlds with collaboration events
Licca-chan dolls released in North America for first time in nearly 60 years
Can a downtown Tokyo super sento bathhouse beat a hotel for a one-night stay?
Say aaah: Japan elects cutest hiragana character
Cup Noodle instant ramen adds disturbingly named new topping: “almost squid!”
A Kyoto factory vending machine sells gourmet mystery meals at bargain prices
Japanese island with a population less than 10 is a hidden gem you won’t find in travel guides
Gigantic eight-floor anime figure shop skyscraper opening in Tokyo’s Akihabara this month
Why settle for a sushi bowl, when this restaurant will give you a sushi mountain?
Final Fantasy invites you to adventure in Fukushima with Fukushima Fantasy Chocobo fun[Video]
Famous Tokyo cherry blossom spot installs view-blocking screens to fight overcrowding[Video]
Tokyo’s best museum for foreign travelers finally reopens after being closed for four years
Pokémon lacquerware series expands for Year of the Horse with new handcrafted design[Video]
Japan now has a special desk for people who work at home with a pet cat[Photos]
Uniqlo announces new T-shirts for One Piece, Naruto and more for manga publisher’s 100th birthday
Picturesque Tokyo park plays host to millions of flowers and soap bubbles this spring
Tokyo subway and almost all Tokyo train lines now accepting credit card tap payments
Totoro and Calcifer become little light-up lanterns for Ghibli-style excursions or at-home decor
Fading Tokyo – Searching for signs of the Showa era as local neighborhoods evolve[Photos]
Train station platform ramen store closes its doors on half a century of history in Tokyo
Starbucks Japan releases new My Fruit³ Frappuccino at only 34 stores around the country
Studio Ghibli releases Catbus pullback keychain that runs like the anime character
Krispy Kreme releases Super Mario doughnuts in Japan for a limited time
Japanese onsen egg maker from 100-yen store Daiso needs to be on your shopping list
Starbucks Japan unveils new sakura cherry blossom collection for hanami season 2026
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
Starbucks Japan releases new drinkware and goods for Valentine’s Day
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
Starbucks Japan releases new sakura goods and drinkware for cherry blossom season 2026
Japan’s newest Shinkansen has no seats…or passengers [Video]
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
A Kyoto factory vending machine sells gourmet mystery meals at bargain prices
Japanese island with a population less than 10 is a hidden gem you won’t find in travel guides
Gigantic eight-floor anime figure shop skyscraper opening in Tokyo’s Akihabara this month
Why settle for a sushi bowl, when this restaurant will give you a sushi mountain?
Final Fantasy invites you to adventure in Fukushima with Fukushima Fantasy Chocobo fun[Video]
Two food hacks take Japan’s convenience store fried chicken to amazing new sandwich heights
Escape the Kyoto crowds at these lesser-known spots in Arashiyama
The mystery of the phantom “sake pass card” at Japanese alcohol vending machines
50-year-old instant noodle recipe is back from the past in Japan for a limited time[Taste test]
Pokémon Centers across Japan cancel April events after stabbing in Tokyo