33 Survival Kanji for Japan First-Timers
Learning Japanese Life in Japan
Coming to Japan, but don't know any kanji—or what kanji even means? Take a deep breath, relax and we'll get you started along the way!
Top Places to Visit in Each Prefecture (Pt. 1)
The folks over at RocketNews24 have compiled a bucket list for the top places to visit in each prefecture—and we have to say these pictures have us already packing our bags!
Like Father, Like Son
This anime artist turns his young sons' sketches into awesome character designs.
Work Out & Rock Out to Anime Tunes
Thanks to Anison Fitness, a TV program on Tokyo MX, you can work out and rock out to the tunes of Japanese anime TV shows.
My Life in Japan as an Openly Gay Foreigner
Homosexuality has a long and documented history in Japan, but somehow most people who identify as LGBT would still rather keep their sexuality under wraps. Allow us to share with y...
Life in Japan for a Trans Woman
As part of our 'Life in Japan' feature, we endeavor to feature people in Japan from all different walks of life. And we were very lucky to learn about the daily life and challenges...
4 Things I Wish I'd Brought to Japan
First Time in Japan Life in Japan
Don't know what to bring to Japan before you move here? Here's some handy advice from a self-described cheapo on how to make the best of your precious luggage space.
Why You Should Get a Line Pay Card Now
Are you really tired of paying those cash-on-delivery fees every time you order something online because no credit card company will accept you? If you have a Japanese phone number...
Don't Be Surprised by Japan, Be Prepared!
Japan is full of many surprises and challenges that might catch you off guard during your first time here. But, we're here to give you a quick overview of how to prepare for your n...
Introducing the Ultimate Gaming Chair!
Ever gamed for too long only to have your back suffer? No worries—this chair's got your back... er, front!
Top 5 Onsen in Gifu
With its stunning mountain ranges and natural spring water, Gifu Prefecture is one of the best places in all of Japan to experience hot spring baths. Check out our favorite picks!
Tokyo Marathon: From Start to Finish
Runners from all corners of the globe come to participate in the Tokyo Marathon in February each year. In 2016, AAJ contributor Jinichi Segawa set out to run the course with camera...
How to Mind Your Onsen Manners
When in Japan, you'll quickly realize the country is full of rules—some blatantly expressed and some silently understood by locals—and a day at the hot spring is no different. But,...
Getting Permanent Residency in Just One Year
The Ministry of Justice in Japan is cutting the wait time for permanent residency and that, depending on several factors, could potentially narrow the wait time down to one year.
A Sweet Mixture of Chocolate & Kimono Design
With Valentine’s Day approaching, we know we’ll be seeing some amazing chocolates in the coming weeks. But these simply took our breath away!
Four Outstanding Outdoor Onsen Across Japan
Hot springs are enjoyed in Japan year-round, but the chilly winter weather presents the perfect time to take a dip. Get ready to escape the cold at one of these four incredible out...
Mechanical Pencil Lead Sculptures Defy the Eye
Simply titled "Lines," this series of minimal, geometric sculptures created by art student Maho Takahashi only uses two materials, lead and paper, to create three-dimensional shape...
A New Approach to Flower Arrangement
Artist Anju Miyawaki has a new and unique way to create "ikebana," the Japanese art of flower arranging, with her exhibition titled "Flat Ikebana."
Artist Imagines Fruits & Veggies in the Future
A Japanese art student used his senior thesis to show off 10 different fruits and vegetables in cylindrical form, each consistent to its original size, to make a bold statement abo...
'Your Name' Finally Coming to North America
After opening in Asia and the U.K., record-breaking anime 'Your Name' is finally set for theatrical release in the U.S. and Canada this April.