The Skills of a Sushi Chef
An "itamae" is a multi-talented artist who oversees the complex operation of the sushi bar. Think it's simple? You may be in for a surprise!
How to Enjoy Sushi 'the Japanese Way'?
We're not sure exactly what that "the Japanese way" is, but this infographic will walk you through all the steps of dining in a high-end sushiya with confidence!
This Toilet is Smarter than You
The short film "A.I. Toilet" imagines a lavatory so advanced that it can take control of your life.

Whole Baby Pumpkin Gratin
To up the scare factor, carve a face into the side to make jack-o'-lantern brain stew!
3 Great Pumpkin Snacks With a Japanese Twist!
Sharpen your sweet teeth: here are three healthy, nutritious and easy-to-make Halloween sweets with plenty of pumpkin!
Our Top 5 Bento Sites
Check out any of these inspiring sites to learn more about the brilliance of bento!
The Kyaraben Behind the Cover
Kyarabenist.jp works to foster a love of "kyaraben," or character bento.
10 Unforgettable Old-School Cafés in Kyoto
Kyoto's hip coffee culture is nothing new. Check out these 10 cafés that are decades-old relics (or at least look like one), and are full of character.
9 Tokyo Cafés that Love Kids!
High chairs, changing tables, play space and more: these cafés will welcome your kids with open arms!
5 Swish Cafés to Hit After Shopping in Ginza
Find some swanky spots for a sip after wearing out your pocketbook.
6 Super Sites for Coffee Seekers
If you’re looking for something specific for your next cup of joe, these sites offer a broad selection both in Tokyo and across the country.
10 Tokyo Cafés Your Date Will Love
Here's the goods on date-worthy cafés in some of Tokyo's trendiest neighborhoods.
11 Hot Cafés & Lunch Spots in Namba
Where can you catch a casual yet tasty bite in Osaka's prime entertainment district? Read on!
7 Great Cafés in Kamakura
One of Japan's former capital cities has a great café scene.
5 Fluffy Pancake Cafés in Osaka
If you're not near pancakes right now, avoid these mouth-watering images at all cost.
14 Wacky Wilderness Onsen
Onsen critic Isamu Gunji risks his naked life to bring us 14 unforgettable outdoor hot springs that are barely on the map.
Spend the Night at this Onsen from Just ¥1980!
Just in case you need another reason to visit an onsen in Oita, why not dive into the mountains for one of the cheapest stays you can find?
10 Beautiful Onsen in Kyoto
Did you know that Kyoto’s actually a hot springs hotspot? We’ve put together a list of onsen you can drop into just for the day during your travels!
12 Incredible Onsen Getaways from Osaka
Choose from large spas, private family baths, mixed-gender onsen and more!
Snowbound Onsen In Nikko
While much of the Kanto area is flat and snow-free, the mountains north of Tokyo in nearby Tochigi have some great winter weather.