Namie Amuro's Rio Olympics Theme
J-pop princess Namie Amuro's 'Hero' will stand as the theme song for NHK's Rio de Janeiro Olympic and Paralympic broadcasts.
Yukata 101
What's a 'yukata'? And more importantly, how do you put one on? Better find out before summer festival season arrives!
Review: Her Name in Blood—Evolution from Apes
Such unapologetic, brutal and volatile masculinity courses through this entire EP that the question arises: Have we really 'evolved' so far when it’s so easy (and so fun) to return to our primal natures?
Music to Ghibli Fans' Ears
Thinking about getting some Ghibli merchandise? Look no further than these adorable music boxes that feature songs from three popular Ghibli films.
Survival Japanese for Concerts & Events
So you've decided to attend an event from your favorite idols or artists, but how ready are you really? Here are some often-used terms you should check out to navigate your way!
Step into a Japanese Classroom at This Izakaya
With themed rooms and waiters who act as teachers and nurses, you’ll never want to leave elementary school again!
Sea-Inspired Miniature Newspaper Collages
This artist uses a wide range of multimedia—everything from snippets of foreign newspapers and magazines to 'nihonga' materials to create collages that illustrate the ocean that connects all.
Add Some Bushido Flair to Your Home Décor
Guard against water rings on your favorite coffee table thanks to these sword handguard coasters inspired by four famous samurai.
Wagashi Shop Sells Seppuku-Themed Desserts
This impressive dessert makes for an expressive apology!
Beat the Heat With Some Cool 'Yukata'
Look cool and stay cool during the hot Japanese summers with lightweight 'yukata' that feature the Loch Ness Monster and Edo Period assassination tools.
Yanbaru Forest Toy Museum in Okinawa
This toy museum on the northern end of Okinawa's main island is basically a big room full of wooden toys!
Hang This Doll to Pray for Clear Skies
While many believe the tradition of making 'teru teru bozu' dolls can be traced back to a bald-headed monk, history suggests it may have begun with a small girl.
20 Japanese Words for Rain, in Art Form
How would you depict 'autumn rain' in a bottle? How about 'sudden rainfall'? Check out this design troupe's dioramas creating snapshots of 20 Japanese words for rain!
Chomp on Some Chopper Sweets
Although you might lament taking a bite out of Tony Tony Chopper, these Japanese sweets are too delicious to simply be a decoration.
Navigating Japanese Umbrella Culture
The Japan Guy tackles an age-old philosophical question: 'What's the deal with umbrellas here in Japan?'
The Portable Paternal Playgound!
This wearable prototype turns dads into jungle gyms!
6 Traditional Japanese Tabletop Games
Stuck inside on a rainy day? Play these classic Japanese tabletop games while listening to the relaxing sound of the drops outside!
100 Yen: The Japanese Arcade Experience
In a culture famous for miniaturization, arcades in Japan conversely seem to go bigger, brighter, louder and increasingly diverse—as this documentary on the history of arcade games reveals.
How Do You Bleach Kimono Fabrics? With Snow!
These stunning videos show how craftsmen keep their UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage practice alive during the coldest months of the year.
Hatsune Miku Teaches Summer Pocky Techniques
In this adorable commercial, Vocaloid idol Hatsune Miku offers an extra-sweet tip on how to enjoy your chocolate sticks this summer. First step: don't eat them right away!
