A New Year, A New Character Harvest
Audrey Hepburn and Osamu Tezuka's characters get the rice paddy treatment in Aomori Prefecture as rice fields spring up in their likeness.
Answers to Common Questions for First-Timers
First Time in Japan , Life in Japan
Ever wondered about vending machines or all the cute characters on signage in Japan? What's up with capsule toys? Tokyo Girls' Update has some insight into simple aspects of Japanese life that can surprise first-time visitors.
Stranger than Fiction: 5 True Tales from Tokyo
Want to learn more about Tokyo? These 5 nonfiction novels examine different aspects of Japanese life and culture in the country and its colorful capital.
Are You Ready for Pikachu Outbreak 2018?
In previous years, Yokohama's famed Pokémon party ended when the sun went down. This year those 1,500-plus Pikachus are staying out past their bedtime!
Don't Flip Out, Flip Tables Instead!
In Iwate Prefecture a surprising contest allows contestants to unleash their pent-up stress, or unrequited hopes by... flipping tables!
Huis Ten Bosch: A Little Netherlands in Kyushu
Huis Ten Bosch is a lovingly recreated Dutch town in the heart of Nagasaki Prefecture. Its unique design, plethora of attractions and cultural history make it one of Japan's most interesting theme parks.
Live in the Moment in Tokyo with Meditation
In the hustle and bustle of Tokyo, it can be difficult to find a calming atmosphere. But not anymore, thanks to Muon, a Tokyo-based studio that focuses exclusively on meditation.
The Weird Art of Everyday Life
This Japanese artist uses their keen photographic eye to capture strange, intimate moments of everyday life found on city streets.
Wakuneco Makes Heart-'felt' Portraits of Cats
A Japanese artist who goes by the name of Wakuneco is helping pet owners memorialize their furry friends with lifelike felt portraits.
Feeling Sleepy? Go to 'Bread!'
Any way you slice it, this comfy, whimsical bread bed really takes the cake!
Tokyo's Bizarre Architectural Wonders
There's no doubt that Tokyo is an architectural marvel! But with so many buildings, there's bound to be a few that stand out for their unique design. Check out these five examples of Tokyo's most bizarre architectural wonders!
Big in Japan: A Look at the Price of Fame
Australian and self-professed human guinea pig Dave Elliot-Jones packed his bag for Japan to interview foreign celebrities that have made it big in the Land of the Rising Sun, and try to find his own way into the limelight.
Catchy Summer Jam is an Ode to Osaka
Relive your last trip to Osaka (or fall in love with the city for the first time!) with this music video from the band Room 39!
All About Idol Insanity
What's all the fuss about J-pop idols? How did they start in the first place? Find out answers to these questions and more as we take a look at the phenomenon of Japanese idols!
Sorry Fellas, This Hotel is Girls Only
Heading over to Kyoto? Why not stay at Cafetel, a cute, new women-only hotel that comes with its own café, rental bikes, amenities and more?
6 Shrines for Strange Wishes in Tokyo
Temples & Shrines , Secret Tokyo
In Japan it's common to visit shrines to pray for good luck. But where do you go if you have a more specific wish, like to lower your golf handicap or tame your unruly hair? These 6 shrines can help fulfill your oddly specific hopes & dreams!
Eevee to Join Summertime Pokémon Extravaganza
The only thing better than seeing 1,500-plus Pikachus at Yokohama's annual summertime Pikachu Outbreak event is seeing a squad of Eevees tagging along!
A Night in Prison Never Looked So Appealing
The historic, decommissioned Nara Prison in Nara Prefecture is scheduled to be renovated and reopened as a luxury hotel in 2020.
The Coolest Arcade You've Never Heard Of
Just across the river from Tokyo, in the city of Kawasaki, is an arcade with a unique aesthetic and personality that's as big as its selection of games and activities.
