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.
Japanese Artist Gives Old Stones New Life
This artist from Saitama Prefecture gives new meaning to the old phrase 'art imitates life!'
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!
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.
Innovative Aichi Illumination Made by Plumber
In a small town in Aichi Prefecture, a plumber and his family have created an icy winter illumination to warm the hearts of visitors.
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.
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.
A Home Embracing the Art of Clutter
An Osaka-based designer created a house to showcase the beauty of having a personal hoard.
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!
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.
Stamps Capture Japanese Bathhouse Charm
One Japanese artist is putting his stamp on the traditional Japanese bathhouse, or 'sento.'
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.
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.
Pixel Puppies Might Be the Perfect Pet
One Japanese artist combines cuteness and nostalgia in his latest line of colorful sculptures. Plus, they're already housebroken!
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.
Feeling Sleepy? Go to 'Bread!'
Any way you slice it, this comfy, whimsical bread bed really takes the cake!
Shrine Maidens Turned Off-Road Racing Queens
In this newest commercial from Toyo Tires, these girls literally drive away ogres during Japan’s annual Setsubun bean-throwing festival.
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!
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!
