The Incredible History of Nintendo Explained
Thanks to traditional Japanese playing cards, the Japanese mafia and an extendable toy claw, this company transformed itself into one of the most iconic gaming brands in Japan.
All About Japanese Currency
Information First Time in Japan
What’s the largest banknote in Japan? Curious about the coinage and what it’s made of? And who are those people on their bills? All that and more as we break down Japan's currency!
Architect Designs 'Tree House' in Tokyo
Seeking respite from boring office spaces and stark building, a Japanese architect designed a building in harmony with nature.
Handmade Knives in Yamagata
See how Shimada Cutlery Works carries on a blade-making tradition dating back to the year 1365.
All About the Local Creators' Market
Handicrafts Local Creators' Market
Launched by Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI), the Local Creators’ Market focuses on five Japanese locales noted for producing exquisite traditional handicrafts.
Rock Icon David Bowie Immortalized in Ukiyo-e
A Japanese woodblock artist is combining elements of traditional Japanese culture with the beloved musician who was so inspired by them, David Bowie.
Endless Design Possibilities: Fukuyama Denim
Local Creators' Market Hiroshima
Specialists in every step of denim manufacture—spinning, dyeing, weaving, washing—abound in Fukuyama, a leading producer of denim in Japan. The locale is a driving force behind the worldwide appeal of Japanese denim.
Who Will Win in an Epic Manga Character Brawl?
A new fighting game will pit some of your favorite 'Shonen Jump' characters like Luffy, Naruto and Goku against one another in a crossover brawl of epic proportions.
An Innovative 'Nueu' Braille Typeface
A Japanese designer has created a new braille typeface that communicates in unexpected and innovative ways.
All Aboard This Luxurious New Shinkansen
This new bullet train from JR West will allow passengers to travel in comfort like never before, with six unique cars that cater to the needs of different types of travelers.
Cherry Tree Made of 880,000 Lego Bricks!
This incredible cherry blossom tree is made up of more than 880,000 Lego pieces—but you can only see it until May 6!
Riding in a Transformer Will Soon be a Reality
With help from the designer of the original Gundam, Japan now has a transforming giant robot/car that two full-sized adults can ride in. Seriously—it's kind of amazing.
Take Your Prefectural Pride on the Road
These stylish license plates feature iconic imagery from prefectures throughout Japan, so you can show off your prefectural pride every time you hit the road!
'Manifest 99' Rattles into Japan
The award-winning 'Manifest 99,' an ominous and eerie story set on a train inhabited by a murder of crows, is about finding redemption in the afterlife—and is now available in Japan!
5 Ways to Get in Shape in Japan Before Summer
The rainy season that precedes summer in Japan isn't a reason to skip a workout. In fact, it’s the best time to stay indoors and stay in shape.
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.
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.
Sumida Textiles: Hand-Dyed in Tokyo
Handicrafts Local Creators' Market
The Sumida Ward has long prospered as the center of Japan's fabric industry. Even today, it is capable of reproducing nearly any color on demand.
Empty Vessels Full of Meaning
Japanese artist Norihiko Terayama's work explores what happens when decoration overtakes form and function.
Interactive Pikachu Peddles Pokémon Plushies
If you're looking to get your hands on some adorable Pokémon plushies, check out these new vending machines! These Pokémon Stands will feature an interactive Pikachu to help you select your new buddy.
