All About Japan

'Yuki Means Happiness'

Even after leaving Japan, the nation lingers long in your memory. This British-American writer spun her time in Tokyo into her second novel—both a mystery story and a time capsule of Japan in the early '90s.

A Powerful Message of Peace From a Café

Nagasaki Starbucks marks the anniversary of World War II's end with a powerful message of peace on its chalkboard.

An Inexpensive Way to Make Bath Bombs

Why spend money on a luxurious bath bomb when you can make one yourself using ingredients and gadgets from ¥100 store?

The Japanese 'Taiko' Drum Goes Electronic

The world's first ever electronic 'taiko' drum will be played on stage with the internationally recognized performance group Kodo.

Learn Hiragana From Handsome Anime Men

Flashcards not doing it for you when it comes to memorizing hiragana? Try a new smartphone game that will keep you glued to the screen with attractive anime men that will help you study the Japanese syllabary characters.

University Entrance Exam Adds Ninja Section

If you don’t know your 'mizugumo' from your 'kunai,' then I’m afraid you might not be Mie University material.

Super Cheap Japan: Budget Travel Guide Book

With extensive tax-free shopping, crazily discounted train passes and an unbelievable exchange rate, there has never been a better time to visit Japan. And the brand new Super Cheap Japan book is your ultimate budget travel guide to Japan!

Get Your Own Personal Pocket Guide to Japan

You're only a click away from having your very own guided tour of Japan's most popular spots without spending a dime.

Cut Through Paper with Katana Scissors

Not only are these scissors in the shape of Japanese swords, but their designs are inspired by four famous samurai.

Tackling Cultural Isolation through Rugby

In the short documentary 'Union,' a young Maori working in Japan tackles his cultural isolation using the universal language of rugby.

5 of the Best SIM-Only Contracts in Japan

Our guide to the cheapest options for getting a phone contract in Japan.

Historic Photos of Japan Brought to Life by AI

A new technique developed by researchers at Waseda University is giving old photographs a vibrant and colorful new life.

Duty-Free Shopping as Soon as You Land

Travelers to Japan are now able shop duty free in the immediate arrival area of Narita Airport's Terminal 2, eliminating the need to carry heavy purchases on-board beforehand.

Otherworldly Art Explores the Duality of Life

Japanese artist Yoshitoshi Kanemaki creates mesmerizing, contemplative wooden sculptures that ask big questions about our complicated world.

Preview of Tokyo Game Show 2017

Coming to you live from Tokyo Game Show 2017, it's Wendell, the Managing Editor of All About Japan, along with writer Jack and Yoshitaka, our editorial assistant. And we're bringing you along as we take our first look at TGS 2017!

Beautiful Bread Lamps Straight From the Bakery

Japanese artist Yukiko Morita combines lighting design and baked goods to create a new home décor trend that's 'on the rise.'

Make Your Own Manga With Cool New Tape

Give your packages (or any surface really) some stylish Japanese flair with this award-winning tape!

Carb-Free Sushi is Coming to Major Sushi Chain

Looking to snack on some sushi without the guilt of eating carbs? One popular sushi chain is ready to serve you.

The Perks of Joining a Volunteer English Camp

Perhaps teaching English in Japan has crossed your mind as a way to stay in Japan longer than a vacation. But as teaching jobs that offer visa support typically bind you to a year-long contract, why not first experience being teacher for a day or two?

Online Shopping in Japan (by JLPT Level)

JLPT surely stands for 'Just Let People Trade' right? Joking aside, we're bringing you a list of five of the best Japanese shopping websites, ranked by the level of Japanese (according to the Japanese Language Proficiency Test) needed to access them.

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