All About Japan

How to Read 1 Character 5 Different Ways

This one simple Japanese sentence contains five different pronunciations for one 'kanji' character. Can you pronounce them all?

Posh Japan Train Travels to Try Before You Die

If you think cross-country train rides only offer magnificent views, think again. Japan, teeming with glorious natural wonders, has made moving from one prefecture to another a luxurious experience you'll never forget!

The Samurai Spirit of Aizu Lacquerware

This reflective video from Emmy Award-winning filmmaker Taylor Hawkins introduces us to three artisans in the former samurai town of Aizu-Wakamatsu, who continue to work together to bring a beautiful, heartfelt tradition to life.

Get Back to Nature in Your Own Kengo Kuma Home

If you never thought you could afford a home designed by architect Kengo Kuma, think again! Now you can get your very own Kuma-designed, nature-inspired trailer home!

Get a Bird's-Eye View of Arboreal Architecture

Tokyo-based studio Assistant created a home among the trees of Karuizawa that incorporates the beauty of nature, inside and out.

Radio Ghibli Perfect for Ghibli Music Fanatics

Get ready for hours of scenes, songs and memories that tantalize your ears as you listen to iconic songs from Ghibli movie classics!

Japanese Pedal... er, Petal Power in São Paulo

30 bicycles, covered in colorful flowers, hit the streets of Brazil's São Paulo to celebrate both nature and the Japanese people who settled there a century ago.

Unique Vending Machine Selling Awesome Origami

Are you all thumbs when it comes to making your own origami? Then jet off to Ehime and purchase some uniquely designed animals and objects for less than ¥50!

See Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto & Nagoya in One Day

Legoland Japan will feature miniature replicas of famous Japanese landmarks made from 10,496,352 Legos (plus or minus a few)!

Inside the Secret World of Japan's LGBT+ Slang

Around the world, every language and culture has evolved to add jargon relating to the LGBT+ community, and Japan has its own words too. We'll teach you a few terms you may hear around the country—if you're listening carefully.

11 Things to Do in Gunma in Autumn

Gunma is a hiker's paradise, and autumn is the ideal time to visit. As the leaves change color, discover one of the Three Great Scenic Wonders of Japan, beautiful marshes, waterfalls, hot springs and more!

10 Things to Do in Gunma in Winter

In addition to being one of Japan's major ski and snowboard centers, Gunma offers hot springs, winter illumination and cultural activities to warm up the colder months.

Never Get Lost in Shinjuku Station Again!

Stroll—or rather scroll—your way through two of the world's busiest stations.

Muji's Keeping Housing Simple

The long-awaited release of the Muji Hut has finally arrived, and the first lots for sale come complete with a garden.

Fab Five Cafés with Free Wi-Fi

Compared to other major cities around the world, it's not easy to find quality cafés with good food, drinks, atmosphere and free Wi-Fi in Tokyo. For the discerning customer with internet needs, these five hot spots are handpicked just for you!

The Eccentric Artwork of Kawanabe Kyosai

Nothing was off limits for this eccentric 19th century Japanese artist, including cute cats, landscapes, the occult and eroticism.

How to Draw Intimate 'Boys Love' Scenes

From hugs to piggybacks and intimate kisses, this reference manual is filled with romantic male-on-male BL scenarios.

Touching Tribute to Station Master's Last Day

This heartwarming video captures the emotion of the last day of work for a Japanese rail station employee.

Get Your Hands on a Strong, Stylish Steel Case

Protect your goods in a fashionable way with this new brand of steel carrying cases!

6 Shipping Companies That'll Make Life Easier

When you first arrive in Japan with all your luggage, it may be tempting to travel around carrying around all your things with you wherever you go. But check out these alternatives to help you travel light and make the best of your trip here!

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