Secret Fireworks Shows Encourage Staying Home
In a project called "Cheer Up! Hanabi," over 140 companies have teamed up to shoot fireworks across all 47 prefectures at the same time. Before, the date was a secret, but we now have confirmation. Read on to find out when.
Fireworks Flying High All Across Japan
Following the surprise five-minute fireworks festivals that appeared all over the country, we finally got some pictures of the event from fireworks fans at home. If you couldn't see them from your area, then click through to see a sample of summer!
Making Japanese Washi Paper from Food Waste
An established paper maker in central Japan has come up with a new type of washi that’s also eco-friendly. Craftswoman Masami Igarashi has 25 years of experience manufacturing washi and related products. She now makes paper from vegetable and fruit waste.
See Tennis Star Naomi Osaka Like Never Before
Tennis star Naomi Osaka appeared in GQ Japan’s June edition, in a cover that was actually drawn by her older sister, Mari Osaka!
Award-Winning Train Designed by Architect
Architect Kazuyo Sejima’s commuter express train, Laview, took home a prestigious award for its sleek, unique look.
Learn How to Draw Totoro from Ghibli Producer
With a background in editing and artistic talent so great he’s been given his own exhibitions, Toshio Suzuki is now sharing the secret to sketching one character he loves to draw: Totoro from Ghibli’s 1988 animated feature film "My Neighbor Totoro."
Make Your Accessories Fab at FabCafe Tokyo
At FabCafe Tokyo, the first digital fabrication café in Japan, you can use an assortment of 3-D scanners and printers, laser cutters, and a fleet of knowledgeable staff to make custom accessories, unique greeting cards, and even decorate macarons.
COVID-19 Tracking App Launched in Japan
Japan launches a smartphone app that notifies users when they may have come into contact with someone infected with the COVID-19.
Social Distance Supper with a Stuffed Capybara
The restaurant at Izu Shabonten Zoo in Shizuoka, Japan is crowded! But not by people, but stuffed capybaras that have been strategically placed throughout the restaurant to maintain appropriate social distancing.
How Fireworks in Japan Were Used for Epidemics
Learn more about the meaning of fireworks in Japan and why they are connected to COVID-19.
Japan Launches Space Operations Unit in SDF
Japan welcomes its newest Self-Defense Forces team, the Space Operations Squadron, as the first SDF unit specializing in the field of space.
Japanese Art Supporting 'Black Lives Matter'
Amid the ongoing protests and marches following the brutal killing of George Floyd by an American police force, Japanese artists in Japan and abroad are showing their support for the Black Lives Matter movement in the form of diverse artworks.
Ryosuke Otomo's Slice of Life Illustrations
Illustrator Ryosuke Otomo takes inspiration from the small, relatable moments of life.
Japanese Supercomputer Is World's Fastest
Japan’s Fugaku supercomputer, developed jointly by Riken and Fujitsu, has been ranked the fastest in the world.
Virtual Shopping Via Robot
The Tsutaya Electrics store in Tokyo’s Futakotamagawa area tests having customers shop virtually using a remotely controlled robot as many business establishments are closed due to the novel coronavirus.
Hotel Why Thinks Zero Waste Is Not a Question
Tokushima has a zero-waste policy, and Hotel Why is doing its part to be a call-to-action hotel. Why is it shaped like a question mark? Read on to find out.
Uniqlo Opening Cutting-Edge Store in Harajuku
Apparel giant Fast Retailing is opening a high-tech Uniqlo outlet in Tokyo’s trendy Harajuku area on Friday, June 5. Customers can choose clothing using a special app installed on these tablets on the wall.
Take a Virtual Tour 'Beyond Tokyo'
Amid continued travel restrictions and pleas to stay at home to help combat the COVID-19 epidemic around the globe, we figured you might want to check out a unique way to tour one of Tokyo's most popular neighborhoods.
Yubari Melon Gets Fraction of Last Year Price
The price of high-end Yubari melons fetched only one-fortieth of last season's price at the first auction of the season due to the novel coronavirus pandemic.
Lawson's Products Got a Brand New Bag
Japan’s third-largest convenience store chain recently hired design firm Nendo to re-brand the packaging on over 700 private label products. And the result is as stunning as it is subtle.
