All About Japan

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.

Japanese Manholes: Art Under Your Feet

There is so much to see in Japan. You can look up at the skyscrapers of Tokyo, look in the distance to see the peak of Mount Fuji, look along every one of Kyoto's ancient cobbled streets. But did you know that there is a lot to see right under your feet?

Rice Paddy Art Celebrates Manga Legend

To celebrate the 90th anniversary of Osamu Tezuka, the 'Godfather of Manga,' the small village of Inakadate in Aomori has created stunning natural art depicting some of his most-beloved characters.

A Home Embracing the Art of Clutter

An Osaka-based designer created a house to showcase the beauty of having a personal hoard.

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!

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.

All About Japanese Currency

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!

Top 5 Chocolate Snacks in Japan for Loved Ones

Although Valentine’s Day in Japan is said to have become the biggest merchandising opportunity of the year for any confectionary companies in Japan, chocolate is one of the most consumed sweets of all time. Here are five that you'll surely find in Japan.

Empty Vessels Full of Meaning

Japanese artist Norihiko Terayama's work explores what happens when decoration overtakes form and function.

What To Wear: Women Working in Japan

It can be hard for women to know exactly what is appropriate (or not) to wear in a Japanese office. Get the lowdown on the basic rules to follow to avoid faux pas without having to resort to a penguin suit.

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!

Super Blue Blood Moon Lights Up The Sky

This once in a blue moon phenomenon appeared in the sky posing with Tokyo Skytree as well as other beautiful tourist spots.

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 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.

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.

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.

An Innovative 'Nueu' Braille Typeface

A Japanese designer has created a new braille typeface that communicates in unexpected and innovative ways.

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.

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.

Pixel-Perfect Real-Life Food Art

Japanese artist Yuni Yoshida creates artwork that looks like it sprang from the screen of retro video games using analog techniques and real food.

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