News

BOOK REVIEWS

Is James Clavell’s Shogun Accurate History – Or Pure Fiction?

UJ staff writer Dr. Nyri Bakkalian reads and critiques James Clavell's epically long-winded 1975 novel "Shogun" so you don't have to.

BUSINESS AND ECONOMY

A Popular Japanese Bakery Chain Disappears Overnight

All 28 stores suddenly closed. Lenders and employees left unpaid. Its CEO suddenly missing. What the heck happened to Japan's Bellbe?

AFFILIATE

The Japanese Rice Cooker: A History of Trials and Errors

Learn what led to the development of the Japanese rice cooker and how it found a home in just about every Japanese…

LAW & CRIME

Why This Japanese Couple Divorces Every Three Years

Married Japanese couples are prevented by law from having separate last names. But one Tokyo couple has found a clever workaround.

HISTORY

The Snow Monkeys of Japan: A Fascinating History

They were a part of Japanese folklore for centuries before they enjoyed international fame. Learn more about Japan's snow monkeys.

FOOD

Is Putting Wasabi in Soy Sauce Rude?

A lot of people - both in and out of Japan - do it. But is it "rude"? A new manga on…

LAW & CRIME

Nevada-Tan: Japan’s Murderer Turned Internet Trend

Her case made national headlines - and became a cult sensation. What happened to "Nevada-tan"? And how has the victim's family coped?

LGBTQ

Tokyo to Launch LGBT Partnership System in 2022

In what could be a major advance for LGBT rights in Japan, Tokyo will soon support full partnership benefits for same-sex couples.