News

WOMEN

Ito Shiori’s Next Goal: Releasing BLACK BOX DIARIES in Japan

It's the first documentary by a Japanese director ever nominated for an Oscar - but it still hasn't screened in Japan.

FOOD

Noodle-Only Ramen: Japan’s New Hot Food Trend?

Does a big bowl of noodles sound tempting to you? With rising prices in Japan, some are viewing it as an economical…

LAW & CRIME

Japanese Boy Band Member KENSHIN Booted After Sexual Assault Arrest in Hong Kong

Stardust Promotions says it's dropped the rapper and dancer like a hot potato after his March 2nd arrest for attacking an interpreter.

ENTERTAINMENT

Japan’s Prince Hisahito is an Otaku Who Loves Light Novels – Including Writing His Own

The Japanese prince, second in line to the throne, apparently has a hobby that'll endear him to many geeks both in Japan…

TRAVEL

Japan Says Tourists Getting Japanese Driver’s Licenses is Fine, Actually

The government's official response to a request to close a license exchange loophole is, "don't worry about it."

LIVING IN JAPAN

Study: Hokkaido Residents Would Make Millions If Paid to Shovel Snow

There's less snow to shovel in Hokkaido than ever - but still enough that residents would make bank if paid for their…

SOCIETY

As Birth Rates Plummet, Japan’s PM Regrets Couples Have Fewer Chances to Hook Up

The PM also lamented the dip in omiai, traditional Japanese matchmaking services, and said the government should do...something.

CULTURE

Dangerous – or Dated? Japan Debates Use of Smartphones Near Train Priority Seats

A recent social media post has sparked debate over a longstanding rule of smartphone use that has no basis in fact.