The latest Japan travel and culture news

Living in Japan

Five Things Wrong with Interac’s Infamous Anti-Sick Leave Video

A leaked video from ALT dispatch company Interac admonishing employees for taking sick days - during a pandemic - has caused some…

Travel

Ghibli Park Opening Date Announced as Nov. 1st

Since 2017, Ghibli fans the world over have anticipated the opening of the first-ever Ghibli theme park. Now, the opening date has…

History

Iidesan, Fukushima’s Odd Border: Gods, Mountains, Lines in the Sand

In western Fukushima Prefecture, an odd salient of territory extends, wedged between Niigata and Yamagata Prefectures. So why is it there?

Entertainment

“Belle”: Hosoda Mamoru’s Fairy Tale for the VTuber Age

Internationally beloved director Hosoda Mamoru's new film, Belle, portrays the modern clash between online fame and anonymity - with some narrative hiccups.

Japanese Language

Using Japanese Drama to Learn Japanese

Learn how to use Japanese dramas to effectively study and improve Japanese comprehension, listening, and speaking skills.

Book Reviews

“Of Arcs and Circles” Contemplates Gardens, Nature, and Life Itself

"When people no longer need things, or if they hate them, they destroy them... If people love things however, they care for…

History

Kyushu’s Samurai Vaccinators: The Fight Against Smallpox in Late Edo Japan

Faced with an epidemic, a forward-thinking group of doctors and samurai leaders launched a successful vaccination campaign in late Edo Japan.

Law & Crime

With New Regulations, Japan Cracks Down on Elderly Drivers

This year, elderly drivers in Japan over age 75 with traffic violations must meet new requirements if they want to stay on…