The latest Japan travel and culture news

Politics

Japan’s Protests Against the Iran War Are Escalating

Last night's protest brought out over 3x more participants than the last as Japanese citizens stated their opposition.

Culture

Why the Ishikawa Prefectural Library in Japan Is Such a Huge Draw

The library, reopened to fanfare in 2022, continues to bring in more visitors every year than people who live in the prefecture.

Technology

Japan’s Anime and Manga Industries Are Feeling the AI Squeeze

Japan's anime and manga industries are growing wary of the impact of GenAI on their bottom line - but don't have any…

Travel

Tourists to Japan Are Tossing Coins into These Ponds. That’s a No-No

Officials are worried about the environmental impact after tourists dumped 18,000 coins into the ponds in 2025, despite clearly posted signs.

Travel

Suwa: One of Japan’s Best Onsen Towns You’ve Never Heard of

Japan is popular. Hot springs are super popular. But Suwa, an onsen town in Nagano Prefecture, remains a hidden gem.

Food

Yep or NOPE? Suntory’s New Dr Pepper-Like Soda Confuses Japanese Consumers

Suntory's new drink NOPE promises lots of flavor. Just WHAT that flavor is, however, has sparked a raging debate in Japan.

Food

This Ramen Shop in Japan Demands You Stay Off Your Damn Phone

The shop in Saitama Prefecture said it instituted the policy after a customer watched an "inappropriate" video.

Law & Crime

Japanese Celeb Held By Police for 10 Days Over Combini Sandwich Theft

Why many Japanese social media users are decrying the long detention of actress Sakaguchi Anri as excessive and unwarranted.