WOMEN
Solo Weddings: Why Japanese Women Are Saying “I Do” to…Themselves
Japan's marriage rate has tumbled to a postwar low. But the country's bridal industry isn't shrinking: it's pivoting.
oshikatsu
WOMEN
ENTERTAINMENT
Why a 20-Year-Old Japanese Racing Idol Went Searching For a 50-Year-Old Fan
It's common for fans to become obsessed with their idols. But what happens when an idol is worried about one of her…
POLITICS
Japanese Lawmaker Says Anti-Spy Law Could End Oshikatsu Culture
One lawmaker warns that proposed spy legislation could tread on a booming business in Japan: support for one's favorite idol or star.
TRAVEL
New “Flat Sleeper” Bus Will Let Japan Fans See Idols While Skipping Hotels
A new "full flat sleeper" design debuting in March will attempt to make using a night bus for concerts a less tiring…
ENTERTAINMENT
Is “Oshikatsu” an Addiction? Survey Shows Dark Side of Japan’s Fan Culture
Oshikatsu is a booming business in Japan. But data shows many fans are concerned about the toll supporting their faves takes on…
ENTERTAINMENT
In Sexual Assault Crackdown, Police Raid Male Underground Idol Events in Kabukicho
Reports of assaults against female fans have led authorities in Kabukicho to perform inspections at men's underground idol events - and, in…