Life-size Mega Rayquaza greets travelers at Tokyo train station.
Mega Rayquaza is on display at Shinjuku Wall 456 until August 2, promoting the new Pokémon Trading Card Game expansion.
Kevin Kobayashi
New data shows foreign tourists in Japan consume more rice than previously believed.
Foreign visitors to Japan now consume more rice daily than locals, averaging 570 grams compared to the Japanese average of 330-340 grams.
Japan's "phantom" melon sells out in 12 hours due to its high quality.
Tokushu Kusatsu Melon, grown with electrolysed hydrogen water, is a rare, ultra-sweet fruit that sells out quickly in Japan.
OpenAI's GPT-5.5 is more efficient and improved for coding.
OpenAI has launched GPT-5.5, an advanced model designed for complex tasks, enhancing productivity with improved safeguards and fewer tokens.
Ikea Japan shuts two Tokyo flagship stores; failure to succeed in the city.
Ikea is closing its smaller Harajuku and Shinjuku branches in downtown Tokyo due to insufficient earnings and diminished appeal.
Takaichi urges female envoys to unite against gender barriers.
Prime Minister Takaichi urged collective action to remove barriers for women in leadership roles during a meeting with female ambassadors.
Musk's Grok AI criticized in Japan for sexualized images.
Japan is investigating X for Grok's role in creating non-consensual sexualized images and requested improved safeguards against deepfakes.
Tomoyuki Sugano joins Samurai Japan squad for 2026 WBC.
Samurai Japan added Tomoyuki Sugano to its 2026 World Baseball Classic roster, joining MLB star Shohei Ohtani and others.
Japan should reconsider its immigration policy.
Japan is tightening immigration policies amid rising foreign arrivals, raising concerns about a possible retreat into xenophobia.
Feminism's failures contrast with Takaichi's success.
In October, Japan elected its first female prime minister and finance minister, sparking criticism despite their legislative efforts for women.
Takaichi and Lee advocate for improved bilateral relations.
South Korean President Lee and Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi are strengthening their relationship amid regional tensions following their third meeting.
Osaka aims for aggressive play to secure her third Australian Open title.
Naomi Osaka aims for an aggressive performance at the Australian Open, seeking to leave the tournament without regrets.