“Get paid to chat with Japanese girls” job seems like a scam but is legit.

A Japanese company is hiring for a lawful job to respond to messages in an otome game, not a yami baito.

Visit a Japanese convenience store near an active volcano.

In Kagoshima's Sakurajima, unique convenience stores feature subdued brown signage reflecting the active volcano's volcanic landscape.

Japanese school installs standing sleeping pod for student naps.

A Japanese elementary school has installed standing nap pods, but many believe this approach to sleep is impractical for children.

Japanese izakaya face record bankruptcies.

Izakaya in Japan are facing record bankruptcies due to rising costs and changing consumer habits, with 203 bankruptcies reported in 2024.

Mt. Fuji climbing fees could double, trail access may close earlier with new plan.

A new plan for Mt. Fuji will introduce entry fees and standardized time limits for all climbing trails starting in 2025.

Japan's popular castle increases ticket prices by 200% for non-locals.

Himeji Castle's admission prices will significantly increase for non-locals, while visitors under 18 can enter for free.

Hachiko statue in Shibuya will be covered for New Year's Eve; pedestrian barricades added.

Shibuya Ward will not hold New Year’s Eve events and limits access to reduce crowds and enhance security.

Japanese man dines at same beef bowl restaurant for 1,800+ days.

A man has eaten at Sukiya daily for over five years, maintaining good health despite initially gaining some weight.

Japanese city brightens prostitution street with yellow paint and fish art.

Osaka painted a street bright yellow to discourage tachinbo prostitution and encourage visibility, reducing sightings in the area.

Study explores happiest city in Japan for foreigners.

Ibaraki's first Foreign Resident Happiness Index reveals it ranks fourth in Japan, emphasizing diverse outcomes across work, living, and learning.

Toyota's humanoid robot earns second Guinness World Record for basketball skills.

Toyota's basketball-playing robot, CUE, has set world records but still needs to improve mobility and human-like skills.

Japan's Kanji of the Year for 2024 reflects the year's positive and negative aspects.

The 2024 Kanji of the Year is 金, representing Japan's Olympic success and economic challenges, with 災 and 翔 as runners-up.