Japanese train station vending machine has the best souvenirs for rail otaku

A chance encounter with a unique vending machine deepens Ikuna's appreciation for Japanese trains and their related merchandise.

Ride-hailing restrictions to be eased during 2025 Osaka Expo

Japan will ease ride-hailing restrictions in Osaka during the 2025 World Expo to enhance transportation for visitors.

Pokémon Smart Bath Mats are amazingly cute, but there’s more to them than meets the eye【Photos】

Issin's Pokémon Smart Bath Mats are cute, high-tech body weight scales that track health data and cost 23,400 yen.

Crime numbers rise in Japan for second straight year

Japan reported a 17% rise in crimes in 2023, marking the second consecutive year of increasing crime rates.

Japan says overall economy recovering, but cuts view on corporate profits

Japan’s economy is moderately recovering, but risks remain from global factors like U.S. policies and higher interest rates.

Record 78% of people in Japan feel anxious, government survey finds

A recent survey found 78.2% of respondents feel anxious, the highest since 1981, with significant concerns about health and living standards.

Cup Noodle sells new squid fork with its instant ramen

Nissin has launched a limited-edition squid fork for eating noodles, inspired by a viral photo, available for pre-order.

Nakano Broadway sells a fukubukuro lucky bag for foreigners, but is it a good deal or a scam?

Ikuna Kamezawa bought a Kawaii Lucky Bag of anime figures at Nakano Broadway and learned it was a great deal.

This downtown Tokyo cafe is like a time machine that takes you back 50 years into the past

Peace cafe in Shinjuku has offered a classic atmosphere and delicious pancakes since 1955, cherished by locals and visitors alike.

Chip cities rise in Japan’s fields of dreams

Japan's rural areas are transforming as they invest billions in semiconductor production to regain industry leadership and attract workers.

Bankruptcies and suicides rise as Japanese struggle with mounting debt

Rising interest rates and living costs are causing unprecedented personal debt levels among Japanese households, raising concerns for government officials.

Celebrating legal marriage days in Japan with budget-friendly photoshoots

Japanese couples are creatively celebrating their legal marriage registration with affordable traditional photoshoots, capturing memorable moments together.