Japanese pop culture news edited by Patrick Macias
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Toyama Hopes to Become Japan’s Hot New Travel Destination
The New York Times has named Toyama City as one of its must-see travel gems for 2025. Here's what makes the Japanese city so charming.
Here Are Japan’s Top Scenic Nature Spots for Tourists
Want to get out of the city and see some natural beauty while in Japan? Here are what other tourists deem the country's top nature spots.
Japan’s Imperial Family Are Becoming Social Media Influencers?!
The Japanese Imperial family is joining Instagram. Their account goes live on April 1st.
JapanKyo – Interesting news on Japan, podcasts about Japan & more
Are Foreign Tourists Eating All of Japan’s Rice?
Newspapers and TV reports are blaming inbound tourists for Japan's rice shortfalls. However, the numbers don't add up.
Burglaries of Japan’s Abandoned Houses Are Becoming More Aggressive
Abandoned houses continue to rise in Japan - and thieves are taking advantage of it by finding them and stripping them clean.
Why Tourists Are Smitten with Japan’s Popular Egg Cuisine
Forget sushi and ramen. More than ever, tourists to Japan are discovering the delectability of the country's egg-based dishes.
South Korean Tourists Praise Japan for Cost/Performance Travel
South Korean tourists now comprise the largest group of tourists to Japan - and many say it's because the price is right.
Japan Travel App Adds New Safety Features for Tourists
NAVITIME's latest revision to its app now includes a Safety feature with emergency information in 13 different languages.
Is Yamaguchi City Japan’s New Go-To Destination?
A New York Times article puts a spotlight on a hot new destination in Japan. Will the attention help with the country's overtourism problem?
These Are Japan’s Best Onsen Areas For A Winter Getaway
Looking for a hot soak this winter in Japan? A new ranking finds the top onsen (hot springs) you should visit to stay warm.
What Are the Top Inconveniences for Tourists in Japan?
Japan is often touted as the land of convenience. But for tourists, when it comes to some key activities, the struggle is real.
Is 7-11 Becoming Japan’s Worst Combini?
7-11 Japan say a new discount campaign is winning back customers. But many say the chain's offerings are still a raw deal.
Why Is Osaka Expo a Bust With Japan’s Inbound Tourists?
The Osaka Expo takes place next year. But does anyone care? A lack of support has the event scrambling to raise awareness - and sell tickets.
Is Tokyo a Top Digital Nomad Destination for Winter?
Looking to work remotely as the winter trudges on? A new report names Tokyo as a prime location for digital nomads seeking an escape.
Is Tokyo a Top Digital Nomad Destination for Winter?
Looking to work remotely as the winter trudges on? A new report names Tokyo as a prime location for digital nomads seeking an escape.
Tourists Love Japan’s Toilets, Says New Survey
Foreign tourists are going wild for Japan's bidet-equipped toilets - and many are eager to see them in public spaces too.
Why Kyoto Tourists are Happily Paying $63 for Rice Bowls
Two-tier pricing is trending in Japan. Kyoto isn't immune, with some stores charging inbound travelers up to $63 for rice and fish.
What Are the Most Popular Restaurants in Shinjuku for Tourists?
Shinjuku's culinary scene is a magnet for tourists, but some eateries have truly captivated the hearts — and stomachs — of inbound travelers.
Japan’s New Entry System for Tourists (JESTA): What You Need to Know
Japan will introduce JESTA, a new tourist entry system, adding pre-screening requirements for visitors from many visa-exempt countries.
Check Out Japan’s Five Best-Hidden Travel Cities
Want to avoid the crowds on your Japan trip? One travel company recommends these five cities based on its data.
Will Japan Mandate Tourists To Travel With Tour Guides Soon?
Is your experience of Japan about to become a lot more regulated? A new proposal would require tourists in some cases to hire tour guides.
Japan’s Duty-Free System For Tourists Will Change to Refunds in November 2026
Japan's planning to change how tourists shop: the country's new duty-free laws will now require requesting a refund at the airport.
Masters of the Universe: Revelation (Episode 9) – Hope, For a Destination
Skeletor comes together with Adam and the others in an attempt to stop Evil-Lyn from destroying the universe. Meanwhile, Teela attempts to call all Eternians to arms. They’re…
Tourists Love Japan’s Shirakawago. But Is The Feeling Mutual?
Japan's Shirakawago is beloved by visitors. But the locale is suffering under the weight of age and disrespectful tourists.
Higher Tourist Taxes? Japan’s Travel Hot Spots Mull Increases
As some locales in Japan consider implementing a tourist tax, places such as Osaka are considering increasing - even doubling - them.
Are More Tourists Getting Defrauded in Japan?
More tourists to Japan report getting overcharged or just plain ripped off for goods and services. Here's how to avoid getting fleeced.
Are Japanese TV Interviews with Tourists Staged?
Why are "tourist on the street" interviews so abundant on Japanese TV? One local columnist takes these "staged" segments to task.
Japanese Service Makes Calling a Taxi Easier for Tourists
It's not always easy to grab a taxi in Japan as a visitor. Now, one company is making it easier for tourists to hail a ride.
Why Are Universal Studios Japan’s News A Big Deal?
USJ (Universal Studios Japan) took the world by surprise by announcing an expansion to its Super Nintendo World area. Super Nintendo World opened in early 2021 to much…
How Are Foreign Tourists Getting Japanese Driver’s Licenses?
Think you need a residence card to get a Japanese driver's license? Turns out you don't - you just need a piece of paper from a hotel.
Tourists are Spending More in Japan Than Ever
Tourism to Japan is almost back to its 2019 levels - but spending is through the roof, with travelers shelling out more than ever.
I’m Becoming A Streamer Bum
I’m congratulating myself for joining the convenient bunch. No habits stay the same. Sometimes you’re just not going to write something worth while, I’m having…
[ Twitch ] On Becoming a VTuber
Hi Everyone! Big News! (Or not really) I’ve had a twitch account for over a year, and I may have streamed once or twice just to try it…
Will Japan Start a “Two-Tier” Charging System for Tourists?
With tourists flooding into Japan and taking advantage of the country's weak currency, some say it's time to jack up prices for visitors.
Budget Travel Tips For Exploring Japan
Want to make the most out of your trip to Japan? Here are the best Japan budget travel tips from train passes, accommodations and more.
“Employee-San”: Why Japan’s Managers Are Shifting to Honorifics for Their Staff
Gone are the days of "chan" and "kun" in Japanese business. Recent research finds bosses are striking a more respectful tone.
70+ Cosplay Ideas for Long Hair
1. Astrid from How to Train Your Dragon 2. Catra from Shera 3. Chii from Chobits View this post on Instagram A post shared by Sara ✌︎('ω')✌︎ (@aima_cosplay)…
15+ Costume Ideas for Blue Hair
1. Aladdin from Magi 2. Eriol from Cardcaptor Sakura 3. Chrom from Fire Emblem Awakening 4. Franziska from Ace Attorney 5. Hades from Hercules 6. Iida from My…
An Awful Choice (For Hair Length)
4:51 - Ichi the Witch 70 16:12 - Blue Box 230 25:32 - Boruto: Two Blue Vortex 31 40:18 - Chainsaw Man 229 46:17 - Alien Headbutt 2 56:15 - Hima-Ten! 78 1:05:26 /…
Tourists Are Flocking to Japan – and Leaving Their Luggage
Tourists to Japan are leaving a lot behind - in some cases, including their broken luggage. One hotel found a neat solution to the problem.
The Shopping Destinations in Japan Tourists Are Loving Now
Tourists are spending more than ever in Japan. But where? Check out these popular shopping destinations on your next trip.
The Shopping Destinations in Japan Tourists Are Loving Now
Tourists are spending more than ever in Japan. But where? Check out these popular shopping destinations on your next trip.
Tourists in Hokkaido are Walking on Thin Ice (Literally)
More and more tourists to Japan are putting themselves in danger - this time, by literally walking out into the sea.
Japan Travel: Eight Outdated Myths That Are Rapidly Changing
Traveling to Japan? Chances are you've heard one of these eight "facts" about the country that are mostly wrong.
Top 10 Japan Travel Destinations For 2024
Ready to explore? Here are our top picks for Japan travel destinations for 2024. From seasonal blooms to healing hot spring waters and more.
When Will Japan Be Open For Travel?
With increasingly brutal restrictions on foreign expats living in Japan now lifted, just how long will an entry ban last on those wishing to visit Japan for tourism?
Top 10 Japan Travel Destinations For 2025
Ready to explore? Here are our top picks for Japan travel destinations for 2025. From seasonal blooms to healing hot spring waters and more.
Is Tokyo Really Best for Solo Travel?
A recent report declared Tokyo the best city for solo travelers and single living. But is that true? Our writer looks at the numbers.
Becoming a Heroine #01 — Yamming Out
The high point of the episode. Impressions: Is speaking nasally actually cute? Is this something that people really want? Listening to the protagonist shriek through the entire…
Yuru Camp△ 2.9: Destination Izu
The next arc has our heroines come together to prepare for a long overdue group camping trip to Izu.