
Shirakawa Gifu: Striking the Right Balance with Overtourism
With its many treasured landmarks, Japan has the opportunity to set an example for the world in managing tourism thoughtfully and respectfully.

Rice in Japan: Why Are the Prices So High?
In Japan, rice is more than just food; it represents culture, tradition, and everyday life. Rice has been a key part of Japanese meals and celebrations for hundreds of years. It is important in matsuri (festivals), rituals, and daily dinners. But lately, many people in Japan have faced a big problem: rising rice prices.

Japanese Poetry: A Look at the Art of Words
Japanese poetry has enchanted readers for centuries with its elegance, emotional depth, and vivid imagery. Whether carved into wooden tablets or passed down through song, poetry has always played an important role in Japan’s cultural history.

Okinawa Diet and Lifestyle: Why Is It So Effective?
Okinawa Island is a group of tropical islands in the south of Japan. It’s known for its beaches, culture, and how long people live there. Many people in Okinawa live to be over 100 years old! That’s why it’s called one of the world’s Blue Zones, where people live much longer and healthier lives than most.

Samurai Armor Restored by Maltese Artisans for Osaka Expo
This unusual collaboration between Maltese conservators and Japanese cultural foundations reveals the quiet power of cross-cultural respect. Behind the steel plates and silk cords is a story of shared dedication that bridges continents, languages, and traditions.

Showa Era: Why Do People in Japan Still Love It?
The Showa era in Japan lasted from 1926 to 1989—more than six decades of history packed with change, resilience, and growth. Although it ended over thirty years ago, the Showa era is still everywhere in Japan today.

Ojisan Rental in Japan: An Unusual Service!
Japan is home to many innovative services. One is the “ossan rental,” through which people can “rent out” a middle-aged man to do various activities with them. Continue reading to learn more about why this business started, the person behind it, and how you can rent your ojisan in Japan.

Soroban: Why the Japanese Abacus Still Matters Today!
Soroban math is a clever way of learning used in many countries, especially Japan. It’s fun, hands-on, and helps kids build strong thinking skills.

Kyushu Ramen and Sushi: More Great Dishes!
Kyushu Island is located at the southwestern tip of Japan. It is one of Japan’s main islands, and contains seven prefectures: Fukuoka, Saga, Nagasaki, Kumamoto, Oita, Miyazaki, and Kagoshima. Kyushu ramen and sushi are famous across the country, but there are many other tasty dishes from the region.

Takachiho Gorge and More Natural Wonders from Kyushu
Kyushu is the southernmost main island in the Japanese archipelago. It is most well-known for its food, but is less famous for its natural beauty. The island contains many landscapes, including serene waters, soothing hot springs, and dramatic rock formations like Takachiho Gorge.

Japanese Coffee and Matcha: What’s the Difference?
Regarding traditional Japanese beverages, matcha (Japanese green tea) often takes center stage. Its vibrant green hue and deep, earthy flavor make matcha instantly recognizable.

Healthy Snacks From Japan: Six Awesome Foods to Try!
Healthy snacks from Japan are made with natural ingredients and just the right flavor, from crispy seaweed full of vitamins to crunchy beans and nuts that give you energy. These snacks are great for munching without feeling too heavy. Pickled vegetables help your gut stay healthy, and konnyaku (konjac plant jelly ) is soft, chewy, and almost has no calories.