Life imitates Osaka’s unique brand of comedic art in daylight theft arrest

Never accept offers to race from strangers. Among Japanese prefectures, Osaka is especially famous for its comedy, as seen in its manzai duos and skits known as “shinkigeki.” These are much like... Read more »

The Perfect Karuizawa Day Trip from Tokyo: A Complete Itinerary

When summer hits Tokyo, the heat and humidity can make even a short walk feel exhausting. That’s why so many people head for the mountains — and one of the most beloved... Read more »

Things To Do in Kiyosumi-Shirakawa: The Essential One-Day Itinerary

Kiyosumi-Shirakawa, in eastern Tokyo’s Koto ward, has transformed from a quiet riverside neighborhood of warehouses into one of the city’s coolest cultural pockets. The mix of wide canals, old architecture and converted... Read more »

Is KFC Japan’s new Triple Tsukimi Moon Viewing Burger really as big as it looks?

Putting a new burger to the test, in the Mr Sato way.  It’s that time of year again, when KFC releases its ever-popular tsukimi (“moon-viewing“) collection to celebrate the autumn tradition of... Read more »

The Ultimate Koi Appreciation Guide

Image Credit: EyeEm Mobile GmbH Once you get to know them, it’s easy to see why people treat koi like royalty. These fish can live up to 200 years and are bred... Read more »

What It’s Like To Be a Foreign Manga Artist Working in Japan

Manga is a key part of Japanese culture that the country takes a great amount of pride in. In Japanese schools, it’s common to see students doodling manga characters in the corners... Read more »

Unforgettable Autumn Festivals in Japan Worth Visiting This Fall

Most people associate festivals in Japan with summer. In Tokyo alone, there is an incredible collection of traditional parades and firework displays to admire across June, July and August. But unbeknownst to... Read more »

Train photographers caught shoplifting scores of items from Osaka Expo gift shops

Suspects also ironically ripped off train companies to do it. Although Japan is a fairly safe country, there exist certain criminal elements who engage in violent acts, destruction of property, thievery, and... Read more »

Japanese online flea market app bans the sale of ultrasound photos

But what am I supposed to do with all these prenatal photos of my kids cluttering up the house? It’s always amazing what you can find on Japan’s leading flea market app... Read more »

Are bridges near you safe? This MRI-like scan may prevent disaster

Suyun Ham can’t take his eyes off a scanner. “Lower the sensors a little bit more,” Ham urges an assistant. Then a barrage of data floods in, filling computer screens for a... Read more »