When I ponder how the so-called “Ugly Japanese” generation—sometimes labeled as “Japanese Locusts”—feels about today’s overtourism in Japan, several threads emerge: nostalgia, awareness, and a wry sense of justice. Let…
The recent launch of the Pokémon-themed Happy Meal in Japan generated unprecedented excitement—and unexpected chaos. Here’s what unfolded, what McDonald’s officially announced in their August 11 statement (“Important Notice on…
In Japan, saying “no” directly can feel too blunt or confrontational. Instead, people often rely on indirect refusal expressions—phrases that soften the rejection and keep social harmony intact. These phrases…
In-Depth Analysis of the Business-Manager Visa Capital Requirement Increase For years, the Business-Manager (経営・管理) visa in Japan has been seen by some as a relatively straightforward pathway to long-term residence.…
For decades, Japan’s tax-free shopping system has been one of the country’s most attractive perks for overseas visitors. By presenting a passport at designated stores, foreign tourists have been able…
In Japan, the term “3K” is widely used to describe jobs that are considered undesirable because they are kitsui (きつい: tough), kitanai (汚い: dirty), and kiken (危険: dangerous).This phrase became…
Self-checkout lanes have rapidly become a fixture in Japanese supermarkets. While they offer undeniable convenience and reduce staffing pressures, they’ve also become a playground for increasingly refined shoplifting techniques. From…
Japan’s fruit prices often surprise visitors—and sometimes even locals. The reasons go far beyond market quirks. From small-scale farms to premium gifting traditions, the high cost of fruit is rooted…
Rail photography, or “toritetsu,” may sound like a harmless and wholesome hobby. Yet in recent years, it has become a growing social problem in Japan. While most train enthusiasts enjoy…
Japanese convenience stores—or konbini—continue to expand, even as many other retail and dining sectors face contraction. From bustling city corners to rural crossroads, they are not only surviving but thriving.…
