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.…
1. From Niche to Mainstream: The Industry’s Transformation In Japan, the “chat lady” (チャットレディ) industry began as a small segment of the online entertainment market in the early 2000s. Initially,…
In Japan, it’s not unusual to see office workers dozing off—on trains, in the office, or even during meetings. This isn’t necessarily a sign of laziness. Instead, it reflects deeper…
For decades, Pokémon has been a colorful, whimsical brand targeted primarily at children. The franchise’s appeal has been in its adorable creatures, engaging stories, and easy-to-learn games. Yet in recent…
In an unprecedented move, one of Japan’s largest newspaper publishers has taken legal action against a rising AI startup from the U.S. The case marks a turning point not just…
Japan remains one of the most popular destinations for aspiring English teachers. The country offers not only a stable job market for native and fluent speakers but also a fascinating…
Introduction: When Dialects Go MainstreamOnce considered markers of regional identity, certain words from the Kansai dialect (Kansaiben)—such as “めっちゃ” (meccha) and “しんどい” (shindoi)—have spread across Japan and become part of…
