In our hyper-connected society, contactless IC passes like Suica, PASMO, and other FeliCa-based cards have become more than just convenient – they’re essential. Tap to ride, tap to pay –…
Life’s burdens are seldom chosen—but sometimes, they’re impossible to set down. This is the story of Rika Matsumoto (松本麗華), the daughter of Shoko Asahara (real name: Chizuo Matsumoto, 松本智津夫), the…
Introduction The Japanese film Kokuhō (“National Treasure”) has been selected as Japan’s official entry for the Academy Award for Best International Feature Film. This decision positions it among the most…
Tokyo Disney Resort’s annual Disney Halloween event is always a highlight of the fall season—vibrant parades, spooky-cute décor, themed menus, and, of course, cosplay! If you’re planning to dress up…
Japanese politics has long been seen as insular, traditional, and overwhelmingly male. Yet one figure stands out for defying expectations: Kimii Onoda, a conservative politician born in the United States…
In recent years, one Japanese local politician has drawn outsized attention—often dubbed the “Joker councillor,” he has earned a notoriety that few municipal lawmakers ever do. But why has he…
A Journey Shaped by Dual Heritage, Resilience, and Advocacy Introduction Okinawa’s political stage witnessed an extraordinary figure rise—a man who embodies the complex history of Okinawa as a host to…
In Japan, baseball has long been synonymous with free-to-air television. Whether catching Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) or international events like the World Baseball Classic (WBC), the sight of TV sets…
Introduction Halloween in Japan has transformed from a niche cultural import into a nationwide phenomenon—not just for kids in costumes, but also for adults, theme parks, hotels, and local communities.…
A Sudden Retraction On August 22, Nigeria’s presidential office released a statement declaring that Japan would establish a special visa program for highly skilled Nigerian youth, allowing them opportunities to…
