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What Does “Omoshiroi” (面白い) Mean in Japanese?

Have you ever encountered a word that seems to weave together a tapestry of meanings, each one shifting slightly depending on how it’s used? In Japanese, “Omoshiroi” (面白い) is one such word—a versatile adjective that can mean “interesting,” “funny,” “amusing,” or “enjoyable.” For English speakers who are just dipping their …

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Shocking Phone Scam in Japan: 66-Year-Old Loses ¥48.4 Million – How to Protect Yourself from Fraud

In a heartbreaking case that underscores the escalating threat of phone scams worldwide, a 66-year-old unemployed man from Kawaguchi City in Saitama Prefecture, Japan, fell victim to a sophisticated fraud scheme, losing a staggering ¥48.4 million (approximately $335,000 USD) over just two weeks. Announced by the Saitama Prefectural Police’s Bunan …

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Massive Bollard Thefts in Sendai Parks: Rising Metal Crimes Threaten Urban Safety in Japan

In the serene parks of Sendai, Japan—a city renowned for its lush greenery, historic sites, and vibrant festivals like the Tanabata Star Festival—a peculiar and alarming crime wave has emerged. Since June 2025, thieves have targeted metal bollards, those unassuming stainless steel posts designed to prevent vehicles from entering pedestrian …

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