Why Do So Few Japanese People Hold Passports? Unpacking the Low Ownership Rate and Its Broader Implications In an era of globalization where international travel has become a staple for many, Japan stands out as an anomaly. Despite boasting one of the world’s most powerful passports—ranked second globally for visa-free …

In a move that highlights the ongoing challenges of limited-edition promotions in the fast-food industry, McDonald’s Japan has announced stringent new measures to curb resale activities and customer disruptions tied to its popular Happy Meal Pokémon card campaign. The initiative, originally slated for a three-day run from August 9 to …

In the fast-paced world of fast food promotions, McDonald’s Happy Meals have long been a staple for families, offering affordable meals bundled with fun toys or collectibles. However, recent collaborations, particularly those involving high-demand items like Pokémon cards, have sparked widespread controversy. What was intended as a delightful treat for …

In the world of Japanese music, few artists have captured hearts quite like Aimyon. The 30-year-old singer-songwriter, known for her raw, emotive lyrics and folksy rock style, has built a massive following with hits like “Marigold” and “Haru no Hi” (Spring Day). Her music often explores themes of love, loss, …

The 72nd Yosakoi Festival burst into life on August 10, 2025, in Kochi City, Japan, turning the streets into a whirlwind of color, music, and rhythmic energy. Spread across 16 vibrant venues throughout the city, the first official day of performances featured 188 teams—120 from within Kochi Prefecture and 68 …

In the heart of Japan’s summer season, the island of Kyushu has been battered by relentless heavy rainfall, triggering widespread flooding, landslides, and emergency evacuations. As of August 11, 2025, the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) has issued its highest-level special heavy rain warnings for several areas in Kumamoto Prefecture, including …

When you search for “nothing in Japanese” on Google, you might expect a simple translation—something quick and straightforward. But Japanese, with its rich linguistic and cultural layers, offers more than just one word for “nothing.” Whether you’re a beginner learning Japanese, planning a trip to Japan, or just curious about …

Heavy Rain Alert in Kyushu, Japan: Record-Breaking Downpours, Landslide Risks, and What It Means for the Region As of August 11, 2025, Japan’s southern island of Kyushu is under a severe weather alert due to relentless heavy rain caused by linear precipitation bands. This phenomenon has already dumped over 400 …

In Japan, spotting a detached home with a swimming pool is a rare sight. Unlike in some countries where pools are a common backyard feature, a mix of practical, economic, and cultural factors makes them uncommon here. From limited land to high costs, unique climate challenges, deep-rooted traditions, and everyday …

If you’ve ever visited Japan, particularly bustling cities like Tokyo, Osaka, or Nagoya, one sight might have caught you off guard: commuters dozing off on trains, heads bobbing gently with the rhythm of the rails, even during rush hour. This isn’t just an occasional occurrence—it’s a daily ritual for many. …