Tokyo Train Etiquette: Rush Hour, Inemuri and the Rules That Keep a City Moving
Navigate Tokyo’s train system like a local. Discover the unwritten rules of rush hour etiquette, women-only cars, the last train (shuden) and inemuri.
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The Green Siren in Kawagoe: Reflections on Globalization and Identity
Explore a personal reflection on expat life in Tokyo, diving into the complex balance between globalization, commodification, and Western defaultism in Japan.
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Preserving Japan’s Three-Dimensional Arts: Hagoita, Edo Shishu and the Shamisen
Discover the master artisans preserving Japan’s endangered three-dimensional crafts, from Oshie Hagoita and Edo Shishu embroidery to the traditional Shamisen.
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The Beauty of Longevity: Care at the Keio University Center for Preventive Medicine
Discover optimal aging with the Keio University Center for Preventive Medicine in Tokyo. Explore English-friendly executive health checks in Azabudai Hills.
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Tochigi Women’s Prison Home to Japan’s Hidden Social Crises—and Pampered Inmates
Discover how Tochigi Women’s Prison has become a symbol of Japan’s aging crisis, where poverty and social isolation drive elderly women to seek refuge behind bars.
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Guide to the Best Japanese Gardens in Tokyo
Discover the best Japanese gardens in Tokyo. Escape the city’s hustle with our complete guide to historic, serene spots like Rikugi-en and Kiyosumi Gardens.
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Hibiya Music Festival: Checking in with Seiji Kameda
Discover the magic of the 2026 Hibiya Music Festival in Tokyo. Enjoy a free, “borderless” weekend of genre-spanning live performances from May 30-31.
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Edo Kiriko vs. Satsuma Kiriko: A Guide to Japanese Cut Glass Artistry and Tokyo Workshops
Discover the history and 5-step production of Edo Kiriko glassware. Compare Satsuma vs. Edo styles, explore traditional patterns, and find Tokyo workshops
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The Power of Japanese Fashion Around the World
Explore how Japanese fashion conquered the globe. From Harajuku subcultures to high-tech fabrics by Uniqlo and Issey Miyake, discover the trends today.
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Traditional Japanese Crafts in Tokyo: Kanzashi, Sashimono and Tenugui
Discover traditional Japanese crafts in Tokyo. Explore artisan workshops creating delicate Kanzashi, nail-free Sashimono, and Tenugui washcloths.
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Tokyo’s Top Gluten-Free Restaurants
Discover Tokyo’s top gluten-free restaurants. Find safe, celiac-friendly dining, bakeries and ramen across Shibuya, Roppongi and Setagaya.
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A Guide to Traditional Japanese Crafts: Tatami, Shoji, Washi and Fude Brushes
Discover Japan’s living arts. Find out where to buy authentic tatami mats, custom shoji screens, handmade washi paper, and artisan fude brushes.
