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8 Things Office Workers Didn't Miss in 2020
A recent survey by the Japanese Internet portal Biglobe asked Japanese workers, many of whom have transitioned to telecommuting, what they don’t miss about their old workdays. Here are the Top 8 responses.
Hibiki Whiskey Gets New Cherry Blossom Blend
Some good news for those of us getting through 2021 at home with a stiff drink in hand: Hibiki is coming out with some new whiskey blends, including one made in cherry blossom barrels!
Japan's 'Word of the Year' for 2020 Released
Learning Japanese Deeper Japan
Dictionary company Sanseido had a lot of strong contenders for its annual Word of the Year contest, as a lot of new words sprung up into everyday conversation like "lockdown" and "social distance." But, the chosen word for 2020 was still a big surprise!
The Lockup Is Back with Eerie Winter Dishes
The Lockup, like many eateries, shut down due to Covid-19. However, the Tokyo Kabukicho location reopened on July 1. Since then, they’ve been working hard on some special new dishes for the winter season. Put on your handcuffs and let's take a look.
2020's Kanji of the Year Revealed
Learning Japanese Life in Japan
As he does every December 12, the head abbot of Kiyomizudera Temple took his usual place in front of a blank board on the site’s famous balcony, raised a large brush, and began the strokes that revealed the top character for 2020.
Robo-Scorpion Chair Perfect for Villain Lair
If you’re going to be spending several hours a day at your computer, aesthetics are important in keeping your wellness level up. And if that aesthetic is "techno arachnid super-villain," then there’s really only one sensible furniture choice.
Bodybuilder Muscling His Way into Stock Photos
Muscle Plus wants to be your source for muscular images. Because if no one else was going to provide them, well-known bodybuilder Akihito Ohara figured it was up to him.
Ex-SMAP Star Plays Trans Role in New Trailer
After releasing a very lengthy trailer, upcoming film Midnight Swan has the internet abuzz with discussions about the theme of the movie—notably former SMAP member Tsuyoshi Kusanagi playing a trans woman—as well as the length of the trailer itself.
Not All Use Chopsticks the 'Traditional' Way
As a society that thinks thoroughly about etiquette, there is, of course, a prescribed way to hold chopsticks. But, the vocabulary around the method being "correct" is being slowly changed to be called the traditional way, as we learn in this video.
Ready for Burger King's Maximum Challenge?
Are you ready for Japan's latest carnivore craze? The limited-time all-you-can-eat event from Burger King is coming September 18-22. And we have the details.
Mizuno & Pokémon Team Up to Make Pokégear IRL
Pokémon worked with Mizuno to bring a line of snappy sportswear and accessories to be sold exclusively at their Pokémon Center outlets and select Mizuno branches.
Next Meats Are Taking the Niku out of Yakiniku
These days, you can enjoy many meat-free meals if you know where to look, but there’s one dish that has yet to made vegan-friendly. Until now!
Did Rick & Morty Confirm Fan Theory in Tokyo?
The two popular animated characters make a trip to Japan in a special episode, which includes a bombshell revelation for fans!
Ghibli Now Delivering Kiki's Dress
Official dresses approved by the Studio Ghibli team bring anime heroine vibes to your wardrobe.
More Foreign Than Japanese Residents in 2019
The Tokyo area welcomed more new foreign residents than Japanese citizens last year, marking the first time for the foreign population to increase faster than the Japanese one for the area since the ministry began separating such demographic data in 2012.
Experience the 'Heartbeat' of Japan in Gifu
This breathtaking new promotional video of Japan's heartland, Gifu, highlights the sights and traditions of this under-visited prefecture, all from the comfort of your own home!
Akihabara Landmark Sega Arcade Closing
Electric Town says goodbye to Sega Building 2, an arcade that has been a landmark of the area for 17 years.
Hop on the Trolly with JR Shinkansen Undies
This shinkansen underwear lets you show (or hide) your love of Japan’s iconic, super fast trains.
Why Be Just a Snack When You Can Be Dessert?
Some days you want the soothing scent of incense to dispel the musty air of your home. Other days maybe you'd prefer to smell like an éclair instead of freshly picked flowers. Thankfully, Japanese cosmetics company Kobe Bijinnuuka has got you covered.
Gimme a Break... & a Beer!
In Japan, you can find Kit Kats for a number of different occasions. We’ve seen special versions for when you want to do some baking, pass an important test, and help disaster victims, and now comes a special type of Kit Kat for when you want a cold beer.
