For Custom Fabric Colors, Go to Sumida-ku
Handicrafts Local Creators' Market
Place an order with a swatch or color chip, and shops in this Tokyo district will delve into a formidable databank of colors amassed over the history of the craft to instantly dye your fabric to the exact color of the sample.
The Weird Art of Everyday Life
This Japanese artist uses their keen photographic eye to capture strange, intimate moments of everyday life found on city streets.
Say Hello to the Hello Kitty Bullet Train!
This summer, Hello Kitty wants to welcome you onboard her very own high-speed train!
The Hand-Dyeing Specialists of Sumida-ku
Handicrafts Local Creators' Market
If you're looking for custom, hand-dyed fabrics, these three specialists in Sumida-ku, Tokyo, are dyeing to set you up!
The Incredible History of Nintendo Explained
Thanks to traditional Japanese playing cards, the Japanese mafia and an extendable toy claw, this company transformed itself into one of the most iconic gaming brands in Japan.
Cool Off in Summer with Ghibli Folding Fans
Studio Ghibli fans can now beat the heat with fans styled after their favorite characters!
Taking Denim Beyond the Jean Jacket
Local Creators' Market Hiroshima
Hiroshima is known for its denim. But the denim being made here may not be the kind of denim you know!
CoMix Wave Films Unveils its Newest Movie
After lovingly dramatic portrayals of Tokyo and Gifu in the hit anime movie, 'Your Name,' this anime studio applies its glisteningly gorgeous talents to another country.
Lovebites Nominated at London Metal Awards
Power-metal quintet Lovebites have been nominated for Best New Band at London's annual Metal Hammer Golden God Awards. Go vote!
Japan's 5 Most Trusted Fast-Fashion Brands
Where do you go for fast fashion in Japan? Start with one of these five chains, ranked as the nation's most trusted brands in a survey of over 120,000 consumers!
Wagakki Band Unveils New Music Video & Album
Wagakki Band has unveiled their 'Sasameyuki' music video, along with teasers from their upcoming fifth album, 'Otone.'
Wanted: Professional Cosplayers
Dwango, the operators of Japan’s Nico Nico Douga streaming service, want to connect passionate cosplayers with paying jobs.
Endless Design Possibilities: Fukuyama Denim
Local Creators' Market Hiroshima
Specialists in every step of denim manufacture—spinning, dyeing, weaving, washing—abound in Fukuyama, a leading producer of denim in Japan. The locale is a driving force behind the worldwide appeal of Japanese denim.
Band-Maid Goes 'Band-Maiko' for April Fool's
Band-Maid mixes shamisen with thrash guitar for this special April Fool's release—and the result is kinda awesome!
'Cowboy Bebop' Café Coming to Tokyo & Osaka
Starting in May, Space Cowboys can visit an eatery dedicated to the smash-hit anime 'Cowboy Bebop' in two major Japanese cities!
'Manifest 99' Rattles into Japan
The award-winning 'Manifest 99,' an ominous and eerie story set on a train inhabited by a murder of crows, is about finding redemption in the afterlife—and is now available in Japan!
Smell Sweet Thanks to Kiki & Her Cat Jiji
Studio Ghibli enters the perfume game with the launch of its 'Kiki’s Delivery Service' body mist line.
Answers to Common Questions for First-Timers
First Time in Japan Life in Japan
Ever wondered about vending machines or all the cute characters on signage in Japan? What's up with capsule toys? Tokyo Girls' Update has some insight into simple aspects of Japanese life that can surprise first-time visitors.
Discover Another Side of Ikebukuro
Ikebukuro is often overlooked by tourists when exploring Tokyo's many neighborhoods. But with tons of shopping, temples and shrines, fun activities for the whole family and more, Ikebukuro is a great add to any Tokyo itinerary.
