All About Japan

Japanese Pedal... er, Petal Power in São Paulo

30 bicycles, covered in colorful flowers, hit the streets of Brazil's São Paulo to celebrate both nature and the Japanese people who settled there a century ago.

Sexual Health in Japan

One of the many taboos in Japan is discussing sex and sexual health in an open and proactive way. However, should you end up living or working here, it's important to know what resources are available to keep you healthy and happy.

LGBT+ Groups & Activities in Japan

As visibility for the LGBT+ community is increasingly growing around Japan, so are the number of groups that promote awareness. If you're looking to get involved, here's a great list of groups to get in touch with.

Radio Ghibli Perfect for Ghibli Music Fanatics

Get ready for hours of scenes, songs and memories that tantalize your ears as you listen to iconic songs from Ghibli movie classics!

6 Shipping Companies That'll Make Life Easier

When you first arrive in Japan with all your luggage, it may be tempting to travel around carrying around all your things with you wherever you go. But check out these alternatives to help you travel light and make the best of your trip here!

Touching Tribute to Station Master's Last Day

This heartwarming video captures the emotion of the last day of work for a Japanese rail station employee.

Never Get Lost in Shinjuku Station Again!

Stroll—or rather scroll—your way through two of the world's busiest stations.

Get Back to Nature in Your Own Kengo Kuma Home

If you never thought you could afford a home designed by architect Kengo Kuma, think again! Now you can get your very own Kuma-designed, nature-inspired trailer home!

Fab Five Cafés with Free Wi-Fi

Compared to other major cities around the world, it's not easy to find quality cafés with good food, drinks, atmosphere and free Wi-Fi in Tokyo. For the discerning customer with internet needs, these five hot spots are handpicked just for you!

How to Read 1 Character 5 Different Ways

This one simple Japanese sentence contains five different pronunciations for one 'kanji' character. Can you pronounce them all?

The Eccentric Artwork of Kawanabe Kyosai

Nothing was off limits for this eccentric 19th century Japanese artist, including cute cats, landscapes, the occult and eroticism.

Posh Japan Train Travels to Try Before You Die

If you think cross-country train rides only offer magnificent views, think again. Japan, teeming with glorious natural wonders, has made moving from one prefecture to another a luxurious experience you'll never forget!

Unique Vending Machine Selling Awesome Origami

Are you all thumbs when it comes to making your own origami? Then jet off to Ehime and purchase some uniquely designed animals and objects for less than ¥50!

Get a Bird's-Eye View of Arboreal Architecture

Tokyo-based studio Assistant created a home among the trees of Karuizawa that incorporates the beauty of nature, inside and out.

EMA: Leading the Fight for Marriage Equality

Founded in 2014, EMA Japan has been one of the driving forces striving to bring about equal rights to same-sex couples. Learn all about this intrepid group and how they are working to ensure marriage equality for all members of the LGBT+ community.

Venture out to the LGBT-Friendly City of Osaka

It's well known that opinions about same-sex marriage and rights are still divided in Japan. But Osaka seems to be ahead of the curve.

How to Draw Intimate 'Boys Love' Scenes

From hugs to piggybacks and intimate kisses, this reference manual is filled with romantic male-on-male BL scenarios.

Modern-Day Demon Invades Akihabara

In Japanese folklore there exists a traditional beast-like deity called the Namahage. Inspired by this tradition, media artist Etsuko Ichihara created a modern-day version of the Namahage specifically for Tokyo.

Muji's Keeping Housing Simple

The long-awaited release of the Muji Hut has finally arrived, and the first lots for sale come complete with a garden.

Inside the Secret World of Japan's LGBT+ Slang

Around the world, every language and culture has evolved to add jargon relating to the LGBT+ community, and Japan has its own words too. We'll teach you a few terms you may hear around the country—if you're listening carefully.

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