All About Japan

Japan Considers State of Emergency for Tokyo

Japanese Prime Minister Suga Yoshihide says he is considering declaring a state of emergency over the coronavirus in Tokyo and three neighboring prefectures.

Buying Old Tokyo: Asakusa, Jinbocho and Nakano

Walk, shop, and explore three locales in Tokyo—Asakusa, Jinbocho, and Nakano—and immerse yourself in history and culture.

Tokyo Building Shaded by Hinoki Wood Curtain

Witness the cool and cooling wood-curtain collaboration made by the team of Tsukagoshi Miyashita Architects and structural engineer Yasuhiro Kaneda.

Train Station Now Playing Music from 'Totoro'

Fans of Studio Ghibli's film “My Neighbor Totoro” will immediately recognize this famous tune now playing at a Saitama train station.

Skytree Marks 100 Days to Olympic Torch Relay

The world's tallest tower, Tokyo Skytree, was lit up in pink gold on December 15 marking the start of a 100-day countdown until the Olympic Torch Relay.

App Improves Communication Hindered By Masks

An app is helping to facilitate communication in the new normal for the hearing impaired, the elderly, and people who speak different languages.

Crown Prince Next in Line of Succession

Emperor Naruhito proclaimed his younger brother, Crown Prince Fumihito, as the first in line to Japan’s Chrysanthemum Throne on November 8.

Tokyo Daily COVID Cases Reach Record High

The Tokyo Metropolitan Government reports a record daily high of 1,591 new cases of coronavirus infections and a total of 113 COVID-19 patients who are severely ill.

Imperial Bonsai Ready for New Year

Imperial Household Agency gardeners are preparing traditional potted plants that will be used as decoration in the New Year period.

See Ueno Subway Workers Install Platform Gates

For those subway train otaku curious about how Tokyo Metro installs its safety gates station platforms, we've got you covered!

UFOs in Japan: One Man’s Quest to Mount Takao

UFO sighting hotspots exist across the globe, and I’d long heard murmurs of such UFO sightings and other natural phenomena occurring at Japan’s Mount Takao, a small mountain located just outside of Tokyo.

Postponement of Olympics Costs ¥300 Billion

The postponement of the Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics by a year due to the coronavirus pandemic is expected to cost around ¥300 billion in additional expenses.

Japan Declares Second State of Emergency

Japan declares a state of emergency over the coronavirus for the second time, with the pronouncement covering Tokyo and three neighboring prefectures.

Experience the Great Outdoors in Gunma

Located in the center of Japan's main island, Gunma Prefecture is a paradise for outdoor lovers, with a variety of exciting seasonal activities to enjoy.

Tech That Measures Congestion in Indoor Areas

Officials tested a system at Tokyo Dome that uses state-of-the-art technology to measure congestion in indoor arenas.

Hayabusa2 Returns with Asteroid Samples

Japan’s Hayabusa2 space explorer brought 5.4 grams of substances believed to be from the asteroid Ryugu on a capsule that returned to Earth earlier this month.

Tokyo Reports Record High of COVID-19 Cases

Tokyo reports a record daily high 493 new confirmed cases of COVID-19 on November 18. The metropolitan government plans to raise its coronavirus alert to the highest level.

12 Best Delicacies of Nikko

Nikko also compliments its culture richness with delicacies that would give you the best experience. From their specialty Yuba to modern steaks, Nikko will surely satisfy your palette.

Now You Can Stay in Arata Endo's 1928 Villa

If you're a fan of the prairie-style architecture of Frank Lloyd Wright, you have to check out the works he inspired under the talented hands of Japanese architect Arata Endo. One villa in particular, just outside of Tokyo, is ready for short-term stays.

Gunma: A Cultural & Culinary Hotspot

Tucked away in central Japan, within a stone's throw of Tokyo, is Gunma Prefecture. This destination hosts a wealth of surprises; hot springs, and cultural and culinary experiences abound!

know-before-you-go