A suit of samurai armor.

Samurai Armor Restored by Maltese Artisans for Osaka Expo

This unusual collaboration between Maltese conservators and Japanese cultural foundations reveals the quiet power of cross-cultural respect. Behind the steel plates and silk cords is a story of shared dedication that bridges continents, languages, and traditions.

A Showa era town in Japan.

Showa Era: Why Do People in Japan Still Love It?

The Showa era in Japan lasted from 1926 to 1989—more than six decades of history packed with change, resilience, and growth. Although it ended over thirty years ago, the Showa era is still everywhere in Japan today.

An "ojisan" or a middle-aged man, eating food with a woman on a park bench.

Ojisan Rental in Japan: An Unusual Service!

Japan is home to many innovative services. One is the “ossan rental,” through which people can “rent out” a middle-aged man to do various activities with them. Continue reading to learn more about why this business started, the person behind it, and how you can rent your ojisan in Japan.

An assortment of ramen from Kyushu.

Kyushu Ramen and Sushi: More Great Dishes!

Kyushu Island is located at the southwestern tip of Japan. It is one of Japan’s main islands, and contains seven prefectures: Fukuoka, Saga, Nagasaki, Kumamoto, Oita, Miyazaki, and Kagoshima. Kyushu ramen and sushi are famous across the country, but there are many other tasty dishes from the region. 

People rowing boats in Takachiho Gorge.

Takachiho Gorge and More Natural Wonders from Kyushu

Kyushu is the southernmost main island in the Japanese archipelago. It is most well-known for its food, but is less famous for its natural beauty. The island contains many landscapes, including serene waters, soothing hot springs, and dramatic rock formations like Takachiho Gorge.

A bowl of edamame, one of many healthy snacks from Japan.

Healthy Snacks From Japan: Six Awesome Foods to Try!

Healthy snacks from Japan are made with natural ingredients and just the right flavor, from crispy seaweed full of vitamins to crunchy beans and nuts that give you energy. These snacks are great for munching without feeling too heavy. Pickled vegetables help your gut stay healthy, and konnyaku (konjac plant jelly ) is soft, chewy, and almost has no calories. 

A wooden spoon full of green laver powder or aonori.

Aonori: Japan’s Unique Green Laver Seasoning

The ocean weed, aonori, may be simple in appearance, but its distinct properties set it apart from other “sea vegetables”. Unlike more bland ocean plants, its unique color, taste, smell, and texture are used to add flavor to foods. This makes it different from other seaweeds like wakame, which lack a strong flavor and aroma. 

A geigi (geisha) in full makeup in Niigata City.

Niigata City Geigi: The Geisha You May Not Know About!

Kyoto and Tokyo are famous for their geisha. But did you know that geisha also exist outside of these two areas? They cultivated their regional customs and styles far from the imperial capital. One such type of performer was the geigi of Niigata City. 

Baked bamboo shoots.

Bamboo Shoots: A Hidden Star in Japanese Meals

In spring, young bamboo shoots, also called takenoko, push through the soil, ready to be picked. Let’s look at how bamboo shoots fit into Japanese cooking and why they’re such a beloved ingredient!

Hakata Ward in Fukuoka City at night. There are tall skyscrapers.

Hakata: Fukuoka’s Amazing Gateway to History!

Hakata Ward sits along the eastern edge of Fukuoka City, facing the sea. Hakata’s coastal location has long been a key gateway for trade and cultural exchange in Japan’s history. It remains a central hub of the Kyushu region’s politics, economy, and tradition.