Onoe Kikugoro VII (fka Onoe Kikunosuke V) pictured with his wife, father and grandfather.

Kabuki Actor in Tokyo Has a Legendary Name Change

In the world of kabuki, a new name is not a departure. It’s a sign of mastery, legacy, and belonging. These names are carefully passed down through generations, carrying centuries of tradition.

A bowl of rice in Japan surrounded by calculator, shopping cart and money.

Rice in Japan: Why Are the Prices So High?

In Japan, rice is more than just food; it represents culture, tradition, and everyday life. Rice has been a key part of Japanese meals and celebrations for hundreds of years. It is important in matsuri (festivals), rituals, and daily dinners. But lately, many people in Japan have faced a big problem: rising rice prices. 

A low table in front of a scroll of Japanese poetry.

Japanese Poetry: A Look at the Art of Words

Japanese poetry has enchanted readers for centuries with its elegance, emotional depth, and vivid imagery. Whether carved into wooden tablets or passed down through song, poetry has always played an important role in Japan’s cultural history.

A bowl of rafute (braised pork) soba, a major dish in the Okinawa diet.

Okinawa Diet and Lifestyle: Why Is It So Effective?

Okinawa Island is a group of tropical islands in the south of Japan. It’s known for its beaches, culture, and how long people live there. Many people in Okinawa live to be over 100 years old! That’s why it’s called one of the world’s Blue Zones, where people live much longer and healthier lives than most.

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.