Author: Devon Lord-Moncrief

The entrance to an ice hotel in Hokkaido.

Hokkaido on Map Spotlight: What is the Ice Hotel?

In Japan, few places capture winter like Hokkaido. It’s the country’s ultimate winter destination, full of fun and frosty things to do. This year, though, there’s something extra special for visitors. Instead of a cozy cabin, why not spend the night in a hotel made entirely of ice? That’s right—Hokkaido is now on the map, with a brand-new ice hotel that’s the talk of the season!

People using umbrellas as they walk through the snow in Japan.

Snow in Japan: What Happened During the Most Recent Blizzard?

Winter may be one of the most exciting and fun times of the year, but like all weather, it can be dangerous and unpredictable. This current winter snow in Japan has been particularly dangerous for citizens across the northern prefectures.

The inside of Ueno Station.

Ueno Station Recently Restored an Important Mural

A perfect example of Japan’s love for color and art can be found at JR Ueno Station in Tokyo. For decades, a large mural has graced a wall in the train station, bringing light and joy to countless people. In a moment of profound positivity and progress, much-needed restorations to the mural are nearly complete!

The main character of Silent Hill F holding a sword as she enters a temple.

Silent Hill F and Its Relation to Shintoism

Konami’s Silent Hill series is considered to be one of the greatest and most influential horror franchises in all of gaming, and for good reason. Foregoing typical thrills and explosive action, Silent Hill has established itself as a deeply psychological horror experience.

The Fudodo Ruins from ancient Japan.

Ancient Japan: An In-Depth Guide to the History of Wa

Wa, Japan’s ancient name, is one of the most interesting and pivotal moments in its history. More turbulent periods, such as the Sengoku era (15th-16th centuries), have become immortalized in popular media, but the history of ancient Japan are often unknown to many. 

A bunch of hanafuda cards arranged on a grid.

The Rules of Hanafuda: Everything You Need to Know!

One of the oldest and most popular card games in Japan is hanafuda. People still play it today. Hanafuda is a matching game featuring cards with beautiful artwork. Today, we’ll explore this classic game. It is for anyone who has never heard of the game and those who want to play.

Yoko Shimomura, a composer, performing at the piano during a concert.

Yoko Shimomura Wins Prestigious BAFTA Award

The music of Yoko Shimomura, one of the most accomplished composers in video game history, has touched, moved, and inspired countless people. Earlier this year, she was granted the illustrious BAFTA Award, a testament to her skill and legacy as a composer. Let’s look closer at her career and why she is so influential.

Akira Kurosawa on set.

Akira Kurosawa, the Legendary Film Director from Japan

For film lovers worldwide, Akira Kurosawa (1910-1998)  is a name that will forever be held in honor and the utmost respect. Arguably the greatest Japanese filmmaker to have lived, Kurosawa was more than just a popular director; he was the driving force that helped open the Western world to Japanese filmmaking. 

Overtourism in Osaka.

Overtourism in Japan: Why Is It an Issue?

Traveling abroad, despite issues like overtourism, remains an exciting adventure. Visiting Japan is a dream for many, particularly fans of anime, video games, history, and landscapes. However, the rising number of tourists has caused some locals to be concerned. Let’s look at this phenomenon and how it affects people today.