Shiv Kumar (left) and Nirmal Singh say they are learning a lot about living and thriving in Japan while taking part in the Technical Intern Trainee Program. Their case, however, seems to be an exception to the norm.
Beating the odds on Japan's controversial foreign trainee program
Nirmal Singh and Shiv Kumar beat the odds on the Technical Intern Training Program, but luck shouldn't play such a key role in a government initiative.
Tokyo now boasts five different Quidditch teams, while universities in Osaka and Kyoto also play host to their own clubs.
'Accio broomstick!' Quidditch is back and open to everyone
From relatively humble beginnings, Quidditch has continued to grow in popularity across Japan.
Over four days in September, Japan Soca Weekend brought together the Tokyo area's Caribbean community for dance parties, outdoor blowouts and a crowning Carnival festival on a racetrack in Chiba.
COMMUNITY / Issues
Oct 10, 2023
‘Peak happiness’ at the first Japan Caribbean Carnival
For Japan’s Caribbean community, Carnival provides a deep sense of community and offers a cure for homesickness.
A major bonus of the Japan Exchange and Teaching (JET) Programme is the time it offers you to be able to plan for long-term goals. Writer Erik M. Jacobs was able to map out what he needed to pursue a career in U.S.-Japan relations, for example.
COMMUNITY / Issues / Learning Curve
Aug 8, 2023
Every situation is different on JET, but they're all similarly rewarding
As a new wave of JET Program participants arrives in the country, a program alumni shares tips on getting the most out of the experience.
Ryuzaburo Mizuno, who was born in Brazil seven years after the Great Kanto Earthquake, holds a photo of his family.
COMMUNITY / Issues
Aug 7, 2023
A diaspora remembers the disaster that forged it
There is a significant Brazilian community in Japan, but 100 years ago a major disaster spurred the growth of a Japanese community in Brazil.
A man sits on his own at a taco stand on Kokusai Street in Naha.
COMMUNITY / Issues
Jul 2, 2023
Peacemaking of a different sort in Okinawa
Through therapy and community outreach, counseling service TELL draws on the personal experiences of its clinicians and support workers to help various communities in Okinawa.
Japan Times
COMMUNITY / Issues
Jun 8, 2023
Amnesty International Japan wants your help in supporting human rights
Looking to test your knowledge, get out the house and do good for charity? Amnesty"s pub quiz nights are back and a fun way to raise funds.

Longform

A statue of "Dragon Ball" character Goku stands outside the offices of Bandai Namco in Tokyo. The figure is now as recognizable as such characters as Mickey Mouse and Spider-Man.
Akira Toriyama's gift to the world