Digital Jan 13, 2022

Can the 'uncanny valley' help us in a future 'metaverse'?

The phenomenon of creepiness that comes with certain humanoid creations could work to defend us against the negative possibilities of a virtual world, scientists say.

Olympics Apr 26, 2020

Author of book on 1964 Olympics sees parallels in Tokyo 2020's struggles

Roy Tomizawa interviewed over 70 athletes from 16 nations in his quest to chronicle Japan's recovery through the lens of the first Tokyo Games.

National Apr 23, 2020

Japanese customs: A go-to guide in this brave new coronavirus world?

Some experts say the country's customs and social habits, such as wearing face masks during seasonal flu outbreaks, might play some role in hindering transmission of the virus.

National / Science & Health Jan 23, 2020

Orthodontist on mission to straighten Japanese teeth

Brace yourself. Orthodontist Yuki Miyajima believes that Japanese have long been too tolerant of the sometimes crooked ways of teeth. The good news? He says more and more Japanese are seeking out that winning smile achieved by straightening up — and can improve their health and ...

National Jan 12, 2020

Exograph home-watching project challenges the value of privacy

Some people will shudder at Hiroki Enno's idea of a "social experiment," yet he believes the project could someday benefit society as a whole. The 28-year-old CEO of Plasma Inc., a Tokyo-based IT company, is paying participants in exchange for allowing him to film their ...

Business Sep 3, 2019

Casino giants crank up PR to snag first Japanese resort licenses

Since the enactment of a law in July 2018 legalizing casino gambling in Japan, large resort operators from the United States have been boosting public relations efforts as they plan bids to enter the budding market. With the law set to allow up to three ...

Olympics Jul 17, 2019

Bolt expecting high-voltage games in Tokyo

Approaching one year to go until the Tokyo Olympics, double individual world record holder and now-retired Jamaican sprint legend Usain Bolt said he is thrilled to be coming to Japan for the sporting extravaganza, even if he is no longer considered "the fastest man ...

Issues | THE FOREIGN ELEMENT Jun 30, 2019

Welcome to Tokyo's 'Little Nepal': A microcosm of Japan's evolving identity

An area of Suginami Ward has attracted Nepali immigrants looking for good schooling, security and opportunity.

National May 9, 2019

Filipino student trio chart map to happy life in Japan

In navigating their way through Japan's often complex and confusing society, a group of Filipino international students formulated a road map for those who might choose to follow their path and want to spread the word. Through their activities at school and elsewhere, in connection ...

Business Mar 15, 2019

Kyoto startup aims to take bite out of bugs' 'ick factor' with cricket powder bars

Despite there being a long history of bug-eating in rural parts of Japan, for the average consumer nowadays stomaching creepy-crawlies is too much to ask. But like many edible insect ventures springing up overseas, one Kyoto startup has been bitten by the same bug and ...