Food & Drink May 15, 2021

Japan’s growing cider industry presses on through adversity

Bars, breweries and even a bilingual magazine are helping the apple-based beverage find a new, appreciative audience across the country.

Food & Drink Apr 24, 2021

The time is ripe to bring hops back to Yamanashi

Dave Prucha is bringing domestic hop production, perfect for use at craft beer microbreweries, to his Obina Hops farm.

Our Lives Mar 22, 2021

Martin Holman: A pioneer in Japan's puppet theater tradition

Martin Holman knew early on that he had a passion for puppets. What he didn't know, however, is just how far that passion would take him.

People | 20 QUESTIONS Mar 9, 2021

Hiroko Ito: ‘When disaster strikes, secure your own safety first of all’

Hiroko Ito is a specialist in disaster management, and has also helped launch Kyushu’s first Mobile Pharmacy service.

Lifestyle Feb 27, 2021

A childhood tradition makes a comeback with yusanbako

Three-tiered lacquered wooden lunch boxes, which originated in Tokushima Prefecture during the late Edo Period (1603-1868), are having a revival thanks to a trio of collaborators.

People | 20 QUESTIONS Jan 23, 2021

Gizem Sakamaki: 'I’m finding a lot of joy in sharing Japan and its hidden gems with a global audience'

A self-described "multipassionate" entrepreneur, Gizem Sakamaki's main source of joy is a sustainable food culture.

Lifestyle Jan 3, 2021

Coming of age in Japan during COVID-19

This year’s new adults are on the precipice of missing out on their seijinshiki, a time-honored tradition noted for its formality and formalwear.

Food & Drink Jan 2, 2021

Have you ever heard of the ‘three great noodles of Morioka’?

Known collectively as the “Morioka sandaimen,” each dish features a noodle with distinct cultural roots.

Lifestyle Dec 23, 2020

Need to get a PCR test? Here’s what to expect from Japan’s new low-cost testing facilities.

With COVID-19 entrenched in daily life, people are more open about testing and the private sector is stepping in to expand testing options.

Lifestyle Dec 13, 2020

Japan’s year-end cleaning tradition is doubly important in 2020

Experts offer practical advice to make sure your house is tidy and safe for everyone spending the holidays inside.