Music Jan 14, 2021

What does 2021 have in store for J-pop?

While K-pop and TikTok will sway trends in the music industry, rock looks set to be Japan's best chance at producing global hits.

Food & Drink | KONBINI WATCH Jan 10, 2021

FamilyMart spices up the classic Famichiki

This mala-spiced snack is the perfect tongue-tingling pick-me-up.

Food & Drink | DESSERT WATCH Jan 4, 2021

Streetwear meets sandwich cookies in this sugary, luxe collab

Fashion brand Wind And Sea has collaborated with pastry creator Pierre Herme for a particularly tasty drop.

Food & Drink | KONBINI WATCH Dec 26, 2020

Have a sweet, strawberry end to 2020

Need an alternative to the typical Christmas cake? Give these two colorful convenience store desserts a try.

Culture Dec 24, 2020

Collapse, isolate, adjust and rebuild: How Japanese pop culture fared in the pandemic of 2020

Japan began 2020 with Olympic glory in its sights, with artists and musicians ready to take the spotlight. Then, the pandemic hit and pushed things in a much-needed direction.

DEEP DIVE / RECULTURED Dec 21, 2020

How has COVID-19 changed Japan's pop culture? Episode 1: Collapse

In Episode 1 of Recultured, we look at how 2020 ground to a halt through the lens of "Terrace House," and hear from stars of the show about its dramatic ending amid the arrival of COVID-19. Guests: Aya Nogami, international music consultant: LinkedIn Eric Margolis, Japan ...

Food & Drink | DESSERT WATCH Dec 19, 2020

Take 2021 by the horns with sweets fit for the Year of the Ox

More than over the Year of the Rat? Moo-ve into 2021 with these cow-themed cupcakes from Fairycake Fair.

Food & Drink | KONBINI WATCH Dec 12, 2020

Need some pre-holiday indulgence? These chocolate sweets have you covered.

There may not be any holiday parties this year, but that just means you have even more reason to put together a festive convenience store smorgasbord.