English language bookshops in Tokyo
Feb 28, 2022 By Michael Stigall
With the advent of e-readers and smartphones, getting your hands on English language literature in Japan isn’t the challenge it once was. It used to be a significant challenge, even in big cities. However, sometimes the book you are looking for isn’t available online, or you just like the feel...[ Click to read more ]
Kid Friendly Activities in Tokyo
By Michael Stigall
Tokyo is big, really big. One significant upside to its massive size is that there is something for everyone to enjoy. Obviously, the metropolis is a Mecca to anime and manga fans. Similarly, lovers of technology have several sights and neighborhoods to enjoy. Let’s also not forget nightlife considering that...[ Click to read more ]
I Heard it Through the Grapevine: Sera Winery and Yume Park
Feb 24, 2022 By William Farrow
As the chills of winter give way and the warmth of spring begins to return to Japan, people find themselves willing to venture into the great outdoors again. Those with smaller children will also quickly search for places where the little ones can run around and burn off energy. What...[ Click to read more ]
Looking for Snacks? Leaf it to Me!
By William Farrow
In Japanese, the word momiji usually refers to the leaves of the maple trees in Japan. A popular symbol representing autumn, it should come as no surprise to hear that the Japanese snack on...wait, what? Are people eating leaves? Also, isn't this article being written in late winter?! Okay, no one...[ Click to read more ]
Top Ideas for Valentine’s Day in Kansai
Jan 27, 2022 By Justin Hanus
You're in luck if you are in Kansai over Valentine's Day. The region may not be known for being among the most romantic destinations globally, but there are definitely some great spots for a unique date. 1. Take a Spa Day at an Onsen Resort Throughout Kansai, there are onsen,...[ Click to read more ]
Get Your Motor Runnin’: The Hiroshima Toyopet Mobility Park
By William Farrow
As a leader in exporting cars and vehicles worldwide, Japan is obsessed with cars of all shapes and sizes down to the humble go-kart. Whether you are a small child or an Italian plumber with a glorious mustache, go-karts are a fun way to spend the day. Well, the Hiroshima...[ Click to read more ]
Climbing the Walls – Bouldering in Tokyo
Jan 24, 2022 By Michael Stigall
I doubt that there is a single kid in the western world and a few from other places in the world who doesn’t want to crawl the walls like a certain well-known web-slinging superhero. While most of those climbing feats aren’t possible, it is still possible to do some serious...[ Click to read more ]
Introduction to Mobile Service in Japan
By Jason Gatewood
In recent years, the number of companies offering mobile phone service in Japan has increased substantially, along with the variety of plans available. While not a comprehensive list by any means, the information listed below should serve as a good introduction. The Big Three Docomo, SoftBank, and au are the...[ Click to read more ]
Calling 119 for Emergency Assistance in Japan
Jan 20, 2022 By Ray Proper
Dial 119 for the fire department or medical services Dial 110 for police 119 in Japan is a direct-dial-free emergency number that connects the caller to fire and emergency medical services from any phone. Unlike emergency number services in many other countries, the 119 system in Japan only connects to...[ Click to read more ]
My Number – The Social Security and Tax Number System in Japan
Jan 08, 2022 By Jason Gatewood
Starting in October of 2015, all citizens and lawful residents were issued a number called a 個人番号 kojin bangō which is also colloquially called My Number, even by Japanese speaking people -- マイナンバー. The numbers will basically be used as a "unique identifier" in a database, which is pretty much what it...[ Click to read more ]
