Overtourism leads to parking fees doubling at popular Mount Fuji viewpoints
Fujiyoshida City in Yamanashi Prefecture will implement new parking fees at popular tourist spots from April 2025.
James Richardson
James Richardson is a writer and Japan enthusiast. After living and working in Tokyo for over a decade, he shares his insights on Japanese society, culture, and current events.
Ueno Cherry Blossom Festival
One of Tokyo's most iconic cherry blossom viewing destinations.
Tokyo police bust Kabukicho brothel catering to foreign tourists
The Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department made a significant arrest, taking down the operator of a brothel that specifically targeted foreign tourists.
Sumida Park Cherry Blossom Festival
Cherry blossom festival in Tokyo with stalls, illuminations and tea ceremonies.
Otaru replaces Dazaifu as national heritage site in unprecedented move
Japan's Agency for Cultural Affairs has removed a site from the prestigious Japan Heritage list for the first time.
British tourist arrested in Japan for assaulting convenience store clerk over plastic bag
A dispute over a plastic bag charge escalated into a violent altercation in Sapporo, Japan, leading to the arrest of a 48-year-old British tourist.
Shoplifting by foreigners on the rise in Japan – drugstores becoming main target
Japanese drugstores are facing a growing challenge: organized shoplifting by foreign nationals.
“Doctor Yellow” retires – but there’s still a way to see the iconic test train
Fans of the instantly recognisable diagnostic train will be pleased to hear that there is still a way to see the train in live operation.
Yushima Tenjin Plum Blossom Festival
This shrine has been a famous plum blossom spot to visit since the Edo period.