Number of foreign workers in Japan reaches a record high
Japan's population crisis and immigration are perhaps the two most hotly debated domestic issues in Japan.
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.
First forecast reveals when cherry blossoms will bloom across Japan
The Japan Weather Association released the official "2025 Cherry Blossom Bloom Forecast'' on the 29th of January.
Sumo sensation Hoshoryu crowned 74th Yokozuna
On January 29th, sumo wrestler Hoshoryu was officially elevated to the prestigious rank of 74th Yokozuna.
Kyoto Animation arsonist’s death sentence confirmed after appeal withdrawn
Shinji Aoba, who was sentenced to death in the first instance for setting fire to the Kyoto Animation studio, resulting in the tragic loss of 36 lives, has withdrawn his appeal.
Osaka’s citywide smoking ban takes effect, vaping also included
Osaka, Japan's third-largest city, has significantly expanded its smoking ban, prohibiting smoking on all city streets as of the end of January 2025.
Dragon Ball DAIMA and Don Quijote team up to offer exclusive merch
Dragon Ball DAIMA will be releasing collaboration goods at Don Quijote stores nationwide.
AI art scandal – two men charged for creating illegal Evangelion/Yu-Gi-Oh posters
Two men have been referred to prosecutors on charges of copyright infringement, accused of using artificial intelligence (AI) to generate illegal posters of popular anime characters.
Chiikawa Restaurant in Sapporo
A new themed café based on Chiikawa will open this March.
JoJo’s Bizarre Undergarments – Stardust Crusaders themed boxers now on sale
You can now own your very own pair of JoJo's Bizarre Adventure themed underwear with this new collaboration.