Author Ken Honda cites a ghostwriter charging 50,000 yen, about $350, per letter. Actual Japanese market rates run 1,000 to 5,500 yen, an order of magnitude lower. So what does it say that the price can be argued for at all in the AI era?
The "sticker exchange" culture that captivated Japanese girls in the 1990s-2000s is making a nostalgic comeback on social media. Now adults, these former Heisei-era kids are reviving their childhood hobby through online communities, blending vintage charm with modern connectivity.
Discover Japan's wildest New Year tradition: the "Fukuotoko" (Lucky Man) race at Nishinomiya Shrine. Thousands sprint 230 meters for divine luck. Learn the rules, history, and why this chaos is actually sacred.
Sailor Pen Co. is raising prices from February 2026, mainly on gold products, citing rising material and manufacturing costs. A look at how Japan's fountain pen industry is adapting to economic pressures while preserving its renowned craftsmanship.
A Japanese toy company's "Infinite Moai Maker" has gone viral on social media, allowing anyone to create endless Easter Island-style statues from snow. With sales quadrupling and stock selling out instantly, this quirky winter toy has captured Japan's imagination. Discover how a simple idea turned snowy backyards into mysterious stone statue gardens.
In January 2026, Takashimaya Sakai Store closed its doors after 61 years of operation. Explore the reasons behind this closure and the broader challenges facing Japan's department store industry, from changing consumer behavior to the rise of e-commerce and suburban shopping malls.
As Japan sees record numbers of "grave closings" due to aging demographics, more Japanese are creating family trees to discover their roots. With Meiji-era family registers facing destruction deadlines, the race to trace ancestry has become urgent.
Discover the fascinating world of Japanese omikuji (fortune slips). Learn why redrawing when you get a bad fortune is considered disrespectful to the gods, the true meaning behind "kyo" (bad luck), and proper shrine etiquette. A complete guide to understanding this unique aspect of Japanese spiritual culture.
Discover the fascinating Japanese tradition of Hatsumode (first shrine visit of the New Year) and Osaisen (monetary offerings). Learn why 5-yen coins symbolize "good fortune," which amounts bring luck, and master the proper prayer etiquette including the "two bows, two claps, one bow" ritual.
Sony Honda Mobility announces PS Remote Play integration for its AFEELA EV, making it the world's first vehicle to stream PS5/PS4 games to in-car displays. Set for 2026 delivery, this groundbreaking feature transforms travel time into gaming time. Discover the specs, pricing, and what Japanese people think about this innovation.
Bungujoshi Haku 2025, Japan's premier stationery festival, returns December 18-21 at Pacifico Yokohama. With a record 184 exhibitors and over 70,000 items, this beloved event has attracted 700,000 visitors since 2017. Discover exclusive products, hands-on experiences, and the latest trends in Japanese stationery culture under the theme "Which Stationery Will You Choose Today?"