Denmark-born food waste reduction app "Too Good To Go" launched in Japan on January 28, 2026, marking its first expansion into Asia. With over 500 million meals saved across 21 countries, the "Surprise Bag" model now partners with 80+ stores including FamilyMart and Krispy Kreme in Tokyo. Learn how this win-win-win system benefits consumers, businesses, and the environment while fighting food waste.

Nagoya's revolutionary SRT (Smart Roadway Transit) launches February 13, 2026. An 18-meter Mercedes-Benz articulated bus connects Nagoya Station to Sakae, offering futuristic design, barrier-free access, and contactless payment. Discover how Japan is reshaping urban mobility ahead of the Linear Shinkansen era.

Starting March 25, 2026, 11 Tokyo-area private railways will enable contactless credit card payments across 54 lines and 729 stations. But with JR East and Keisei absent, how much will this change travel in Tokyo? We examine what's coming and what challenges remain.

Discover where and when to avoid wearing perfume in Japan, including Japanese restaurants, sushi bars, hospitals, and funerals. Learn about Japan's unique "unscented culture" and understand why fragrance etiquette matters so much in this country known for its consideration of others.

White furisode kimono, once considered "plain" and "modest," is experiencing a historic revival in Japan's coming-of-age ceremonies after 50 years. Discover why Gen Z is choosing white for its Instagram-worthy "reflector effect" and modern aesthetic. What traditional attire marks adulthood in your country?

In an era where AI can generate text instantly, why do Japanese customers pay $350 for a single handwritten letter? Discover how "human imperfection" creates irreplaceable value and why personalized, heartfelt communication is thriving in the age of automation.

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.

In January 2025, 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 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?"

A comprehensive analysis of the Akasaka luxury sauna fire tragedy where a couple died trapped in a ¥390,000/month facility. Examining the dual safety failures - detached door handle and malfunctioning emergency button - that led to this devastating incident. Comparing Japan's third sauna boom safety concerns with Finland's authentic sauna culture and international safety standards. How does sauna safety work in your country?

Discover why fashion subscription services are booming in Japan, with AnotherADdress reaching 360,000 members. Learn about the appeal of clothing rental over buying, closet space solutions, environmental benefits, and cost-effectiveness of Japan's growing fashion subscription market.

Japan's beloved Garigari-kun popsicle will increase to 90 yen from March 2026 due to rising logistics and material costs. Explore the price history since 1981 and reactions from Japanese consumers and international perspectives.