Toshiba's C-type escalator, whose handrail drops vertically into the floor instead of looping, existed in just two places: the 8th and 9th floors of Nagoya's Meitetsu Department Store. They stopped when the store closed on February 28, 2026, after 71 years. Demolition is now on hold and Yodobashi Camera is moving in.
Tokyo's hit immersive show "Ninja+Kabuki Tokyo" in Shinjuku Kabukicho has unveiled a reimagined program in March 2026. With 80% of its 25,000+ audience from Western countries, this non-verbal spectacle fuses ninja mysticism with kabuki artistry. Directed by Denjiro Tanaka VII, here's everything you need to know — including tickets, access, and what makes the new show unmissable.
Kyoto City raised its accommodation tax in March 2026 — the top rate now hits $65 per person per night, a 10x jump. Here's what travelers need to know: the new 5-tier system, who pays it, where the $85 million in revenue goes, and what locals actually think.
Japan's Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism will prohibit charging with mobile batteries in flight (both powering devices and charging the bank itself) and limit carry-on to 2 per person (160Wh or less) from April 24, 2026. Here's the full breakdown of the new rules aligned with ICAO international standards, what types of batteries are affected, and how to prepare for your trip to Japan.
16-time Grammy winner Bruno Mars opens the world's only collaboration cafe at SHIBUYA TSUTAYA in Tokyo, celebrating his first solo album in a decade, 'The Romantic.' Featuring album-inspired drinks, exclusive merch, and immersive decor, this limited-time cafe is a must-visit for fans and tourists alike — and a testament to Bruno's deep love for Japan.
Kyoto's iconic Uzumasa Movie Village is undergoing a massive renovation for its 50th anniversary, transforming into an adults-only immersive Edo-period experience park. Opening March 28, 2026, it features 360° live dramas, R-18 torture house and gambling events, samurai training, ninja shows, and traditional cultural experiences — offering a side of Kyoto beyond temples and shrines.
Kyoto announces Japan's first dual pricing system for city buses — residents will pay ¥200 ($1.30) while tourists face fares up to ¥400 ($2.60). With 56 million annual visitors overwhelming a city of 1.43 million, this bold overtourism measure follows global models from Venice to Bali. How do locals and the world react?
Konica Minolta's "Starry Sky Jazz Lounge" at Planetaria TOKYO in Yurakucho has been selling out every session. Experience 360-degree immersive dome visuals paired with live jazz performances by piano, saxophone, and contrabass. A deep dive into Japan's world-class planetarium culture and a hidden gem for Tokyo visitors near the Ginza district.
The Car-Lator at Suma Ura Hilltop Park in Kobe, Japan's only belt-conveyor mountain ride, celebrates its 60th anniversary on March 18, 2026. Famous for proudly marketing its terrible ride comfort, this one-of-a-kind attraction is launching special red-costumed anniversary cars, limited edition tickets, and commemorative events. A must-visit "Only in Japan" experience for adventurous travelers.
Japan plans to launch JESTA, its own electronic travel authorization system, by 2028 — while tripling its departure tax to $20 from July 2026. With a combined cost of ~$40 per visitor, how will these changes affect inbound tourism? We break down the details, compare with US ESTA and EU ETIAS, and share reactions from both Japanese citizens and international travelers.
A butter confection sold only at Tokyo's Haneda Airport has sparked a souvenir frenzy among international tourists. Born from repurposing skim milk that would otherwise go to waste, "Butter no Itoko" has some flying to Japan just for a taste. We explore how Japan's limited-edition treats and omiyage culture create demand worldwide.