On this day 50 years ago, over 1,000 fans greeted Queen when its members arrived at Tokyo's Haneda Airport ahead of its first Asian tour.| Tokyo Weekender
Characters from 17 beloved manga series appear at major Shinkansen stations showing Japanese customs in a campaign called Manga Manners.| Tokyo Weekender
The iconic manga artist behind Nana, Ai Yazawa, is collaborating with Uniqlo's UT brand for a special T-shirt collection.| Tokyo Weekender
Tokyo has regained its spot as the world's best big city in the lifestyle magazine Condé Nast Traveler's Readers’ Choice Awards 2024.| Tokyo Weekender
Let us introduce you to a Toyama as surprising as it is unexpected. A rooftop playground, a dazzling glass museum and superior snow tunnels await…| Tokyo Weekender
Craig Mod, photographer, writer, walker. A resident of Japan for over 20 years, Mod spoke to Weekender in an exclusive interview.| Tokyo Weekender
Looking for the perfect rainy-day activity in Osaka? Check out the city's incredible art collection and exhibits.| Tokyo Weekender
Tokyo's longest-running English lifestyle magazine, packed with food, travel, tips, city guides, news, interviews, and more.| Tokyo Weekender
A popular sightseeing spot in Osaka has become the stage for yet another clash between tourism and tradition. At Ikeda City’s Atago Shrine, a man believed to be a foreign visitor was filmed using the sacred gate as a pull-up bar, sparking anger online and renewed debate over visitor behavior at cultural sites. A Holy […] The post Tourist Filmed Doing Pull-Ups at Sacred Shrine in Osaka appeared first on Tokyo Weekender.| Tokyo Weekender
The popular three-member techno-pop unit Perfume announced on its official website that the trio will be going on hiatus at the end of 2025. While no information was given regarding the length of the break, the group promised to return in the future. The announcement was made on the 20th anniversary of the release of […] The post Popular Techno-Pop Group Perfume To Go on Hiatus From 2026 appeared first on Tokyo Weekender.| Tokyo Weekender
The Aichi Triennale, one of Japan’s rising international art festivals, launched its sixth iteration this past weekend. Titled “A Time Between Ashes and Roses,” this year’s festival is led by artistic director Hoor Al Qasami, president and director of the Sharjah Art Foundation. The Triennale will run until November 30, and brings together over 60 […] The post 10 Outstanding Artworks From Aichi Triennale 2025 appeared first on Tokyo Weekender.| Tokyo Weekender
In this week’s news roundup we report on two very contrasting movies; Evil Unbound, also called 731, about Japan’s notorious Unit 731 research facility, and the latest Demon Slayer movie, that’s breaking records in North America. In artificial intelligence news, a political party announces that an AI Penguin will be its new leader and “AI […] The post Film About Japan’s Notorious Unit 731 Premieres in China | News Roundup appeared first on Tokyo Weekender.| Tokyo Weekender
There is a reason why fashion enthusiasts from all over the world come to Japan just to shop for designer goods. From rare vintage designer handbags to archival streetwear, Tokyo is a limitless treasure trove of second-hand gems. Among its many boutiques, Gem Castle Yukizaki stands apart. With a 45-year history, a reputation for impeccable […] The post Where To Buy Rolex, Omega and High-End Jewelry in Tokyo: A Guide to Yukizaki appeared first on Tokyo Weekender.| Tokyo Weekender
Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Infinity Castle enjoyed a record-breaking weekend after debuting in North America last Friday. The popular film, which is based on the “Infinity Castle” arc of the 2016–20 manga series, hauled in an estimated $70 million from just over 3,300 theaters. That’s the best ever opening for an anime title, surpassing […] The post ‘Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle’ Smashes North American Anime Box Office Record appeared first on Tokyo Weekender.| Tokyo Weekender
On Monday, Yasushi Akimoto appeared on Nippon TV to learn the result of a songwriting contest between the famed composer and an AI version of him. The real Akimoto and “AI Akimoto” were given the task of writing a single for AKB48, who are celebrating their 20th anniversary this year. For the track, “Omoide Scroll,” […] The post J-Pop’s Legendary Hitmaker Was Beaten by an AI — And It’s Now AKB48’s New Official Song appeared first on Tokyo Weekender.| Tokyo Weekender
On Tuesday, Saisei no Michi (the Path to Rebirth party) announced that its next leader will be AI. Shinji Ishimaru, who launched the party in January, recently quit after 10 candidates all failed to win seats in July’s Upper House election. That came after all 42 of Saisei no Michi’s candidates lost in the Tokyo […] The post Japanese Political Party To Install ‘Penguin AI’ as Leader appeared first on Tokyo Weekender.| Tokyo Weekender
Global apparel retailer Uniqlo has named KAWS, the contemporary artist known for his reimagined pop culture icons and distinctive street-art aesthetic, as its first-ever artist in residence. The announcement marks a new stage in the brand’s long-running partnership with the artist, expanding their collaboration beyond product lines into broader cultural initiatives. In this newly created […] The post KAWS Becomes Uniqlo’s First Artist in Residence appeared first on Tokyo Weekender.| Tokyo Weekender
Read on for four beautiful, off-the-beaten path locations throughout Japan which can be easily visited with the Japan Rail Pass.| Tokyo Weekender
We talk to Alex Kerr, an American-born Japanophile, author and expert on the Japan tourism industry on the future of inbound travel in the country.| Tokyo Weekender
A ray of hope for Japan's travel industry: reports suggest the government is about to relax the last remaining restrictions on travelers.| Tokyo Weekender
In this week's news, Halloween revelers are told to stay away from Shibuya and PM Kishida reshuffles his Cabinet.| Tokyo Weekender
Taylor Swift is expected to attend the Super Bowl to watch Travis Kelce, despite her concert in Tokyo the day before.| Tokyo Weekender
Latest news, noteworthy trends, and cultural updates related to Tokyo and Japan| Tokyo Weekender
Journalist Shiori Ito has become one of the few brave voices to speak out from Japan.| Tokyo Weekender
Women-only cars are designed to make women feel comfortable, away from the threat of being groped by a chikan.| Tokyo Weekender
In this week's news roundup, we report on the BBC chikan documentary, Johnny's sex scandal and Miyu Kato's French Open triumph.| Tokyo Weekender
Most people have a sweet tooth, but did you also know you have a second stomach for sweets? The Japanese expression betsubara might come in handy this holiday season.| Tokyo Weekender
Ten of the most common and fun Japanese onomatopoeia everyone should know.| Tokyo Weekender
Know your moves! Learn what Japanese gestures mean and improve your emotional intelligence and non-verbal communication skills.| Tokyo Weekender
Whether you want to grow your own vegetables or simply fancy having seasonal flowers bloom on your balcony, here are some tips on how to get gardening.| Tokyo Weekender
In this week's news we report on a Korean woman who is suing a Tokyo hotel operator, claiming she was unfairly refused accommodation.| Tokyo Weekender
This week's news roundup is dominated by baby-related stories as Japanese births continue to decline and Mako Komuro welcomes her first child.| Tokyo Weekender
In this week's news roundup we report on the revised Family Registry Act, which is cracking down on kirakira names.| Tokyo Weekender
On Wednesday, it was announced that the Nintendo Switch 2 will be released on June 5, including cheaper Japanese-only consoles.| Tokyo Weekender
Voice actor Hideyuki Umezu, most well-known for voicing Arthur Weasley from the Harry Potter films, sadly passed away on May 17.| Tokyo Weekender
Japanese voice actors are banning together to call for tighter regulations on the creation of A.I. versions of themselves.| Tokyo Weekender
Tokyo Weekender speaks with voice actor Suzie Yeung, to find out how she got her start and what keeps her going.| Tokyo Weekender
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A deep dive into how Casio’s retro-futuristic digital watches achieved cult classic status, plus a lineup of iconic models.| Tokyo Weekender
The enduring allure of Japan’s Ivy-inspired gentleman fashion style and the icons who shaped it into what it is today.| Tokyo Weekender
Who is the Japanese collector behind the historic Sotheby's acquisition of Jane Birkin's original Birkin bag?| Tokyo Weekender
Learn more about 2025 LVMH Prize winner Soshi Otsuki of SOSHIOTSUKI, known for its classic tailored suits inspired by 80’s aesthetics.| Tokyo Weekender
Should you still visit Japan? Is it too full of tourists? Yes and no: overtourism isn't the issue. Overcrowding is. Here's why.| Tokyo Weekender
Two Kick streamers were attacked in Susukino, Hokkaido, after an altercation at a bar. They were chased down by a man holding a bottle.| Tokyo Weekender
On Wednesday, the Japan National Tourism Organization revealed that the country welcomed a record 3.78 million foreign visitors in January.| Tokyo Weekender
Shinji Kagawa and Man Utd play two friendlies this week in Japan.| Tokyo Weekender
Black Box Diaries, a documentary film produced and directed by Japanese journalist Shiori Ito, has been nominated for an Academy Award.| Tokyo Weekender
In this week's news roundup, we report on two celebrity scandals involving former SMAP member Masahiro Nakai and actor Ryo Yoshizawa.| Tokyo Weekender
In this week's news roundup, we report on Nissan as the car manufacturer announces 9,000 job cuts globally.| Tokyo Weekender
Japan’s Ministry of Finance announced this week that one of its employees lost sensitive documents after a boozy night out.| Tokyo Weekender
For our last List of 7 this year, we are looking back at Japan's headline makers in 2024, starting with Shohei Ohtani and his interpreter.| Tokyo Weekender
The body of a Japanese woman was found after a fire broke out at her apartment in Budapest. Police suspect she was killed by her ex-husband.| Tokyo Weekender
In this week's news, Ippei Mizuhara is sentenced to 57 months in prison and parts of Japan are hit by record-breaking snowfall.| Tokyo Weekender
In this weeks news roundup, we pay our respects to Ryuichi Sakamoto and report on the GSDF helicopter that went missing near Okinawa.| Tokyo Weekender
Seiji Ozawa, who led the Boston Symphony Orchestra (BSO) for almost three decades, passed away last week aged 88.| Tokyo Weekender
Japan's biggest news story this week is Shohei Ohtani's marriage announcement. Comedian Yuriyan Retriever also had some big news.| Tokyo Weekender
A profile of swimmer Rikako Ikee who was diagnosed with leukemia last year. She battled back from the illness to qualify for this summer's Olympics.| Tokyo Weekender
In this week's news roundup, we report on Osaka's plan to charge a fixed fee for inbound tourists, starting in 2025.| Tokyo Weekender
Not since the beginning of the J-League, when the likes of Zico and Gary Lineker arrived on these shores, has there been this much excitement about a transfer.| Tokyo Weekender
Ippei Mizuhara was fired by the Dodgers after Ohtani's lawyers accused him of committing a "massive theft" against the two-way superstar.| Tokyo Weekender
For the first time since 1990, the Japanese yen fell below the 153-mark against the US dollar on Wednesday.| Tokyo Weekender
A look into the history of Japan's genitalia worship through various gods, festivals and the meaning behind them.| Tokyo Weekender
Miyazaki Prefecture serves as the backdrop of many famed Shinto myths and legends. Here's how you can walk in the footsteps of the gods.| Tokyo Weekender
Yu is back in Japan to pursue the next stage of his career after spending a whirlwind few years scoring success after success in Taiwan.| Tokyo Weekender
Exclusive interview with Tomo Koizumi, the softly spoken designer creating the loudest dresses on the biggest celebrities, from Gaga to Björk.| Tokyo Weekender
Legendary Japanese photographer Herbie Yamaguchi talks about living with Boy George, taking photos of Princess Diana and and more.| Tokyo Weekender
A deep-dive into the myths and legends that surround Japan's many, many islands, from Hokkaido to Okinawa.| Tokyo Weekender
The earliest sumo matches were much more violent than the ones we see today. Here are some of the most extreme stories and legends.| Tokyo Weekender
Known as Japan’s Bureau of Magic, the Onmyoryo employed Onmyoji to, among other things, protect the Imperial Court from evil spirits.| Tokyo Weekender
While Godzilla was modeled on the beast from The Beast from 20,000 Fathoms, it also has a lot of overlap with Japan’s most famous myths.| Tokyo Weekender
Two-tier pricing, charging one price to locals and another to visitors, is on the rise in Japan right now, but it is warranted?| Tokyo Weekender
From ancient stories of strength to celebrity ownership, the world of Japanese koi fish is steeped in both spirituality and perseverance.| Tokyo Weekender
It began with a simple "good morning" message on X on July 25. Saori Araki posted the greeting alongside a picture of herself in a gray suit.| Tokyo Weekender
In this week's news roundup, we report on the global tributes for Akira Toriyama and a night to remember for Japanese cinema at the Oscars.| Tokyo Weekender
Known for one of the best-selling manga of all time, Dragon Ball, the legendary mangaka sadly passed away on March 1, 2024.| Tokyo Weekender
Our excitement for the Dragon Ball theme park is over 9000! We take a peek at the first visualisations of how it'll look.| Tokyo Weekender
As part of its 40th anniversary celebrations, the world's first Dragon Ball store is set to open in Tokyo this autumn.| Tokyo Weekender
Explore the viral claims of retired comic artist Ryo Tatsuki and her manga, which predicts a major disaster for Japan in July 2025.| Tokyo Weekender
The New York Times (NYT) “52 Places to Go” list has highlighted two Japanese destinations for 2025: Toyama and Osaka.| Tokyo Weekender
The signs are that Japan didn't rethink its tourism policy during what was effectively a three-year inbound drought.| Tokyo Weekender
The Cabinet Office published the results of the first-ever online survey on chikan, or groping incidents, on July 4.| Tokyo Weekender
The Japanese language is full of slang words that typically consist of shortening words into easy-to-say phrases. Here are the most useful.| Tokyo Weekender
In this week's news roundup we report on the 2025 Global Gender Gap Report and the State of the World Population report.| Tokyo Weekender
Prominent Japanese voice actress Megumi Hayashibara has sparked debate online following her latest blog post.| Tokyo Weekender
Residents in a Tokyo apartment building were outraged after a new owner suddenly raised the price of their rent from ¥72,500 to ¥190,000.| Tokyo Weekender
In this month's List of 7, we look at Japanese TV shows that made waves overseas, including dramas, anime, a reality series, cooking contest and a gameshow.| Tokyo Weekender
In this week's news roundup, we report on the Shiori Ito film, Black Box Diaries, which still hasn't been distributed in Japan.| Tokyo Weekender
In this week’s news roundup, we report on the collapse of the $60 billion merger plan between Honda and Nissan.| Tokyo Weekender
The website of the visual kei band The GazettE sadly announced that the group’s bassist Reita passed away on April 15. He was 42.| Tokyo Weekender
This week's news roundup is dominated by sports-related scandals, most notably Shohei Ohtani's interpreter, who was fired by the Dodgers.| Tokyo Weekender
In this week's news roundup we report on Fumio Kishida's US visit, the death of Akebono and the charges against Ippei Mizuhara.| Tokyo Weekender
A trading card game consisting of real-life ojisan (middle-aged men) are going viral with kids in the city of Kawara in Fukuoka Prefecture.| Tokyo Weekender
The Japanese reality TV show has been described as both boring and fascinating, and has gathered a cult following abroad. Weekender chats with the stars to find out what it’s like on the inside.| Tokyo Weekender
In this week's news, we report on the Tohoku Shinkansen decoupling incident in Tokyo and we have the latest on the E10 bullet train series.| Tokyo Weekender
The many faces of the Demon King Oda Nobunaga in Japanese fiction. How much is owed to history, how much is out of context, and how much is plain wrong?| Tokyo Weekender
We take a closer look at the 2024 miniseries of Shogun and how it holds up to the book, the 1980 series and historical fact.| Tokyo Weekender
His was a tale of slavery, war and rising up against the odds to become a legendary warrior in feudal Japan.| Tokyo Weekender
Kenshin Kamimura, a member of the group One N' Only, has reportedly been charged with indecent assault in Hong Kong.| Tokyo Weekender
Your Name producer Koichiro Ito was sentenced to four years in jail for paying cash to several underage girls for sex and filming their acts.| Tokyo Weekender