Think about it: Sony Music Entertainment is one of the biggest record companies in the world; Yamaha is the largest manufacturer of musical instruments globally; Japan has the sixth-largest population worldwide; and the music industry generates billions of dollars every year. Yet, how many Japanese artists have scored a No. 1 hit on the US or European charts? Just one — and that was all the way back in 1963 with Sukiyaki by Sakamoto Kyu. Related content: Check out our profiles of Japan's top pop artists. So, what’s the issue with Japan’s music export? Several factors play a role. Record companies are content with the massive domestic sales made by their bands. The language barrier also presents a challenge, as few Japanese artists feel comfortable singing in English. Additionally, outside Asia, there is little market for most Japanese pop music, although other Asian countries tend to have a keen admiration for Japanese culture — music included. There have been a few bright s...

  There are several schools of Sado , the Japanese tea ceremony—also known as Chanoyu —each with its own distinct traditions and philosophies. Tea in Japan, specifically O-cha (green tea), holds a cultural significance akin to coffee in the United States or “a cuppa” in the United Kingdom—perhaps even more deeply ingrained. Beyond its cultural importance, the health benefits of green tea are widely recognized and embraced globally. For aspiring young women in Japan, learning the tea ceremony remains a vital part of a ‘proper’ education, ensuring that this ancient art continues to thrive even in modern times. Sen no Rikyu and the Evolution of Sado The origins of Japanese tea rituals trace back to the 6th century, arriving as part of Buddhist meditation practices. In the Kamakura period (1185–1333), a priest named Eisai introduced tea seeds to Japan, which became the foundation for much of Japan’s tea cultivation today. Subsequent figures like the priest Eizon and the monk Ikkyu f...

  So, our usual sushi adventure starts by hopping on the train to Yokohama. From there, we change onto the Blue Line of the Yokohama subway and get off at Kita-Shin Yokohama station. Now, here’s where the magic happens — just a short walk from the station is this sushi spot that’s basically a sushi jackpot: every single plate costs just 120 yen ! Yep, you heard me right. That’s cheaper than your average convenience store snack, but way better for your taste buds. The best part? Watching Ken and my sister tackle the sushi is like watching a comedy show. Ken is one of those guys who won’t touch fish unless it’s been beaten to death, deep-fried, and covered in a mountain of breadcrumbs — basically, he lives for the fish equivalent of Captain Birdseye frozen meals. If it’s fresh, raw, or has even the slightest hint of ocean, Ken’s out. He’d probably run screaming if a sushi chef tried to serve him a piece of salmon nigiri. Meanwhile, my sister and I are like sushi pros, happily devour...

  This weekend was pure magic for our little crew! My wife and Ted had the sweetest moment together in the park after exploring the amazing animals, but the real stars of the day were Kai and Ted — they absolutely loved every minute, especially the penguins! 🐧💙 Kai’s eyes literally lit up the moment he saw those waddling little guys — you could feel his excitement all the way through. For families like ours, finding places where the kids can connect and feel joy in a calm, natural environment means the world. Why We Love Yumemigasaki Zoo Located in Kawasaki, this lovely zoo is a hidden gem — completely free to enter and super easy to get to from Yokohama. We hopped on the bus from Tsunashima (bus 51 to Kawasaki Station, then bus 86 to the zoo), but you can also catch the train to Shin-Kawasaki station for a quick walk. The zoo is small enough to explore comfortably without overwhelming the senses, making it perfect for kids with autism or sensory needs. Plus, the animals ...

  Sushi is one of the most iconic and beloved Japanese dishes, celebrated worldwide for its fresh flavors, beautiful presentation, and deep cultural roots. At its core, sushi combines perfectly seasoned sumeshi — vinegared rice — with a variety of fresh or cooked ingredients, most commonly seafood. Types of Sushi: A Flavorful Variety Nigirizushi is perhaps the most recognizable style — small, hand-formed mounds of vinegared rice topped with slices of fresh fish or other ingredients like cooked shrimp, eel, or egg. Often, a tiny dab of pungent wasabi is placed between the rice and the topping to add a gentle kick that complements the flavors. Each bite-sized piece is crafted to offer a perfect balance of texture and taste. Besides nigiri, there are other popular types: Oshizushi (Pressed Sushi): This style is made by layering vinegared rice and fish inside a wooden mold, then pressing it down firmly to create a compact, rectangular block. After pressing, it’s sliced into n...

  Spanning approximately 800 meters and soaring 120 meters high, the Rainbow Bridge is the longest and one of the most iconic bridges in the Greater Tokyo Area. Connecting the bustling city center with the futuristic Tokyo Rinkai area (including Odaiba), this engineering masterpiece is much more than just a vital transportation link — it’s a spectacular landmark offering breathtaking views and memorable experiences. A Unique Two-Tiered Structure The Rainbow Bridge’s innovative design features a two-level layout : The upper deck carries Route 11 of the Metropolitan Expressway, whisking cars smoothly between key districts. The lower deck serves multiple purposes, with a general roadway, the Yurikamome automated transit line , and a pedestrian walkway that invites visitors to cross the bridge on foot. Walking across the bridge is an unforgettable experience — on a clear day, you can enjoy sweeping views of Tokyo Bay’s shimmering waters , the expansive skyline dotted wit...

  Located in the vibrant Ariake district of Tokyo, Tokyo Big Sight is the city’s premier convention and exhibition center, instantly recognizable by its striking inverted triangular “pyramid” design that crowns the building. This architectural landmark is not only visually impressive but also a hub of activity, hosting countless major events throughout the year. A World-Class Venue for Conferences and Exhibitions Tokyo Big Sight boasts an extensive complex that includes a conference wing and exhibition wings on both the east and west sides, designed to accommodate a wide variety of events — from massive trade shows and expos to intimate seminars and international conventions. Key features include: An international convention hall with seating for up to 1,000 attendees, perfect for large-scale presentations and gatherings. Over 22 conference rooms of various sizes for workshops, meetings, and breakout sessions. 10 expansive exhibition halls that can host everything...