Okonomiyaki, often compared to pizza, is gaining popularity worldwide. However, it's more like a savory pancake, grilled with various fillings, toppings, and condiments. Cooks typically combine chopped vegetables, meat, or seafood for th...

Japan boasts a very high standard of living, which makes it one of the most expensive countries in the world to reside in. This is due to its highly competitive market and its position as an economic powerhouse, even though the economy h...

The Japanese tea ceremony is perhaps one of the most beautiful and symbolic aspects of Japanese culture. It is defined by elegance and characterized by refined movements, which are integral to its symbolism. The Kanji for “tea ceremony” ...

Most international visitors arrive in Tokyo via Narita International Airport (NRT). Located about 70 km (40 miles) northeast of central Tokyo in Chiba Prefecture, NRT is a major international hub connecting Japan with cities across Asia,...

The Japanese love their cuisine. This can be seen in the number of people who eat out and the number of food-related TV programmes. While sushi has become popular in the West, most Japanese food remains relatively unknown worldwide. Japa...

In Japan, autumn, or "shun no shikuzai" (literally "season of food"), is a time to savor the freshest and most flavorful ingredients. A deep awareness of seasonality is ingrained in Japanese culture, signifying elegance and sophisticatio...

School uniforms are a common sight in primary and secondary schools across the globe. Traditionally subdued and professional, boys' uniforms often feature dark trousers and light-colored shirts, sometimes with a tie. Girls' uniforms vary...

Japanese engineers have created a robot to help the elderly. The RIBA-II can lift up to 80 kilograms (176 pounds) from a bed to a wheelchair. It can also put patients back on a bed. The robot looks like a teddy bear and is soft so it won...

Early Education: Kindergarten and Daycare The emphasis on education in Japan begins early. Most Japanese children attend preschool, either kindergarten (yochien) or daycare centers (hoikuen). Since this stage is not compulsory, parents m...

What is Miso soup? Miso soup, a traditional Japanese soup, offers a delicious and satisfying start to any meal. Contrary to popular belief in the West, it's not always vegetarian! The base of this soup is "dashi," a stock typically made ...