Visiting Places Representative of Japan’s Shrines and Temples

For those of you who want to visit famous shrines and temples in Japan, we introduce Japan’s most classic temples and shrines. With our introduction as reference, you can experience Japanese cul...

Travel temples & shrines

Okonomiyaki Pencil Sharpener and Other Unique Product Designs

Hitting LOFT stores in Japan this October! An okonomiyaki pencil sharpener whose pencil shavings look like dried bonito flakes! Due to popular demand, creator Mitiru’s design of okonomiyaki penc...

Culture pop culture tradition & crafts

Budo, Japanese Martial Arts: Introduction to Judo, Kendo, Aikido, Karate and Kyudo (Japanese Archery)

Judo, kendo, aikido, karate… Japan has formed, practices and enjoys various martial arts. Although they all seem quite challenging, here are the basics so you can get started with your mental a...

Culture tradition & crafts sports

Shiba Inu Design Banknotes!! A New Face for Japanese Yen?

If only! These adorable, but sadly not real, Shiba Inu banknotes were designed by illustrator PonkichiM who is fond of Shiba Inu (柴犬). PonkichiM’s illustrations of various banknotes designs beca...

Culture pop culture

Where to Stay in Japan, Introducing Japan Accommodation Types: Business Hotels, Luxury Hotels, Common Lodgings

When travelling in Japan, where you stay overnight, and the type of accommodation you pick are very important. In this article, we will introduce some basic knowledge about accommodations that you sho...

Travel real estate & accomodation

Bringing Evangelion Units to Life with Joint Mats?!

You read that right. Those incredibly realistic looking Evangelion unit cosplay costumes are actually made from Daiso joint mats. You may be thinking, “Is that even possible?” Looks like i...

Culture manga & anime pop culture

How to Read Japanese Address, Know the Japanese Regions and 47 Prefectures

How to read a Japanese address full of kanji? In this article, we will study how Japanese addresses are formed, and how to read them. We will also introduce the concepts of prefectures「都道府県 to dou fu ...

Life real estate & accomodation post office

Introduction to Castles in Japan: Designated National Treasures

Many people are interested in Japanese castles - from people interested in Japanese history of course, to people who want to see beautiful Japanese scenery. In this article, we introduce Japan’s...

Travel History & Religion world heritage site architecture

What is a “Designated Activities Visa” in Japan? Types, and How to Use for International Students

Have you ever heard of a “designated activities visa” (特定活動ビザ tokutei katsudou biza)? This is one of the status of residence that allows you to stay in Japan. However, there are many diffe...

Work study abroad visa

What is that?! A Living Salmon Sushi Creature? Meet Salmon Nigiris and its 150+ Friends!!

Ever wondered what sushi would be like alive? Freelance designer Kumakuro has, and brought the idea to life - over 150 of them in fact!!  The hashtag #多分私しかやってない (Tabun watashi shika yattenai ...

Culture food & drink art & design manga & anime pop culture