Pikachu shocks “Pen-Pineapple-Apple-Pen” for new song “Pika to Pico”【Video】

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J Casey Baseel”Beef”, sings Pikachu in translated duet. With large-scale fan gatherings still a very iffy proposition in the current health climate, this summer’s big Pokémon event was held online. Pokémon Virtual Fest was an innovative virtual theme park where fans could get together, complete missions, and even indulge in some cool cosplay. On the final night […]

New Gengar and Litwick mousse cakes at Pikachu Sweets Cafe look both adorable and delicious

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J Dale RollWhich one would you choose?  By now you know that there are two Pokémon Cafes in Japan: one in Tokyo and one in Osaka. They’ve got some really delicious and pretty meals inspired by your favorite Pokémon and Pokémon games. But did you know there’s also a takeout sweets shop in Tokyo? It’s called “Pikachu […]

Tokyo theme park closes down, thanks visitors with touching water graffiti message

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J Oona McGeeThe only thing better than the message itself is the fascinating water printer machine that “prints” it.  After 94 years in business, beloved Tokyo theme park Toshimaen closed its doors for the final time yesterday. Plans to build the world’s second Harry Potter theme Park on a large portion of the site will now go […]

Starbucks Japan kicks off autumn with tempting chocolate and chestnut flavored drinks

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J KayAutumn is around the corner in Japan when chestnut flavored products start making an appearance.  Although temperatures across Japan are still uncomfortably and dangerously high, with September fast approaching it’s not surprising to start seeing various shops and restaurants promote autumn-themed items. Happily for us, in many cases these treats involve involve chestnuts. Starbucks Japan […]

Move over, dartboards – Japan now has shuriken machines for ninja fun!

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J Casey BaseelNinja Trainer Arcade earns Japan Ninja Council’s blessing. Playing darts is surprisingly popular in Japan, and a big reason why is coin-operated darts machines. With on-screen guidance and automated scorekeeping, they’re fun for beginners and veterans alike, and the ability to crate a profile and upload your score to leaderboards linked with other machines gives […]

Family stuns with amazing Detective Conan, Naruto, Dragon Ball Z, and more group cosplays

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J Krista RogersThe family that cosplays together slays together. We’ve seen some brilliant cosplayers over the years, from attendees at Comiket to a cat with over 100 costumes. But while many of these endeavors are performed solo, what makes the cosplays of one Twitter user @xMiCaNx uniquely special is that he performs them together with his wife […]

Work from home in peace and quiet with Otegaroom, a tiny soundproof room for your apartment

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J Katy KellyKid chatter interrupting your Zoom call? Struggling with work/life separation? Never fear, the Otegaroom is here! If you ordinarily work out of an office, there’s a likelihood you’ve been asked to work from home in some capacity in recent months. After all, it’s a lot less dangerous to limit your exposure to other human beings […]

Tokyo has a “phantom egg shop” with ingredients for the best tamago-kake gohan rice bowl ever

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J Dale RollDon’t knock raw egg on rice until you’ve tried it, and especially until you’ve tried it like this. Citizens of western countries may balk at the idea of eating raw eggs, but in Japan it’s a popular topping for beef bowls, noodle dishes, and even pasta. In fact, cracking a raw egg over a plain […]

Uber Eats delivers movie theater popcorn at certain Tokyo and Chiba locations

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J Master BlasterReal movie popcorn taste at real movie popcorn prices, right to your door! Certain flavors have become eternally bound to specific events or places: a hotdog at a baseball game, s’mores while camping, and of course popcorn at a movie theater. But with movie theaters still being somewhat iffy places to go to, many of […]

Japan’s cat futon notepads are the perfect reason to put your thoughts down on paper【Photos】

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J Casey BaseelUnforgettable cuteness to go with your reminders. We’re not about to volunteer to start writing this entire website by hand, so we’ll be the last people on earth to complain about the convenience of digitally written communication. Still, there’s no denying that there’s a special quality that comes from putting pen or pencil to paper, […]

To prevent heatstroke and COVID-19, Ibaraki vending machines dispense free cold water to students

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J Ingrid TsaiThe vending machines have been set up at 14 different elementary and middle schools in Tsukubamirai city. As temperatures soar, the rising number of individuals who have been hospitalized or passed away due to heatstroke has increased this past summer. For one city in Ibaraki prefecture, to lower the risk of heatstroke and to limit […]

Uniqlo invites Demon Slayer back for another collaborative range of kickass anime apparel

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J Katy KellyVibrant, stylish shirts starring Tanjiro and his comrades. Demon Slayer is one of the biggest Shonen Jump debuts in recent years, instantly winning over a bevy of fans due to its heart-rending plot, exquisitely designed characters, and its hot-blooded, action-packed anime adaptation. The series has entered into all kinds of fun and unusual collaborations since […]

For the not-so-low cost of US$1,300 you can own almost every Pretty Cure collector’s badge set

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J Ingrid TsaiEmissary of Light, Cure… Badge!!! Of all magical girl shows, Pretty Cure tends to skew towards the glittery, bright, and certainly, the peppy side of the genre. With a colorful cast of over 50 different characters, the franchise has come a long way since its first run in 2004, such as officially including a gender-fluid […]

Back to the Future II-style weather forecasts developed by Japanese universities

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J Master BlasterNew system can provide highly accurate 30-minute rain forecasts that update in real-time. The year 2015 seems like a distant memory at this point, but it was the year that Back to the Future II promised us hoverboards and flying cars. While a lot of that didn’t come to pass, I’m happy to say we […]

Kumamon and other Japanese mascots get muscular makeover in new energy drink commercial【Video】

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J Katie PaskIt falls somewhere between impressive and terrifying. We’ll let you decide. Dekavita C is a popular Japanese energy drink, with the name coming from the words dekai (“big”), mixed with vitamins (“vita”), and a C on the end for Vitamin C. For their latest commercial, they’ve enlisted the help of five of Japan’s most popular […]

Tokyo Summer Street Styles w/ Lace Hat, X-Girl, Thrift Tokyo, Tiffany&Co, Charles & Keith, Bigotre & Vintage Cowboy Boots

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Walking along the streets of Harajuku, we came across Ashley and Sofia, two Tokyo models whose floral print streetwear styles easily caught our eye.

Sporting a blonde hairstyle on the right side is fashion student Ashley. She is clad in a green floral print button down shirt dress from Thrift Tokyo and white Charles & Keith strappy sandals with block heels. A gold, metallic chain-strap bag from X-Girl, silver hoop earrings and a silver chain necklace from Tiffany & Co, a silver chain bracelet and an assortment of rings from Hernan Herdez completed her outfit. Check out Ashley’s style feed on Instagram.

Meanwhile, Sofia stepped out in a vintage floral print baby doll dress with a ruched bodice. She stepped into a pair of vintage white cowboy boots and finished off her style with a black tote bag with artwork print from Bigotre. Sofia added a white WEGO eyelet lace bucket hat to finish off her style. Sofia is also active on Instagram.

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The post Tokyo Summer Street Styles w/ Lace Hat, X-Girl, Thrift Tokyo, Tiffany&Co, Charles & Keith, Bigotre & Vintage Cowboy Boots first appeared on Tokyo Fashion News.

Tokyo Street Style

Japanese divorce rate drops nearly 10 percent during quarantine, netizens try to figure out why

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J Scott WilsonTale as old as time, song as old as rhyme, love and quarantine. When Japan’s quarantine first began in earnest back in March and April, many people thought it was just a matter of time before families exploded from the pressure of always being together. With everyone trapped in the same — typically small — […]

Japanese man arrested for groping woman in station says he’ll only talk to female police officers

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J Casey BaseelAlso has a special request regarding his lawyer. Early on the morning of August 27, a 33-year-old woman was buying a drink from a vending machine on the platform of Hanshin Amagasaki Station in the city of Amagasaki, Hyogo Prefecture. While she was focused on selecting and retrieving her beverage, though, a 47-year-old man who […]

The Japanese cat with over 100 cosplay costumes

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J Oona McGeeNausicaä, The Catbus and Super Mario are just some of the characters in this feline’s impressive collection. Cosplay culture is so big in Japan it isn’t just reserved for humans anymore — these days, animals like cats, dogs, and even squirrels have been known to dress up in costume and pose for the cameras like a teenager […]

Our reporter makes a slip and slide out of Ikea gym mats, but does it deliver?【Video】

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J ShannonIf you can’t go to the water park, bring the water park to you. How do you make use of a super cool rooftop balcony during the #StayatHome movement? Build a slip and slide, of course. That’s what our Japanese-language reporter Go Hatori did with his. He’d already pulled off the Japanese open-air rotenburo experience, […]

Osaka’s giant pufferfish may be saved by neighboring business

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J Master BlasterA new hope for the threatened fugu. A couple of months ago it was reported that 100-year-old pufferfish (fugu) restaurant Zuboraya would be closing for good, partially due to a corona-related drop in business. This was especially harrowing news, because with the restaurants’ departure so to would their iconic giant pufferfish signs disappear from the […]

Man sheds half his body weight, looks like a handsome model in just one year

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J Oona McGeeImpressive weight loss transforms this man’s body and mind, but it’s his new face that’s blowing everyone away.  Unwanted weight gain can be a continuous struggle for many people throughout their lives, but the good news is it’s never too late to turn your life around and shed those extra pounds for good. Here to […]

Is it feminine to use a parasol in Japan?

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J Oona McGeeNew awareness posters from the Japan Meteorological Association cause a storm online. When it rains, people from all walks of life feel no shame in whipping out an umbrella to protect themselves from getting wet, so why is using an umbrella in summer to shield yourself from the sun’s rays classed as a female-only thing […]

Japanese teacher apologizes for peeing on students’ futon during club retreat

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J Casey BaseelWent to take a bath after doing his business. For Japanese kids in extracurricular school activities, the gasshuku, or retreat, in an integral part of the experience. Usually taking place during summer vacation, the members of the club/team travel out of town to spend a few days practicing their sport or instruments, but most would […]

Japanese convenience store chain begins testing remote controlled robot staff in Tokyo

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J Master BlasterDon’t be alarmed if you see a pair of optic sensors peeking from behind the beverage rack. For years now the convenience store industry in Japan has been facing a labor crisis. Rapid expansion and demanding conditions have made it hard to find sufficient staff and help wanted posters have become permanent fixtures on many […]

We test out Uniqlo’s “new and improved” Airism mask for form, fashion, and function

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J Katy KellyCan Uniqlo’s new version of the light-weight summer mask beat its disappointing forebear? With many places around the world seeing a resurgence in COVID-19 infection cases, the push for wearing masks when out in public or in close proximity to others is stronger than ever before. The problem, especially in countries like Japan that turn […]

Japanese Tattoo Model in Harajuku w/ Black Mask, Funktique Floral Blazer, Belle Lingerie, Asymmetric Mini Skirt, Kendall + Kylie Tote & Open The Door Boots

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Easily catching our eye with her striking tattoos and chic streetwear outfit is Chim, a well known Japanese tattoo model and designer.

Chim stepped out in a blue Funktique floral print blazer with rolled up sleeves, which she draped over her shoulders. She paired her chic blazer with a black cropped tank top from Belle Lingerie and a Six black faux leather asymmetrical mini skirt. Knee-high lace-up leather boots from Open The Door, a faux leather chain-strap tote bag from Kendall + Kylie rounded out her style. Accessories – mostly from Cody Sanderson – include silver drop earrings, a leather strap necklace with a silver heart pendant layered with a bead necklace, silver knuckle rings and an assortment of bracelets finished off her style.

Open The Door is one of Chim’s favorite brands and she likes listening to SSOS and K-Pop music. Follow Chim on Instagram. Also, check out her brand’s Official Instagram.

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The post Japanese Tattoo Model in Harajuku w/ Black Mask, Funktique Floral Blazer, Belle Lingerie, Asymmetric Mini Skirt, Kendall + Kylie Tote & Open The Door Boots first appeared on Tokyo Fashion News.

Tokyo Street Style

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe announces resignation

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J Casey BaseelLongest serving prime minster in Japan’s history has been in office since 2012. Generally speaking, Japan’s prime ministers don’t last very long in office. In a four year span from September 2007 to September 2011, for example, five different politicians held the position, one of whom was shuffled out after just 266 days. But since […]

Japanese masturbatory aid maker Tenga releases dumbbells so you can pump up while you jerk off

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J Casey BaseelA bold new frontier in multi-tasking. As Japan’s leading maker of masturbatory aids, Tenga is no doubt well-aware that some people may snicker at the vigorous workout its customers are giving their arms and wrists. But with the company’s newest product, that won’t be a snide remark, but an accurate description of what’s happening. The […]

One Piece anime/manga creator says when he wants the series to end, promises it’ll be “amazing”

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J Casey BaseelEiichiro Oda also gives his thoughts on the quality of One Piece’s first-ever chapter. Despite being a tail of nautical adventures, there’s no manga/anime that keeps rolling along quite like One Piece. The pirate saga was pretty much an instant hit when it first appeared in the pages of manga anthology Weekly Shonen Jump in […]

Here are the 10 richest companies in Japan: Can you guess which is number one?

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J Dale RollThese Japanese companies have the most cash in their pockets. Japan has always been known as a global leader for technology and IT development, but like every country, their economy is full of successful business in all kinds of industries. So that might lead you to wonder, what kinds of companies are the richest? On […]

What our anti-Goro Miyazaki reporter thought of “From Up on Poppy Hill”

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J ShannonCan Hayao Miyazaki’s son’s second Studio Ghibli film prove us wrong? At this point, we think it’s safe to say that Studio Ghibli movies are the Japanese equivalent of Disney movies. That’s why saying something like “I didn’t like that Ghibli film” is kind of a big deal, and it’s an even bigger deal when […]

Woman in Japan accidentally pees herself on live television

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J Oona McGeeTrail of visible pee stains on the carpet temporarily suspends 24 Hour Television charity event programme. If you’ve ever peed yourself laughing in public, then spare a thought for Japanese comedian and YouTube personality Haruka Fuka, who recently urinated while laughing on live television. The incident occurred during Nippon TV’s 24 Hour Television Love Saves the Earth, […]

Lightning storm photos of the Skytree show the Tokyo symbol in a whole new light【Photos】

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J Casey BaseelThe awesome power of nature makes for an awesome sight. For most of us, it’s a bummer to spend all week grinding away at work or school only to check the forecast for the weekend and see that the weather is going to be lousy. That was the situation Tokyo found itself in last weekend, […]

Harajuku Rock-Inspired Menswear w/ Guns N’ Roses & Bullet For My Valentine Shirts, Culture Kings, Nike Vapor Max, Faith Tokyo, Vintage Denim & Yosuke Boots

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Sporting rock-inspired fashion on the streets of Harajuku are 19-year-old student Eima and Yamapi, who is also 19 years old.

On the right side is Eima, who is wearing a resale distressed Guns N’ Roses shirt paired with Culture Kings tapered pants worn with suspender straps and black Nike Vapor Max sneakers. He styled his black outfit with black fingerless gloves, a silver bangle and also layered handmade accessories including a chunky silver chain necklace and a long necklace with leather knuckle pendant. Eima shared that Christopher Nemeth is his favorite brand and he likes listening to music by Tohji. To see more of Eima’s style, follow him on Instagram.

Beside him is Yamapi, dressed in a Faith Tokyo plaid long-sleeved Bullet For My Valentine shirt layered over a black resale printed t-shirt. He paired this with resale black denim jeans and Yosuke lace-up boots with embroidery design. To accessorize, he added a silver chain link strapped on his jeans, a black leather belt and layered necklaces. Cote Mer is Yamato’s favorite fashion brand and just like Eima, he also loves listening to Tohji. Follow Yamato on Instagram to see more of his personal style.

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The post Harajuku Rock-Inspired Menswear w/ Guns N' Roses & Bullet For My Valentine Shirts, Culture Kings, Nike Vapor Max, Faith Tokyo, Vintage Denim & Yosuke Boots first appeared on Tokyo Fashion News.

Japanese Fashion

Kabuki adaptation of Miyazaki’s Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind now available to stream online

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J Casey BaseelStage play goes beyond the Studio Ghibli founder’s anime movie to tell the complete story. More than 35 years after its release, Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind remains one of the most loved and respected anime movies of all time. Director Hayao Miyazaki has been approached multiple times with offers from Hollywood for […]

Why stay at a hotel in Japan when you can rent this entire mountain instead?【Photos】

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J Casey BaseelYes, you get a cabin too, but the real appeal is having an entire mountain to yourself. When the hustle and bustle of city life is getting to be too much for you, there’s no better way to refresh yourself than with a trip up into the mountains. Sometimes in Japan, though, even the mountains […]

Which convenience store has the best kakuni Japanese braised pork? We find out【Taste test】

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J Katie PaskThis taste test was nothing short of a porky paradise. Have you ever felt like eating something, but then thought about how long it would take to prepare and just been instantly put off? Our Japanese reporter Seiji Nakazawa certainly has. One of Seiji’s favourite foods is kakuni, Japanese-style braised pork belly. But while Seiji […]

Japan’s “excessively Pikachu” marriage registration form is appropriate amount for Pokémon lovers

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J Casey BaseelAn entire pack of Pikachus wants to wish you and your sweetheart all the best as you start married life. It’s been a busy month for Pikachu. First, the Pokémon mascot officially welcomed the Pokémon manhole cover project to Tokyo. Then it was time to announce that he’s recording a duet with “Pen-Pineapple-Apple-Pen” singer Pikotaro. […]

Japanese fried prawn becomes social media star

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J Oona McGeeEbi fry food model comes to life, plays guitar, barbecues and longs for the sea. If you’ve ever been to a Japanese restaurant, one of the first things to catch your eye would’ve probably been the window display filled with plastic food models. Glistening with realism, these samples show diners what’s available on the menu […]

How to make an awesome Japanese summer dessert using only things you can buy at Daiso【SoraKitchen】

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J Casey BaseelSummer sweets for cheap. Recently, we looked at a mouthwatering traditional Japanese breakfast that was put together entirely with thing bought from 7-Eleven. That’s a meal prep life hack we’ve been fans of for some time, but it’s not like we get everything we eat at the convenience store…sometimes we put together awesome Japanese desserts […]

Writer’s retreat ryokan — Tokyo inn treats you like novelist on deadline, with strict “editors”

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J Dale RollLearn what it feels like to be a novelist with an editor hounding you about your manuscript! Have you ever wondered what it’s like to be a novelist? To have a strict deadline that you have to make, even though it’s oh so hard to stay on task? To have an editor constantly calling you […]

Japan government to fine up to one million yen for anyone harboring illegal alien crayfish

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J Master BlasterOfficials have had enough of these foreign crustaceans abusing our weak border security. Here’s a scene I’m sure we’re all familiar with: You’ve had a rough day because the boss was on your case, and when you get home that special person in your life hands you a cold and damp vinyl bag. You crack […]

Dozens of new photos of Japan’s miraculously romantic Sailor Moon wedding dress line【Photos】

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J Casey BaseelDresses inspired by all three of Sailor Moon’s identities, plus multiple Tuxedo Mask tuxedos, are available now. A lot of things we were looking forward to this summer got cancelled or postponed. One thing that’s happened right on schedule, though, is the roll-out of the brand-new line of Sailor Moon wedding dresses. You can thank […]

Immigration Bureau relaxes work restrictions for foreigners trapped in Japan during pandemic

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J Casey BaseelRevised visa regulations aim to help interns unable to return home and who need a job in Japan. Japanese residency visas are generally tied to having a specific educational, professional, or familial reason for living in the country. One category is the technical intern visa, which allows foreigners to live in Japan while doing a […]

Japanese grandmothers create “Monkey Busters” group, fight primates with airguns

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J Oona McGeeWho you gonna call? Monkey Busters! In the Chubu region of Japan, and bordering the prefectures of Ishikawa, Gifu, Shiga and Kyoto, lies a relatively less-populous prefecture called Fukui. Located along the Sea of Japan coastline, Fukui Prefecture was once home to the powerful Matsudaira samurai clan, but these days it’s more famous for dinosaur fossils, […]

670 pigs have been stolen in Japan this summer, and thieves are stealing cows too

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J Casey Baseel“It feels like our children were taken” says victim of rustlers’ crime spree. While criminals exist in every country, it really is remarkable how very little street crime there is in Japan. Unfortunately, one part of the country has been seeing a rash of farm crime this summer. Police in Gunma, two prefectures north of […]

We visit a new Tokyo bar where nobody speaks and writing is the only way to communicate

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J Oona McGeeIn amongst the noise and bright lights of Shinjuku’s Kabukicho is a quiet oasis where you can hear the sound of pencil on paper. How much do we really listen to people these days? It’s a question our Japanese-language reporter Mr. Sato has been contemplating recently, as even he admits to having his mind wander […]

This is NOT a capsule toy here – Testing out Japan’s fully functioning mini iron【Photos】

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J Casey BaseelBecause what really matters isn’t how big your iron is, but what you do with it. At first glance, this probably looks like our latest vending machine capsule toy find. After all, they already have gachapon replicas for rice cookers and air conditioners, so an iron isn’t that much of a stretch for collectors of […]

Japanese government to lift ban on reselling masks and hand sanitizer, citizens express concern

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J Dale RollIs it too soon to allow people to resell hot public health commodities? As you may well remember, when coronavirus started to become a worldwide issue back in March, people started to go a little crazy. A sudden skyrocket in demand for paper products, cleaning items, and non-perishable foods caused people to clear out store […]

The terrifying monster logo for the Osaka world’s fair is born, immediately gets fan art

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J Casey BaseelBelieve it or not, the design is inspired by cherry blossoms. As you can probably guess from the name, we’re still a few years out from World Expo 2050, alternately called Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan. Putting together a world’s fair is a big project, though, and so the planners of the event, to be […]

Man attempts to set himself on fire in middle of Tokyo’s busiest intersection【Video】

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J Casey BaseelStartling scene unfolds at Shibuya Scramble. The Shibuya Scramble, the massive intersection just outside Shibuya Station, has become a must-see attraction. As the nexus of pedestrian traffic in one of Tokyo’s busiest and most fashion-conscious neighborhoods, it’s a great place for people watching and trend spotting. However, on the night of August 24, people with […]

Pen-Pikachu-Apple-Pen? Pokémon star teams up with PPAP singer for new song

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J Casey BaseelPikotaro and Pikachu want to give the world something to smile about. Pikachu is one of those rare cases where an anime/video game character becomes a full-on celebrity. In keeping with his status as one of the biggest names in the Japanese show business world, Pikachu’s star power is always in demand, and just days […]

Completely unmanned 24-hours clothing store found in Tokyo

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J Master BlasterBehold the future of retail! Even in Japan, the clerks at clothing stores can be a little aggressive at times, and while they’re just doing their jobs and sometimes are very helpful, it would be nice to a little browsing without any high-pressure sales going on. That is exactly the niche Mujin no Fukuya in […]

Quit screwing around do some work, commands Goku in latest Dragon Ball fashion item

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J Krista RogersFour new T-shirts drawn from the various series of the Dragon Ball universe will soon be on their way to fans’ closets. Official character goods apparel brand Cospa has teamed up with two pop-up specialty shops, the Atre Akihabara x Cospa 25th anniversary shop (open August 1-31) and Manga Toshi Tokyo at the National Art Center, […]

Yamagata prefecture to open “kimono retreat hotel” in 2021 based in historic renovated property

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J Katy KellyArea will offer great opportunities to learn about the local culture, as well as the wonderful world of kimono craftsmanship. In today’s turbulent climate, many people are looking back to the simpler-seeming scenes of bygone days. Nostalgia for the olden times, smaller communities and classic culture is everywhere, so it’s unsurprising that when the Yamagata […]

Menya Musashi’s shaved ice ramen is the perfect dish to beat the Tokyo summer heat【Taste Test】

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J KayBecause ramen doesn’t always have to be steaming hot. It’s nothing new, but every year in Japan the summer brings with it not just cool-looking seasonal sweets and fireworks displays, but also the dreaded relentless and even dangerous heat. So when we heard that ramen chain Menya Musashi was serving a cold shaved ice ramen dish, […]

Conjure a magical barrier to block virus particles with an anime magic circle-inspired partition

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J Ingrid TsaiBe rest assured that the first law of alchemy, equivalent exchange, won’t be applicable here. When it comes to disease prevention, an important aspect is the ability to limit the spread of disease-carrying particles. Especially in the case of COVID-19, the use of face masks as well as partitions play an essential role in protecting […]

Artist for manga cancelled after junior high school girl’s groping makes first public comment

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J Casey BaseelShiro Usazaki understands fans are upset about the series ending, but asks them to keep those feelings to themselves. Earlier this month, manga creator Tatsuya Matsumoto, known professionally as Tatsuya Matsuki, was arrested by the Tokyo Metropolitan Police on charges of inappropriately touching a junior high school girl on the street before riding off on […]

City of Kawasaki to rent out entire theme park for local elementary school students

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J ShannonWhen long-distance trips are out of the question, Kawasaki looks closer to home. Every year, elementary schools across Japan organize a class trip for their soon-to-graduate sixth graders so they can make some final, precious memories together. Some take trips to other prefectures, some take trips to Tokyo Disneyland, some go to hot springs where […]

Japan’s Dragon Quest Slime fish cakes draw near, and possibly for free【Photos】

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J Casey BaseelIt’s time to treat yourself to a new experience point with some extra-adorable Slime and She-slime kamaboko. By its very linguistic nature, “slime” is supposed to be sort of gross and repulsive. After all, if it were something nice, we’d call it “gel” or “gelatin” instead. A rare but important exception is made, though, for […]

Sport some subtle Sailor Moon summer looks with these sailor-style T-shirts from Premium Bandai

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J Katy KellyNo need to go through a pastel transformation sequence to suit up like Usagi and friends! As any Japan-focused aesthetic blogger worth their salt will tell you, the sailor-style collar on a schoolgirl shirt is one of the cutest and most definitive symbols of youth and cuteness. All manner of adorable anime protagonists sport blocky […]

Clever new packaging trick helps make it easier to eat instant ramen without ruining your health

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J Casey BaseelThe Shio Care system helps you draw a line to solve one of the biggest drawbacks to delicious instant ramen. A Japanese doctor recently said it’s OK to eat ramen every day, which is something noodle fans would definitely like to believe. However, the physician’s permission came with a couple of conditions, one of which […]

Theft victim uses social media to catch suspects, suspects use social media to convict selves

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J Master BlasterInstacrime and Punishment. Social media is often looked at as a den of negativity and sexual predators, but like most technology, it also has the capacity for good – both intentionally and unintentionally as we will soon see. On the morning of 8 August, a motorbike belonging to a 39-year-old woman was stolen from the […]

Seiko to release awesome sports watches inspired by popular Street Fighter V characters

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J Dale RollSix different limited-edition models could be yours for just 51,700 yen (US$488.37) each! Japanese watch maker Seiko doesn’t just make fancy luxury wristwatches; they also make beautiful and stylishly themed ones, too. They team up with all kinds of popular franchises, like Godzilla and Ghibli, to produce watches for diehard fans that are not only […]

Sizzler’s salad bar now available for takeout in Japan, but is it really all-you-can-eat?

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J Katie PaskWe see if we’ll get our money’s worth with the takeout salad buffet. During the various stages of lockdown over the past couple of months, it’s been tough for some of us to keep eating healthily. Whether a new-found love for baking yields yet another batch of peanut butter cookies, or you’re just making the most […]

Mystery stink haunts Kanagawa Prefecture, worries seismologist

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J Master BlasterThe cause of the foul odor is unknown, but when does anything good cause a foul odor? At about 8:40 in the morning of 21 August, the Yokosuka Fire Department in Kanagawa Prefecture received 40 calls to their 119 emergency number all reporting a “smell of gas” in the area over the course of an […]

Thai Boxing Shorts Tokyo Street Style w/ Pink Twin Tails, Village Vanguard Japanese Cranes Tunic Top, Handmade Tote, Spinns, Oh Pearl & WC Dragon Shoes

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Drawing our attention on the streets of Tokyo is Baki, a 20-year-old shop staff sporting pink hair and a red-and-black ensemble.

Baki is dressed in a red satin mandarin collar tunic top with Japanese cranes print from Village Vanguard, which she wore on top of a black mesh top from Spinns. She donned two-tone satin Thai Boxing shorts from Oh Pearl, wore black flames print ribbed socks and stepped into a pair of WC platform sneakers with colorful dragon prints. Baki styled her pink hair into twin tails with black floral print hair bows and accessorized with fish drop earrings, a black leather o-ring choker layered with a chained bead necklace, a black leather harness, spiked cuff bracelets and black fingerless gloves. Most of her accessories are from Spinns. In addition, Baki is carrying a handmade tote bag made from a kimono obi belt.

Yubi Ga Ippon, Oh Pearl and Honwakapappa are some of Baki’s fashion favorites and she enjoys the music of Jun Togawa. For more on Baki, check her out on Instagram and Twitter.

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Tokyo Street Style

Japanese cat cafe livestream on Twitch lets you hang out with cute cats anytime you want

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J Scott WilsonThis 24-7 stream is purr-fect for feline better. Cat cafes are a way for people to get their cute animal fix, since apartments in Japan that allow pets are few and far between. Sipping on a fancy drink in a fancy location, all the while petting adorable cats can be a great way to relax. […]

Starbucks Japan reminds us that you can now add jiggly mochi to all your drink orders

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J Casey Baseel”Oh, and I’d like that with soy milk and warabimochi, please.” Though Starbucks itself does a fine job coming up with tasty recipes for its beverage lineup, the chain is always open to input from customers on their individual orders. Want your drink made with almond milk, an extra espresso shot, or less whipped cream? […]

Akihabara loses another landmark as iconic electronics shop steps outside station gate shuts down

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J Casey Baseel“I saw this place every time I went to Akihabara, and it was like an old friend.” For a part of Tokyo that’s focused on the latest and greatest gadgets, games, and animation, there’s been a remarkable amount of consistency to Akihabara’s urban landscape over the years. Maybe it’s a sign of otaku not caring […]

Shizuoka City orders mysterious torii of unknown origin torn down, sparks concern that a horror movie is beginning

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J Master BlasterLocal government finds new way to invite misery to 2020. At an intersection along Highway 407 in Shimizu Ward, Shizuoka City, there stands a rather large torii, a gate traditionally found at Shinto shrines. While it’s not too uncommon for these structures to straddle urban roads as cities develop around the sites of shrines, this […]

Mind Infection Painted Tokyo Street Styles w/ M.Y.O.B. Wide Leg Pants, Glomesh Bag, Buffalo London & Nike x Painted Sneakers

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Sporting green-themed graphic streetwear styles in Harajuku are Riona, a 20-year-old Kobinai shop staff and Riku, a 20-year-old painter, artist and illustrator.

With her two-tone layered fringed bob, Riona steppd out in an outfit from Mind Infection consisting of a black t-shirt with hand-painted graphic art and painted denim pants with ripped knees. White chunky sneakers from Buffalo London, a Coach convertible belt bag, and an assortment of accessories such as black sunglasses, rhinestone chain earrings, a silver lip ring, a silver chain necklace with a dice pendant, a black leather grommet belt, a silver chain accessory and a couple of knuckle rings completed her casual, grunge style. Kobinai and Mind Infection are two of Riona’s fashion favorites and she loves listening to the song “Mooo!” by American singer, Doja Cat. Check out Riona’s updates on Twitter and Instagram.

Meanwhile, Riku is dressed in a painted shirt from his own brand – Mind Infection – which he paired with cuffed wide leg denim pants from M.Y.O.B. White Nike x Mind Infection painted sneakers, a Glomesh clasp bag with a silver chain strap and accessories consisting of a painted ribbed ski mask over his pastel hair, black sunglasses, multiple hoop earrings, a pendant necklace layered with a pearl necklace, multiple knuckle rings and a silver chain accessory capped off his style. Riku lists Y Project and Rick Owens as his fashion favorites while his favorite music artist is Doja Cat. For his personal style feed, follow Riku on Instagram and Twitter. Also, check out Mind Infection’s Official Website and on Instagram.

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Tokyo Street Style

Tokyo Video Gamers, a new bar with free-to-play arcade games, opens in Akihabara

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J Casey BaseelGame on and drink up at this Tokyo cafe where the staff are so friendly they’ll fight you. Tokyo’s Akihabara district is losing two landmarks this month, but it’s not all bad news for the neighborhood. The newest member of the neighborhood is Tokyo Video Gamers, which differentiates itself from other gaming destinations in Akiba […]

Pokémon manhole covers finally come to Tokyo with awesome Gen-1 designs【Photos】

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J Casey BaseelA new batch of Kanto Pokédex Pokéfuta for the real-life Kanto region. In December of 2018, Japan’s first Pokémon manhole cover was installed in Kagoshima Prefecture, on the southwest island of Kyushu. Since then other Pokémon covers, or Pokéfuta, as they’re officially called in Japanese, have been making their way north, appearing in a total […]

Japanese “Creeper Reply Badge” capsule toys make us cringe with their cliche replies 【Photos】

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J ShannonIf you find yourself answering girls’ messages like this, you’re probably a creeper. Japan is home to both the most useful (like this fan capsule toy) and the most useless capsule toys in the world, and we’ll give you just one guess as to which one this article is about. Our journey begins at Yokohama World […]

Unit K-1, Japan’s brand-new ramen waiter robot, is bringing the future to our stomachs

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J Casey BaseelInnovative ramen chain creates contactless service system. Japanese ramen chain Korakuen is always looking for ways to innovate. Earlier this year, they came up with not one, but two different types of chocolate ramen, and now they’re forging a new frontier not just in the type of food they serve, but how they serve it. […]

Wasabeef Wars: mascot change sparks online controversy among potato chip lovers

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J Ingrid TsaiHow does the saying go again? Something something… if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it? Japan is host to a miscellany of mascots. Some represent facilities such as Osaka Airport while others have a higher potential of appearing in your nightmares. However, in the case of this one brand of potato chips, a mascot change has […]

Japanese wife berates husband for eating rice and side dishes together

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J Oona McGeeWife says Japanese meals should be eaten in a triangle formation.  Japanese meals aren’t always as straightforward as they look. Even at breakfast time, a traditional spread can consist of multiple side dishes served alongside rice and miso soup, and while it might look like a free-for-all feast, there can be some taboos and pet peeves […]

We learn how to make tofu with this at-home make-your-own tofu kit【SoraKitchen】

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J Dale RollMake tofu that’s even better than what you can buy at the store at home! Are you a fan of tofu? It’s a hugely popular ingredient in Japanese cooking, but aside from its prevalence in vegetarian and plant-based dishes, it’s not a very popular food in Europe or the Americas. But if you’re someone who […]

Ghibli Museum re-opening, tickets on sale in a few days

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J Oona McGeeAfter closing its doors for half a year, the museum is ready to welcome back visitors, with a few small changes. One of the first signs to indicate the coronavirus situation was serious in Japan was the sudden closure of Tokyo’s Ghibli Museum on 25 February. As one of the first major sites to close […]

Used Pokémon popsicle sticks are selling for hundreds of dollars online in Japan

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J Casey BaseelUsed Pikachu Garigari-kun sticks are being bought for over 140 times the cost of a new box of the frozen treats. Nothing makes anime fans’ eyes sparkle quite as brightly as limited-edition merchandise does, but by its very nature it’s not something that everyone can get their hands on. However, if you weren’t lucky enough […]

Take photos of your favorite anime character standee anywhere with this otaku phone accessory

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J Dale RollNever leave your anime crush behind again! Acrylic standees are the hottest thing in otaku culture right now. Since they’re typically small, standees let you proudly display your favorite anime or your anime crush discreetly and without taking up too much space. And if you have one of your favorite characters that is so good […]

Japan’s number-one cosplayer regrets not using oranges when cosplaying as FF VII’s busty Tifa

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J Casey Baseel”Tifa is just that busty” says Enako. There’s a synergy in the professional cosplay sphere in which the most popular cosplayers tend to cosplay as the most popular characters, which helps raise the profile and popularity of both. So it was perhaps inevitable that Enako, Japan’s “number-one cosplayer,” would one day slip into the outfit […]

One Piece teams up with Japanese fashion brand mis zapatos for funky, fashionable bags

https://ift.tt/eA8V8J Katy KellySanji and Zoro’s stylish geta-clad feet take center stage on this quirky, super-cool line of satchels and rucksacks. “Mis zapatos” means “my shoes” in Spanish, but this fashionable bag brand first booted up in Japan. Mis zapatos’ purses and satchels have a unique flair, with bright colors and zany stitched designs. True to the brand’s […]

Japanese Summer Kimono Fashion w/ Unicorn Hair, AnkoROCK Hat, Floral Yukata, LAD Musician, Junya Watanabe, Saint Laurent, Demonia & Maison Margiela Tabi Boots

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Standing out on the streets of Tokyo with their kimono streetwear styles are Nagi, Emiry and Ryoya, three Jaspanese street style personalities well known their eye-catching fashion. Let’s take a closer look at their summer looks:

At the left is Nagi, whose dark streetwear style consists of a striped kimono, a black button down shirt and wide leg pants from LAD Musician. He styled his pants with a brown leather belt and a long silver chain and stepped into a pair of black leather tabi boots by Maison Margiela. For his accessories, Nagi donned a two-tone furry top hat from AnkoROCK, wore white-framed sunglasses, mismatched earrings, a ball chain pendant necklace, a black necktie and multiple silver knuckle rings. Most of his accessories are resale pieces. In addition, he is carrying a drawstring knapsack. Nagi lists Comme des Garcons and Anrealage as his fashion favorites and he loves listening to hip hop music. Find Nagi on Instagram.

Sporting a unicorn fashion palette with matching unicorn braided hairstyle at the middle is Emiry, a 6%DOKIDOKI staffer. She stepped out in a resale yukata, which features a floral motif and a tri-color obi with bow and glitter accents. She slipped into a pair of metallic lace-up boots in a unicorn colorway and carried a Yurikaden quilted drawstring bag with a heart detail and rope handles. Emiry finished off her style with accessories including a ruffled lace headdress, a blue glitter choker, a beaded heart pendant necklace, purple lace gloves, stacked beaded bracelets, a duck pinkie ring and a blue sequin bow ring. Her accessories are from Spiny Cream and 6%DokiDoki while some are handmade pieces from her own brand, Glem. Spiny Cream and 6%DokiDoki are her favorite brands and she enjoys the music of Block B, Momoiro Clover Z and Woodz. Follow Emiry on Twitter and Instagram.

Meanwhile, Ryoya is dressed in a Bankan tie-dyed kimono, which he styled with a houndstooth print necktie and a sheer black printed scarf used as a belt. He stepped into a pair of metallic bronze Chelsea boots from Saint Laurent, carried a clear yellow top handle bag from Junya Watanabe and accessorized with a white newsboy cap, a silver chain drop earring, an oversized tassel ear cuff, a silver wristwatch and an assortment of silver knuckle rings. Some of his accessories are resale pieces, some are antique/vintage while some are from Undercover. Japanese streetwear fashion brand, Comme des Garcons, is Ryoya’s favorite and he is also active on Instagram.

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Tokyo Street Style