Kuromi and My Melody collaboration cafe with Egg & Spuma returns this summer
Some of our readers may recall that popular cafe EGG & SPUMA, known for their Sanrio collaboration menus, had done their final collaboration last year….
Made in Japan
Being Bishōjo: A dialogue between independent Vtuber Virtual Bishōjo Nem & kigurumi artist Takurō
By – Ben K Introduction As readers of grape Japan can surely attest to, the kawaii aesthetic has become an internationally recognized commodity. But where…
Imagine getting a love letter from Re:Zero’s Rem or Ram with Japan Post goods lineup
As many of those who enjoyed the anime series Re:Zero Starting Life in Another World breathe a sigh of relief now that the long-awaited second…
Tapista’s tropical boba parfaits feature Alphonso mangoes, bananas and dragonfruit
Tapista serves delicious high-quality boba tea drinks inside shops with a “cute and girly” interior based on a “French diner” theme. Featuring special homemade tapioca…
Why are fruit and vegetables in Japan so expensive?
The price of fresh fruit and vegetables in Japan is a real shocker. In the case of fruit, it’s commonplace to hear people say that…
Japanese PC retailer releases Hatsune Miku-themed PC parts and accessories
Tsukumo is a brand that’s familiar to the PC and gaming enthusiasts of Japan. They’re headquartered in Akihabara and are one of the biggest retailers…
Humorous COVID-19 road signs trend on Twitter as others turn to humor to beat the pandemic
The COVID-19 pandemic is no laughing matter. Governments across the globe have been enforcing lockdowns to differing degrees during limited commerce and tourism. Similarly, Japan…
Old-timey footage of Japan
Personally, I’ve always been fascinated by Japanese history. While far from an expert on the issue, there’s just something mystical about the society as it…
Pikachu brings his 10K-volt charge to mega-spicy pepper and super-sour snacks in Japan
You may have already seen inflated claims before from Japanese snack brands when it comes to extra spice levels or extra “strong” flavor, but there’s…
Miniature landscapes capture the quintessence of memorable Arashiyama, Kyoto
Situated in the far west of Kyoto, Arashiyama is the second-most famous sightseeing district in the area. Renowned for its majestic and otherworldly towering bamboo…
‘e-ZONe’: Japan’s First Esports Hotel Opens in Osaka
Arielle Busetto, JAPAN Foward On July 3, the first esports hotel in Japan opened its doors to guests. Called “e-ZONe — 電脳空間,” which translates as…
One Piece dolls from traditional crafts company Usaburo Kokeshi return for second series
Hey One Piece fans! If you’re looking for something which stands out from your typical anime merchandise, then take a look at these traditional wooden…
Honda releases bike from Makoto Shinkai’s “Weathering With You” in Japan
Makoto Shinkai followed up his record-breaking anime film “Your Name” with the visually stunning “Weathering with You” last year. In the film one of the…
Japan must look to the medical industry to save its flat-lining tourism industry!
Of the many industries that have been decimated by the spread of COVID-19 around the globe, the tourism industry is perhaps hardest hit. The story…
Centenarian ladies explain the lifetime of experiences that go into Osechi cuisine
When you think of Japan, the first things that often come to mind are overcrowded Tokyo wards and neon shopping districts set abuzz. During non-pandemic…