‘Smart masks,’ sewage testing, and other innovations limiting the fallout of COVID-19
So far, the fallout of COVID-19 in Japan has been relatively limited. Despite never instigating a full lockdown or other draconian measures, the country has…
coronavirus
Japan’s corona-fighting monster Amabie makes a surprise appearance in a fireworks festival
If you’re interested in Japan and have been following some of the news in the last few months, chances are you’ve heard of Amabie. The…
Japanese maker releases glowing and flashing gaming masks
For good reason, masks are in high demand at the moment. Even before the novel coronavirus pandemic, masks have been used in Japan for a…
Takeout wine orders in Japan make for a gruesome sight
Due to recent Corona-19 outbreak, it’s been quite a challenging time for all the bars and restaurants to stay afloat nationwide. As one of the…
Thermogate Zero compact thermographic scanner now on sale to the general public
Thermographic imaging, through cameras, scanners, or other devices, is an important screening technology that has been marshaled in the fight against the novel coronavirus. You…
Bare gruesome fangs and more with Japanese designer’s awesome creature masks
Talented special effects artist turned fashion designer MALICIOUS.X (Twitter/Instagram) crafts incredibly stylish and sometimes horrifying accessories, but her awesome masks might be appreciated at no…
COCOA COVID-19 App: Guide to the new coronavirus tracking application
COCOA, also known as the “contact confirmation application” is a new smartphone application that can make a difference in our fight with the COVID-19. Whoever…
Japan to Partially Lift Travel Ban
Amidst an apparent second wave of Covid-19 infections centered in Tokyo, the Japanese government is looking to ease travel restrictions to allow re-entry for some…
Untouched deliveries and stand-in baseball fans: Japanese robotics join COVID-19 fight
If you’re an avid reader of Grape Japan, you’re well aware that Japan is experiencing a robot renaissance. According to the World Robotics – Industrial…
Japanese artist solves foggy glasses mask problem with brilliant Ramen Mask
Given the need to prioritize health and safety in recent times, many (hopefully) people are wearing masks. Those that have used masks for a while…
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…
A growing number of ‘cyber homeless’ are struggling in Japan amid the pandemic
In Japan, residents in quick need of computer access head to internet cafes. These places of business offer a quiet cubicle equipped with an internet-connected…
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…
Bonuses Down and Paycuts a Must in Pandemic-slammed Japan
For a long time, I would suggest that Japanese consumers have been squeezed. In October 2019, the government raised the consumption tax from eight percent…
Repurposing Plastic Fish Soy Sauce Containers to Help Clean Up the Pandemic
Although a clean society, Japan does have some issues with waste. Rubbish sorting rules are notably detailed, and towns like Kamikatsu are stringent recyclers. Nevertheless,…