Japan has no shortage of superstitious symbols. Like in other cultures, residents have traditionally attributed mythical qualities to various animals and their representations. Maneki neko,…

For better or worse, cats have a long history of selling things in Japan. Take, for example, maneki neko 招き猫, so-called “beckoning cat” statues, which…

As an ex-pat, I can confirm that life in Japan takes some getting used to. Several customs are unique to the island nation, and there…

Shiba Inu is one of the most popular breeds of dog in Japan—the most common being the Dachshund. Sporting a medium frame and a thick…

Recently, Studio Ghibli announced that it was making 400 still frames from eight of its movie available to the public, and then one month later,…

There seems to be a recent pop-culture fascination with poo. While that may be hard to hear at first, just consider the popularity of the…

At grape Japan, we have a soft spot for furry friends, especially of the feline variety. Just something about their whimsy and curiosity and the…

Unfortunately some people don’t get it. Overbearing friends don’t recognize boundaries, and tightly-wound customers during the pandemic flip out at the slightest invocation. No matter…

As anyone with an internet connection likely knows, Japanese fashionistas are notably stylish. Many residents espouse stylish choices with unique sensibilities that comprise cutting-edge trends…

Every family has their own idiosyncrasies. Whether its dancing with video game mascots of yesteryear or leveraging art gallery techniques to convey a lesson, there…

For committed couples in Japan, it may be time to tie the knot. Or at least government officials appear to think so. The Cabinet Office…

Japanese ain’t easy. Any Westerner who has studied for an extended period of time can tell you all about the trials and tribulations of becoming…

Until recently, I never realized that Japan has a history of miniature art. Netsuke 根付, for example, was imported from China and appeared in Japan…

For anyone not in the know, Japan has some fantastic food. From unfamiliar delicacies at izakaya restaurants to home cooked rice bowls, you certainly won’t…

It’s typhoon season in Japan. Typically that means a few stormy nights when residents stay home. On such hazardous occasions, all you can do is…