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Janken, the Japanese version of "rock paper scissors" has been settling scores for decades. Learn more about the differences across cultures!
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May 26, 2025
Janken: The Simple Game Settling Scores Across Japan

Globally recognized as a tried and true method...

Learn more about yukata, a lighter and more causal version of kimono that are a staple of summer attire in Japan.
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May 09, 2025
Yukata: The Casual Counterpart of Kimono

A summer fashion staple in Japan, yukata are...

Koinobori (carp banners) flying over a river at sunset with trees blossoming on the riverbanks.
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May 02, 2025
Kodomo no Hi: Celebrating Japan's Children

A popular holiday included in Japan's "Golden Week"...

Platter of sliced fruit including apples, bananas, grapes, oranges, and melon.
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May 02, 2025
Japanese Fruit for All Seasons and Regions

While social media might have you believe that...

Explore the island of Shodoshima, famous for its olives, soy sauce, temple pilgrimage, and beautiful coastlines.
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April 22, 2025
Shodoshima: The Mediterranean of Japan

Often called the Mediterranean of Japan, the island...

As Japanese culture continues to change with time, the iconic kimono has taken on new life through upcycling initiatives.
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April 22, 2025
Kimono Upcycling: Giving New Life to Japan's Iconic Attire

Once worn as day-to-day attire, today the kimono...

Exploring Osaka's Kitchen with Food Curator Yoko
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March 19, 2025
Exploring Osaka's Kitchen with Japanese Food Curator, Yoko

We've partnered with the wonderful team over at...

Gyotaku, the traditional Japanese art of ink printing fish
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March 19, 2025
Gyotaku: The Precursor to Trophy Fish Photos

Gyotaku, the art of ink printing fish, is...

Wasei Eigo, Japanese words adopted from Western cultures
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March 19, 2025
Wasei Eigo: A Unique Take on English

Known by many names including Japanese English, Japanified...

Okinawan shisa (guardian lion/ dog) on a rooftop with clear blue sky in the background
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March 07, 2025
Kugani Kutuba: Okinawan Wisdom Through Uchinaaguchi Proverbs

Uchinaaguchi, the indigenous language of Okinawa, has a...

Display of yachimun pottery plates and dishes featuring blue, white, and brown glazes
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March 06, 2025
Yachimun: Wonderful and Whimsical Okinawan Pottery

Dating back to the days of the Ryukyu...

Mother smiling and hold her baby in the air
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March 05, 2025
The Kira Kira Name Trend: Unusual Baby Names in Japan

What's in a name? The kira-kira name trend...