National / Media | BIG IN JAPAN Mar 6, 2021

Repressing the urge to do something might be better for us all

The ultimate relaxation, says one magazine, is not idleness but suitable activity — doing what you want, which does take courage.

History | THE LIVING PAST Feb 20, 2021

Matsuo Taseko: It’s myth vs. reality for Japanese nationalism

Inspired by the ‘Manyoshu,’ a peasant-poet took the Japanese capital by eloquent storm.

National / Media | BIG IN JAPAN Feb 20, 2021

Line between solitude and withdrawal becomes blurred in Japan amid pandemic

More than half of the nationwide hikikomori population of 1.15 million are between 40 and 64 years old.

National / Media | BIG IN JAPAN Feb 6, 2021

Finding the right measure of Olympic success in Japan

Does academic success lead to happiness? Weekly magazine Shukan Gendai offers a cautionary tale …

National / Media | BIG IN JAPAN Jan 23, 2021

Wisdom often fails the test of time

One generation’s knowledge is the next generation’s folly.

History | THE LIVING PAST Jan 16, 2021

Matsuo Taseko: A poet caught up in nationalist fervor

When nine swordsmen stormed a temple in 1863 they cut the heads of three statues, making a political statement that reverberates to this day.

National / Media | BIG IN JAPAN Jan 9, 2021

Can a few simple words ease Japan's anxiety?

What we say to ourselves carries a lot of weight …

National / Media | BIG IN JAPAN Dec 26, 2020

In 2020, kids still say the drollest things

2020 was a year to forget, if only we can …

National / History | THE LIVING PAST Dec 19, 2020

Thoughts on healing from the Heian Period

The psychology of health in "The Tale of Genji" suggests that enlightenment may be the cure for what ails you.

National / Media | BIG IN JAPAN Dec 12, 2020

Rising suicide figures reflect many women’s despair in a pandemic

Almost as anguishing as having no future is having an unknown one.