Culture | Longform Apr 24, 2023
Showa seduction: The unending attraction of retro Japan
by Rebecca Saunders
Yet another generation is smitten with mid-20th century Showa Era style, designs and products. Is there more to it than nostalgia?
Travel Apr 17, 2023
Dark skies, bright future: Japan looks to the heavens for tourism appeal
by Kathryn Wortley
With a number of dark sky locations offering unparalleled stargazing opportunities, communities are hoping to capitalize on the draw of the cosmos.
National / Crime & Legal | Longform Apr 10, 2023
Are rising crime rates in Japan cause for alarm?
by Alex K.T. Martin
After tumbling for two decades, the number of criminal offenses in the nation jumped last year. Should we be worried?
Business | Longform Mar 27, 2023
Can the return of international cruises bolster Japan’s beleaguered tourism industry?
by Kathryn Wortley
The industry is struggling to deal with pandemic-induced challenges such as staff shortages and concerned residents near ports.
National / Science & Health | Longform Mar 20, 2023
Japan’s budding space program grounded by persistent setbacks
by Russell Thomas
Desire to compete in the satellite-launching business and shore up security could be hindered by historical failures.
National | Longform Mar 11, 2023
Abandoned after 3/11, Fukushima starts attracting new residents
by Alex K.T. Martin
People are moving to areas near the crippled nuclear power plant in the prefecture lured by the promise of subsidies, discount housing and work opportunities. But will these migrants stay?
Environment | Longform Mar 6, 2023
Can urban farming play a key role in food security?
by Francesco Bassetti
From small orchards to high-tech vertical farming, producing food in Japan's urban areas could help address key social and environmental issues.
Business / Economy | Longform Feb 27, 2023
How the Russia-Ukraine war has changed Japan’s economic outlook
by Kazuaki Nagata
Soaring energy costs have re-exposed Japan’s weakness as a nation of limited natural resources.
Business / Economy | Longform Feb 20, 2023
Unpacking Japan’s great wage conundrum
by Alex K.T. Martin
With inflation running at a four-decade high, the world’s third-largest economy’s famously stagnant salaries are finally showing signs of rising. Can the momentum be sustained?
Art | Longform Feb 13, 2023
Museums in Japan adjust to life after COVID-19
by Eric Margolis
The country’s cultural spaces are looking to rethink their role in society as they face an uncertain future due to increased competition and an aging population.
Business / Corporate | Longform Feb 6, 2023
Japan’s staff cafeterias becoming more than just places to eat amid office return
by Kazuaki Nagata
Companies are re-imagining the canteen as a space where employees can work, eat healthier food and deepen in-house communication.
Business | Longform Jan 30, 2023
Reining in Japan’s unstoppable urban sprawl
by Alex K.T. Martin
The world’s most rapidly aging nation wants its shrinking population to concentrate in regional urban centers. However, things aren't going as planned.