Virtuous Cycles
Tokyo's Setagaya Ward has long been active in supporting environmental conservation. It is now garnering attention for its introduction of eco-friendly electric bicycles and two Solar Parking Lots powered by solar cells and lithium-ion batteries. The initiative is part of the city's efforts to realize a low-carbon society.
Read MoreHotpots for Health and Beauty
No dish is better suited to Japan's cold winter nights than the nabe, or hotpot. Enjoying a huge wave of popularity at the moment are several new types of nabe with soups containing collagen, soymilk, or tomatoes.
Read MoreThe Voices of Japanese Pop Culture
CDs by seiyu, the actors who provide the voices for characters in anime and video games, routinely appear on Japan's music charts. As seiyu achieve new levels of popularity, more and more people are aspiring to careers in voice acting and trying their hand at dubbing using karaoke-like facilities.
Read MoreLaced with Style
Lace, which ranks among the most elegant of fabrics, is enjoying renewed popularity in Japan. Though once used exclusively in spring and summer designs, it is now featuring regularly in outfits designed for the colder seasons.
Read More





