Uncategorized
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Biker moms in Tokyo?
It’s nothing short of impressive. One child in a front seat. Another in a rear seat. Shopping bags in the front basket or on a rear rack – often both. Mothers on so-called mom bikes (mamachari) are a common sight… Continue reading
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How come so many people nap in public in Japan?
In Japan people nap everywhere: on trains, in coffee shops, in shopping centers, while waiting for the doctor – even at their desks. Everyone is doing it: children, teenagers, adults and older people. Women and men. It’s a cultural phenomenon… Continue reading
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Why do so many of Japan’s temples and shrines have so many steps?
If you’ve ever visited a temple or shrine in Japan and found yourself out of breath after climbing hundreds of stone steps, you’re not alone. Many sacred sites in Japan are located on hillsides or mountains. Reaching them often involves… Continue reading
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What’s the big deal with Japan’s convenience stores?
Need a quick meal, a drink, a toothbrush, socks or even a clean business shirt? Want to pay your electricity bill, taxes, or grab concert tickets? In Japan, you do it all at the nearest convenience store or konbini. For… Continue reading
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Why are animal cafés so popular in Tokyo?
Want to cuddle with a dog? Have coffee with a bunch of cats? You’ll have plenty of choices in Tokyo. The city is famous for turning everyday experiences into something a little unexpected. Its animal café culture is a perfect… Continue reading
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Do Japanese people like lining up?
Walk through Tokyo at lunchtime and you’ll see long lines outside popular food spots. It’s puzzling at first, because there’s no shortage of restaurants, many nearby and half empty. When I first moved to Tokyo, someone even told me to… Continue reading
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Manga madness in Japan – only for kids?
Take a ride on a Tokyo subway and you notice that people are glued to their phones. What are they doing? Some play games. Some watch movies. And many are immersed in manga, Japanese comics. I expected teens to be… Continue reading
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Why do Japanese men wear handbags?
Real men don’t wear handbags? Come to Tokyo and think again. During my first few weeks in Tokyo, it threw my gender stereotypes upside down. Japanese men carrying handbags: crossbody bags, clutches, shopping bags, messenger bags – you name it.… Continue reading
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What about beauty standards in Japan?
Do you love the simplicity of Japanese beauty? How natural beauty is emphasized, nothing flashy or too shrill? You are not alone. Walk down the beauty aisles in a Japanese drug store, and you’ll mainly see muted colors. Bright red… Continue reading
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Why is Japan so obsessed with cherry blossoms?
Everyone talks about it. It’s everywhere you go. It’s the quintessential spring moment, with festivals and pop ups across Japan. When offices, families, and groups of friends gather in parks, you know it’s official. Sakura, the cherry blossom… Continue reading
