Devon Lord Moncrief
Devon Lord-Moncrief lives in the US, but he absolutely loved Japan when he visited for a month. Traveling from Tokyo to Osaka to Kyoto and back to Tokyo, Devon loved every restaurant he ate at, every shrine he visited, and every awesome retro game store he discovered. Devon may live in the US, but his heart stayed behind in Yokohama, watching the sun set across Osanbashi Pier. At home, Devon can be found playing games, watching anime, and working out.
Articles by Devon Lord Moncrief

NHK Drama: What is “Queen of Mars”?
Mars has long stood as one of the most enduring and popular destinations for speculative science fiction. In December last year, NHK released a new live-action drama set on Mars. Queen of Mars takes viewers to the red planet, mixing political tension, alien mystery, and sweeping adventure. What is Queen of Mars? In the distant...
“Kuma” Was 2025’s Kanji of the Year
In Japan, there is an annual event in which the public votes on a kanji character to represent the year. Held at the end of the year, the event is meant to showcase Japan’s overall state, for better or worse. The kanji can summarize an event, mark a change in economic health, or celebrate a...
Nihonbashi: Why Is It Under Redevelopment?
Within the heart of Tokyo, Japan’s largest metropolitan area, lies the Chuo district, a bustling downtown area that draws countless tourists every year. Within Chuo itself is Nihonbashi, a smaller section of Tokyo, most famous for its namesake landmark: the Nihonbashi Bridge.
Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer Was Made in Japan!
A beloved Christmas tradition in the United States is watching the 1964 stop-motion TV special, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. Although it feels thoroughly American, the studio that brought Rudolph to life was actually based in Japan.
Top Anime 2025: Best Shows of the Year!
Another year, another fantastic output of anime! 2025 was a phenomenal year for fans of anime, as both new series and established heavy hitters alike topped the charts and even broke a few records.
Skateboard in Japan: The Ultimate Guide!
Like all sports, using a skateboard can be a mixed bag, depending on where you are in the world. In the US, skateboarding is widely accepted, with its existence and style being fully incorporated into everyday life, from cartoons and video games to music and fashion.