James Lau

Every spring, people across Japan wait for the Japanese cherry blossom season to begin. Streets, parks, and rivers slowly turn pink as sakura trees bloom. Families and friends gather outside to enjoy the warmer air.

Japan is now without giant pandas after two beloved pandas left Tokyo for China in January 2026. The twin pandas, Xiao Xiao and Lei Lei, were born at Ueno Zoo in 2021 and became very popular with visitors.

Vegan ramen has become easier to find in Japan as food choices slowly change. Traditional ramen usually uses pork broth, chicken stock, or fish-based sauces. Today, plant-based versions can be found in major cities and popular tourist areas. These bowls focus on vegetables, soy products, and miso-based broths instead of meat. As a result, it’s...

The Kairo are small, portable heating pads people can use as hand warmers. They are designed to provide steady warmth for several hours and are commonly placed inside clothing or attached to garments. Kairo are inexpensive, easy to use, and sold in convenience stores, supermarkets, and pharmacies nationwide. While simple in appearance, they play an...

The University of Tokyo is Japan’s most respected national university. Students from Japan and around the world hope to study there. The school offers strong education, research opportunities, and paths to top careers in business, government, science, and academia.

Famima Convenience Wear is a clothing line from FamilyMart, one of Japan’s biggest convenience store chains. The line includes everyday basics like socks, T-shirts, pants, underwear, and accessories sold alongside snacks and drinks.