Rachid Muratake (村竹ラシッド) is redefining what Japanese athletics looks like in the global arena. His explosive technique and anime-inspired flair have made him one of Japan’s most talked-about young athletes.

Junko Sakai surprised many by entering and becoming a finalist in major Japanese beauty pageants at age 66. A grandmother of three, she spent decades as a homemaker.

Japan’s toy market is booming even as its population shrinks. What’s fueling the rise isn’t the youth market but adult consumers who are rediscovering toys such as Tamagotchi as outlets for nostalgia, creativity, and relaxation.

Yuzu ramen brings together noodles and broth with the bright, citrusy aroma of Japan’s beloved yuzu fruit. A modern favorite among ramen lovers, this dish is all about balance.

Oden is a beloved Japanese hot-pot dish that brings warmth to chilly days. It features a variety of ingredients simmered gently in a soy-flavored dashi broth. Each region of Japan molds the dish to its tastes, so traveling reveals new flavors and textures.

In August 2025, McDonald’s Japan launched a special Happy Set campaign featuring limited-edition Pokémon cards, including an exclusive Pikachu card. However, instead of a celebration, the event quickly spiraled into chaos. Scalpers bought large numbers of Happy Sets, food waste became a public issue, and customers were left disappointed. What went wrong, and how could...