School lunch in Japan— kyūshoku—is much more than a midday meal. It’s a shared experience that combines nutrition, education, and community.

Tokyo is famous for its fast and busy train systems, but many people don’t realize it used to have an extensive light rail network called the Toden. Today, only one line remains: the Tokyo Sakura Tram.

Japan’s convenience stores, called konbini, are famous for offering quick, delicious food, like Famichiki. Each of these specialties comes from a different brand and has its flavor and fan base. These aren’t boring gas station snacks—they’re loved for a reason!

Whether you’re a tourist or a local, pet cafes offer a calming break from the busy streets of Japan’s cities. With proper manners and the right expectations, visiting a pet cafe can be an exceptional, stress-free experience.

As both a pitcher and a hitter, Shohei Ohtani has achieved feats rarely seen in the sport’s history. His recent successes with the Los Angeles Dodgers have further solidified his status as a global baseball icon.

IC cards like Suica and Pasmo have been the main way to pay for public transportation in Japan for years. Now, Japan is asking: is it time to move on from IC cards?