Stay up to date on Japanese society.
Japan has a long and rich history, with a lot to be proud of. But that doesn’t mean that everything that has been done here is worth celebrating. Like many countries that had feudalist systems, Japan’s feudal era resulted in an entrenched hierarchy that was difficult to change, or to elevate one’s status from within.
When Did Christianity Arrive in Japan? The Early History Undoubtedly one of the world’s great religions, Christianity, like many faiths, has faced opposition in many places where it was not the dominant belief. From its origins in the Roman Empire, it has gone from being an underdog to being the ruling force in many nations.
Japan’s summers are consistently sweaty, sticky, and scorching. In many regions, forecasts often show Tokyo highs hovering around 35°C with warm nights that barely dip below 25°C, and humidity that pushes the heat index into the danger zone. If you are new to the country or have lived here for years, the following advice will
Buddhism is the second most followed faith in Japan, and has been influential as a major religion in Japan since its introduction to the country over 1,000 years ago. Buddhism in Japan, while sharing many characteristics with its antecedents in Indian, Chinese, and Korean Buddhism, has evolved in such a way that, today, it has
Japan, as with many modern democracies, is home to people of many faiths. However, the most popular, and the most well-known native Japanese religion, is Shinto. Japan’s state religion until the end of the Second World War, it has left an indelible mark on the hearts, minds, and landscape of Japan. But what is Shintoism?
Tokyo is one of the world’s great cities. With more Michelin Stars than any other, it is the world’s culinary capital, and the scope of its history rivals any city in Europe. But how is the cost of living in Tokyo? Is it expensive to live here? Well, Japan has enjoyed a reputation for being
Navigating health care and seasonal illnesses in Japan can be overwhelming for foreign residents, and especially during flu season. Annual influenza outbreaks disrupt everyday life, from public transportation to workplace attendance. This guide will help you understand Japan’s flu seasons, prevention methods, and treatment options to stay safe and healthy. Understanding Flu Season in Japan
Every summer, high heat and humidity cause many people to fall ill, including locals and visitors alike. The danger comes less from raw temperature and more from humidity, routine, and hesitation to stop and rest. Knowing how heat stroke develops, how to prevent it step by step, and how to treat it based on severity
If you are a foreigner looking to tie the knot in Japan – either with a Japanese national or another foreign resident – you might be surprised to learn that a white dress and a priest have absolutely no legal standing. In Japan, marriage is strictly a civil procedure. It happens at a desk in a
Japan is often praised for its long life expectancy, but with that longevity comes a serious question: who takes care of the elderly when they can no longer live independently? As Japan’s population ages faster than any other country’s, nursing home care has become one of the nation’s most pressing social issues. Let’s look at
WARNING: THIS GUIDE DISCUSSES MENTAL HEALTH AND SELF-HARM ISSUES Relocating to a new country is always tough. It can amplify daily stressors, and Japan is no exception to this. Sometimes, people need help with their mental health. This guide explains how the Japanese mental-health system works, which services are foreigner-friendly, and what concrete steps you
Japan sits just inside the global top‑20 for Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) performance, yet progress is uneven. This guide decodes the national framework, highlights areas of success and shortfall, and — crucially — shows newcomers practical ways to plug in before the 2030 deadline. Japan’s SDG Scorecard in 2025 Japan ranks 18th out of 167 countries
Japan’s Human‑Rights Framework Japan’s post‑war democracy is built on a constitution that loudly declares the nation’s dedication to equality and freedom, and the government regularly advertises a “rules‑based international order” in diplomatic arenas such as the UN. Nevertheless, the distance between principle and practice can surprise newcomers, making it worth mapping the formal landscape before
Getting vaccinated against COVID-19 in Japan can sometimes feel overwhelming for non-Japanese speakers. However, once you understand the basic steps — obtaining the vaccination voucher, booking your appointment, and arriving prepared — the process becomes much more straightforward. This article covers everything you need to know, including eligibility requirements, appointment scheduling methods, and on-site procedures.
Staying up to date with your vaccinations is one of the most important steps toward maintaining your health while living in Japan. From routine immunizations to travel-related vaccines, the Japanese healthcare system offers a structured approach that aims to protect both residents and visitors. Understanding the vaccination schedule, legal requirements, and available resources will help
Japan has made significant progress in improving gender equality other the past few decades, but many challenges remain. Women in Japan have greater access to education, employment, and leadership roles than ever before. This article explores the current status of women’s rights, feminism, sexism, and gender roles in Japan, as well as the efforts made
Japan is a country with a rich religious history, blending indigenous traditions with foreign influences. While many Japanese people do not actively practice religion in a Western sense, spiritual beliefs and rituals play a significant role in daily life. Understanding the religious landscape of Japan can provide valuable insight for foreigners planning to move to
Japan is known for its unique blend of traditional values and modern influences, but how does the country treat LGBTQ+ rights? While progress has been made, Japan still has significant gaps in legal protections and social acceptance for the LGBTQ+ community. This article explores Japan’s stance on LGBTQ+ rights, and covers legal frameworks, societal perspectives,