Many people might not realize it, but the legendary anime series "Evangelion" has a strong connection with fish. The medical breakthrough process that allows us to breathe through our butts was actually inspired by both fish and the liquid those pilots of biomechanical battle suits immersed themselves in. Not only that, but a line of… Read
Japanese apartments can be a challenge to furnish, especially if you’ve just moved to Japan. For small apartments, it’s best to pick furniture that stacks, slides and hides cables so the room gives the illusion of more space. Additionally, it’s always a good idea to use low furniture like floor… Read
After a day of office work and long commutes, your apartment should feel like a haven from the hustle and bustle. Start by using soft, low lighting to ease you into your nighttime routine. Warm wood tones can soften a room and add a cozy feel. Motion-sensing lights are handy… Read
The Japanese word gamaguchi translates literally into English as “frog mouth,” but the language didn’t really need a single, specialized vocabulary word for discussing that part of amphibian anatomy. You’re much more likely to hear gamaguchi being used in its fashion-related figurative meaning, where it describes a pouch with a metal clasp that… Read
Working remotely can only get better with the right essentials. Transform any table into a comfortable work space with just your laptop, mouse, external storage, cables and a charger. A small upgrade would be to keep those essentials attached to the laptop for easy access. A slim, stick-on pouch is… Read
Tokyo Banana remains one of the megacity’s most popular souvenirs. This lineup of small, individually packed sponge cakes filled with sweet banana cream has been around since 1991 and continues to capture the hearts of tourists who visit Japan. For devoted fans of the sweet treat, Tokyo Banana has released… Read
We recently took a moment to ooh and aah over how cute Studio Ghibli specialty shop Donguri Kyowakoku’s Totoro kagami mochi plushie looks, and to learn a little bit about the traditional Japanese New Year’s decoration that inspired it. Stacks of rice cakes aren’t the only symbols of good fortune and prosperity that Japanese homes… Read
As much as we love Japanese trains, we also love the stations they pull into, with all their unique sounds and cleverly designed features that give them so much character. At stations operated by East Japan Railway (JR East), for example, you’ll find clocks on the platforms with fluorescent yellow-green dials that make them… Read
Our skin changes with the weather and our skincare routines should too. During the colder months, dry air and indoor heating can weaken the skin barrier and leave our skin dry, flaky and red. Investing in moisturizers, such as heavy creams and hydrating serums, before bed, while cutting back on… Read
Going for a walk every day, no matter how short, can reap long-term benefits. Some studies say that even just 2,500 steps a day can reduce the chance of cardiovascular diseases, help with weight management and in some cases prevent dementia. Short bursts of brisk walking are also said to… Read