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Ultraman 60th anniversary Ultraman Day July 10 Japan
EXPERIENCE Fun Facts LEARNJAPAN POPULAR

Japan Now! Ultraman Turns 60! Japan Celebrates Ultraman Day (7/10)

japanup_akane 07/09/2026

For sixty years, one silver giant has been saving Earth on Japanese television, decades before superhero universes became Hollywood’s favorite formula. However, most American fans who discovered Ultraman through Netflix’s “Ultraman: Rising” have no idea that in Japan, July 10 is an official holiday for the character, and this year’s is the biggest one ever. The Ultraman 60th anniversary is officially here, and Japan is going all in. Quick Answer: In Japan, July 10 is Ultraman Day, officially recognized by the Japan Anniversary Association. It marks July 10, 1966, when Ultraman first appeared on Japanese TV. In 2026, the franchise…

Shinzo Abe assassination fourth anniversary memorial Japan
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Japan Now! 4 Years Since the Shinzo Abe Assassination, Japan Remembers（7/8）

japanup_akane 07/08/2026

For decades, Japan has been known as one of the safest countries in the world, a place where political violence felt like a relic of another century. However, July 8 marks the day that assumption was shattered: four years ago today, former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe was assassinated during a campaign speech in Nara, an event that shocked Japan and made headlines around the globe. The Shinzo Abe assassination remains one of the most consequential events in Japan’s modern political history. Quick Answer: July 8, 2026 marks four years since former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe was fatally shot while giving…

Tanabata festival bamboo decorations with tanzaku wishes in Japan
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Japan Now! It’s Tanabata! Why All of Japan Is Wishing on Stars Today（7/7）

japanup_akane 07/07/2026

Every July 7, something magical happens across Japan: train stations, shopping malls, and schools fill with bamboo branches covered in colorful paper strips, each one carrying someone’s handwritten wish. However, here is what most visitors never learn: according to the original legend, today is the only day of the year when two star-crossed lovers in the sky are allowed to meet, and all of Japan is celebrating their reunion at the Tanabata festival. Quick Answer: Tanabata (July 7) is Japan’s “Star Festival,” celebrating the once-a-year reunion of Orihime and Hikoboshi, two lovers separated by the Milky Way. People write wishes…

Sword Art Online Integral Domain new SAO movie 2028 announcement
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Japan Now! New Sword Art Online Movie “Integral Domain” Announced for 2028 (7/6)

japanup_akane 07/06/2026

For over a decade, Sword Art Online has been the gateway anime that introduced millions of Western fans to the idea of living inside a video game. However, ever since the epic Alicization arc concluded in 2020, one question has haunted the fandom: what happens to Kirito and Asuna next? Japan just answered with the reveal of Sword Art Online Integral Domain. Quick Answer: A brand-new original Sword Art Online movie, titled Sword Art Online the Movie -Integral Domain-, will hit Japanese theaters in 2028. It tells a completely original story set after the Alicization arc, with a story concept…

Motoori Norinaga, the scholar who defined mono no aware
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JAPANESE SAMURAI / Motoori Norinaga

japanup_akane 07/02/2026

1730 – 1801 本居宣長 Motoori Norinaga The Scholar Who Unearthed the Sensibility of Japanese Culture . If you have ever felt a bittersweet ache at falling cherry blossoms, you already understand mono no aware. This uniquely Japanese sense of beauty was named and defined by one scholar: Motoori Norinaga. Motoori Norinaga, born in 1730 in what is now Matsusaka City in Mie Prefecture, is remembered as the scholar who illuminated the emotional core of Japanese culture—mono no aware, the deep sensitivity to the beauty and sorrow of human experience. His life traces the path of a boy captivated by books who…

Japan heatwave 2026: extreme summer heat warning
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Japan Now! A “Once in a Decade” Heatwave Is Coming(7/2)

japanup_akane 07/02/2026

Summer in Japan is always hot, and most travelers plan for it. However, on July 2, 2026, Japan’s weather agency issued a rare official warning: a “once in a decade” level of extreme heat is expected to hit large parts of the country starting July 8. If you are traveling in Japan this month, this Japan heatwave 2026 alert is one you should not ignore. Quick Answer: The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) issued Early Warning Information on Extreme Weather on July 2, 2026. From around July 8 (July 9 in the Tokai region), temperatures in Hokkaido, Tohoku, Hokuriku, Kinki, and…

BE:FIRST
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Japan Now! BE:FIRST Drop New Song “Missing” at FNS 2026 (6/30)

japanup_akane 06/30/2026

For years, BE:FIRST has been one of the most talked-about boy groups to come out of Japan’s BMSG label. However, on July 1, 2026, they did something that pushed them into an entirely new spotlight: they performed the brand-new song “Missing” on national television for the very first time, on the same night they covered a beloved Japanese summer classic.This BE:FIRST Missing performance instantly became one of the night’s biggest talking points. Quick Answer: At the 2026 FNS Music Festival Summer (FNS Kayousai), the BE:FIRST Missing premiere came at the 2026 FNS Music Festival Summer, where they also performed Keisuke…

History LEARNJAPAN POPULAR

JAPANESE SAMURAI / Masaoka Shiki

japanup_akane 06/29/2026

1867 – 1902 正岡子規 Masaoka Shiki A Literary Figure Who Revitalized Modern Haiku and Opened New Paths for Language from His Sickbed . Early Life and the Formation of His Literary Interests Masaoka Shiki was born in 1867 in what is now Matsuyama City, Ehime Prefecture.  His real name was Masaoka Tsunenori.  From an early age, he loved reading and grew up immersed in Chinese poetry and classical Japanese literature.  After the death of his father, he was raised by his mother and grandmother.  Although the family was not wealthy, he was fortunate to grow up in a culturally rich…

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Valley Kendo Club beginner kendo class in Los Angeles, trial in Sun Valley
EVENT EVENT AND NEWS IN LA EVENT IN LOS ANGELES EXPERIENCE PLACES TO GO POPULAR

Kendo Trial Class in SFV area: Beginners Welcome in Sun Valley

japanup_akane 07/09/2026

Looking for a kendo class in the Valley areas? Valley Kendo Club is welcoming new beginners to a trial class in Sun Valley. Kendo builds fitness, focus, respect, confidence, and discipline, and all ages (8yo and up is recommended) and experience levels are welcome. Kendo Trial Class Details: Date, Time, and Location ・Date: Saturday, July 11, 8:00 AM・Location: Valley Japanese Community Center, 8850 Lankershim Blvd, Sun Valley, CA 91352・Open to: Children, teens, and adults. No experience needed. Class Times and How to Join For the full class schedule and ongoing session times, visit ValleyKendoClub.com. Contact ・Email: valleykendodojo@gmail.com・Website: https://www.valleykendoclub.com

Channel Oishii free Japanese anime and food channel on Amasian TV, featuring Hyakusho Kizoku, Gunma-chan, and Sushi Sumo
EVENT EVENT AND NEWS IN LA EXPERIENCE WHAT’S HOT

Watch Japanese Anime Free on Channel Oishii, No Signup Needed

japanup_akane 07/09/2026

Channel Oishii, the free channel dedicated to Japanese food, brings together popular Japanese dramas, anime, and films built around the theme of Japanese cuisine. Alongside the currently streaming Sushi Sumo, Channel Oishii is now adding new anime that celebrate food and regional charm, including Hyakusho Kizoku and Gunma-chan. No signup is required, and you can start watching right away on the FAST platform Amasian TV. Watch Now New Anime Now Streaming on Channel Oishii Hyakusho Kizoku -the farmer’s days in 2nd Season-Before her manga career, Hiromu Arakawa spent seven years working on her family’s dairy and crop farm in Hokkaido.…

Tempura Carlos Jr. EXPRESS tendon tempura rice bowls at the Mitsuwa Del Amo food court in Torrance
EVENT EVENT AND NEWS IN LA EXPERIENCE FOOD RESTAURANTS WHAT’S HOT

Like Tempura Carlos Jr. EXPRESS on Instagram and Get a Free Drink

japanup_akane 07/09/2026

Tempura Carlos Jr. EXPRESS, popular for its crispy tendon (tempura rice bowls), is running a free drink offer at its food court location inside Mitsuwa Marketplace Del Amo in Torrance. Like their Instagram post and show it at the register to receive one free drink (with any food order). Choose from green tea, water, or cola to enjoy alongside your tempura. This express counter, which opened in the Mitsuwa Del Amo food court earlier in 2026, is known for its tendon bowls, its udon and tempura combo, and its Spam tempura musubi. Tempura Carlos Jr. EXPRESS Mitsuwa Marketplace Del Amo…

RAKKAN Ramen summer menu with tsukemen dipping noodles, vegan tantan tsukemen, and a chicken katsu plate
EVENT EVENT AND NEWS IN LA EXPERIENCE FOOD RESTAURANTS WHAT’S HOT

Limited Time! RAKKAN Ramen’s Summer Special Menu

japanup_akane 07/08/2026

The RAKKAN Ramen summer menu is here for a limited time. To help you beat the heat this season, RAKKAN Ramen is serving its SUMMER SPECIAL lineup through September 30. The lineup includes savory Umami Tsukemen and Spicy Tsukemen (tsukemen are Japanese dipping noodles), a vegan-friendly Tantan Tsukemen, and a hearty Chicken Katsu Plate. Do not miss these special summer-only flavors. Check the website for the location nearest you. RAKKAN Ramen https://rakkanramen.com/Instagram: @rakkan_ramen Related Articles Mitsuwa Weekly Ad 2026: This Week’s Specials & Sale Dealshttps://japanupmagazine.com/archives/21703

Japanese pasta in Los Angeles at Takagi Coffee: lobster bisque noodles and mushroom and bacon wafu noodles
EVENT EVENT AND NEWS IN LA EXPERIENCE FOOD RESTAURANTS WHAT’S HOT

Two Luxurious New Wafu Noodle Dishes Arrive at Takagi Coffee

japanup_akane 07/07/2026

Two new Japanese pasta dishes are joining the Takagi Coffee menu in Los Angeles. The lineup adds two flavors: the umami-rich Mushroom & Bacon Wafu Noodles, and the creamy, rich Lobster Bisque Noodles that lock in the sweet umami of shrimp. Both are Japanese pasta made carefully one bowl at a time in-store, with respect for authentic Japanese flavor, and both are worth a try. Hours: ・9am to 7pm (Mon to Fri), ・7am to 7pm (Sat and Sun) Takagi Coffee 8048 W 3rd St, Los Angeles, CA 90048 323-433-1295Instagram: @takagi_coffee_la1 Related Articles Mitsuwa Weekly Ad 2026: This Week’s Specials &…

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FOOD LEARNJAPAN MONTHLY POPULAR TRADITIONAL CULTURE

Shochu 101: From Classic Sips to Modern Cocktails

yuka 10/30/2025

What is Shochu? Shochu is a spirit that features a variety of traditional ingredients drawn from Japan’s long history, offering a wide range of appealing aromas and flavors. There are two main types of Shochu: authentic Honkaku Shochu (single-distilled) and the more neutral-tasting Korui Shochu (multiple-distilled). Honkaku Shochu is crafted from a diverse array of raw, flavorful ingredients. Its alcohol by volume (ABV) typically ranges from 20% to 30%, which is lower than that of many other spirits worldwide. However, the aromas produced by different ingredients and distillation methods give Honkaku Shochu a truly memorable character. Let’s explore some of…

CUISINE FOOD LEARNJAPAN MONTHLY POPULAR

YUZU – Japan’s Citrus Star Taking Over Global Cuisine

yuka 07/07/2025

Yuzu is a small, highly aromatic citrus fruit native to East Asia, and it has been treasured in Japan for centuries. In modern times, it remains deeply rooted in Japan’s food culture and traditional customs. The fruit is roughly the size of a small grapefruit, with a rough, bumpy skin. As it ripens, its skin turns a vibrant yellow, releasing a powerful fragrance that can fill an entire room with just a single piece. The flavor of yuzu is uniquely complex, blending the sharp acidity of lemon, the gentle sweetness of mandarin orange, and a slight bitterness reminiscent of grapefruit.…

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Carine Lantignac, a French artist living in Japan as a foreigner
I LIVE IN JAPAN INTERVIEW POPULAR

I LIVE IN JAPAN / Carine Lantignac / Artist and Cultural consultant

japanup_akane 07/02/2026

Jun 2026 (VOL.224) Carine Lantignac What is it really like to live in Japan as a foreign artist? In this I Live in Japan interview, French artist and cultural consultant Carine Lantignac shares 13 years of life in Tokyo, raising three children and building Mapponica, her art maps made from traditional Japanese paper. What do you do in Japan? I have been going through different phases of adaptations following my family needs, being the prime physical carer of my children I had to constantly find the most suitable solution. I have three children and a Japanese husband, so caring. My…

Julie Mitrovic, a French coach living in Japan as a foreigner
I LIVE IN JAPAN INTERVIEW POPULAR

I LIVE IN JAPAN / Julie Mitrovic / Coach & Facilitator

japanup_akane 06/30/2026

May 2026 (VOL.223) Julie Mitrovic What do you do in Japan? Can you talk about your job in Japan? I’m a coach and facilitator working with women navigating major life or career transitions. I help them reconnect with themselves and move forward with clarity and confidence, using a blend of somatic coaching and Positive Psychology. I support them in those in-between moments where the old version no longer fits, but the new one hasn’t fully emerged yet. After 10 years working in Admin and HR, I wanted to deepen my impact, so I started a Master’s in Applied Positive Psychology…

ANIME EXPO EVENT EVENT IN LOS ANGELES INTERVIEW LEARNJAPAN POPULAR

The Front Line of Anime Music “Yoko Takahashi × Yoko Kanno” Special Interview

miwako3 06/28/2026

Anime Expo 2026 Special Feature The Front Line of Anime Music Yoko Takahashi × Yoko Kanno Special Interview Anime Expo 2026, one of the world’s largest anime events, will take place in Los Angeles from July 2 to 6. Among its most anticipated stages is J-POP SOUND CAPSULE, where acclaimed Japanese singer Yoko Takahashi and celebrated composer Yoko Kanno will appear. Yoko Takahashi continues to captivate fans around the world with “A Cruel Angel’s Thesis,” the iconic theme song from Neon Genesis Evangelion. Yoko Kanno, meanwhile, is the composer behind the music of landmark anime works such as Cowboy Bebop…

I LIVE IN JAPAN INTERVIEW POPULAR

I LIVE IN JAPAN / Mathilde DUBOIIS / Co-founder of tokimeki LLC

japanup_akane 06/25/2026

April 2026 (VOL.222) Mathilde DUBOIIS What do you do in Japan? Can you talk about your job in Japan? I co-founded tokimeki LLC with Alice Agnellet. We support foreign entities’ operations in Japan, mostly events-related. We do language and cultural support, and action our networks to best support our clients’ needs.  Some of our main projects include : international competitions pre-camp (Olympics, World Aquatics), product launch on-trade dinners (Baron Philippe de Rothschild), Project Management (Cezars Kitchen for Osaka EXPO)… Before tokimeki, I worked for Kanazawa City as a Coordinator for International Relations for 7 years which forged most of my…

I LIVE IN JAPAN INTERVIEW POPULAR

I LIVE IN JAPAN / Bernard McEntee / Teacher

japanup_akane 06/23/2026

March 2026 (VOL.221) Bernard McEntee What do you do in Japan? Can you talk about your job in Japan? I’m recently became a licensed teacher in Hokkaido, Japan. Before that I was a JET ALT for 4 years and was the prefectural advisor to the 5th largest city (Sapporo) for my last year as a JET.  What do you find different about living in Japan over the term compared when you first arrived or come as a tourist? So some really important advice if you come here to actually live is to know how to seek out help. Especially your…

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ATT. JAPAN Fun Facts LEARNJAPAN POPULAR TRAVEL

Japan Now! What Is Typhoon Season in Japan, and Should Travelers Worry? (6/25)

japanup_akane 06/25/2026

If you are planning a summer trip to Japan, you have probably pictured warm evenings, festivals, and clear skies over Mt. Fuji. Here is something that does not always make the travel brochures. Summer is also typhoon season, and right now two of them are spinning near Japan at the same time. If you are visiting between roughly June and October, this is worth understanding before you go. Quick Answer: Japan’s typhoon season runs from about June through October, with the peak in August and September. Typhoons are powerful tropical storms (the Pacific cousin of hurricanes) that can bring extreme…

ATT. JAPAN Fun Facts LEARNJAPAN POPULAR TRAVEL WHAT’S HOT

Japan Now! Why is Japan Quintupling Its Visa Fees? The Story Behind the Massive 2026 Price Hike 🇯🇵 (6/19)

japanup_akane 06/19/2026

For decades, Japan has been the ultimate dream destination for American travelers, offering stunning temples, unmatched hospitality, and in recent years, an incredibly favorable exchange rate due to the weak yen. But Japan visa fees are about to change in a big way. A major financial update from Tokyo is currently making headlines across Japan, and it’s something every future traveler and expat needs to know. Starting July 1, 2026, the Japanese government will implement a massive hike in foreigner visa fees, marking the first major overhaul of its kind since 1978. “【Announcement】Visa fees for foreigners to be raised 5…

LEARNJAPAN POPULAR TRAVEL

Trip 2 JAPAN | Beyond Sightseeing: Exploring Japan Through Food, Culure, and Unique Experiences

yuka 06/10/2025

With the continued trend of a weak yen, the number of visitors to Japan has been steadily increasing. In 2024, the number of inbound tourists reached 36.86 million, setting a new all-time annual record. Notably, the United States ranked 4th in the number of visitors by country. Japan’s rich cultural heritage, exquisite cuisine, and breathtaking seasonal landscapes continue to captivate travelers from around the world. At the same time, travel styles are becoming increasingly diverse. In the past, many tourists focused on experiencing Japan’s history by visiting famous temples and strolling through old townscapes. However, today’s travelers have a wider…

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Tempura Carlos Jr. EXPRESS tendon tempura rice bowls at the Mitsuwa Del Amo food court in Torrance
EVENT EVENT AND NEWS IN LA EXPERIENCE FOOD RESTAURANTS WHAT’S HOT

Like Tempura Carlos Jr. EXPRESS on Instagram and Get a Free Drink

japanup_akane 07/09/2026

Tempura Carlos Jr. EXPRESS, popular for its crispy tendon (tempura rice bowls), is running a free drink offer at its food court location inside Mitsuwa Marketplace Del Amo in Torrance. Like their Instagram post and show it at the register to receive one free drink (with any food order). Choose from green tea, water, or cola to enjoy alongside your tempura. This express counter, which opened in the Mitsuwa Del Amo food court earlier in 2026, is known for its tendon bowls, its udon and tempura combo, and its Spam tempura musubi. Tempura Carlos Jr. EXPRESS Mitsuwa Marketplace Del Amo…

RAKKAN Ramen summer menu with tsukemen dipping noodles, vegan tantan tsukemen, and a chicken katsu plate
EVENT EVENT AND NEWS IN LA EXPERIENCE FOOD RESTAURANTS WHAT’S HOT

Limited Time! RAKKAN Ramen’s Summer Special Menu

japanup_akane 07/08/2026

The RAKKAN Ramen summer menu is here for a limited time. To help you beat the heat this season, RAKKAN Ramen is serving its SUMMER SPECIAL lineup through September 30. The lineup includes savory Umami Tsukemen and Spicy Tsukemen (tsukemen are Japanese dipping noodles), a vegan-friendly Tantan Tsukemen, and a hearty Chicken Katsu Plate. Do not miss these special summer-only flavors. Check the website for the location nearest you. RAKKAN Ramen https://rakkanramen.com/Instagram: @rakkan_ramen Related Articles Mitsuwa Weekly Ad 2026: This Week’s Specials & Sale Dealshttps://japanupmagazine.com/archives/21703

Japanese pasta in Los Angeles at Takagi Coffee: lobster bisque noodles and mushroom and bacon wafu noodles
EVENT EVENT AND NEWS IN LA EXPERIENCE FOOD RESTAURANTS WHAT’S HOT

Two Luxurious New Wafu Noodle Dishes Arrive at Takagi Coffee

japanup_akane 07/07/2026

Two new Japanese pasta dishes are joining the Takagi Coffee menu in Los Angeles. The lineup adds two flavors: the umami-rich Mushroom & Bacon Wafu Noodles, and the creamy, rich Lobster Bisque Noodles that lock in the sweet umami of shrimp. Both are Japanese pasta made carefully one bowl at a time in-store, with respect for authentic Japanese flavor, and both are worth a try. Hours: ・9am to 7pm (Mon to Fri), ・7am to 7pm (Sat and Sun) Takagi Coffee 8048 W 3rd St, Los Angeles, CA 90048 323-433-1295Instagram: @takagi_coffee_la1 Related Articles Mitsuwa Weekly Ad 2026: This Week’s Specials &…

EVENT EVENT AND NEWS IN LA EXPERIENCE FOOD RESTAURANTS WHAT’S HOT

Grand Opening of a Massive New Store in Little Tokyo! 📚｜Books Kinokuniya

Hiratsuka 06/30/2026

⭐ Now with 2 Downtown locations! Your ultimate hub for Japanese culture is stepping up its game Kinokuniya Los Angeles is thrilled to announce its relocation and Grand Opening this June 2026, right here in Little Tokyo! Our brand-new store is more than double in size, expanding into a massive 405-tsubo (approx. 14,400 sq ft) space. On top of that, our shopping mall location has officially become a permanent, independent branch: Kinokuniya Los Angeles THE BLOC. With two convenient locations now serving the Downtown LA area, we look forward to making your book-loving lifestyle richer and more vibrant than ever.…

Tendon tempura rice bowl from Tempura Carlos Jr. EXPRESS at Mitsuwa Del Amo
EVENT EVENT AND NEWS IN LA EXPERIENCE FOOD RESTAURANTS WHAT’S HOT

Tempura Carlos Jr. EXPRESS Opens in the Mitsuwa Del Amo Food Court

japanup_akane 06/29/2026

Carlos Jr., the popular tempura specialist known for its crispy tendon (tempura rice bowls), is now open in the food court at Mitsuwa Marketplace Del Amo. This express location offers the convenience of food-court service, plus exclusive items like the Spam tempura musubi. The new udon and tempura combo and the bento box are already proving to be big hits. Stop by and give it a try on your next Mitsuwa shopping run. Update (July 2026): Tempura Carlos Jr. EXPRESS is now running a free drink campaign. Like their Instagram post and show it at the register to get one…

EVENT EVENT AND NEWS IN LA EXPERIENCE FOOD RESTAURANTS WHAT’S HOT

TAKUMA IZAKAYA’s Daily Special Bento Is a Santa Monica Favorite

japanup_akane 06/29/2026

A local favorite, the daily special bento box at TAKUMA IZAKAYA is perfect for both lunch and dinner. Chef Takuma rotates the menu each day, with hearty options like ginger pork (shogayaki), tsukune chicken meatballs, and garlic shrimp bento. They are made fresh in limited numbers each day, so they tend to go fast. TAKUMA is also taking orders for special celebration bento boxes for events. With World Cup-related events possibly in the works, be sure to follow their Instagram to catch the latest daily specials and announcements. TAKUMA IZAKAYA 2627 Wilshire Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90403 310-586-7469santamonicatakuma.comInstagram: @takuma_santa_monica