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Motoori Norinaga, the scholar who defined mono no aware
History LEARNJAPAN POPULAR

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
EXPERIENCE Fun Facts LEARNJAPAN POPULAR

Japan Now! A “Once in a Decade” Heatwave Is Coming

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
EXPERIENCE Fun Facts LEARNJAPAN POPULAR

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…

EXPERIENCE Fun Facts LEARNJAPAN POPULAR

Japan Now! Samurai Blue Stun Brazil with an Early Lead, Then Fall to a Last-Gasp Goal (6/29)

japanup_akane 06/29/2026

For 90 minutes in Houston, it looked like Japan might pull off the upset of the World Cup. Facing five-time champions Brazil in the Round of 32, the Samurai Blue did not just defend. They struck first, led for nearly half the match, and pushed the favorites to the very last seconds. In the end, it took six minutes of stoppage time for Brazil to escape with a 2-1 win. Quick Answer: On June 29, 2026, Brazil beat Japan 2-1 in the World Cup Round of 32 in Houston. Japan’s Kaishu Sano scored first in the 29th minute, but Casemiro…

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…

EXPERIENCE Fun Facts LEARNJAPAN POPULAR

Japan Now! Why Are Japanese Teens Obsessed with “Setlog,” the No-Filter Vlog App? (6/26)

japanup_akane 06/26/2026

If you have spent any time around Japanese or Korean social media lately, you may have noticed a smiley-face icon popping up everywhere. It is called Setlog, and over the past few months it has gone from unknown to the No. 1 free app in Japan. What makes it strange is that it does the opposite of what most social media promises. No filters, no editing, no looking your best. Here is why young people cannot get enough of it. Quick Answer: Setlog is a Korean-made social Vlog app where you film a 2-second clip once an hour, share it…

History LEARNJAPAN POPULAR

JAPANESE SAMURAI /Yosano Akiko

japanup_akane 06/26/2026

1878 – 1942 与謝野晶子 Yosano Akiko The revolutionary Tanka poet, progenitor of 50,000 works and mother of twelve children . The Literary Awakening of a Merchant’s Daughter Born December 7, 1878, in Sakai City, Osaka, to a family running a prosperous traditional confectionery shop, Surugaya. Her given name was Shiyou. Though raised in a merchant-class setting, her household fostered a strong cultural atmosphere thanks to her father’s extensive book collection. From a young age, Shiyou was exposed to classical arts, including the koto and shamisen, alongside rigorous studies at a Chinese classics school, where she learned Confucianism and Zhu Xi…

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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. Tempura Carlos Jr. EXPRESS Mitsuwa Marketplace Del Amo Food Court 3525 W Carson St #164, Torrance, CA 90503

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

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…

Couple in yukata walking on Melrose Ave near Kyoto Maruhisa USA
EVENT EVENT AND NEWS IN LA EVENT IN LOS ANGELES EXPERIENCE PLACES TO GO WHAT’S HOT

New Yukata Now in Stock at Kyoto Maruhisa USA, Plus Summer Events

japanup_akane 06/26/2026

Kyoto Maruhisa USA has just brought in over 100 new yukata and accessories, shipped directly from Kyoto. You can shop them at the new Gardena store, open Saturday June 27 and Sunday June 28, Sunday July 5, and on weekends after that. There is more than shopping, too. The store is hosting a series of summer events: a yukata dressing lesson on Thursday July 9 and Sunday July 12, and a stencil workshop on Saturday July 11 where you can make your own one-of-a-kind bag. Stop by to find your perfect summer look, and check the link below for full…

MONTHLY FEATURE View More

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.…

INTERVIEW View More

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…

TRAVEL View More

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…

FOOD View More

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. Tempura Carlos Jr. EXPRESS Mitsuwa Marketplace Del Amo Food Court 3525 W Carson St #164, Torrance, CA 90503

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

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

HINODEYA Little Tokyo Launches a Dodgers Game-Day Combo

japanup_akane 06/26/2026

HINODEYA Little Tokyo has rolled out a special Dodgers Combo, available only on Dodgers home game days. For $55, you get two mini ramen, one pitcher of beer, and three appetizers (edamame, gyoza, and karaage), making it a perfect set to share with friends before or after the game. In July, it will be offered for home games including the Padres series starting July 2, as well as the Rockies series. Dine-in only. HINODEYA Ramen & Bar Little Tokyo: 232 East 2nd Street, Suite B, Los Angeles, CA 90012 Instagram: @hinodeya_los_angeles

Expensive Japanese fruit displayed like jewelry in a boutique
FOOD Fun Facts LEARNJAPAN

The $200 Melon: Why Are Fruits Treated Like Rolex Watches in Japan?

japanup_akane 06/01/2026

From Everyday Snack to Edible Jewelry If you walk into a typical American supermarket in Los Angeles, fruits are treated as a cheap, healthy, everyday commodity. You grab a giant bag of apples or a plastic box of strawberries, toss them in your cart, and don’t think twice. But if you walk into the basement of a high-end Japanese department store like Mitsukoshi or Takashimaya, you will enter a realm of edible jewelry. Welcome to the world of expensive Japanese fruit, sold inside high-end “Fruit Boutiques.” Here, you will see a single, perfectly spherical cantaloupe resting on a silk pillow…