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Japan Implements the “My Number” System

My Number, Your Number, or the Government's Number?  Is it a mandatory number?  While many people wonder, if it will be used to encumber; there's...

Should Tattoos Continue to be Banned From Onsen in Japan?

Spring and early Summer means relaxation, travel, and for many people, it also means a visit to an Onsen (温泉; natural hot springs).  As a volcanically active country,...

Getting Connected in Japan: How to find free or cheap Wi-Fi

Most travelers to Japan (along with your author) come from places where the second we hop off the plane in a new place, we...

Getting an International Driver’s License

A few years ago, I was hired to translate for an engineer who was being sent to the US to meet with customers. I...
Playing Rock Paper Scissors in Japan

The Decision-Making Powers of Janken

Picture this scene... You're at an Izakaya with your mates, all having a great time. It's towards the end of the evening when everyone...
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Are Black folks in Japan weird?

Many times when black folk see other black folk, especially in places where there aren't many of us, an almost obligatory reverse head nod...
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Job Hunting Season in Japan – Shuukatsu

It's almost that time of year again when you'll see many recent graduates in their best black suits, roaming the streets to attend interviews...
Photo credit: bark via Foter.com / CC BY

7 Ways to beat the Summer Heat in Japan

Japanese Summers are notoriously hot and humid. It’s the same story every year: After the coldness of Winter, we all look forward to that...

Big in Japan (Nagoya) – Adam Demby

Hey folks, this Month's installment of Big in Japan features a truly uniquely eclectic drummer from New Jersey in the US. I met Adam many...

Undokai and Anarchism

If you are a parent in Japan and you have attended your child's undokai (運動会) or school sports day, then guess what: You're an...

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