#Culture

Why Japan's Best and Brightest All Want the Same Job

Staff Writer Anne Mimuro brings us a refreshingly honest take on Japan's recruitment culture, based off her recent firsthand experience (congratulations, Anne!)

DIG SHIBUYA

A citywide Shibuya festival exploring art, technology, and urban culture through immersive, public-space experiences worldwide.

The most ecological garment you've never worn

If a Silicon Valley startup pitched a modular, century-lasting, fully recyclable, luxury piece of clothing, VCs would be throwing money at it. But what if it already existed?

What traditional games tell us about Japan

Traditional Japanese games remain an important part of Japan’s cultural background, with many still played today—especially at traditional events. But what can they teach us about the Japanese psyche?

Creative Tech Shibuya 2026 coming in February

Shibuya Startup Support, in collaboration with urban art and technology event DIG SHIBUYA, will host Creative Tech Shibuya 2026: a five-day program for overseas creative tech startups considering entering the Japanese market.

Kabuki in modern Japan: stage, screen, and city

With the recent surprise success of a movie about Kabuki, this centuries-old theater form is back in the public eye. But what exactly is Kabuki?

Japan’s blue economy part 2 : Aquaculture

In part 1, we looked at the history of Japan’s shipbuilding, from its early stages to the latest developments such as AI-powered autonomous ships. In part 2, we turn our focus to aquaculture: an area where Asia has become the global leader… and by a lot.

東京 Tech Jobs Night

Join Tokyo Tech Jobs Night, and discover curated positions at startups where you can make an impact! 🚀

Jillian Chaplin: co-founder of 18CLUB tattoo studio

We sit down with Jill, co-founder of Tattoo Studio 18CLUB in Kobe, to hear about his journey opening a business in Japan in a famously stigmatized industry.

Kyoto Smart City Expo 2025

Short-form video and the rise of the “Short Drama”

Short dramas—bite-sized episodes lasting seconds to minutes—are rapidly gaining global traction, fueled by the rise of short-form videos on TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram. Originating in China’s online fiction culture, the market reached about $5 billion in 2023 and is projected to hit $14 billion by 2027. Japan is now seeing similar momentum, with over half of users aged 15–49 regularly watching short videos. New apps like Fany:D, BUMP, POPCORN, and UniReel are emerging, signaling a transformation in storytelling, advertising, and media consumption as short-form narratives become a defining force in global entertainment.

Local Stories Go Global: The Rising Reach of Japanese TV Dramas

Japanese TV dramas have historically struggled overseas, with anime making up 90% of broadcast content exports. Short formats and domestic sponsor focus limited global appeal. However, streaming platforms like Netflix and Disney+ have boosted visibility, with hits like House of Ninjas, Alice in Borderland, and SHOGUN. Remakes and international co-productions are increasing, while complex rights management remains a challenge. Japanese viewers now access dramas via diverse VOD services. Broadcasters are adapting by expanding distribution and collaborating with global partners. With continued innovation, Japan’s drama industry is poised to grow as a global entertainment force.

Unboxing Japan _ Zen

Zen or Zazen refers to the teachings and philosophy of the Zen sect of Buddhism. It expresses a free mind that is not bound by anything, especially attachments to material things.

Shisha is booming in Japan. But why?

In the Japanese capital of Tokyo, the number of shisha shops has surpassed the number of Starbucks and McDonalds in the past few years. How has this rapid trend come about?

Fukuoka: A city loved by locals

A recent survey by Mitsubishi UFJ Research and Consulting, a Japanese think tank, revealed how much Fukuoka City is loved by locals. In fact, the city ranked first in the nation in terms of “attachment” and “pride” felt by its residents. In this article, we will find out why the people of Fukuoka love their hometown.

Hamamatsu: a global hub for musical instruments and sound technology

Despite its relatively modest size, Hamamatsu is home to several globally leading companies. Suzuki, Honda, Yamaha, and Hamamatsu Photonics were all founded here and have grown into internationally recognized brands.

Kitakyushu: city of iron and steel

The history and culture of Kitakyushu is deeply rooted in the production of iron and steel. In this article, we’ll explore the essential role this city played in the modernization of Japan, its rebirth as a tourist destination, and the beauty of its natural surroundings.