Kyushu, Japan's southern-most main island, offers rich culture, local delicacies and beautiful natural landscapes, however, many international tourists don't make it here. In this video, we go on a 4-day trip to introduce the island's four largest cities. (japan-guide.com)

A 46-year-old man arrested for vandalizing a restroom inside the Imperial Palace during the New Year's public greeting has been sent to prosecutors, with further investigations underway into graffiti found on a nearby manhole. (News On Japan)

An annual New Year's event showcasing Plarail collections has kicked off in Osaka’s Nanko district, marking the 65th anniversary of the beloved toy enjoyed across generations. (News On Japan)

In Kami Town, Hyogo Prefecture, a traditional ritual praying for health and a bountiful harvest by blackening faces and worshipping the 'Mountain Deity' was held. Boys were seen smearing ink on each other's faces during the event. (News On Japan)

Start building your Japanese vocabulary. (Learn Japanese with JapanesePod101.com)

On New Year’s Day 2024, a magnitude 7.5 earthquake struck Japan's Noto peninsula and claimed nearly 470 lives. One year later, survivors of the devastating quake still live in temporary accommodation in the town of Wajima. (South China Morning Post)

Japan buzzed with rumors of an impending clash between two legendary samurai: Miyamoto Musashi and Sasaki Kojirō. Representing innovation and tradition respectively, the rivalry captured the nation. (See U in History / Mythology)

Japan has some of the strangest insurance plans in the world. From Hole in One insurance, Stalker Insurance all the way to Train Groping Insurance. (News On Japan)

Japan is known for its fast internet, tech-savvy culture, and open online environment. Unlike some countries, Japan doesn’t enforce strict censorship or impose significant restrictions on internet access. (News On Japan)

2025 marks the start of the 7th year of Reiwa, the 37th year of Heisei, and even the 100th year of Showa. The new year begins with two major celestial events in January—a striking meteor shower and Mars making a close approach to Earth, remaining visible throughout the night. (News On Japan)

During the New Year's holidays from January 1st to 3rd, two elderly men in Tokyo lost their lives after choking on mochi, according to the Tokyo Fire Department, which has issued a warning urging caution when consuming the traditional rice cake. (News On Japan)

In 2025, all members of the postwar baby boomer generation will reach the age of 75 or older, becoming what is categorized as late-stage elderly. The sudden surge in people requiring care has raised concerns over the so-called "2025 Problem," posing a serious challenge to caregiving services. (News On Japan)

A Shinto ritual wishing for abundant harvests and good fishing throughout the year was held at Hakozaki Shrine in Fukuoka City, one of Japan’s three major Hachiman shrines. (News On Japan)

US President Joe Biden has issued an order to block Nippon Steel's planned buyout of US Steel. (News On Japan)

Japanese weather officials are calling on people returning from their holidays in northern Japan to brace themselves for traffic disruptions. The warning comes as record amounts of snow pile up. (NHK)

Explore the lesser-known side of Okinawa with us as we uncover 10 incredible hidden gems you absolutely must visit! From charming old streets to breathtaking viewpoints, our journey takes you beyond the usual tourist spots to discover Okinawa’s true beauty and culture. (TabiEats)

Various traditional events marking the New Year were held across the country. In Bungotakada City, Oita Prefecture, the ‘Horanyenya’ festival, in which boats are rowed to rhythmic chants, took place. (News On Japan)

At the first tuna auction of the year held at Tokyo’s Toyosu Market, a bluefin tuna from Oma, Aomori Prefecture, was sold for 207 million yen, the second-highest price in history. (News On Japan)

Japanese school teachers are grappling with severe long working hours and staff shortages, leading to what some call a "fixed labor system" that allows overwork without adequate compensation. (News On Japan)

During the first general audience in two years at the Imperial Palace, attended by over 60,000 people, the Imperial Guard arrested a 46-year-old man from Zama City, Kanagawa Prefecture, on suspicion of defacing a restroom on the palace grounds. (News On Japan)