Elliot Hale

From being introduced to the works of Rumiko Takahashi as a teenager in the UK, Elliot found himself falling ever deeper into the clutches of Japanese popular culture. It was not until he first arrived in Japan that he struggled free from its grasp and branched out into the wider aspects of its culture. From classical literature to baring it all in hot springs, he has become enamored with Japan as a whole. After working as a teacher in various schools, he has now decided to do his part for society and has thus stepped forth onto the path of sharing Japanese culture with the masses. He spends his time traveling through mountains and valleys, attempting photography, or cosying up at home with his books and board games.

Posted by Elliot Hale

Two of Kyoto’s famous temples tackle streetside trash with solar-powered trash cans

Bringing futuristic solutions to historic streets.

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Date handsome cockroaches in a new dating sim from one of Japan’s leading pest control companies

From the country that gave the world a pigeon dating sim comes a short romance game starring cockroaches.

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Japan Post’s mail carriers are getting some cool upgrades, but packages might be a little late

Intense summer heat means new safety rules and ice-cold drinks.

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Lawson opens a new mini supermarket, and the lucky bags can essentially stock your kitchen

You can haul back thousands of yen worth of ramen, rice, and snacks for a fraction of the price.

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Osaka is hosting a “hentai” event, but it’s probably not what you think

No tentacles here, folks! Only beautifully strange plants.

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Japan’s adorable pudding chick becomes a transit card mascot

One of Japan’s most popular dessert mascots is set to go with you as you tap through ticket gates.

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Japan’s instant ramen snack theme park features an athletic course even adults can enjoy

Sample ramen pizza, alongside other limited-edition items to pick up, or just make your own treats.

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7-Eleven Japan releases their second lineup of upsized foods from a muffin to bukkake soba

As well as a double-sized cheesecake worth fighting battles over.

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Baskin-Robbins Japan’s 2026 popularity poll results are in and the champion flavor is crowned

One flavor still rules the nation.

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161-year-old Kyoto confectionary maker releases new edible Pokémon lineup

Transforming iconic characters into delicious works of art.
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This historical Kyoto zen garden is hosting a guitar and beatbox concert

Blending modern beats with the sounds of nature for a one-night-only ambient session.

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Japanese criminals are now using crabs to hunt for burglary targets

They’re using our urge to share against us.

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Uniqlo’s high-end sunglasses are a fashion minefield for anyone who isn’t Mr. Sato

Does the brand’s most expensive eyewear require a fashion god to pull them off?

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Japan’s Mister Donut Japan tries its hand at Taiwanese-style street food donuts

Do they live up to the hype of their Taiwanese inspiration?

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Japan is so hungry for workers it used up its five-year visa quota in record time

Many people with dreams are poised to save understaffed kitchens, but they’re currently stuck behind a bureaucratic velvet rope.

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Visiting Tokyo’s newest unmanned Self Cafe in Shibuya

Skip the guilt of camping at a coffee shop and work for hours at this staffless oasis.

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Soaking in glimmering water and the essence of prehistoric plants at a Hokkaido hot spring

A botanical bath at an affordable price.

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Japan’s popular bead bonsai kit is as beautiful as it is gruelling to make

Gorgeous and tiny, yet contains the potential to break spirits and thumbs.

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Mr. Sato discovers his inner beaver with a 16-inch chocolate “twig” at Tokyo Station

Why settle for a tiny snack when you can gnaw on one that doubles as a legendary sword?

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Mt. Fuji decorated with a 500,000-flower pink carpet is Japan’s ultimate spring view

With mirrors, art installations, and a Peter Rabbit garden, this festival is the perfect day trip from Tokyo.

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