Archives for June 2020

Tokyo Metro tests its first unmanned security and cleaning robot at Tsukishima Station

June 26, 2020 by Japan and Extra

On June 12, Tokyo Metro conducted its first test run of using an unmanned robot to disinfect commonly used surfaces in Tsukishima station, located in the Chuo Ward of Tokyo. The robot, named Patoro (from the first two syllables of the Japanese word for “patrol”, パトロール or patorōru, and the “ro” from “robot”) was created by Japanese robotics company, ZMP Inc. The company … [Read more...] about Tokyo Metro tests its first unmanned security and cleaning robot at Tsukishima Station

Mu: a clue to a legendary lost kingdom in Ojima Komatsugawa park

June 26, 2020 by Japan and Extra

A few days ago I was cycling down the River Arakawa when I came to Ojima Komatsugawa park. Being on a spur of land that juts out into the river, it’s surrounded by water on three sides. At the top of the hill in the middle of the park, I came across this startlingly beautiful sculpture. A plaque informs passersby that it was created to commemorate the lost continent of Mu, … [Read more...] about Mu: a clue to a legendary lost kingdom in Ojima Komatsugawa park

Japan to stage Tokyo Olympics without overseas spectators

March 13, 2021 By Japan and Extra

The Japanese government has decided to exclude overseas spectators from attending this summer’s Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics, as part of efforts to prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus, officials with knowledge of the matter said Tuesday. The government and the Japanese organizing committee of the games are expected to hold a remote meeting with […]

Fading Fury: The Decline of Bosozoku Culture

November 7, 2023 By Japan and Extra

From the ancient feudal era through an industrial revolution in a few years, there’s something unique about the Japanese social, cultural, and mental psyche that propels them more than others. Boshoku is one of them. Bosozoku biker gangs in Japan represent the best of the unique culture of this nation. In the 1950s, Bosozoku gangs, […]

7 Best Airlines for Traveling to Japan

December 28, 2024 By Japan and Extra

After more than two years of pandemic-related closures, Japan has once again opened its doors to tourists. This exciting development has travelers eager to explore the Land of the Rising Sun. If you’re planning to embark on this journey across the Pacific Ocean, you might wonder: What’s the best airline to choose for your voyage […]

Unveiling Cat Pain: Japanese app aims to detect cat pain

July 21, 2023 By Japan and Extra

In Japan, cats are believed to bring good luck, and their owners spare no expense in caring for these beloved pets. However, it can be challenging to determine when our feline friends are feeling down. In response to this concern, a Tokyo-based tech firm and university have joined forces to create a remarkable app. Named […]

People are putting facemasks on Japan’s Hachiko statue

July 16, 2020 By Japan and Extra

Even faithful statued dogs apparently need to be protected from the Coronavirus, as a number of Japanese citizens have been caught putting facemasks on the iconic Hachiko Statue located at Shibuya in Tokyo, Japan. ICDYK, Hachiko was the faithful Akita doggo who waited for his master at the same Shibuya train station every day for […]

5 types of Japanese seaweed and their benefits

September 30, 2023 By Japan and Extra

If you’re captivated by the flavors of the sea, indulge in a sophisticated oyster and seaweed recipe crafted by the acclaimed Irish chef, JP McMahon. Dive into the world of Japanese seaweed and unlock a wealth of culinary delights that are both delicious and nutritious. Nori: A Sushi Staple Nori, perhaps the most recognized among […]

10 Strangest Japanese Foods

March 15, 2021 By Japan and Extra

Renowned for its beautiful architecture, scarily advanced technology, and strong tradition, Japan remains one of the most fascinating countries to culturally dissect. However, it is the nation’s eccentric game shows, colorful anime, and unusual gadgets that seem to generate considerable attention. The same fervent interest lies in Japanese food. Japan’s gastronomical delights have evolved through […]