On New Year's Day, Japanese families convene to partake of a traditional meal known as Osechi. This feast comprises numerous colorful dishes, frequently arranged in elegant, multi-tiered boxes. While the custom has evolved somewhat in recen…

Japan is currently experiencing a vibrant surge in craft beer popularity. A pub in Kyoto Prefecture stands out for its inventive brewing process, incorporating native Japanese ingredients such as tea, salt, and citrus. Thomas Ainsworth, an …

The "sunakku" – a small bar characterized by its counter seating and welcoming proprietor – are ubiquitous throughout Japan. Many locals frequent these establishments regularly, seeking a place to unwind after the day, enjoy karaoke, and co…

The devastating earthquake and tsunami of March 2011 reshaped communities along the east coast of Tohoku, in northeastern Japan. Nine years later, we return to the region to explore how its people navigated the disaster and its enduring con…

The devastating earthquake and tsunami of March 2011 reshaped communities along the east coast of Tohoku, in northeastern Japan. Nine years later, we journey back to the region to understand how its people navigated the disaster and its end…

Professional wrestling in Japan has evolved into a compelling blend of spectacle and athletic competition, achieving considerable popularity. More recently, this uniquely Japanese form of wrestling has garnered a following internationally. …

Across Japan, more than ninety thousand cleaning businesses thrive, serving a vast clientele who rely on their services. Advances in machinery have rendered the work both affordable and effective. Skilled artisans tackle even the most persi…

Miso, a fermented soybean paste, forms the very foundation of Japanese cuisine. For countless Japanese people, it evokes a powerful sense of home. The paste is crafted using koji mold, a fermentation starter that thrives in Japan's climate.…

Originating in 17th century Japan, rakugo is a traditional storytelling art form. Employing few props, a single performer brings to life lively and often poignant scenes populated with numerous characters. Johan Nilsson Bjoerk, a Swede, is …

Throughout its history, Japan has been repeatedly struck by devastating outbreaks of diseases such as smallpox, measles, and cholera. What explanations did people of the past offer for the origin of these epidemics, and how did they navigat…

Hailing from the mountain valleys of Japan, wasabi is a plant renowned for its vibrant green hue and intensely sharp flavor. A cornerstone of Japanese cuisine, it is most often enjoyed as an accompaniment to sushi and soba noodles. This wee…

For centuries, geisha have been a part of Japan's cultural landscape, yet their numbers dwindle in the modern era. This decline echoes a broader trend affecting many aspects of traditional Japanese life. On this episode of Japanology Plus, …

For centuries, Japan’s history has been enriched by skilled craftsmanship – arts demanding both dexterity and keen judgment that have subtly shaped daily existence. Often practiced by unassuming local artisans, these skills are passed down …

Korean film, television dramas, and music have enjoyed a sustained popularity in Japan, but a deeper appreciation for Korean literature has been steadily growing. Kim Seungbok, a South Korean native, is a significant force behind this shift…

The aloha shirt is a ubiquitous emblem of Hawaii, embraced by both visitors and locals. A closer examination of its history reveals a significant Japanese influence; these shirts were frequently crafted by individuals of Japanese ancestry, …

Kohfukuji, a designated World Heritage Site, stands as a significant Buddhist temple in Nara, located in western Japan. Gyoei Saile, a German native and one of the temple's priests, recounts his journey to Buddhism to Peter Barakan in a con…

For centuries, rice crackers and other savory treats crafted from rice have held a prominent place in Japanese cuisine. Each region boasts its own unique variation, some incorporating seafood, others utilizing wheat flour. This installment …

Japan's manufacturing sector relies heavily on small factories, often called "urban workshops," employing fewer than thirty people. Yet, many of these workshops enjoy international acclaim. This episode of Japanology Plus focuses on these u…

Tokyo's dense urban landscape makes its rooftops precious real estate, and they are put to remarkably inventive uses. This episode of Japanology Plus explores the fascinating world of Tokyo rooftops. Joining us is Kurakata Shunsuke, an arch…

Tokyo, typically a vibrant hub for tourists, has seen its landmarks altered by the COVID-19 pandemic. In a series titled "Tokyo Stories," Peter Barakan speaks with non-Japanese residents of the city, exploring how their lives have been resh…

Tokyo, a perennial destination for travelers, has undergone a profound shift since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. In a series titled *Tokyo Stories*, Peter Barakan interviews residents who call the city home but do not share a Japanese…

The Ainu, the native people of Japan, today primarily reside in Hokkaido, the nation's northernmost main island. For generations, they have cultivated a unique culture and language; however, few now speak the tongue. In an interview for Jap…

Japan boasts a remarkable diversity of mushroom species, some readily available in markets, others drawing visitors as natural wonders, and still others finding application as dyes, even from poisonous varieties. This episode of Japanology …

Kamishibai, or paper theater, is a storytelling tradition employing large illustrated cards. It enjoyed widespread popularity across Japan during the 1930s and continues to be cherished in kindergartens and libraries today. This program foc…