Japan in Focus

In Okinawa, an independence movement finds an unlikely ally

November 20, 2024Japan in Focus

For a small but vocal group of mostly older activists, reclaiming Okinawa’s history as the Ryukyu Kingdom and pushing for independence from Japan is a deeply personal mission. It’s being supported by an unlikely ally: Beijing.

Nobuko Oshiro: Okinawa’s only female karate grandmaster

November 4, 2024Japan in Focus

Whaling continues in Japan despite worldwide protests

October 15, 2024Japan in Focus

Rice shortage shines spotlight on Japan’s agricultural policy

October 10, 2024Japan in Focus

In rural Japan, a closed school becomes a new kind of community hub

September 6, 2024Japan in Focus

The precarious state of green tea in Japan

August 29, 2024Japan in Focus

As it gets harder to make a living growing tea, some Japanese farmers are leaving the industry, while others are exploring new options.

Japan awakens for the global art market

July 31, 2024Japan in Focus

Interest in Japanese art has grown internationally, giving hope to those who have been waiting for the industry to pick up.

Japan’s oldest village tries to attract new, younger residents

July 25, 2024Japan in Focus

Nearly one-third of Japan’s population is over 65, making it the oldest country in the world. Small rural towns nationwide are seeing these demographic changes most acutely as younger residents leave for larger cities. Nowhere is this more evident than in the village of Nanmoku, where officials are using the allure of cheap property to bring a newer, younger generation of residents to town.

Single and Japanese? The government will find you a date.

June 28, 2024Japan in Focus

Japan is entering what some sociologists call a “marriage ice age.”
So, the government is trying its hand at matchmaking.

In Tokyo, some public toilets inspire wonder

June 25, 2024Japan in Focus

In Shibuya, a busy ward in Tokyo, Japan, officials want public toilets to inspire wonder. They’ve recently started a tour of 17 bathroom facilities designed by world-class artists and architects. The World’s Patrick Winn reports.