Gunma is what I like to call the forgotten prefecture of the Japanese people. There’s a ranking published by the travel industry every year based on how charming people find a prefecture and Gunma ranks second to last. Which is a problem.

Last year in December a new attraction opened close to the Pokémon Center Mega Tokyo that is situated in the shopping center Sunshine City in Ikebukuro. It is called Pikachu Sweets and is a sweet and confection shop that sells Pokémen themed sweets.

Japan’s capital is safe, clean, and full of family oriented fun. Join us as we look at some of the best things to do in Tokyo for those visiting with kids.

As the release date for the hotly anticipated Final Fantasy VII Remake draws closer (April 10, 2020!) excitement is certainly building, especially in Japan. As a result, Square-Enix is holding a special event at their cafes in Tokyo (Akihabara and Shinjuku) and Osaka as well. With a unique menu, merchandise, and décor (wall to ceiling posters of your favorite characters) inspired by this fan-favorite game, it shouldn’t be missed.

Japan is filled with all kinds of different and unique fashion styles. From cosplay to bright colored looks, almost everyone does something unique with their clothing. It is different with mori girl. ‘Mori’ means forest, so the style choices are related to nature. Inspired by European country girl looks, the mori girl clothing presents the wearer of ‘forest fairy’. It takes a few similarities to Western boho style.

People cosplaying is always interesting to look at. It takes courage, confidence and a whole lot of boldness to nail playfully portraying someone (or something) else.

Tengu has been a part of Japanese life for centuries. Ever since Japan has shared it's culture with the world, the god has shown up in the most unexpected places. If you have ever read a manga, watched an anime, or played a video-game from Japan, you have probably seen some shape or form of this creature.

The Reserve is located in a quiet neighbourhood which is probably the reason why it is not as busy as you would imagine the largest Starbucks in the world to be.

It's a hero comic much like Superman or Captain America but this superhero is actually sometimes not very happy with his choice to be one and at times feels like more of a villain. It's a more violent manga with adult themes that has been gaining a following inside and outside Japan.

Located near the JR Shinjuku Southeast Exit, this restaurant rests near a bridge leading into the Takashimaya Department Store. Countless sets of nostalgia grace the walls of the restaurant, all commemorating the illustrious career of pro-wrestler turned politician, Antonio Inoki.

For me, one of my “literary heroes” in this regard is Haruki Murakami. However, such is the humility of this genius, Murakami does not let such notions get to him. In fact he actually seems quite uncomfortable with the whole thing.

With its signature kappa (a Japanese mythological monster) mascot, Kappunk festival hosts dozens of punk rock bands from all over the world for 3 full days of hardcore rock festivities. It sparked a thought for me, how does Japanese punk culture compare to that of the UK or America?