#Japan

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Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

Aizen Myōō () Seated Statue, Onjo-ji, . An old-fashioned statue with a lion crown on its head. Aizen Myōō () is the embodiment of the human nature of love, desire, and worldly desires. He also teaches that it is these desires and desires that lead to Buddhahood. It is also deeply worshiped as the god of war, and Kanetsugu Naoe decorated his helmet with the letters of love out of his faith.

Aizen Myōō (#AizenMyōō) Seated Statue, Onjo-ji, #Japan. An old-fashioned statue with a lion crown on its head. Aizen Myōō (#AizenMyōō) is the embodiment of the human nature of love, desire, and worldly desires. He also teaches that it is these desires and desires that lead to Buddhahood. It is also deeply worshiped as the god of war, and Kanetsugu Naoe decorated his helmet with the letters of love out of his faith. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsAizen Myōō (#AizenMyōō) Seated Statue, Onjo-ji, #Japan. An old-fashioned statue with a lion crown on its head. Aizen Myōō (#AizenMyōō) is the embodiment of the human nature of love, desire, and worldly desires. He also teaches that it is these desires and desires that lead to Buddhahood. It is also deeply worshiped as the god of war, and Kanetsugu Naoe decorated his helmet with the letters of love out of his faith. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
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Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

Aizen Myōō () Seated Statue, Onjo-ji, . An old-fashioned statue with a lion crown on its head. Aizen Myōō () is the embodiment of the human nature of love, desire, and worldly desires. He also teaches that it is these desires and desires that lead to Buddhahood. It is also deeply worshiped as the god of war, and Kanetsugu Naoe decorated his helmet with the letters of love out of his faith.

Aizen Myōō (#AizenMyōō) Seated Statue, Onjo-ji, #Japan. An old-fashioned statue with a lion crown on its head. Aizen Myōō (#AizenMyōō) is the embodiment of the human nature of love, desire, and worldly desires. He also teaches that it is these desires and desires that lead to Buddhahood. It is also deeply worshiped as the god of war, and Kanetsugu Naoe decorated his helmet with the letters of love out of his faith. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsAizen Myōō (#AizenMyōō) Seated Statue, Onjo-ji, #Japan. An old-fashioned statue with a lion crown on its head. Aizen Myōō (#AizenMyōō) is the embodiment of the human nature of love, desire, and worldly desires. He also teaches that it is these desires and desires that lead to Buddhahood. It is also deeply worshiped as the god of war, and Kanetsugu Naoe decorated his helmet with the letters of love out of his faith. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Sei Shōnagon (清少納言 ?966-1025?) in 'The Pillow Book' (枕草子) says "On January 6th, a person brought young grasses for January 7th, and people grew excited...."
It seems that a game was made of collecting the herbs on the 'first day of the rat of the New Year' (初子).

Woodblock print of a woman cutting spring herbs. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of a woman cutting spring herbs. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
Woodblock print of a kabuki play called the '7 Herbs' being performed. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of a kabuki play called the '7 Herbs' being performed. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
Woodblock print of a child and women gathering spring herbs. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of a child and women gathering spring herbs. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
Woodblock print of women gathering spring herbs. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of women gathering spring herbs. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

During the Edo period, as with many courtly traditions, the custom of eating nanakusa-gayu porridge (七草粥) spread to the masses. The bakufu and samurai classes incorporated 'Nanakusa-no-sekku' (七草の節句) into their annual celebrations.
It remains popular to this day.

A bowl of nanakusa-gayu.
ALT text detailsA bowl of nanakusa-gayu.
Laying out the 7 herbs ready for cutting.
ALT text detailsLaying out the 7 herbs ready for cutting.
Hogarth the cat waiting for his chance to grab a delicious looking leaf.
ALT text detailsHogarth the cat waiting for his chance to grab a delicious looking leaf.
A pack of 7 herbs fresh from the supermarket, ready to chop and add to rice congee.
ALT text detailsA pack of 7 herbs fresh from the supermarket, ready to chop and add to rice congee.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Sei Shōnagon (清少納言 ?966-1025?) in 'The Pillow Book' (枕草子) says "On January 6th, a person brought young grasses for January 7th, and people grew excited...."
It seems that a game was made of collecting the herbs on the 'first day of the rat of the New Year' (初子).

Woodblock print of a woman cutting spring herbs. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of a woman cutting spring herbs. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
Woodblock print of a kabuki play called the '7 Herbs' being performed. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of a kabuki play called the '7 Herbs' being performed. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
Woodblock print of a child and women gathering spring herbs. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of a child and women gathering spring herbs. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
Woodblock print of women gathering spring herbs. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of women gathering spring herbs. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

It was once common to prepare the porridge the night before, chopping the herbs while singing a special song and facing that year's 'lucky direction'.
The dish is eaten as a prayer for health and longevity (in China it was eaten to ward off evil spirits)🥣🌿

Nanakusa-gayu 'porridge' bubbling away.
ALT text detailsNanakusa-gayu 'porridge' bubbling away.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

On the eve of Nanakusa-no-sekku a very strange ritual once took place.
When the 7 herb porridge was being prepared, the remainder of the shepherd's purse (なずな) would be steeped in water. The family would soak their fingers in this soup.

Woodblock print of a woman in kimono cutting her toenails. Close by is a bowl of shepherd's purse steeped in water. She will soak her nails as part of a ritual to make them strong and healthy. Image thanks🙇‍♂️-https://tokotokotorikura.com
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of a woman in kimono cutting her toenails. Close by is a bowl of shepherd's purse steeped in water. She will soak her nails as part of a ritual to make them strong and healthy. Image thanks🙇‍♂️-https://tokotokotorikura.com
Woodblock print of a woman in kimono cutting her fingernails. Close by is a bowl of shepherd's purse steeped in water. She will soak her nails as part of a ritual to make them strong and healthy. Image thanks🙇‍♂️-https://tokotokotorikura.com
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of a woman in kimono cutting her fingernails. Close by is a bowl of shepherd's purse steeped in water. She will soak her nails as part of a ritual to make them strong and healthy. Image thanks🙇‍♂️-https://tokotokotorikura.com
Andreas Bulling's avatar
Andreas Bulling

@abulling@mastodon.social

Hm, das hatte ich gar nicht bewusst mitbekommen: ist dem Europäischen () beigetreten. Und wie es scheint stehen die Chancen nicht schlecht, dass folgen wird.

Mit und gibt es auch schon andere, bestehende Abkommen.

🇪🇺 💪

Quellen:
lowyinstitute.org/the-interpre

pm.gov.au/media/australia-comm

defensemirror.com/news/40706/E

zeit.de/politik/ausland/2025-1

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Richard "RichiH" Hartmann

@RichiH@chaos.social · Reply to Keks's post

@keks partially masking, in particular in crowded/badly ventilated places as you probably did, massively reduces the overall intake of pathogens. Congrats!

I regularly got flu and/or and... nothing... since I started masking there.

In fairness, I did catch at , but I was next to two coworkers who I knew were sickly for several days in a badly ventilated venue. I was stupid, and I learned from it.

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atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Kinkakuji in Snow (1922)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

japannews.yomiuri.co.jp/featur

Heavy snow falls at Kyoto's Kinkakuji Temple. The temple building and the nearby trees are covered in a layer of fresh snow; the surface of the pond before the temple is still. Tall, snow-covered trees crowd the view beyond the water. Overhead, the sky is overcast, and heavy snow continues to fall across the scene. This image is an aizuri-e print, rendered in shades of blue.
ALT text detailsHeavy snow falls at Kyoto's Kinkakuji Temple. The temple building and the nearby trees are covered in a layer of fresh snow; the surface of the pond before the temple is still. Tall, snow-covered trees crowd the view beyond the water. Overhead, the sky is overcast, and heavy snow continues to fall across the scene. This image is an aizuri-e print, rendered in shades of blue.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Kinkakuji in Snow (1922)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

japannews.yomiuri.co.jp/featur

Heavy snow falls at Kyoto's Kinkakuji Temple. The temple building and the nearby trees are covered in a layer of fresh snow; the surface of the pond before the temple is still. Tall, snow-covered trees crowd the view beyond the water. Overhead, the sky is overcast, and heavy snow continues to fall across the scene. This image is an aizuri-e print, rendered in shades of blue.
ALT text detailsHeavy snow falls at Kyoto's Kinkakuji Temple. The temple building and the nearby trees are covered in a layer of fresh snow; the surface of the pond before the temple is still. Tall, snow-covered trees crowd the view beyond the water. Overhead, the sky is overcast, and heavy snow continues to fall across the scene. This image is an aizuri-e print, rendered in shades of blue.
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Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

Temple Sho standing statue, Takiyama-ji, . A side attendant of Takiyama-ji Taishakuten. Sho is one of the six deities, and is said to be a of great compassion and bring good fortune to the path of hell. The sculptors were Unkei and Tankei, and it is said that Yoritomo's beard and teeth were placed inside the main image. Since Taishakuten is originally a guardian deity, it is rare for him to be assigned as a si...

Temple Sho #Kannon #Bodhisattva standing statue, Takiyama-ji, #Japan. A side attendant of Takiyama-ji Taishakuten. Sho #Kannon is one of the six #Kannon deities, and is said to be a #Kannon of great compassion and bring good fortune to the path of hell. The #Buddhist sculptors were Unkei and Tankei, and it is said that Yoritomo's beard and teeth were placed inside the main image. Since Taishakuten is originally a guardian deity, it is rare for him to be assigned as a si... #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsTemple Sho #Kannon #Bodhisattva standing statue, Takiyama-ji, #Japan. A side attendant of Takiyama-ji Taishakuten. Sho #Kannon is one of the six #Kannon deities, and is said to be a #Kannon of great compassion and bring good fortune to the path of hell. The #Buddhist sculptors were Unkei and Tankei, and it is said that Yoritomo's beard and teeth were placed inside the main image. Since Taishakuten is originally a guardian deity, it is rare for him to be assigned as a si... #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
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Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

Temple Sho standing statue, Takiyama-ji, . A side attendant of Takiyama-ji Taishakuten. Sho is one of the six deities, and is said to be a of great compassion and bring good fortune to the path of hell. The sculptors were Unkei and Tankei, and it is said that Yoritomo's beard and teeth were placed inside the main image. Since Taishakuten is originally a guardian deity, it is rare for him to be assigned as a si...

Temple Sho #Kannon #Bodhisattva standing statue, Takiyama-ji, #Japan. A side attendant of Takiyama-ji Taishakuten. Sho #Kannon is one of the six #Kannon deities, and is said to be a #Kannon of great compassion and bring good fortune to the path of hell. The #Buddhist sculptors were Unkei and Tankei, and it is said that Yoritomo's beard and teeth were placed inside the main image. Since Taishakuten is originally a guardian deity, it is rare for him to be assigned as a si... #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsTemple Sho #Kannon #Bodhisattva standing statue, Takiyama-ji, #Japan. A side attendant of Takiyama-ji Taishakuten. Sho #Kannon is one of the six #Kannon deities, and is said to be a #Kannon of great compassion and bring good fortune to the path of hell. The #Buddhist sculptors were Unkei and Tankei, and it is said that Yoritomo's beard and teeth were placed inside the main image. Since Taishakuten is originally a guardian deity, it is rare for him to be assigned as a si... #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
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Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

Niou statue at Myoujou-ji in Hakui, .

Niou statue at Myoujou-ji in Hakui, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsNiou statue at Myoujou-ji in Hakui, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
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Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

Niou statue at Myoujou-ji in Hakui, .

Niou statue at Myoujou-ji in Hakui, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsNiou statue at Myoujou-ji in Hakui, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
Will 🇯🇵's avatar
Will 🇯🇵

@wilpercy@beige.party · Reply to Madeleine Morris's post

@Remittancegirl Wow! that’s very fine work.

When you mentioned the lining it reminded me of the torii gates found in many Shinto shrines. I looked up the name of the color and it is known as ‘shu-iro’. Fushimi Inari Taisha has a path lined with 10,000 of these gates.

I took this photo today.

A partly hollowed out tree trunk and healthy greenery dominates the foreground. Paper decorations are suspended from a length of twine encompassing the trunk. In the background are the legs of four torii gates lining and receding along a gravel path. The gates are a shade of vermillion.
ALT text detailsA partly hollowed out tree trunk and healthy greenery dominates the foreground. Paper decorations are suspended from a length of twine encompassing the trunk. In the background are the legs of four torii gates lining and receding along a gravel path. The gates are a shade of vermillion.
Hélène Cook 📷's avatar
Hélène Cook 📷

@helenecookphoto@pixelfed.social

On the edge - Tokyo, October 2025
📸©helene-cook.eu

#photography #urbanphotography #architecture #architecturephotography #cityscape #urbanlandscape #streetphotography #womeninstreet #streetscenes #photoderue #nightphotography #cyberpunk #tokyo #japan #photographersofpixelfed #urbanphotographer #artyear #unjourunephoto #art #colortherapy
Reflection shot of a man with umbrella walking on a lit glass esplanade in Tokyo at night. The chosen angle leaves the impression that the man could fall of a flying structure. The scene is bathed in dark turquoise tones and surrounded by the night, in a cyberpunk atmosphere.
ALT text detailsReflection shot of a man with umbrella walking on a lit glass esplanade in Tokyo at night. The chosen angle leaves the impression that the man could fall of a flying structure. The scene is bathed in dark turquoise tones and surrounded by the night, in a cyberpunk atmosphere.
Hélène Cook 📷's avatar
Hélène Cook 📷

@helenecookphoto@pixelfed.social

On the edge - Tokyo, October 2025
📸©helene-cook.eu

#photography #urbanphotography #architecture #architecturephotography #cityscape #urbanlandscape #streetphotography #womeninstreet #streetscenes #photoderue #nightphotography #cyberpunk #tokyo #japan #photographersofpixelfed #urbanphotographer #artyear #unjourunephoto #art #colortherapy
Reflection shot of a man with umbrella walking on a lit glass esplanade in Tokyo at night. The chosen angle leaves the impression that the man could fall of a flying structure. The scene is bathed in dark turquoise tones and surrounded by the night, in a cyberpunk atmosphere.
ALT text detailsReflection shot of a man with umbrella walking on a lit glass esplanade in Tokyo at night. The chosen angle leaves the impression that the man could fall of a flying structure. The scene is bathed in dark turquoise tones and surrounded by the night, in a cyberpunk atmosphere.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

To encourage auspicious dreams images of the 'Takarabune' (宝船 'Treasure Ship') were placed under pillows, and for extra measure pictures of a 'baku' (獏) were held close to devour any unwanted nightmares.

(I'll be writing about the 'dream-eating' baku soon).

Woodblock print of the Takarabune. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of the Takarabune. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
Illustration of a baku (left). Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsIllustration of a baku (left). Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
Painting of two 'Treasure Boats'...the right's sail has an image of pine tree (symbol of good luck and longevity), and the left's sail has an image of Japan and the Asian mainland. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsPainting of two 'Treasure Boats'...the right's sail has an image of pine tree (symbol of good luck and longevity), and the left's sail has an image of Japan and the Asian mainland. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
Woodblock print of a baku under a pine tree. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of a baku under a pine tree. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Strictly speaking, in modern terms, Hatsuyume (初夢) falls on January 2nd. People would generally not sleep on December 31st, so any January 1st dreams were examined on January 2nd.

year's first dream-
Mount Fuji is sold
in Kyōto
初夢の不二の山売る都哉
-Kobayashi Issa (小林一茶), 1824.

A hawk shaped omikuji holder (from the Taka-yama float in the Gion Matsuri).
ALT text detailsA hawk shaped omikuji holder (from the Taka-yama float in the Gion Matsuri).
An eggplant shaped omikuji holder from Kamigamo-jinja.
ALT text detailsAn eggplant shaped omikuji holder from Kamigamo-jinja.
A Mt Fuji inspired omikuji holder.
ALT text detailsA Mt Fuji inspired omikuji holder.
A wooden horse shaped omikuji holder (the mouth would hold the rolled up fortune) from Kamigamo-jinja.
ALT text detailsA wooden horse shaped omikuji holder (the mouth would hold the rolled up fortune) from Kamigamo-jinja.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

To encourage auspicious dreams images of the 'Takarabune' (宝船 'Treasure Ship') were placed under pillows, and for extra measure pictures of a 'baku' (獏) were held close to devour any unwanted nightmares.

(I'll be writing about the 'dream-eating' baku soon).

Woodblock print of the Takarabune. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of the Takarabune. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
Illustration of a baku (left). Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsIllustration of a baku (left). Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
Painting of two 'Treasure Boats'...the right's sail has an image of pine tree (symbol of good luck and longevity), and the left's sail has an image of Japan and the Asian mainland. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsPainting of two 'Treasure Boats'...the right's sail has an image of pine tree (symbol of good luck and longevity), and the left's sail has an image of Japan and the Asian mainland. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
Woodblock print of a baku under a pine tree. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of a baku under a pine tree. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
Buddhist Art's avatar
Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

(不動明王) accompanied by his two boy sidekicks (制多迦童子) & (矜羯羅童子). Color on silk, dating to the period (794-1185), from the collection of Daigo-ji (醍醐寺) in , .

#FudōMyōō (不動明王) accompanied by his two boy sidekicks #Seitaka (制多迦童子) & #Kongara (矜羯羅童子). Color on silk, dating to the #Heian period (794-1185), from the collection of Daigo-ji (醍醐寺) in #Kyoto, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text details#FudōMyōō (不動明王) accompanied by his two boy sidekicks #Seitaka (制多迦童子) & #Kongara (矜羯羅童子). Color on silk, dating to the #Heian period (794-1185), from the collection of Daigo-ji (醍醐寺) in #Kyoto, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
Buddhist Art's avatar
Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

(不動明王) accompanied by his two boy sidekicks (制多迦童子) & (矜羯羅童子). Color on silk, dating to the period (794-1185), from the collection of Daigo-ji (醍醐寺) in , .

#FudōMyōō (不動明王) accompanied by his two boy sidekicks #Seitaka (制多迦童子) & #Kongara (矜羯羅童子). Color on silk, dating to the #Heian period (794-1185), from the collection of Daigo-ji (醍醐寺) in #Kyoto, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text details#FudōMyōō (不動明王) accompanied by his two boy sidekicks #Seitaka (制多迦童子) & #Kongara (矜羯羅童子). Color on silk, dating to the #Heian period (794-1185), from the collection of Daigo-ji (醍醐寺) in #Kyoto, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
iLand's avatar
iLand

@iland@mastodon.social

New Year 2026
今年もよろしくお願いします。

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earthling

@appassionato@mastodon.social

,
Monks strike a giant bell in celebration at the Zojoji Buddhist temple.

Photograph: Eugene Hoshiko/AP



Monks strike a giant bell in celebration at the Zojoji Buddhist temple.
ALT text detailsMonks strike a giant bell in celebration at the Zojoji Buddhist temple.
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Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

The Bronze Buddha at , hand–colored albumen silver print from . Described and Illustrated by the Japanese (1897) by Kazumasa Ogawa.

The Bronze Buddha at #Kamakura, hand–colored albumen silver print from #Japan. Described and Illustrated by the Japanese (1897) by Kazumasa Ogawa. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsThe Bronze Buddha at #Kamakura, hand–colored albumen silver print from #Japan. Described and Illustrated by the Japanese (1897) by Kazumasa Ogawa. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
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Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

The Bronze Buddha at , hand–colored albumen silver print from . Described and Illustrated by the Japanese (1897) by Kazumasa Ogawa.

The Bronze Buddha at #Kamakura, hand–colored albumen silver print from #Japan. Described and Illustrated by the Japanese (1897) by Kazumasa Ogawa. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsThe Bronze Buddha at #Kamakura, hand–colored albumen silver print from #Japan. Described and Illustrated by the Japanese (1897) by Kazumasa Ogawa. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
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atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Foxfires at the Changing Tree (c.1857)

Artist: Utagawa Hiroshige

quinniesodyssey.com/en/oji-ina

Foxes gather under a tall, mostly leafless hackberry tree on New Year's Eve; from here, they will make their annual pilgrimage to the Oji Inari Shrine. In the shadowy fields beyond, more foxes have gathered, and a number of kitsunebi - magical foxfires - glow and dance in the air around them. Further on, traditional thatched-roof farm buildings are tucked in next to a forested hillside; these buildings are dark and quiet, the humans who live there seemingly oblivious to the activity in the fields. Above, scattered stars shine in a cloudless night sky.
ALT text detailsFoxes gather under a tall, mostly leafless hackberry tree on New Year's Eve; from here, they will make their annual pilgrimage to the Oji Inari Shrine. In the shadowy fields beyond, more foxes have gathered, and a number of kitsunebi - magical foxfires - glow and dance in the air around them. Further on, traditional thatched-roof farm buildings are tucked in next to a forested hillside; these buildings are dark and quiet, the humans who live there seemingly oblivious to the activity in the fields. Above, scattered stars shine in a cloudless night sky.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Foxfires at the Changing Tree (c.1857)

Artist: Utagawa Hiroshige

quinniesodyssey.com/en/oji-ina

Foxes gather under a tall, mostly leafless hackberry tree on New Year's Eve; from here, they will make their annual pilgrimage to the Oji Inari Shrine. In the shadowy fields beyond, more foxes have gathered, and a number of kitsunebi - magical foxfires - glow and dance in the air around them. Further on, traditional thatched-roof farm buildings are tucked in next to a forested hillside; these buildings are dark and quiet, the humans who live there seemingly oblivious to the activity in the fields. Above, scattered stars shine in a cloudless night sky.
ALT text detailsFoxes gather under a tall, mostly leafless hackberry tree on New Year's Eve; from here, they will make their annual pilgrimage to the Oji Inari Shrine. In the shadowy fields beyond, more foxes have gathered, and a number of kitsunebi - magical foxfires - glow and dance in the air around them. Further on, traditional thatched-roof farm buildings are tucked in next to a forested hillside; these buildings are dark and quiet, the humans who live there seemingly oblivious to the activity in the fields. Above, scattered stars shine in a cloudless night sky.
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Toni Frissell

@ToniFrissell@mastodon.ozioso.online

Japanese Wedding April, 1959.
1 photograph : color transparency ; 35 mm (slide format)

Title: Toni Frissell's Sports Illustrated Wedding Photos

Date: August-September-October 1959

Keywords: Toni Frissell, Sports Illustrated, Chiharu Igaya, Japan, Tokyo

Description: This collection of photographs by Toni Frissell features the wedding ceremony of Japanese skier Chiharu Igaya in Tokyo, Japan. The images were taken for Sports Illustrated magazine and consist of black and white and color prints.

Biography: Chiharu Igaya (1919-2007) was a renowned Japanese speed skater who won numerous international titles, including two Olympic medals.

The photographs are attributed to Toni Frissell, an American photographer known for her work in sports journalism.

loc.gov/pictures/item/20217188

A person wearing a traditional Japanese kimono and headpiece is standing beside another individual in dark clothing. The main subject holds some thin objects, possibly chopsticks or decorative items, with both hands while looking directly at the camera with a slight smile. They are positioned against a black background that emphasizes their vibrant orange garment adorned with golden patterns.
ALT text detailsA person wearing a traditional Japanese kimono and headpiece is standing beside another individual in dark clothing. The main subject holds some thin objects, possibly chopsticks or decorative items, with both hands while looking directly at the camera with a slight smile. They are positioned against a black background that emphasizes their vibrant orange garment adorned with golden patterns.
Buddhist Art's avatar
Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

Kongo Rikishi statue at Hoko-ji, , by sculptor Seicho.

Kongo Rikishi statue at Hoko-ji, #Japan, by #Nara #Buddhist sculptor Seicho. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsKongo Rikishi statue at Hoko-ji, #Japan, by #Nara #Buddhist sculptor Seicho. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
Buddhist Art's avatar
Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

Kongo Rikishi statue at Hoko-ji, , by sculptor Seicho.

Kongo Rikishi statue at Hoko-ji, #Japan, by #Nara #Buddhist sculptor Seicho. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsKongo Rikishi statue at Hoko-ji, #Japan, by #Nara #Buddhist sculptor Seicho. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
Raymond Larabie's avatar
Raymond Larabie

@typodermic@mastodon.social

Lately my brain feels exactly like this: a dense, optimistic sphere of kanji, vibrating gently from too many study apps. 🧠🟥

最近の頭の中はまさにこれ。勉強アプリに詰め込まれた漢字が球体になって、前向きに混線中。自由とは、どうやら良質な混乱らしい。📚🔴

A color photograph taken from a low angle. In the foreground stands a large red spherical sculpture made of cut-out kanji characters, forming an airy lattice. Behind it rises a tall station sign reading 自由ヶ丘駅 (Jiyugaoka Station) against a clear blue evening sky.
ALT text detailsA color photograph taken from a low angle. In the foreground stands a large red spherical sculpture made of cut-out kanji characters, forming an airy lattice. Behind it rises a tall station sign reading 自由ヶ丘駅 (Jiyugaoka Station) against a clear blue evening sky.
Working Class History's avatar
Working Class History

@workingclasshistory@mastodon.social

📣 New Podcast! "29 December 1968: Tokyo exams cancelled" on @Spreaker
spreaker.com/episode/29-decemb

Raymond Larabie's avatar
Raymond Larabie

@typodermic@mastodon.social

Lately my brain feels exactly like this: a dense, optimistic sphere of kanji, vibrating gently from too many study apps. 🧠🟥

最近の頭の中はまさにこれ。勉強アプリに詰め込まれた漢字が球体になって、前向きに混線中。自由とは、どうやら良質な混乱らしい。📚🔴

A color photograph taken from a low angle. In the foreground stands a large red spherical sculpture made of cut-out kanji characters, forming an airy lattice. Behind it rises a tall station sign reading 自由ヶ丘駅 (Jiyugaoka Station) against a clear blue evening sky.
ALT text detailsA color photograph taken from a low angle. In the foreground stands a large red spherical sculpture made of cut-out kanji characters, forming an airy lattice. Behind it rises a tall station sign reading 自由ヶ丘駅 (Jiyugaoka Station) against a clear blue evening sky.
Bo Jacobs's avatar
Bo Jacobs

@bojacobs@hcommons.social

“Safety fears as prepares to restart nuclear plant ‘built on tofu’”

“Campaigners against nuclear energy have condemned Japan’s decision to resume operations at the Kashiwazaki-Kariwa power plant, claiming that the facility will be unable to withstand a major earthquake as it was ‘built on tofu’”

widely known for its lax safety culture plans to restart several old nuclear cars that have been sitting in the garage.

scmp.com/week-asia/health-envi

Bo Jacobs's avatar
Bo Jacobs

@bojacobs@hcommons.social

“Safety fears as prepares to restart nuclear plant ‘built on tofu’”

“Campaigners against nuclear energy have condemned Japan’s decision to resume operations at the Kashiwazaki-Kariwa power plant, claiming that the facility will be unable to withstand a major earthquake as it was ‘built on tofu’”

widely known for its lax safety culture plans to restart several old nuclear cars that have been sitting in the garage.

scmp.com/week-asia/health-envi

The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

China may have tested Japan and the United States to see their response through military actions by its aircraft carrier Liaoning and bombers near Japan in December. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/12/

The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

China may have tested Japan and the United States to see their response through military actions by its aircraft carrier Liaoning and bombers near Japan in December. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/12/

fukuyoken3daime's avatar
fukuyoken3daime

@fukuyoken3daime@rockcd.jp

『日本のクルド人コミュニティは、人口が数千人程度であるにもかかわらず、極右政治家、扇情的なメディア報道、そしてオンラインでの動員によって、激しい外国人排斥の憎悪キャンペーンの標的となっていると、東京大学社会学部の樋口直人教授は書いている。 @waseda_univ
CSOHの最新分析では、上智大学の社会学教授である稲葉奈々子氏が次のように述べている。

https:// csohate.org/2025/12/23/ant i-kurd-hate-in-japan/

# クルド人 』

"Despite numbering only a few thousand people, Japan’s Kurdish community has become the target of intense xenophobic hate campaigns driven by far-right politicians, sensationalist media coverage, and online mobilization, write Naoto Higuchi, a professor of sociology at @waseda_univ
and Nanako Inaba, a professor of sociology at Sophia University in this latest analysis for CSOH.

csohate.org/2025/12/23/anti-ku

"

x.com/csohate/status/200386193

fukuyoken3daime's avatar
fukuyoken3daime

@fukuyoken3daime@rockcd.jp

『日本のクルド人コミュニティは、人口が数千人程度であるにもかかわらず、極右政治家、扇情的なメディア報道、そしてオンラインでの動員によって、激しい外国人排斥の憎悪キャンペーンの標的となっていると、東京大学社会学部の樋口直人教授は書いている。 @waseda_univ
CSOHの最新分析では、上智大学の社会学教授である稲葉奈々子氏が次のように述べている。

https:// csohate.org/2025/12/23/ant i-kurd-hate-in-japan/

# クルド人 』

"Despite numbering only a few thousand people, Japan’s Kurdish community has become the target of intense xenophobic hate campaigns driven by far-right politicians, sensationalist media coverage, and online mobilization, write Naoto Higuchi, a professor of sociology at @waseda_univ
and Nanako Inaba, a professor of sociology at Sophia University in this latest analysis for CSOH.

csohate.org/2025/12/23/anti-ku

"

x.com/csohate/status/200386193

The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's refusal to yield to China’s demands over Taiwan remarks represents a rare pushback against decades of Beijing's rule-breaking and impunity. japantimes.co.jp/commentary/20

The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's refusal to yield to China’s demands over Taiwan remarks represents a rare pushback against decades of Beijing's rule-breaking and impunity. japantimes.co.jp/commentary/20

Kantoman's avatar
Kantoman

@Kantoman@pixelfed.social

Wishing everybody a wonderful last week of the year! #ChristmasMarket in #Taito ward #Tokyo #UenoPark #Japan #日本 #上野公園 #東京 #台東区 #クリスマス市
Under cover of the canopy of some big old trees, stalls, a stage, and a crowd crowd the southern tip of the park in the evening. The trunks and heavy branches are wrapped in Christmas lights.
ALT text detailsUnder cover of the canopy of some big old trees, stalls, a stage, and a crowd crowd the southern tip of the park in the evening. The trunks and heavy branches are wrapped in Christmas lights.
Funeo Funekawa's avatar
Funeo Funekawa

@funefune_kyoto@mstdn.tokyocameraclub.com

夜の京都の霧の海と星空

夜の京都の霧と星空
ALT text details夜の京都の霧と星空
Funeo Funekawa's avatar
Funeo Funekawa

@funefune_kyoto@mstdn.tokyocameraclub.com

夜の京都の霧の海と星空

夜の京都の霧と星空
ALT text details夜の京都の霧と星空
冬黙's avatar
冬黙

@tomoku@tomoku.work



冬黙's avatar
冬黙

@tomoku@tomoku.work



SparklingOutlaw🍉's avatar
SparklingOutlaw🍉

@nogajun@mastodon.social

タダで商用と同じものがほしい。でもサポートに金は払いたくない日本。クソ

9割が「12時間以内に応答」を要求　OSSを“商用製品扱い”する日本企業の幻想：日本企業だけが求める“異常”なサポート品質 - TechTargetジャパン システム運用管理: techtarget.itmedia.co.jp/tt/ne

The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Missionaries brought Christianity to Japan in the mid-1500s. Less than a century later, tens of thousands were slaughtered in a conflict between the shogunate and the devout. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/12/

The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

The ruling LDP is considering adding Japanese language proficiency as a requirement for permanent residency for foreign nationals, who will also be mandated to take a program on smoothly integrating into communities. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/12/

The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

The ruling LDP is considering adding Japanese language proficiency as a requirement for permanent residency for foreign nationals, who will also be mandated to take a program on smoothly integrating into communities. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/12/

The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Missionaries brought Christianity to Japan in the mid-1500s. Less than a century later, tens of thousands were slaughtered in a conflict between the shogunate and the devout. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/12/

Raoul Breugelmans's avatar
Raoul Breugelmans

@breugel@pixelfed.de

We visited the "Agency of Imaginary Journeys" exhibit of works by Jean-Michel Folon (1934-2005) at the Abeno Harukas Art Museum in Osaka, Japan. Folon, a fellow Belgian, was an artist, illustrator, painter and sculptor.

#Folon #AbenoHarukas #Osaka #Japan
A man wearing a dark blue denim hat, dark blue denim blazer, red denim pants, and sneakers is standing in an art gallery, looking at framed artworks by Folon displayed on a green wall. The paintings feature surreal scenes with minimalist, colorful backgrounds. The gallery has wooden flooring and clean, modern decor.
ALT text detailsA man wearing a dark blue denim hat, dark blue denim blazer, red denim pants, and sneakers is standing in an art gallery, looking at framed artworks by Folon displayed on a green wall. The paintings feature surreal scenes with minimalist, colorful backgrounds. The gallery has wooden flooring and clean, modern decor.
A close-up of a framed painting by Folon showing a person sitting on a simple flying machine with a wide, curved wing against a gradient background of green and pink tones, with scattered white stars.
ALT text detailsA close-up of a framed painting by Folon showing a person sitting on a simple flying machine with a wide, curved wing against a gradient background of green and pink tones, with scattered white stars.
A man wearing a dark blue denim hat, dark blue denim jacket, red denim pants, and sneakers is observing a bronze sculpture by Folon of a person wearing a trench coat and hat. The sculpture is split vertically down the middle. Surrounding the sculpture are framed artworks mounted on a peach-colored wall.
ALT text detailsA man wearing a dark blue denim hat, dark blue denim jacket, red denim pants, and sneakers is observing a bronze sculpture by Folon of a person wearing a trench coat and hat. The sculpture is split vertically down the middle. Surrounding the sculpture are framed artworks mounted on a peach-colored wall.
A framed painting by Folon of a large, geometric human figure with a hat standing on top of a rectangular frame. Inside the frame is a vibrant landscape of hills and a setting sun, all set against a warm orange sky.
ALT text detailsA framed painting by Folon of a large, geometric human figure with a hat standing on top of a rectangular frame. Inside the frame is a vibrant landscape of hills and a setting sun, all set against a warm orange sky.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Mount Fuji from Mitsuhama in Snow (1936)

Artist: Koitsu Tsuchiya

matcha-jp.com/en/21017

A view looking toward Mount Fuji, on a cold winter's morning. In the foreground, snow weighs down the boughs of pine trees; beyond, a small sailboat crosses Suruga Bay, passing a little rocky island along the way. Further on, the early light of dawn is giving Mount Fuji's snowy peak a warm orange glow; the cloudless sky above is beginning to lighten with the coming day.
ALT text detailsA view looking toward Mount Fuji, on a cold winter's morning. In the foreground, snow weighs down the boughs of pine trees; beyond, a small sailboat crosses Suruga Bay, passing a little rocky island along the way. Further on, the early light of dawn is giving Mount Fuji's snowy peak a warm orange glow; the cloudless sky above is beginning to lighten with the coming day.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Mount Fuji from Mitsuhama in Snow (1936)

Artist: Koitsu Tsuchiya

matcha-jp.com/en/21017

A view looking toward Mount Fuji, on a cold winter's morning. In the foreground, snow weighs down the boughs of pine trees; beyond, a small sailboat crosses Suruga Bay, passing a little rocky island along the way. Further on, the early light of dawn is giving Mount Fuji's snowy peak a warm orange glow; the cloudless sky above is beginning to lighten with the coming day.
ALT text detailsA view looking toward Mount Fuji, on a cold winter's morning. In the foreground, snow weighs down the boughs of pine trees; beyond, a small sailboat crosses Suruga Bay, passing a little rocky island along the way. Further on, the early light of dawn is giving Mount Fuji's snowy peak a warm orange glow; the cloudless sky above is beginning to lighten with the coming day.
The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

About 18,000 people are expected to die in a worst-case scenario if Tokyo becomes the epicenter of a major earthquake, according to the Japanese government’s latest forecast. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/12/

The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

About 18,000 people are expected to die in a worst-case scenario if Tokyo becomes the epicenter of a major earthquake, according to the Japanese government’s latest forecast. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/12/

atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Shiobara, Hataori (1946)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

asahi.com/ajw/articles/16201854

A dark winter evening, as an intense blizzard descends on a village street in Japan. Layers of snow covers the ground and the rooftops of the buildings. Warm lights glow in a few windows, but there is no sign of human activity outdoors. The evening gloom and the wind-driven snow reduce visibility to the point where the buildings are just blocky silhouettes; there are shadowy hints of mountains in the distance beyond, but the details are lost in the night.
ALT text detailsA dark winter evening, as an intense blizzard descends on a village street in Japan. Layers of snow covers the ground and the rooftops of the buildings. Warm lights glow in a few windows, but there is no sign of human activity outdoors. The evening gloom and the wind-driven snow reduce visibility to the point where the buildings are just blocky silhouettes; there are shadowy hints of mountains in the distance beyond, but the details are lost in the night.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

"Bear" was chosen as the kanji character that most represents 2025, a decision largely prompted by numerous bear sightings around Japan that have caused damage and set off nationwide anxiety.

www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/new

A headline from NHK News, reading '"Bear" chosen as Kanji of the Year', with a photo of the chosen kanji character
ALT text detailsA headline from NHK News, reading '"Bear" chosen as Kanji of the Year', with a photo of the chosen kanji character
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

"Bear" was chosen as the kanji character that most represents 2025, a decision largely prompted by numerous bear sightings around Japan that have caused damage and set off nationwide anxiety.

www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/new

A headline from NHK News, reading '"Bear" chosen as Kanji of the Year', with a photo of the chosen kanji character
ALT text detailsA headline from NHK News, reading '"Bear" chosen as Kanji of the Year', with a photo of the chosen kanji character
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Shiobara, Hataori (1946)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

asahi.com/ajw/articles/16201854

A dark winter evening, as an intense blizzard descends on a village street in Japan. Layers of snow covers the ground and the rooftops of the buildings. Warm lights glow in a few windows, but there is no sign of human activity outdoors. The evening gloom and the wind-driven snow reduce visibility to the point where the buildings are just blocky silhouettes; there are shadowy hints of mountains in the distance beyond, but the details are lost in the night.
ALT text detailsA dark winter evening, as an intense blizzard descends on a village street in Japan. Layers of snow covers the ground and the rooftops of the buildings. Warm lights glow in a few windows, but there is no sign of human activity outdoors. The evening gloom and the wind-driven snow reduce visibility to the point where the buildings are just blocky silhouettes; there are shadowy hints of mountains in the distance beyond, but the details are lost in the night.
Buddhist Art's avatar
Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

A hanging scroll of the Kasuga Miya Mandara (春日宮曼荼羅), a mandala depicting the deities manifesting as the local Kasuga deities at Kasuga Taisha Shrine (春日大社) in , the sacred grounds of which are visible below. Color on silk dating to the 14th century from the collection of the Seikadō Bunko Art Museum (静嘉堂文庫美術館) in , .

A hanging scroll of the Kasuga Miya Mandara (春日宮曼荼羅), a mandala depicting the #Buddhist deities manifesting as the local Kasuga deities at Kasuga Taisha Shrine (春日大社) in #Nara, the sacred grounds of which are visible below. Color on silk dating to the 14th century from the collection of the Seikadō Bunko Art Museum (静嘉堂文庫美術館) in #Tokyo, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsA hanging scroll of the Kasuga Miya Mandara (春日宮曼荼羅), a mandala depicting the #Buddhist deities manifesting as the local Kasuga deities at Kasuga Taisha Shrine (春日大社) in #Nara, the sacred grounds of which are visible below. Color on silk dating to the 14th century from the collection of the Seikadō Bunko Art Museum (静嘉堂文庫美術館) in #Tokyo, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
Buddhist Art's avatar
Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

A hanging scroll of the Kasuga Miya Mandara (春日宮曼荼羅), a mandala depicting the deities manifesting as the local Kasuga deities at Kasuga Taisha Shrine (春日大社) in , the sacred grounds of which are visible below. Color on silk dating to the 14th century from the collection of the Seikadō Bunko Art Museum (静嘉堂文庫美術館) in , .

A hanging scroll of the Kasuga Miya Mandara (春日宮曼荼羅), a mandala depicting the #Buddhist deities manifesting as the local Kasuga deities at Kasuga Taisha Shrine (春日大社) in #Nara, the sacred grounds of which are visible below. Color on silk dating to the 14th century from the collection of the Seikadō Bunko Art Museum (静嘉堂文庫美術館) in #Tokyo, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsA hanging scroll of the Kasuga Miya Mandara (春日宮曼荼羅), a mandala depicting the #Buddhist deities manifesting as the local Kasuga deities at Kasuga Taisha Shrine (春日大社) in #Nara, the sacred grounds of which are visible below. Color on silk dating to the 14th century from the collection of the Seikadō Bunko Art Museum (静嘉堂文庫美術館) in #Tokyo, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
Aaron “#e14n pro” Madlon-Kay's avatar
Aaron “#e14n pro” Madlon-Kay

@amake@mastodon.social

RE: fosstodon.org/@altstore/115738

I can’t get this to work on my iPhone running iOS 18 despite using Safari and being logged into a Japanese store account.

You don’t need to have your device’s main Apple Account be the Japan account, do you?

AltStore's avatar
AltStore

@altstore@fosstodon.org

AltStore PAL has arrived in Japan 🇯🇵

Starting today, iPhone and iPad users in Japan can join the 1 million+ people already using AltStore PAL — our first international expansion since we launched in the EU 🌏

Download now (iOS 26.2+) altstore.io/download

Promo Image showing the AltStore logo atop a background resembling a Japanese flag stating "AltStore: Now in Japan"
ALT text detailsPromo Image showing the AltStore logo atop a background resembling a Japanese flag stating "AltStore: Now in Japan"
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Yaizu No Hara - Tokaido, or Yakitsugahara (1937)

Artist: Koitsu Tsuchiya

smithsonianmag.com/travel/moun

A winter sunset at a little mill near Mount Fuji. In the foreground, a snow-covered wooden mill stands next to a small stream; the mill's water-wheel churns away in the current, water splashing off its blades as it turns. Close by, a pair of straw capes and a broad straw hat hang on an exterior wall: it seems someone's at home. Nearby, a trio of chickens scratch and peck at the snow. Further on, across a snowy plain, a red torii gate stands beneath evergreens, marking the entrance to an unseen temple. In the distance, a snow-capped Mount Fuji rises into a sky turning orange and coral with the setting sun.
ALT text detailsA winter sunset at a little mill near Mount Fuji. In the foreground, a snow-covered wooden mill stands next to a small stream; the mill's water-wheel churns away in the current, water splashing off its blades as it turns. Close by, a pair of straw capes and a broad straw hat hang on an exterior wall: it seems someone's at home. Nearby, a trio of chickens scratch and peck at the snow. Further on, across a snowy plain, a red torii gate stands beneath evergreens, marking the entrance to an unseen temple. In the distance, a snow-capped Mount Fuji rises into a sky turning orange and coral with the setting sun.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

In 1156, following the Hōgen Rebellion (保元の乱), the ex-emperor was exiled to Sanuki (he would later become a Tengu, and 1 of Japan's 3 most feared yōkai 日本三大悪妖怪).
In the anti-Buddhist climate of 1868 the statue was moved to Rokuharamitsu-ji to save it.

Woodblock print of the spirit of the Retired Emperor Sutoku on a rocky outcrop in a stormy sea. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of the spirit of the Retired Emperor Sutoku on a rocky outcrop in a stormy sea. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
Portrait of Emperor Sutoku.
ALT text detailsPortrait of Emperor Sutoku.
Woodblock print of Emperor Sutoku refusing to receive the Priest Ennyo in exile. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of Emperor Sutoku refusing to receive the Priest Ennyo in exile. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
Woodblock print of Emperor Sutoku transformed into a tengu. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of Emperor Sutoku transformed into a tengu. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

In 1156, following the Hōgen Rebellion (保元の乱), the ex-emperor was exiled to Sanuki (he would later become a Tengu, and 1 of Japan's 3 most feared yōkai 日本三大悪妖怪).
In the anti-Buddhist climate of 1868 the statue was moved to Rokuharamitsu-ji to save it.

Woodblock print of the spirit of the Retired Emperor Sutoku on a rocky outcrop in a stormy sea. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of the spirit of the Retired Emperor Sutoku on a rocky outcrop in a stormy sea. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
Portrait of Emperor Sutoku.
ALT text detailsPortrait of Emperor Sutoku.
Woodblock print of Emperor Sutoku refusing to receive the Priest Ennyo in exile. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of Emperor Sutoku refusing to receive the Priest Ennyo in exile. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
Woodblock print of Emperor Sutoku transformed into a tengu. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of Emperor Sutoku transformed into a tengu. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Yaizu No Hara - Tokaido, or Yakitsugahara (1937)

Artist: Koitsu Tsuchiya

smithsonianmag.com/travel/moun

A winter sunset at a little mill near Mount Fuji. In the foreground, a snow-covered wooden mill stands next to a small stream; the mill's water-wheel churns away in the current, water splashing off its blades as it turns. Close by, a pair of straw capes and a broad straw hat hang on an exterior wall: it seems someone's at home. Nearby, a trio of chickens scratch and peck at the snow. Further on, across a snowy plain, a red torii gate stands beneath evergreens, marking the entrance to an unseen temple. In the distance, a snow-capped Mount Fuji rises into a sky turning orange and coral with the setting sun.
ALT text detailsA winter sunset at a little mill near Mount Fuji. In the foreground, a snow-covered wooden mill stands next to a small stream; the mill's water-wheel churns away in the current, water splashing off its blades as it turns. Close by, a pair of straw capes and a broad straw hat hang on an exterior wall: it seems someone's at home. Nearby, a trio of chickens scratch and peck at the snow. Further on, across a snowy plain, a red torii gate stands beneath evergreens, marking the entrance to an unseen temple. In the distance, a snow-capped Mount Fuji rises into a sky turning orange and coral with the setting sun.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social

🎅🦌🎁SANTA'S ON HIS WAY🛷🎄🙌

Father Christmas, Santa Claus, Kris Kringle, Papa Noël, Père Noël, Weihnachtsmann, Babbo Natale, Papai Noel, Ded Moroz...

...whatever you call this festive fellow, may I now present Ho-ho-hotei and Nao Noel👼

Nao-san (in kimono) and our adorable statue of Hotei model in Santa hats.
ALT text detailsNao-san (in kimono) and our adorable statue of Hotei model in Santa hats.
A Santa inspired sweet.
ALT text detailsA Santa inspired sweet.
A kinton (sweet) styled like a Christmas tree, with tiny baubles and a jelly star.
ALT text detailsA kinton (sweet) styled like a Christmas tree, with tiny baubles and a jelly star.
A cheerful statue of Hotei is Santa hat admires the teahouse's snowy garden.
ALT text detailsA cheerful statue of Hotei is Santa hat admires the teahouse's snowy garden.
Raymond Larabie's avatar
Raymond Larabie

@typodermic@mastodon.social

I found your old washing machine right here: retired with dignity, flanked by mops like honorary guards. 🧼⬅️

あなたの古い洗濯機、ここにありました。モップに守られ、矢印の指示には今も忠実で、第二の人生を静かに満喫中。🪣➡️

A color photograph of an outdoor utility area. An old washing machine stands on the ground in front of weathered metal doors stained with rust. Above it hang rows of blue mop heads on a metal rack. To the right, a bright red sign with a large white arrow points left, leaning casually against the wall.
ALT text detailsA color photograph of an outdoor utility area. An old washing machine stands on the ground in front of weathered metal doors stained with rust. Above it hang rows of blue mop heads on a metal rack. To the right, a bright red sign with a large white arrow points left, leaning casually against the wall.
Raymond Larabie's avatar
Raymond Larabie

@typodermic@mastodon.social

I found your old washing machine right here: retired with dignity, flanked by mops like honorary guards. 🧼⬅️

あなたの古い洗濯機、ここにありました。モップに守られ、矢印の指示には今も忠実で、第二の人生を静かに満喫中。🪣➡️

A color photograph of an outdoor utility area. An old washing machine stands on the ground in front of weathered metal doors stained with rust. Above it hang rows of blue mop heads on a metal rack. To the right, a bright red sign with a large white arrow points left, leaning casually against the wall.
ALT text detailsA color photograph of an outdoor utility area. An old washing machine stands on the ground in front of weathered metal doors stained with rust. Above it hang rows of blue mop heads on a metal rack. To the right, a bright red sign with a large white arrow points left, leaning casually against the wall.
Ame's avatar
Ame

@ame@breta.moe

github.com/nathanlesage/academ

This list of academics on mastodon is amazing, I was able to follow so many people on there!
Even my niche - Japan studies - is covered there!

Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:'s avatar
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:

@norbertwoehnl@famichiki.jp

A daily life photo set from Itabashi Ward in Tokyo on this Wednesday evening.

1. Quiet hour at the kickboxing gym.
2. Choice of protein drinks after sports.
3. Late-autumn sidewalk scene.
4. MyBasket neighborhood supermarket.

Lucky to have hit the kickboxing gym today at a very quiet hour around 6 PM.
ALT text detailsLucky to have hit the kickboxing gym today at a very quiet hour around 6 PM.
Protein drinks at a local 7-11. Cocoa, banana, vegetable, strawberry and almond flavors; 15-20g protein.
ALT text detailsProtein drinks at a local 7-11. Cocoa, banana, vegetable, strawberry and almond flavors; 15-20g protein.
Sidewalk scene on my walk home after sports.
ALT text detailsSidewalk scene on my walk home after sports.
Local “MyBasket” mini supermarket.
ALT text detailsLocal “MyBasket” mini supermarket.
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:'s avatar
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:

@norbertwoehnl@famichiki.jp

A daily life photo set from Itabashi Ward in Tokyo on this Wednesday evening.

1. Quiet hour at the kickboxing gym.
2. Choice of protein drinks after sports.
3. Late-autumn sidewalk scene.
4. MyBasket neighborhood supermarket.

Lucky to have hit the kickboxing gym today at a very quiet hour around 6 PM.
ALT text detailsLucky to have hit the kickboxing gym today at a very quiet hour around 6 PM.
Protein drinks at a local 7-11. Cocoa, banana, vegetable, strawberry and almond flavors; 15-20g protein.
ALT text detailsProtein drinks at a local 7-11. Cocoa, banana, vegetable, strawberry and almond flavors; 15-20g protein.
Sidewalk scene on my walk home after sports.
ALT text detailsSidewalk scene on my walk home after sports.
Local “MyBasket” mini supermarket.
ALT text detailsLocal “MyBasket” mini supermarket.
Nithin Coca నితిన్'s avatar
Nithin Coca నితిన్

@ncoca@social.coop

From a podcast " has one of the longest lived and healthiest populations in the world, and let startups are playing a relatively small role in the recent - boom."

Could it be because tech has nothing to do with longevity in Japan? That it's actually lifestyles, healthcare, & traditional diets that matter?

Couldn't that be the lesson here?

Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

In the traditional calendar we are now in a period called 'taisetsu' (大雪 'greater snow').
Despite it already being fairly cold of late, snow is a rarity in the city, seldomly settling for any decent length of time.

A snowy Kinkaku-ji.
ALT text detailsA snowy Kinkaku-ji.
A train on the Eizan Line winds through a snowy landscape.
ALT text detailsA train on the Eizan Line winds through a snowy landscape.
A heavy snowfall blankets Sanzen-in in Ohara.
ALT text detailsA heavy snowfall blankets Sanzen-in in Ohara.
Snow falls on Atago-jinja. The shrines is on top of Kyoto City's tallest mountain.
ALT text detailsSnow falls on Atago-jinja. The shrines is on top of Kyoto City's tallest mountain.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

In the traditional calendar we are now in a period called 'taisetsu' (大雪 'greater snow').
Despite it already being fairly cold of late, snow is a rarity in the city, seldomly settling for any decent length of time.

A snowy Kinkaku-ji.
ALT text detailsA snowy Kinkaku-ji.
A train on the Eizan Line winds through a snowy landscape.
ALT text detailsA train on the Eizan Line winds through a snowy landscape.
A heavy snowfall blankets Sanzen-in in Ohara.
ALT text detailsA heavy snowfall blankets Sanzen-in in Ohara.
Snow falls on Atago-jinja. The shrines is on top of Kyoto City's tallest mountain.
ALT text detailsSnow falls on Atago-jinja. The shrines is on top of Kyoto City's tallest mountain.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

A tradition I'd really like to revive is the hosting of banquets to celebrate the end of 'susuharai' (すす払い). During these feasts, particularly popular with the merchant class, family members would be tossed in the air in celebration🤗

Nao-san and Atsuko-san in kimono frolicking in the snow.
ALT text detailsNao-san and Atsuko-san in kimono frolicking in the snow.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social

🪣🧼🫧USHERING IN THE NEW YEAR🧹🧽✨

Preparations for the New Year in Japan begin on December 13th, 'Shōgatsu-goto Hajime' (正月事始め).
Pine decorations are cut or bought ('matsu-mukae' 松迎え) and the house is cleaned from top to bottom ('susu-harai' すす払い).

Monks dressed in white clean Nara's Great Buddha with large dusters and cloths.
ALT text detailsMonks dressed in white clean Nara's Great Buddha with large dusters and cloths.
Nao-san enjoys a morning matcha, looking at a snowy teahouse garden.
ALT text detailsNao-san enjoys a morning matcha, looking at a snowy teahouse garden.
A meal celebrating the end of the New Year period at Torin-in temple.
ALT text detailsA meal celebrating the end of the New Year period at Torin-in temple.
Sprigs of pine attached to gate pillars are a common site in Kyoto around the New Year.
ALT text detailsSprigs of pine attached to gate pillars are a common site in Kyoto around the New Year.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social

🪣🧼🫧USHERING IN THE NEW YEAR🧹🧽✨

Preparations for the New Year in Japan begin on December 13th, 'Shōgatsu-goto Hajime' (正月事始め).
Pine decorations are cut or bought ('matsu-mukae' 松迎え) and the house is cleaned from top to bottom ('susu-harai' すす払い).

Monks dressed in white clean Nara's Great Buddha with large dusters and cloths.
ALT text detailsMonks dressed in white clean Nara's Great Buddha with large dusters and cloths.
Nao-san enjoys a morning matcha, looking at a snowy teahouse garden.
ALT text detailsNao-san enjoys a morning matcha, looking at a snowy teahouse garden.
A meal celebrating the end of the New Year period at Torin-in temple.
ALT text detailsA meal celebrating the end of the New Year period at Torin-in temple.
Sprigs of pine attached to gate pillars are a common site in Kyoto around the New Year.
ALT text detailsSprigs of pine attached to gate pillars are a common site in Kyoto around the New Year.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Evening Snow, Edo River (1932)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

en.japantravel.com/tokyo/yagir

A winter evening in Tokyo, overlooking the Edo River. In the foreground, the trunk and wiry branches of a leafless tree are rimed with snow and frost; beyond, two women carrying bamboo umbrellas cross a gently curving wooden bridge. Below the pedestrians, the river is still and cold-looking. On the far side of the water, warm lights shine in the windows of closely-packed houses. The sky above is grey and overcast, and snow continues to fall across the scene.
ALT text detailsA winter evening in Tokyo, overlooking the Edo River. In the foreground, the trunk and wiry branches of a leafless tree are rimed with snow and frost; beyond, two women carrying bamboo umbrellas cross a gently curving wooden bridge. Below the pedestrians, the river is still and cold-looking. On the far side of the water, warm lights shine in the windows of closely-packed houses. The sky above is grey and overcast, and snow continues to fall across the scene.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Evening Snow, Edo River (1932)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

en.japantravel.com/tokyo/yagir

A winter evening in Tokyo, overlooking the Edo River. In the foreground, the trunk and wiry branches of a leafless tree are rimed with snow and frost; beyond, two women carrying bamboo umbrellas cross a gently curving wooden bridge. Below the pedestrians, the river is still and cold-looking. On the far side of the water, warm lights shine in the windows of closely-packed houses. The sky above is grey and overcast, and snow continues to fall across the scene.
ALT text detailsA winter evening in Tokyo, overlooking the Edo River. In the foreground, the trunk and wiry branches of a leafless tree are rimed with snow and frost; beyond, two women carrying bamboo umbrellas cross a gently curving wooden bridge. Below the pedestrians, the river is still and cold-looking. On the far side of the water, warm lights shine in the windows of closely-packed houses. The sky above is grey and overcast, and snow continues to fall across the scene.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Yōkan later explained that he had heard Amida calling to him, chastising those that had hidden the statue away, where it could not bring salvation.
Tōdai-ji monks tried to pull the image away from Yōkan, but it mysteriously stuck to his back, and eventually they gave up.

The great Nio statues of Todai-ji's Nandai-mon gate.
ALT text detailsThe great Nio statues of Todai-ji's Nandai-mon gate.
Todai-ji's Great Buddha.
ALT text detailsTodai-ji's Great Buddha.
Todai-ji's Great Buddha Hall.
ALT text detailsTodai-ji's Great Buddha Hall.
Todai-ji's weathered statue of Binzuru (dressed in a red hood and bib).
ALT text detailsTodai-ji's weathered statue of Binzuru (dressed in a red hood and bib).
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Yōkan later explained that he had heard Amida calling to him, chastising those that had hidden the statue away, where it could not bring salvation.
Tōdai-ji monks tried to pull the image away from Yōkan, but it mysteriously stuck to his back, and eventually they gave up.

The great Nio statues of Todai-ji's Nandai-mon gate.
ALT text detailsThe great Nio statues of Todai-ji's Nandai-mon gate.
Todai-ji's Great Buddha.
ALT text detailsTodai-ji's Great Buddha.
Todai-ji's Great Buddha Hall.
ALT text detailsTodai-ji's Great Buddha Hall.
Todai-ji's weathered statue of Binzuru (dressed in a red hood and bib).
ALT text detailsTodai-ji's weathered statue of Binzuru (dressed in a red hood and bib).
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Sea of Echigo (1957)

Artist: Kasamatsu Shiro

www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/new

A dark winter evening at a village by the sea. Snow covers the ground and the tile rooftops of closely-packed houses; warm lights glow in the windows. On our left, a figure carrying a lamp accompanies a smaller person through the snow, approaching one of the houses. Beyond, the wintry Sea of Japan is dark, grey, and cold.
ALT text detailsA dark winter evening at a village by the sea. Snow covers the ground and the tile rooftops of closely-packed houses; warm lights glow in the windows. On our left, a figure carrying a lamp accompanies a smaller person through the snow, approaching one of the houses. Beyond, the wintry Sea of Japan is dark, grey, and cold.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Sea of Echigo (1957)

Artist: Kasamatsu Shiro

www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/new

A dark winter evening at a village by the sea. Snow covers the ground and the tile rooftops of closely-packed houses; warm lights glow in the windows. On our left, a figure carrying a lamp accompanies a smaller person through the snow, approaching one of the houses. Beyond, the wintry Sea of Japan is dark, grey, and cold.
ALT text detailsA dark winter evening at a village by the sea. Snow covers the ground and the tile rooftops of closely-packed houses; warm lights glow in the windows. On our left, a figure carrying a lamp accompanies a smaller person through the snow, approaching one of the houses. Beyond, the wintry Sea of Japan is dark, grey, and cold.
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:'s avatar
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:

@norbertwoehnl@famichiki.jp

Having a hard time to post much at the moment, as it entails having to open Mastodon and being subjected to one terrible news item after another. 😥

But here's a calming autumn scene from Kurashiki in Okayama Prefecture, Japan.

An autumn scene by the canal in the historic Bikan District of Kurashiki in Okayama Prefecture, Japan. Two canalside trees in front of a renovated traditional warehouse are displaying red foliage, and the scene is reflected off the quiet water surface.
ALT text detailsAn autumn scene by the canal in the historic Bikan District of Kurashiki in Okayama Prefecture, Japan. Two canalside trees in front of a renovated traditional warehouse are displaying red foliage, and the scene is reflected off the quiet water surface.
The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Xiao Xiao and Lei Lei, the two remaining pandas in Japan, are expected to be returned to China by the end of January amid heightened tensions between the two countries. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/12/

The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Xiao Xiao and Lei Lei, the two remaining pandas in Japan, are expected to be returned to China by the end of January amid heightened tensions between the two countries. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/12/

Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:'s avatar
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:

@norbertwoehnl@famichiki.jp

Having a hard time to post much at the moment, as it entails having to open Mastodon and being subjected to one terrible news item after another. 😥

But here's a calming autumn scene from Kurashiki in Okayama Prefecture, Japan.

An autumn scene by the canal in the historic Bikan District of Kurashiki in Okayama Prefecture, Japan. Two canalside trees in front of a renovated traditional warehouse are displaying red foliage, and the scene is reflected off the quiet water surface.
ALT text detailsAn autumn scene by the canal in the historic Bikan District of Kurashiki in Okayama Prefecture, Japan. Two canalside trees in front of a renovated traditional warehouse are displaying red foliage, and the scene is reflected off the quiet water surface.
1001 Other Albums's avatar
1001 Other Albums

@1001otheralbums.com@1001otheralbums.com

Otoboke Beaver (おとぼけビ～バ～) – Itekoma Hits (いてこまヒッツ) (2019, Japan)

Our next spotlight is on number 759 on The List, submitted by joostverweij.

Okay, I could write a bunch of words for you to read about this punk rock/garage band and this, their first studio LP, but instead I highly suggest you watch their Tiny Desk performance from last year. Not only is half of the 8-song set taken from Itekoma Hits, but in 19-minutes you see just why Otoboke Beaver has been making waves for a few years. NPR describes their Tiny Desk performance as “an unhinged delight”, and that’s as good a description as any for this quartet in general. I mean, just as an example, during their performance of “Don’t Light My Fire” (track 9 on this album), the singer, breaking their intense stare that’s half Japanese variety show half extreme metal – and wearing a bright psychedelic print GoGo sheath mini dress with matching eye shadow and lipstick – climbs onto the desk, turns their back on the audience, and slaps their ass in time with chanting “Go. To. Hell.” If that isn’t enough to entice you, apparently their name translates to “An Idiot Beaver”, taken from a “love hotel” in Osaka and likely also alluding to the inspiration the band takes from manzai, a traditional style of Japanese comedy featuring super quick dialogue between a boke (the air-headed half of the duo) and a tsukkomi (the smarter but rather abusive half).

Otoboke Beaver will be opening for Foo Fighters on their European dates in June 2026.

The cover art is a close up photo of the band, with their heads placed together so each occupies roughly a quarter of the cover. All have long black hair (3 with bangs), are staring intensely into the camera, and are wearing bright eye shadow, lipstick, and sleeveless tops/dresses. The album name is written in English in a blue/green in the middle of the photo, followed by the band name in a smaller font. The album name is written in Japanese vertically in white down the left side, and the band name in smaller font down the right side.

The cover art is a close up photo of the band, with their heads placed together so each occupies roughly a quarter of the cover. All have long black hair (3 with bangs), are staring intensely into the camera, and are wearing bright eye shadow, lipstick, and sleeveless tops/dresses. The album name is written in English in a blue/green in the middle of the photo, followed by the band name in a smaller font. The album name is written in Japanese vertically in white down the left side, and the band name in smaller font down the right side.
ALT text detailsThe cover art is a close up photo of the band, with their heads placed together so each occupies roughly a quarter of the cover. All have long black hair (3 with bangs), are staring intensely into the camera, and are wearing bright eye shadow, lipstick, and sleeveless tops/dresses. The album name is written in English in a blue/green in the middle of the photo, followed by the band name in a smaller font. The album name is written in Japanese vertically in white down the left side, and the band name in smaller font down the right side.
1001 Other Albums's avatar
1001 Other Albums

@1001otheralbums.com@1001otheralbums.com

Otoboke Beaver (おとぼけビ～バ～) – Itekoma Hits (いてこまヒッツ) (2019, Japan)

Our next spotlight is on number 759 on The List, submitted by joostverweij.

Okay, I could write a bunch of words for you to read about this punk rock/garage band and this, their first studio LP, but instead I highly suggest you watch their Tiny Desk performance from last year. Not only is half of the 8-song set taken from Itekoma Hits, but in 19-minutes you see just why Otoboke Beaver has been making waves for a few years. NPR describes their Tiny Desk performance as “an unhinged delight”, and that’s as good a description as any for this quartet in general. I mean, just as an example, during their performance of “Don’t Light My Fire” (track 9 on this album), the singer, breaking their intense stare that’s half Japanese variety show half extreme metal – and wearing a bright psychedelic print GoGo sheath mini dress with matching eye shadow and lipstick – climbs onto the desk, turns their back on the audience, and slaps their ass in time with chanting “Go. To. Hell.” If that isn’t enough to entice you, apparently their name translates to “An Idiot Beaver”, taken from a “love hotel” in Osaka and likely also alluding to the inspiration the band takes from manzai, a traditional style of Japanese comedy featuring super quick dialogue between a boke (the air-headed half of the duo) and a tsukkomi (the smarter but rather abusive half).

Otoboke Beaver will be opening for Foo Fighters on their European dates in June 2026.

The cover art is a close up photo of the band, with their heads placed together so each occupies roughly a quarter of the cover. All have long black hair (3 with bangs), are staring intensely into the camera, and are wearing bright eye shadow, lipstick, and sleeveless tops/dresses. The album name is written in English in a blue/green in the middle of the photo, followed by the band name in a smaller font. The album name is written in Japanese vertically in white down the left side, and the band name in smaller font down the right side.

The cover art is a close up photo of the band, with their heads placed together so each occupies roughly a quarter of the cover. All have long black hair (3 with bangs), are staring intensely into the camera, and are wearing bright eye shadow, lipstick, and sleeveless tops/dresses. The album name is written in English in a blue/green in the middle of the photo, followed by the band name in a smaller font. The album name is written in Japanese vertically in white down the left side, and the band name in smaller font down the right side.
ALT text detailsThe cover art is a close up photo of the band, with their heads placed together so each occupies roughly a quarter of the cover. All have long black hair (3 with bangs), are staring intensely into the camera, and are wearing bright eye shadow, lipstick, and sleeveless tops/dresses. The album name is written in English in a blue/green in the middle of the photo, followed by the band name in a smaller font. The album name is written in Japanese vertically in white down the left side, and the band name in smaller font down the right side.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Eikan-dō Zenrin-ji (永観堂禅林寺) traces its history to Shinshō (真紹 797–873), a pupil of Kūkai.
Aspiring to found a temple for worship of the 'Five Wisdom Buddhas' (五智如来), in 853 he was gifted the mansion of Fujiwara-no-Sekio (藤原関雄) to realise his dream.

Shrine to Benzaiten on a small island in the Hojo Pond at Eikando.
ALT text detailsShrine to Benzaiten on a small island in the Hojo Pond at Eikando.
A single leaf is caught mid change from green to yellow.
ALT text detailsA single leaf is caught mid change from green to yellow.
Warabe Jizo (childlike images of Jizo Bosatsu) under autumn colours at Eikan-do.
ALT text detailsWarabe Jizo (childlike images of Jizo Bosatsu) under autumn colours at Eikan-do.
Stunning red maple leaves and verdant moss...the colours popping on a rainy day.
ALT text detailsStunning red maple leaves and verdant moss...the colours popping on a rainy day.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Eikan-dō Zenrin-ji (永観堂禅林寺) traces its history to Shinshō (真紹 797–873), a pupil of Kūkai.
Aspiring to found a temple for worship of the 'Five Wisdom Buddhas' (五智如来), in 853 he was gifted the mansion of Fujiwara-no-Sekio (藤原関雄) to realise his dream.

Shrine to Benzaiten on a small island in the Hojo Pond at Eikando.
ALT text detailsShrine to Benzaiten on a small island in the Hojo Pond at Eikando.
A single leaf is caught mid change from green to yellow.
ALT text detailsA single leaf is caught mid change from green to yellow.
Warabe Jizo (childlike images of Jizo Bosatsu) under autumn colours at Eikan-do.
ALT text detailsWarabe Jizo (childlike images of Jizo Bosatsu) under autumn colours at Eikan-do.
Stunning red maple leaves and verdant moss...the colours popping on a rainy day.
ALT text detailsStunning red maple leaves and verdant moss...the colours popping on a rainy day.
Romel.photo's avatar
Romel.photo

@romel_photo@mastodon.social

A sky





Romel.photo's avatar
Romel.photo

@romel_photo@mastodon.social

A sky





The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

As military tensions between China and Japan reach the highest level in more than a decade, the sparsely populated island of Yonaguni finds itself right on the front lines. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/12/

The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

As military tensions between China and Japan reach the highest level in more than a decade, the sparsely populated island of Yonaguni finds itself right on the front lines. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/12/

The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

China held a low-key memorial ceremony on Saturday for the 1937 Nanking Massacre, with President Xi Jinping not attending, despite a diplomatic crisis between Beijing and Tokyo over Taiwan. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/12/

The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

China held a low-key memorial ceremony on Saturday for the 1937 Nanking Massacre, with President Xi Jinping not attending, despite a diplomatic crisis between Beijing and Tokyo over Taiwan. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/12/

Buddhist Art's avatar
Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

sculpted image of a seated female deity dating to the period (794-1185) in the collection of Matsuo Taisha Grand Shrine (松尾大社) in , .

sculpted image of a seated female deity dating to the #Heian period (794-1185) in the collection of Matsuo Taisha Grand Shrine (松尾大社) in #Kyoto, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailssculpted image of a seated female deity dating to the #Heian period (794-1185) in the collection of Matsuo Taisha Grand Shrine (松尾大社) in #Kyoto, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
Buddhist Art's avatar
Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

sculpted image of a seated female deity dating to the period (794-1185) in the collection of Matsuo Taisha Grand Shrine (松尾大社) in , .

sculpted image of a seated female deity dating to the #Heian period (794-1185) in the collection of Matsuo Taisha Grand Shrine (松尾大社) in #Kyoto, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailssculpted image of a seated female deity dating to the #Heian period (794-1185) in the collection of Matsuo Taisha Grand Shrine (松尾大社) in #Kyoto, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Beijing wants the world to believe that unification with Taiwan represents the rightful and intended state of the postwar system. japantimes.co.jp/commentary/20

archie's avatar
archie

@junkyardofarchie@mastodon.social

(6) Sai-mon

archie's avatar
archie

@junkyardofarchie@mastodon.social

(6) Sai-mon

The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Beijing wants the world to believe that unification with Taiwan represents the rightful and intended state of the postwar system. japantimes.co.jp/commentary/20

Raymond Larabie's avatar
Raymond Larabie

@typodermic@mastodon.social

Nagoya Dome hovering in the distance like a sci-fi promise. 🚗🌇

夕暮れの空に浮かぶナゴヤドームは、どこか控えめなSF感。📡🌆

A color photograph taken from an elevated position overlooking a road at sunset. Cars move quickly, creating soft motion blur along the lanes. Power lines and utility poles crisscross the scene. In the distance, the large domed roof of Nagoya Dome rises above low buildings, lit warmly by the setting sun under a pale blue-green sky.
ALT text detailsA color photograph taken from an elevated position overlooking a road at sunset. Cars move quickly, creating soft motion blur along the lanes. Power lines and utility poles crisscross the scene. In the distance, the large domed roof of Nagoya Dome rises above low buildings, lit warmly by the setting sun under a pale blue-green sky.
Raymond Larabie's avatar
Raymond Larabie

@typodermic@mastodon.social

Nagoya Dome hovering in the distance like a sci-fi promise. 🚗🌇

夕暮れの空に浮かぶナゴヤドームは、どこか控えめなSF感。📡🌆

A color photograph taken from an elevated position overlooking a road at sunset. Cars move quickly, creating soft motion blur along the lanes. Power lines and utility poles crisscross the scene. In the distance, the large domed roof of Nagoya Dome rises above low buildings, lit warmly by the setting sun under a pale blue-green sky.
ALT text detailsA color photograph taken from an elevated position overlooking a road at sunset. Cars move quickly, creating soft motion blur along the lanes. Power lines and utility poles crisscross the scene. In the distance, the large domed roof of Nagoya Dome rises above low buildings, lit warmly by the setting sun under a pale blue-green sky.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Ojiya, Echigo (1941)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

historyofjapan.co.uk/wiki/echi

Late afternoon on a street in Ojiya, Niigata, in winter. In the foreground, a path has been shoveled in the deep snow; to the left and right, tall snowbanks are piled up high, obscuring the ground floor levels of houses lined up along the street. Up ahead, a pair of figures, a child and a parent, are turning the corner. Above, the sky is blue and pale, while the sun gives clouds on the horizon a coral pink tint.
ALT text detailsLate afternoon on a street in Ojiya, Niigata, in winter. In the foreground, a path has been shoveled in the deep snow; to the left and right, tall snowbanks are piled up high, obscuring the ground floor levels of houses lined up along the street. Up ahead, a pair of figures, a child and a parent, are turning the corner. Above, the sky is blue and pale, while the sun gives clouds on the horizon a coral pink tint.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Ojiya, Echigo (1941)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

historyofjapan.co.uk/wiki/echi

Late afternoon on a street in Ojiya, Niigata, in winter. In the foreground, a path has been shoveled in the deep snow; to the left and right, tall snowbanks are piled up high, obscuring the ground floor levels of houses lined up along the street. Up ahead, a pair of figures, a child and a parent, are turning the corner. Above, the sky is blue and pale, while the sun gives clouds on the horizon a coral pink tint.
ALT text detailsLate afternoon on a street in Ojiya, Niigata, in winter. In the foreground, a path has been shoveled in the deep snow; to the left and right, tall snowbanks are piled up high, obscuring the ground floor levels of houses lined up along the street. Up ahead, a pair of figures, a child and a parent, are turning the corner. Above, the sky is blue and pale, while the sun gives clouds on the horizon a coral pink tint.
The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

A ski resort in Japan said Friday it had received reports of bear sightings, while separately the nation picked the kanji character for a bear as its symbol for 2025. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/12/

The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

A ski resort in Japan said Friday it had received reports of bear sightings, while separately the nation picked the kanji character for a bear as its symbol for 2025. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/12/

The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Runners-up included the characters for “rice” and “tall” or “expensive,” with voters citing a rising cost of living. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/12/

The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Runners-up included the characters for “rice” and “tall” or “expensive,” with voters citing a rising cost of living. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/12/

The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

The watch of a hiker killed by a bear in Hokkaido has revealed harrowing details about his last moments, including that the animal returned to his body the next day, a newspaper report has said. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/12/

The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

The watch of a hiker killed by a bear in Hokkaido has revealed harrowing details about his last moments, including that the animal returned to his body the next day, a newspaper report has said. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/12/

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

China’s escalating backlash to Takaichi’s Taiwan remarks backfired by reinforcing Japan’s long-held position on Taiwan, strengthening ties among the self-governing island, Japan, the U.S. and First Island Chain partners. japantimes.co.jp/commentary/20

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

China’s escalating backlash to Takaichi’s Taiwan remarks backfired by reinforcing Japan’s long-held position on Taiwan, strengthening ties among the self-governing island, Japan, the U.S. and First Island Chain partners. japantimes.co.jp/commentary/20

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Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

Fudō Myōō (), Yuzan-ji, Okayama Prefecture, , period.

Fudō Myōō (#FudōMyōō), Yuzan-ji, Okayama Prefecture, #Japan, #Heian period. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsFudō Myōō (#FudōMyōō), Yuzan-ji, Okayama Prefecture, #Japan, #Heian period. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
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Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

Fudō Myōō (), Yuzan-ji, Okayama Prefecture, , period.

Fudō Myōō (#FudōMyōō), Yuzan-ji, Okayama Prefecture, #Japan, #Heian period. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsFudō Myōō (#FudōMyōō), Yuzan-ji, Okayama Prefecture, #Japan, #Heian period. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Konjiki-do in Snow (1957)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

travel-around-japan.com/k22-04

A winter evening at Chuson-ji temple, in Hiraizumi, Iwate Prefecture. A lone monk climbs the snow-covered stone steps toward the Konjiki-do. On either side of the steps, the branches of tall pine trees are heavy with snow; above, snow continues to fall from a dim night sky.
ALT text detailsA winter evening at Chuson-ji temple, in Hiraizumi, Iwate Prefecture. A lone monk climbs the snow-covered stone steps toward the Konjiki-do. On either side of the steps, the branches of tall pine trees are heavy with snow; above, snow continues to fall from a dim night sky.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

By the time Genzan had returned from his hiding place the boars were gone and the land was ready to be built upon.

As he stood marveling, the old monk appeared once more and revealed himself to be the god of the mountain, Achisaka Myōjin (阿智坂明神), in disguise.

Gateway to the tomb of Keishoin at Yoshimine-dera, under autumn colours.
ALT text detailsGateway to the tomb of Keishoin at Yoshimine-dera, under autumn colours.
A glimpse inside the inner sanctuary of Yoshimine-dera.
ALT text detailsA glimpse inside the inner sanctuary of Yoshimine-dera.
A stream of water dedicated to Fudo Myoo (it is here people can purify their body).
ALT text detailsA stream of water dedicated to Fudo Myoo (it is here people can purify their body).
Looking down the mountain through autumn colours, to the lower precincts of Yoshimine-dera.
ALT text detailsLooking down the mountain through autumn colours, to the lower precincts of Yoshimine-dera.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

No sooner had Achisaka Myōjin stopped speaking than he transformed into an offering slip and was whisked away by a sacred wind to the mountain summit (where he resided).

Through the divine help of thousands of boars, Yoshimine-dera (善峯寺) was born🐗🐗🐗🐗

Stunning autumn yellows at Yoshimine-dera.
ALT text detailsStunning autumn yellows at Yoshimine-dera.
Omikuji slips folded onto a frame at Yoshimine-dera (in the hope good luck comes true and bad luck is erased).
ALT text detailsOmikuji slips folded onto a frame at Yoshimine-dera (in the hope good luck comes true and bad luck is erased).
A glimpse through tree trunks at red leaves and rooftops.
ALT text detailsA glimpse through tree trunks at red leaves and rooftops.
A stone memorial tower before a background of red leaves.
ALT text detailsA stone memorial tower before a background of red leaves.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

No sooner had Achisaka Myōjin stopped speaking than he transformed into an offering slip and was whisked away by a sacred wind to the mountain summit (where he resided).

Through the divine help of thousands of boars, Yoshimine-dera (善峯寺) was born🐗🐗🐗🐗

Stunning autumn yellows at Yoshimine-dera.
ALT text detailsStunning autumn yellows at Yoshimine-dera.
Omikuji slips folded onto a frame at Yoshimine-dera (in the hope good luck comes true and bad luck is erased).
ALT text detailsOmikuji slips folded onto a frame at Yoshimine-dera (in the hope good luck comes true and bad luck is erased).
A glimpse through tree trunks at red leaves and rooftops.
ALT text detailsA glimpse through tree trunks at red leaves and rooftops.
A stone memorial tower before a background of red leaves.
ALT text detailsA stone memorial tower before a background of red leaves.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

By the time Genzan had returned from his hiding place the boars were gone and the land was ready to be built upon.

As he stood marveling, the old monk appeared once more and revealed himself to be the god of the mountain, Achisaka Myōjin (阿智坂明神), in disguise.

Gateway to the tomb of Keishoin at Yoshimine-dera, under autumn colours.
ALT text detailsGateway to the tomb of Keishoin at Yoshimine-dera, under autumn colours.
A glimpse inside the inner sanctuary of Yoshimine-dera.
ALT text detailsA glimpse inside the inner sanctuary of Yoshimine-dera.
A stream of water dedicated to Fudo Myoo (it is here people can purify their body).
ALT text detailsA stream of water dedicated to Fudo Myoo (it is here people can purify their body).
Looking down the mountain through autumn colours, to the lower precincts of Yoshimine-dera.
ALT text detailsLooking down the mountain through autumn colours, to the lower precincts of Yoshimine-dera.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

passing through the fields
on a mountain path
heading towards rainy skies
from Yoshimine
the evening showers clear

野をもすぎ
山路にむかふ
雨の空善峯よりも
晴るる夕立

-Go-eika (御詠歌 'Pilgrim Poem') written by Emperor Kazan (花山天皇 967-1008) for Yoshimine-dera.

Blustery autumn wind blowing through the leaves at Yoshimine-dera.
ALT text detailsBlustery autumn wind blowing through the leaves at Yoshimine-dera.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Konjiki-do in Snow (1957)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

travel-around-japan.com/k22-04

A winter evening at Chuson-ji temple, in Hiraizumi, Iwate Prefecture. A lone monk climbs the snow-covered stone steps toward the Konjiki-do. On either side of the steps, the branches of tall pine trees are heavy with snow; above, snow continues to fall from a dim night sky.
ALT text detailsA winter evening at Chuson-ji temple, in Hiraizumi, Iwate Prefecture. A lone monk climbs the snow-covered stone steps toward the Konjiki-do. On either side of the steps, the branches of tall pine trees are heavy with snow; above, snow continues to fall from a dim night sky.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

"Japan is on alert for a possible mega quake after a magnitude 7.5 tremor hit northern regions late on Monday, prompting tsunami warnings. Authorities say the next few days will be critical."

www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/new

A headline from NHK News, reading "Japan issues mega-quake advisory after M7.5 tremor", along with a photo of earthquake damage
ALT text detailsA headline from NHK News, reading "Japan issues mega-quake advisory after M7.5 tremor", along with a photo of earthquake damage
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

"Japan is on alert for a possible mega quake after a magnitude 7.5 tremor hit northern regions late on Monday, prompting tsunami warnings. Authorities say the next few days will be critical."

www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/new

A headline from NHK News, reading "Japan issues mega-quake advisory after M7.5 tremor", along with a photo of earthquake damage
ALT text detailsA headline from NHK News, reading "Japan issues mega-quake advisory after M7.5 tremor", along with a photo of earthquake damage
Buddhist Art's avatar
Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

stone statue at Anyo-ji, .

#Kannon stone statue at Anyo-ji, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text details#Kannon stone statue at Anyo-ji, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
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Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

stone statue at Anyo-ji, .

#Kannon stone statue at Anyo-ji, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text details#Kannon stone statue at Anyo-ji, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

A hotline between Japanese and Chinese defense authorities does not appear to be working after an incident in which Chinese military aircraft directed radar at Japanese Self-Defense Forces jets. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/12/

The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

A hotline between Japanese and Chinese defense authorities does not appear to be working after an incident in which Chinese military aircraft directed radar at Japanese Self-Defense Forces jets. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/12/

The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

The operator of the international ferry Jian Zhen Hao linking Shanghai with the western Japan cities of Kobe and Osaka said it has suspended passenger services. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/12/

The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

The operator of the international ferry Jian Zhen Hao linking Shanghai with the western Japan cities of Kobe and Osaka said it has suspended passenger services. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/12/

Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

The god is often portrayed holding a golden mallet 'Uchide-no-Kozuchi' (打ち出の小槌). It is called 'Tap-Appear Mallet' because one tap will grant any wish.
The mallet is not exclusive to Daikokuten. It also appears in the tale Issun-bōshi (一寸法師), Japan's 'Tom Thumb'.

Woodblock print depicting a scene from The Tale of Issun-boshi (一寸法師), Japan's 'Tom Thumb'. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print depicting a scene from The Tale of Issun-boshi (一寸法師), Japan's 'Tom Thumb'. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
Woodblock print of Daikokuten's magic mallet and a rat. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of Daikokuten's magic mallet and a rat. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
Picture showing Daikokuten granting a man his wish by conjuring gold coins with his mallet. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsPicture showing Daikokuten granting a man his wish by conjuring gold coins with his mallet. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
Painting of Daikokuten using his magic mallet to (rather threateningly) create gold coin for a boy. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsPainting of Daikokuten using his magic mallet to (rather threateningly) create gold coin for a boy. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

The god is often portrayed holding a golden mallet 'Uchide-no-Kozuchi' (打ち出の小槌). It is called 'Tap-Appear Mallet' because one tap will grant any wish.
The mallet is not exclusive to Daikokuten. It also appears in the tale Issun-bōshi (一寸法師), Japan's 'Tom Thumb'.

Woodblock print depicting a scene from The Tale of Issun-boshi (一寸法師), Japan's 'Tom Thumb'. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print depicting a scene from The Tale of Issun-boshi (一寸法師), Japan's 'Tom Thumb'. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
Woodblock print of Daikokuten's magic mallet and a rat. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of Daikokuten's magic mallet and a rat. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
Picture showing Daikokuten granting a man his wish by conjuring gold coins with his mallet. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsPicture showing Daikokuten granting a man his wish by conjuring gold coins with his mallet. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
Painting of Daikokuten using his magic mallet to (rather threateningly) create gold coin for a boy. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsPainting of Daikokuten using his magic mallet to (rather threateningly) create gold coin for a boy. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

In Aomori and Hokkaido, there have been reports of several non-life-threatening injuries; in Aomori, around 2,700 homes were left without power. No problems have been reported by nuclear plants in Hokkaido or in the northeastern prefectures of Aomori, Miyagi and Fukushima.

mainichi.jp/english/articles/2

08956495

@08956495@infosec.exchange

RE: mstdn.ca/@atomicker/1156858598

is a beautiful town that conquered my heart on my last trip. Wish everyone in is OK and to the wonderful friendly residents to be safe during the following days. Feeling this one to my core.

atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

In Aomori and Hokkaido, there have been reports of several non-life-threatening injuries; in Aomori, around 2,700 homes were left without power. No problems have been reported by nuclear plants in Hokkaido or in the northeastern prefectures of Aomori, Miyagi and Fukushima.

mainichi.jp/english/articles/2

atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Since this morning's M7.5 earthquake off the north-eastern coast of Japan, tsunami warnings have been downgraded to advisories. More tremors are possible, and officials say people should still stay away from the coast.

www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/new

A headline from NHK News, reading "Northern Japan hit by M7.5 earthquake, tsunami advisories in effect", with a map of Japan showing tsunami advisories on the north-eastern coast
ALT text detailsA headline from NHK News, reading "Northern Japan hit by M7.5 earthquake, tsunami advisories in effect", with a map of Japan showing tsunami advisories on the north-eastern coast
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Since this morning's M7.5 earthquake off the north-eastern coast of Japan, tsunami warnings have been downgraded to advisories. More tremors are possible, and officials say people should still stay away from the coast.

www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/new

A headline from NHK News, reading "Northern Japan hit by M7.5 earthquake, tsunami advisories in effect", with a map of Japan showing tsunami advisories on the north-eastern coast
ALT text detailsA headline from NHK News, reading "Northern Japan hit by M7.5 earthquake, tsunami advisories in effect", with a map of Japan showing tsunami advisories on the north-eastern coast
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tagesschau

@tagesschau@ard.social

Japan: Erdbeben vor Hokkaido löst Tsunami-Warnung aus

Nach einem schweren Erdbeben vor der Küste ist eine Tsunami-Warnung für den Nordosten Japans ausgegeben worden. Die Welle könne bis zu drei Meter hoch werden, warnte die japanische Meteorologiebehörde.

➡️ tagesschau.de/ausland/asien/ja

The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

A magnitude 7.6 earthquake struck off eastern Aomori Prefecture around 11:15 p.m. Monday, with tsunami warnings issued for coastal areas of Aomori, Iwate and Hokkaido prefectures. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/12/

tagesschau's avatar
tagesschau

@tagesschau@ard.social

Japan: Erdbeben vor Hokkaido löst Tsunami-Warnung aus

Nach einem schweren Erdbeben vor der Küste ist eine Tsunami-Warnung für den Nordosten Japans ausgegeben worden. Die Welle könne bis zu drei Meter hoch werden, warnte die japanische Meteorologiebehörde.

➡️ tagesschau.de/ausland/asien/ja

AI6YR Ben's avatar
AI6YR Ben

@ai6yr@m.ai6yr.org

NHK News: Strong earthquake hits northern Japan, tsunami warning issued

"...A strong earthquake has struck northern Japan. The Japan Meteorological Agency says the magnitude 7.6 quake occurred off Aomori Prefecture, and had an intensity of upper 6 on the Japanese scale of 0 to 7 in the hardest-hit areas...."

www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/new

Map showing warnings and advisories for tsunami
ALT text detailsMap showing warnings and advisories for tsunami
The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

A magnitude 7.6 earthquake struck off eastern Aomori Prefecture around 11:15 p.m. Monday, with tsunami warnings issued for coastal areas of Aomori, Iwate and Hokkaido prefectures. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/12/

Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

The Shichifukujin journey in the Takarabune (宝船 'Treasure Ship') to the human realm for the first three days of New Year.

Placing an image of the Takarabune beneath your pillow on January 2nd is said to encourage dreams.
If you dream of the boat, the year will be a lucky one.

Woodblock of the 7 Gods of Good Fortune riding the Takarabune ('Treasure Boat'), by Utagawa Hiroshige.
ALT text detailsWoodblock of the 7 Gods of Good Fortune riding the Takarabune ('Treasure Boat'), by Utagawa Hiroshige.
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SeanBreslin

@SeanBreslin@famichiki.jp

We did this too. Best thing we’ve ever done.

Well worth a watch.

youtu.be/bLEZMMU9v2I?si=nyvkqp

Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

In this busy twilight period between the old year and the new the 'Seven Gods of Fortune' (七福神) provide a useful service.

As a group they can pretty much answer all your prayers, from health to happiness, from improved business to improved brain capacity.

Omikuji (fortune slip) holder in the shape of the goddess Benzaiten.
ALT text detailsOmikuji (fortune slip) holder in the shape of the goddess Benzaiten.
Hundreds of omikuji (fortune slip) holders in the shape of the god Fukurokuju.
ALT text detailsHundreds of omikuji (fortune slip) holders in the shape of the god Fukurokuju.
Omikuji (fortune slip) holder in the shape of the god Hotei.
ALT text detailsOmikuji (fortune slip) holder in the shape of the god Hotei.
Omikuji (fortune slip) holder in the shape of the god Bishamonten.
ALT text detailsOmikuji (fortune slip) holder in the shape of the god Bishamonten.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

The Shichifukujin journey in the Takarabune (宝船 'Treasure Ship') to the human realm for the first three days of New Year.

Placing an image of the Takarabune beneath your pillow on January 2nd is said to encourage dreams.
If you dream of the boat, the year will be a lucky one.

Woodblock of the 7 Gods of Good Fortune riding the Takarabune ('Treasure Boat'), by Utagawa Hiroshige.
ALT text detailsWoodblock of the 7 Gods of Good Fortune riding the Takarabune ('Treasure Boat'), by Utagawa Hiroshige.
Minoru Saba's avatar
Minoru Saba

@minorusaba@toad.social

"[Japan's PM] Takaichi told Parliament last week that there was no possibility of a ”Truss shock,” downplaying parallels with the 2022 selloff in gilts and the pound that sank British Prime Minister Liz Truss' plan for unfunded tax cuts"
reuters.com/world/asia-pacific
🔸Lettuce couldn't be reached for comments?🤔

Headline of Reuters article of 5 December 2025. Text: "In Japan, Prime Minister Takaichi tries to avoid a 'Truss shock' "
ALT text detailsHeadline of Reuters article of 5 December 2025. Text: "In Japan, Prime Minister Takaichi tries to avoid a 'Truss shock' "
The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

The Japanese Embassy in China has issued a safety advisory ahead of next week's anniversary of "the Nanking Incident," or Nanjing Massacre, which it said is considered particularly sensitive. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/12/

The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

The Japanese Embassy in China has issued a safety advisory ahead of next week's anniversary of "the Nanking Incident," or Nanjing Massacre, which it said is considered particularly sensitive. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/12/

もりす's avatar
もりす

@morimori@hachyderm.io

Second favorite photo: Lantana

Red, yellow, and orange lantana flowers surrounded by deep green leaves
ALT text detailsRed, yellow, and orange lantana flowers surrounded by deep green leaves
Working Class History's avatar
Working Class History

@workingclasshistory@mastodon.social

📣 New Podcast! "5 December 1961: Toei animators lockout" on @Spreaker
spreaker.com/episode/5-decembe

atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Katsura Moonlight (1982)

Artist: Clifton Karhu

skyatnightmagazine.com/news/co

A full moon shines down on a small part of Katsura Imperial Palace, in Kyoto. Snow covers the rooftop and lies across the ground; warm candlelight glows on the other side of shoji sliding doors. Just beyond the building, a forest of leafless trees reach up toward the yellow full moon, rising in a starless night sky.
ALT text detailsA full moon shines down on a small part of Katsura Imperial Palace, in Kyoto. Snow covers the rooftop and lies across the ground; warm candlelight glows on the other side of shoji sliding doors. Just beyond the building, a forest of leafless trees reach up toward the yellow full moon, rising in a starless night sky.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Katsura Moonlight (1982)

Artist: Clifton Karhu

skyatnightmagazine.com/news/co

A full moon shines down on a small part of Katsura Imperial Palace, in Kyoto. Snow covers the rooftop and lies across the ground; warm candlelight glows on the other side of shoji sliding doors. Just beyond the building, a forest of leafless trees reach up toward the yellow full moon, rising in a starless night sky.
ALT text detailsA full moon shines down on a small part of Katsura Imperial Palace, in Kyoto. Snow covers the rooftop and lies across the ground; warm candlelight glows on the other side of shoji sliding doors. Just beyond the building, a forest of leafless trees reach up toward the yellow full moon, rising in a starless night sky.
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Zen in Color

@zencolor@mastodon.art

Theatre Street, , .

Theatre Street, #Yokohama, #Japan.
ALT text detailsTheatre Street, #Yokohama, #Japan.
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Zen in Color

@zencolor@mastodon.art

Theatre Street, , .

Theatre Street, #Yokohama, #Japan.
ALT text detailsTheatre Street, #Yokohama, #Japan.
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Renkon

@renkotsuban@gamedev.lgbt

I am sorry this took almost a whole month to get up!! But please look at this list of almost 30 cool from , and tell us what you thought was most interesting from 10!

indietsushin.net/posts/2025-12

The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

China has unleashed a diplomatic campaign to rally support in its row with Japan over Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s Taiwan remarks, employing a well-worn strategy but also taking a page from Tokyo’s own playbook. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/12/

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

China has unleashed a diplomatic campaign to rally support in its row with Japan over Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s Taiwan remarks, employing a well-worn strategy but also taking a page from Tokyo’s own playbook. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/12/

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Ricard Torres

@ricard@ricard.social

🇯🇵 Asakusa, Tokyo, Japan (2024)

Walking this area at dusk is fantastic!

🔗 quicoto.com/asakusa-de-noche-j

Japanese pagoda at night
ALT text detailsJapanese pagoda at night
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Kōa explained he was following a light shining to the NNE✨
As they were both of the same sect, Enkū shared his story. Together the pair understood a clear message was being delivered...Hōnen wished to go to Nenbutsu Sanmai-in (念仏三昧院).

Stunning autumnal grounds of Komyo-ji.
ALT text detailsStunning autumnal grounds of Komyo-ji.
Stunning autumnal grounds of Komyo-ji.
ALT text detailsStunning autumnal grounds of Komyo-ji.
Statue of Honen and autumn leaves.
ALT text detailsStatue of Honen and autumn leaves.
Stunning autumnal grounds of Komyo-ji.
ALT text detailsStunning autumnal grounds of Komyo-ji.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Kōa explained he was following a light shining to the NNE✨
As they were both of the same sect, Enkū shared his story. Together the pair understood a clear message was being delivered...Hōnen wished to go to Nenbutsu Sanmai-in (念仏三昧院).

Stunning autumnal grounds of Komyo-ji.
ALT text detailsStunning autumnal grounds of Komyo-ji.
Stunning autumnal grounds of Komyo-ji.
ALT text detailsStunning autumnal grounds of Komyo-ji.
Statue of Honen and autumn leaves.
ALT text detailsStatue of Honen and autumn leaves.
Stunning autumnal grounds of Komyo-ji.
ALT text detailsStunning autumnal grounds of Komyo-ji.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Even in death Hōnen was not safe from Enryaku-ji's determination to crush rival sects.
In 1227, hearing whisper of a plot to toss Hōnen's remains in the Kamo-gawa, the monk Kaku'a (覺阿) and a small team secretly smuggled his body across the city to Kōryū-ji.

Autumn colours in the grounds of Chion-in.
ALT text detailsAutumn colours in the grounds of Chion-in.
Autumn colours in the grounds of Chion-in.
ALT text detailsAutumn colours in the grounds of Chion-in.
An offering of 5 yen coins left on the praying hands of a statue at Chion-in.
ALT text detailsAn offering of 5 yen coins left on the praying hands of a statue at Chion-in.
The steep Otoko-zaka steps of Chion-in.
ALT text detailsThe steep Otoko-zaka steps of Chion-in.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

In Japan, a record 74% of municipalities nationwide are promoting renewable energy under policies defined in ordinances and official documents:

asahi.com/ajw/articles/16195496

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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

One of the best preserved sections of the Odoi (御土居) is at Kitano Tenman-gū (北野天満宮).
Usually out-of-bounds, the Odoi remnant is opened up for visitors during the spring and autumn seasons (for a fee of course).

Autumn leaves above the Tenjingawa.
ALT text detailsAutumn leaves above the Tenjingawa.
Autumn leaves before the main shrine of Kitano Tenmangu.
ALT text detailsAutumn leaves before the main shrine of Kitano Tenmangu.
Nao-san enjoys the autumn leaves at Kitano Tenmangu.
ALT text detailsNao-san enjoys the autumn leaves at Kitano Tenmangu.
A sea of orange and yellow leaves.
ALT text detailsA sea of orange and yellow leaves.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

One of the best preserved sections of the Odoi (御土居) is at Kitano Tenman-gū (北野天満宮).
Usually out-of-bounds, the Odoi remnant is opened up for visitors during the spring and autumn seasons (for a fee of course).

Autumn leaves above the Tenjingawa.
ALT text detailsAutumn leaves above the Tenjingawa.
Autumn leaves before the main shrine of Kitano Tenmangu.
ALT text detailsAutumn leaves before the main shrine of Kitano Tenmangu.
Nao-san enjoys the autumn leaves at Kitano Tenmangu.
ALT text detailsNao-san enjoys the autumn leaves at Kitano Tenmangu.
A sea of orange and yellow leaves.
ALT text detailsA sea of orange and yellow leaves.
The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

The Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum will next year exhibit some 200 masterpieces of Japanese art mainly from the British Museum. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/12/

The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

The Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum will next year exhibit some 200 masterpieces of Japanese art mainly from the British Museum. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/12/

Will 🇯🇵's avatar
Will 🇯🇵

@wilpercy@beige.party

Tightly cropped, a carp glides diagonally across the frame from top left to bottom right. It carries a silky wave before it. The leeward side of the wave is shadowed and inky black like the brush stroke of a calligrapher. The carp’s markings are mottled light and darkness and its tail fin arches elegantly away, the calligrapher’s brush stroke personified.
ALT text detailsTightly cropped, a carp glides diagonally across the frame from top left to bottom right. It carries a silky wave before it. The leeward side of the wave is shadowed and inky black like the brush stroke of a calligrapher. The carp’s markings are mottled light and darkness and its tail fin arches elegantly away, the calligrapher’s brush stroke personified.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

The Odoi (御土居) was an earthen berm, erected at the very beginning of 1591 by Toyotomi Hideyoshi (豊臣秀吉).
Standing just short of 5m tall, the 22.5km embankment encircled the city with an outer moat (where there weren't rivers) and numerous 'gates'.

Autumn colours above the Tenjingawa at Kitano Tenmangu.
ALT text detailsAutumn colours above the Tenjingawa at Kitano Tenmangu.
Beneath the Odoi the Tenjingawa river is flanked by groves of maple trees that come alive in the autumn.
ALT text detailsBeneath the Odoi the Tenjingawa river is flanked by groves of maple trees that come alive in the autumn.
Beneath the Odoi the Tenjingawa river is flanked by groves of maple trees that come alive in the autumn.
ALT text detailsBeneath the Odoi the Tenjingawa river is flanked by groves of maple trees that come alive in the autumn.
Beneath the Odoi the Tenjingawa river is flanked by groves of maple trees that come alive in the autumn.
ALT text detailsBeneath the Odoi the Tenjingawa river is flanked by groves of maple trees that come alive in the autumn.
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:'s avatar
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:

@norbertwoehnl@famichiki.jp

Happy Monday from Japan!

A set of film photography from an autumn visit to Kita-in Temple in Kawagoe, Saitama Prefecture. The place is famous for its 540 Rakan statues.

📷 Mamiya 6, 50mm f/4
🎞️ Fujicolor Pro 400H

View outside the main hall of Kita-in Temple in Kawagoe, Saitama Prefecture, Japan.
ALT text detailsView outside the main hall of Kita-in Temple in Kawagoe, Saitama Prefecture, Japan.
Autumn impression from the garden at Kita-in Temple in Kawagoe, Saitama Prefecture, Japan.
ALT text detailsAutumn impression from the garden at Kita-in Temple in Kawagoe, Saitama Prefecture, Japan.
Autumn impression from the garden at Kita-in Temple in Kawagoe, Saitama Prefecture, Japan.
ALT text detailsAutumn impression from the garden at Kita-in Temple in Kawagoe, Saitama Prefecture, Japan.
Rakan (Buddha disciples) statues at Kita-in Temple in Kawagoe, Saitama Prefecture, Japan. Carved between 1782 and 1825, a total of 540 statues portray the disciples in a great variety of positions, so that no two are alike.
ALT text detailsRakan (Buddha disciples) statues at Kita-in Temple in Kawagoe, Saitama Prefecture, Japan. Carved between 1782 and 1825, a total of 540 statues portray the disciples in a great variety of positions, so that no two are alike.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

The Odoi (御土居) was an earthen berm, erected at the very beginning of 1591 by Toyotomi Hideyoshi (豊臣秀吉).
Standing just short of 5m tall, the 22.5km embankment encircled the city with an outer moat (where there weren't rivers) and numerous 'gates'.

Autumn colours above the Tenjingawa at Kitano Tenmangu.
ALT text detailsAutumn colours above the Tenjingawa at Kitano Tenmangu.
Beneath the Odoi the Tenjingawa river is flanked by groves of maple trees that come alive in the autumn.
ALT text detailsBeneath the Odoi the Tenjingawa river is flanked by groves of maple trees that come alive in the autumn.
Beneath the Odoi the Tenjingawa river is flanked by groves of maple trees that come alive in the autumn.
ALT text detailsBeneath the Odoi the Tenjingawa river is flanked by groves of maple trees that come alive in the autumn.
Beneath the Odoi the Tenjingawa river is flanked by groves of maple trees that come alive in the autumn.
ALT text detailsBeneath the Odoi the Tenjingawa river is flanked by groves of maple trees that come alive in the autumn.
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:'s avatar
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:

@norbertwoehnl@famichiki.jp

Happy Monday from Japan!

A set of film photography from an autumn visit to Kita-in Temple in Kawagoe, Saitama Prefecture. The place is famous for its 540 Rakan statues.

📷 Mamiya 6, 50mm f/4
🎞️ Fujicolor Pro 400H

View outside the main hall of Kita-in Temple in Kawagoe, Saitama Prefecture, Japan.
ALT text detailsView outside the main hall of Kita-in Temple in Kawagoe, Saitama Prefecture, Japan.
Autumn impression from the garden at Kita-in Temple in Kawagoe, Saitama Prefecture, Japan.
ALT text detailsAutumn impression from the garden at Kita-in Temple in Kawagoe, Saitama Prefecture, Japan.
Autumn impression from the garden at Kita-in Temple in Kawagoe, Saitama Prefecture, Japan.
ALT text detailsAutumn impression from the garden at Kita-in Temple in Kawagoe, Saitama Prefecture, Japan.
Rakan (Buddha disciples) statues at Kita-in Temple in Kawagoe, Saitama Prefecture, Japan. Carved between 1782 and 1825, a total of 540 statues portray the disciples in a great variety of positions, so that no two are alike.
ALT text detailsRakan (Buddha disciples) statues at Kita-in Temple in Kawagoe, Saitama Prefecture, Japan. Carved between 1782 and 1825, a total of 540 statues portray the disciples in a great variety of positions, so that no two are alike.
Buddhist Art's avatar
Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

Half-prostrate statue of , Tosho-ji, Tokushima City, Tokushima Prefecture, , late production in .

Half-prostrate statue of #Jizo #Bodhisattva , Tosho-ji, Tokushima City, Tokushima Prefecture, #Japan, late production in #Kamakura. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsHalf-prostrate statue of #Jizo #Bodhisattva , Tosho-ji, Tokushima City, Tokushima Prefecture, #Japan, late production in #Kamakura. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
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Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

Half-prostrate statue of , Tosho-ji, Tokushima City, Tokushima Prefecture, , late production in .

Half-prostrate statue of #Jizo #Bodhisattva , Tosho-ji, Tokushima City, Tokushima Prefecture, #Japan, late production in #Kamakura. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsHalf-prostrate statue of #Jizo #Bodhisattva , Tosho-ji, Tokushima City, Tokushima Prefecture, #Japan, late production in #Kamakura. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
Tokyo's avatar
Tokyo

@Tokyo@channels.im

ANA, JAL to deploy Level 4 self-driving cargo transport at Tokyo airports

Technology Autonomous tractors to reduce strain on ground crews overwhelmed by tourist surge ANA tested this autonomous cargo towing tractor at Tokyo’s Haneda Airport in 2024. (Photo by Keiichi Furukawa)…
#4 -Driving
alojapan.com/1421033/ana-jal-t

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Tanuki.no.mori

@tanukinomori_jp@mastodon.social

A giant ginkgo tree at Kyoto Gyoen National Garden🍁

Kyoto Gyoen is a large garden in central Kyoto that includes the Kyoto Imperial Palace. From early November, the leaves begin to change color. The ginkgo trees turn a brilliant golden yellow in late November. This is the largest ginkgo tree in the garden.

📸 11/28/2025
📍Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto City

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Tanuki.no.mori

@tanukinomori_jp@mastodon.social

A giant ginkgo tree at Kyoto Gyoen National Garden🍁

Kyoto Gyoen is a large garden in central Kyoto that includes the Kyoto Imperial Palace. From early November, the leaves begin to change color. The ginkgo trees turn a brilliant golden yellow in late November. This is the largest ginkgo tree in the garden.

📸 11/28/2025
📍Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto City

Brook Miles's avatar
Brook Miles

@brook@sunny.garden

Can’t resist… must photograph every maple tree… :momiji: :blob3c:

A tall lush Japanese maple tree backlit by the sun, illuminating the red leaves. The trunk is in silhouette, and many branched. Green leaves of other trees nearby show through some of the gaps in the leaves.
ALT text detailsA tall lush Japanese maple tree backlit by the sun, illuminating the red leaves. The trunk is in silhouette, and many branched. Green leaves of other trees nearby show through some of the gaps in the leaves.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

The 15th abbot of Nanzen-ji, Kokan Shiren (虎関師錬), in 1336 founded Tenju-an (天授庵) to celebrate the temple's 45th anniversary.
Tenju-an was constructed as a Kaisan-tō (開山塔), a religious site honouring the founder of a temple (in this case Mukan Fumon 大明国師).

Autumn light up at Tenju-an.
ALT text detailsAutumn light up at Tenju-an.
Autumn light up at Tenju-an.
ALT text detailsAutumn light up at Tenju-an.
Autumn light up at Tenju-an.
ALT text detailsAutumn light up at Tenju-an.
Autumn light up at Tenju-an.
ALT text detailsAutumn light up at Tenju-an.
The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

U.S. President Donald Trump called Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi this week and advised her not to provoke Beijing on the question of Taiwan's sovereignty. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/11/

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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social

🍁🍂AN AUTUMN GEM😊🍁

I wish I had
my companion to nag...
autumn dusk
小言いふ相手のほしや秋の暮
-Kobayashi Issa, 1823.

Half-forgotten for most of the year, Tenju-an (天授庵), like many of Nanzen-ji's small sub-temples, bursts into life during late autumn.

Autumn colours reflected in the pond at Tenju-an.
ALT text detailsAutumn colours reflected in the pond at Tenju-an.
Entering the gardens of Tenju-an. The path turns at right angles preventing the visitor from seeing anything but a glimpse of colour when they first step foot through the garden gate.
ALT text detailsEntering the gardens of Tenju-an. The path turns at right angles preventing the visitor from seeing anything but a glimpse of colour when they first step foot through the garden gate.
Stretch of sand behind the main hall at Tenju-an, encircled by autumn colours.
ALT text detailsStretch of sand behind the main hall at Tenju-an, encircled by autumn colours.
A small pine tree grows in the dry landscape garden at Tenju-an...in autumn red and orange leaves make the perfect backdrop.
ALT text detailsA small pine tree grows in the dry landscape garden at Tenju-an...in autumn red and orange leaves make the perfect backdrop.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Because Jōjakkō-ji blends so well into nature, it is often known as 'Hei no nai-dera' (塀のない寺), the 'Temple Without Walls'.
Like many Kyōto temples, it is also known as 'Hana-no-dera' (花の寺), the 'Temple of Flowers'.

Jojakko-ji's pagoda, viewed from above.
ALT text detailsJojakko-ji's pagoda, viewed from above.
At sunset the shadows lengthen and the brilliant autumn colours shine bright.
ALT text detailsAt sunset the shadows lengthen and the brilliant autumn colours shine bright.
The pond at Jojakko-ji, reflecting the autumn colours.
ALT text detailsThe pond at Jojakko-ji, reflecting the autumn colours.
Jojakko-ji's thatched gate under a canopy of red and yellow maple leaves.
ALT text detailsJojakko-ji's thatched gate under a canopy of red and yellow maple leaves.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Kurobee (くろべえ) is Jōjakkō-ji's (常寂光寺) temple cat. When not greeting guests or prowling the grounds, he rests in the small ticket booth😺

Kurobee, Jojakko-ji's black temple cat, sits at the small ticket office.
ALT text detailsKurobee, Jojakko-ji's black temple cat, sits at the small ticket office.
Kurobee the black cat enjoying strokes in Jojakko-ji's ticket office.
ALT text detailsKurobee the black cat enjoying strokes in Jojakko-ji's ticket office.
Looking down under a canopy of fresh green maple leaves to the thatched gate of Jojakko-ji.
ALT text detailsLooking down under a canopy of fresh green maple leaves to the thatched gate of Jojakko-ji.
Kurobee the black cat enjoying strokes in Jojakko-ji's ticket office.
ALT text detailsKurobee the black cat enjoying strokes in Jojakko-ji's ticket office.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

In 1596 the old abbot of Honkoku-ji (本圀寺), Nisshin (日禛 1561-1617), received a parcel of land on Mt. Ogura (小倉山) from the wealthy Suminokura family. He constructed a thatched hut overlooking the Saga Moor (嵯峨野), where he could escape the world.

The autumn colours soar above Jojakko-ji's hilly precincts.
ALT text detailsThe autumn colours soar above Jojakko-ji's hilly precincts.
Looking out across Sagano to Kyoto City beyond from the upper grounds of Jojakko-ji.
ALT text detailsLooking out across Sagano to Kyoto City beyond from the upper grounds of Jojakko-ji.
A ginkgo tree adds a background of yellow for Jojakko-ji's bell tower.
ALT text detailsA ginkgo tree adds a background of yellow for Jojakko-ji's bell tower.
Visitors descend the steep steps at Jojakko-ji, beneath a canopy of autumn colours.
ALT text detailsVisitors descend the steep steps at Jojakko-ji, beneath a canopy of autumn colours.
Bruno Philipe's avatar
Bruno Philipe

@brunoph@breakpoint.cafe · Reply to Bruno Philipe's post

Not to mention how charming Kyoto is, probably my favorite place in Japan so far.

A car wrapped in plastic is parked under a semi-covered parking spot. There’s a metal red box next to it in the edge of the wall, which has some colorful leafy bushes at its end, next to the street. Behind the spot there’s a two level house, in light yellow. And a few more houses behind. They’re all very narrow. The scene is basked in a nice golden sunlight.
ALT text detailsA car wrapped in plastic is parked under a semi-covered parking spot. There’s a metal red box next to it in the edge of the wall, which has some colorful leafy bushes at its end, next to the street. Behind the spot there’s a two level house, in light yellow. And a few more houses behind. They’re all very narrow. The scene is basked in a nice golden sunlight.
A narrow street is seen, with many houses along its edge. The nearest house has an orange awning shielding its wooden plank walls from the elements. Along the street there’s an electric pole with some road signs attached, including two caution with pedestrian signs and a no parking sign. Further along the street there’s a cyclist, and a car further down still. Power lines crisscross the street along its distance, and the sky is a mix of light blue and grey. The street is cast in a golden light.
ALT text detailsA narrow street is seen, with many houses along its edge. The nearest house has an orange awning shielding its wooden plank walls from the elements. Along the street there’s an electric pole with some road signs attached, including two caution with pedestrian signs and a no parking sign. Further along the street there’s a cyclist, and a car further down still. Power lines crisscross the street along its distance, and the sky is a mix of light blue and grey. The street is cast in a golden light.
Several tall trees are visible, some pines, and a few Japanese maples, one in peak autumn red colors, almost burning through the image because its red is so bright.
ALT text detailsSeveral tall trees are visible, some pines, and a few Japanese maples, one in peak autumn red colors, almost burning through the image because its red is so bright.
The walls of the kyoto imperial palace residence, fronted by a gravel yard, are visible, as well as a gate. The structure is lined with tall pine and maple trees along its distance, and is painted in a light brown color, while its curved roof is iron blue.
ALT text detailsThe walls of the kyoto imperial palace residence, fronted by a gravel yard, are visible, as well as a gate. The structure is lined with tall pine and maple trees along its distance, and is painted in a light brown color, while its curved roof is iron blue.
Bruno Philipe's avatar
Bruno Philipe

@brunoph@breakpoint.cafe

I’ve been in Kyoto for just a few hours and I already spotted several birbs. The birbing rate is much better than in Osaka!

A Japanese Pigmy Woodpecker, which is about the size of a large sparrow, is standing on a thick branch of a pine tree, under the canopy, looking around to its surroundings.
ALT text detailsA Japanese Pigmy Woodpecker, which is about the size of a large sparrow, is standing on a thick branch of a pine tree, under the canopy, looking around to its surroundings.
A black kite, a type of raptor, is perched on the top branch of a tall pine tree. The tree has several small pine cones attached to it, and the pine needles are very long. The raptor is basking on the golden sunset light, and the sky behind is light blue.
ALT text detailsA black kite, a type of raptor, is perched on the top branch of a tall pine tree. The tree has several small pine cones attached to it, and the pine needles are very long. The raptor is basking on the golden sunset light, and the sky behind is light blue.
An oriental turtle dove is perched inside the leafs of a bushy tree. It is facing away from the camera, bit with its head turned towards it, looking at it. Its pupils are wide open, indicating how dark it was inside the tree, but a good capture was still possible.
ALT text detailsAn oriental turtle dove is perched inside the leafs of a bushy tree. It is facing away from the camera, bit with its head turned towards it, looking at it. Its pupils are wide open, indicating how dark it was inside the tree, but a good capture was still possible.
A Japanese wagtail walks over a gravel patch, looking around in between scavenges in the gravels.
ALT text detailsA Japanese wagtail walks over a gravel patch, looking around in between scavenges in the gravels.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

In China ginkgo is known as '鴨脚樹', the 'Duckfoot Tree', after the shape of the tree's leaves.
This name was rendered into Japanese as 'Ichō' (イチョウ/銀杏), but Engelbert Kaempfer would -somewhat incorrectly- introduce it as ginkgo (銀杏) to western audiences.

In China the ginkgo is known as the 'Duckfoot Tree' after the shape of its leaves.
ALT text detailsIn China the ginkgo is known as the 'Duckfoot Tree' after the shape of its leaves.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Autumn in Funatsu (1953)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

asahi.com/ajw/articles/16137995

An early morning view looking toward Mount Fuji, from a rural farm. In the foreground, on a path curving between two cultivated fields, chickens scratch and peck at the ground; just beyond, a female figure is occupied with some task just outside the front door of the traditional thatched-roof farmhouse. Further on, a line of trees underscores the wide base of Mount Fuji; the rising sun tints the mountain's snowcap a rosy colour, and turns the few puffy clouds flanking the slopes a warm gold.
ALT text detailsAn early morning view looking toward Mount Fuji, from a rural farm. In the foreground, on a path curving between two cultivated fields, chickens scratch and peck at the ground; just beyond, a female figure is occupied with some task just outside the front door of the traditional thatched-roof farmhouse. Further on, a line of trees underscores the wide base of Mount Fuji; the rising sun tints the mountain's snowcap a rosy colour, and turns the few puffy clouds flanking the slopes a warm gold.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Some have suggested that the character Ochiba-no-miya (落葉の宮/女二の宮) from 'The Tale of Genji' (源氏物語) is in some way connected to the shrine, and possibly gave her name to the site.

From the Momoyama period Iwato-sha and Ochiba-sha were placed together.

Nao-san ginkgo selfie.
ALT text detailsNao-san ginkgo selfie.
Ginkgo leaf inspired sweet.
ALT text detailsGinkgo leaf inspired sweet.
Tiny sweet ginkgo and maple leaves hang in a clear jelly.
ALT text detailsTiny sweet ginkgo and maple leaves hang in a clear jelly.
Golden ginkgo leaves.
ALT text detailsGolden ginkgo leaves.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

From ancient times the poor (and not so poor) abandoned the dead in Adashino (化野), an area that now equates with the stretch of land between Nison-in (二尊院) and Nenbutsu-ji (念仏寺).
By the Heian period it had become 1 of Heian-kyō's 3 Great Crematory Grounds (三大葬地).

Autumn at Adashino Nenbutsu-ji.
ALT text detailsAutumn at Adashino Nenbutsu-ji.
Autumn at Adashino Nenbutsu-ji.
ALT text detailsAutumn at Adashino Nenbutsu-ji.
Autumn at Adashino Nenbutsu-ji.
ALT text detailsAutumn at Adashino Nenbutsu-ji.
Autumn at Adashino Nenbutsu-ji.
ALT text detailsAutumn at Adashino Nenbutsu-ji.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Kōchō first created a ceiling painting of Buddha's 10 Great Disciples (十大弟子), replacing a dragon mural (painted by Kanō Tan'yū 狩野探幽 1602-74) that had been completely destroyed in the Meiji period.
He then turned his attention to crafting an army of statues!

Otagi Nenbutsu-ji is built onto a steep hillside.
ALT text detailsOtagi Nenbutsu-ji is built onto a steep hillside.
Otagi Nenbutsu-ji's main hall.
ALT text detailsOtagi Nenbutsu-ji's main hall.
Looking down at Otagi Nenbutsu-ji's gate.
ALT text detailsLooking down at Otagi Nenbutsu-ji's gate.
An army of statues at Otagi Nenbutsu-ji.
ALT text detailsAn army of statues at Otagi Nenbutsu-ji.
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atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Autumn in Funatsu (1953)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

asahi.com/ajw/articles/16137995

An early morning view looking toward Mount Fuji, from a rural farm. In the foreground, on a path curving between two cultivated fields, chickens scratch and peck at the ground; just beyond, a female figure is occupied with some task just outside the front door of the traditional thatched-roof farmhouse. Further on, a line of trees underscores the wide base of Mount Fuji; the rising sun tints the mountain's snowcap a rosy colour, and turns the few puffy clouds flanking the slopes a warm gold.
ALT text detailsAn early morning view looking toward Mount Fuji, from a rural farm. In the foreground, on a path curving between two cultivated fields, chickens scratch and peck at the ground; just beyond, a female figure is occupied with some task just outside the front door of the traditional thatched-roof farmhouse. Further on, a line of trees underscores the wide base of Mount Fuji; the rising sun tints the mountain's snowcap a rosy colour, and turns the few puffy clouds flanking the slopes a warm gold.
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Brook Miles

@brook@sunny.garden

Heirin-ji Temple this afternoon, lots of great fall colours. :momiji:

Got quite a few more nice shots on my camera, but you can't see them until I have time to go through them :oh_no:

Paved temple entrance walkway leading to a wooden two story inner gate with thatched roof. The path is lined on both sides with tall maples and pines. Sunlight is filtering through highlighting the fall reds and yellows on the maples.
ALT text detailsPaved temple entrance walkway leading to a wooden two story inner gate with thatched roof. The path is lined on both sides with tall maples and pines. Sunlight is filtering through highlighting the fall reds and yellows on the maples.
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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Japan’s defense minister, visiting a military base close to Taiwan, said plans to deploy missiles to the post were on track as tensions smolder between Tokyo and Beijing over the East Asian island. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/11/

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Japan’s defense minister, visiting a military base close to Taiwan, said plans to deploy missiles to the post were on track as tensions smolder between Tokyo and Beijing over the East Asian island. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/11/

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

China's top diplomat became the country’s highest-ranking official to publicly chastise Tokyo over Taiwan, criticizing the “shocking” remarks that Japan could intervene militarily in a crisis over the island. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/11/

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Nonilex

@Nonilex@masto.ai · Reply to Nonilex's post

… PM Donald Tusk said Sunday that Warsaw was ready to work on the plan with the leaders of , & , but also said that it “would be good to know for sure who is the author of the plan & where was it created.”

Some lawmakers said Saturday that had described the plan as a Russian “wish list” rather than a US-led proposal.


apnews.com/article/ukraine-pea

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

China's top diplomat became the country’s highest-ranking official to publicly chastise Tokyo over Taiwan, criticizing the “shocking” remarks that Japan could intervene militarily in a crisis over the island. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/11/

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Airports Bot

@airports_bot@mastodon.world

Sendai Airport - Natori, Japan

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sendai_A
openstreetmap.org/#map=13/38.1

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Airports Bot

@airports_bot@mastodon.world

Sendai Airport - Natori, Japan

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sendai_A
openstreetmap.org/#map=13/38.1

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Bruno Philipe

@brunoph@breakpoint.cafe

🗻

Mount Fuji seen in the distance, circled by scattered puffy white clouds. There’s rolling hills in the distance towards the mountain, covered in green trees and fields. In the near distance there’s a village of two-storey buildings farms, and many power line poles, pus a few viaducts bridging the hills nearby. The sky is a faint baby blue above it all.
ALT text detailsMount Fuji seen in the distance, circled by scattered puffy white clouds. There’s rolling hills in the distance towards the mountain, covered in green trees and fields. In the near distance there’s a village of two-storey buildings farms, and many power line poles, pus a few viaducts bridging the hills nearby. The sky is a faint baby blue above it all.
The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

China is using threats, diplomatic pressure, economic measures and manufactured media narratives to attack new Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and influence Japanese politics. japantimes.co.jp/commentary/20

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

China is using threats, diplomatic pressure, economic measures and manufactured media narratives to attack new Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and influence Japanese politics. japantimes.co.jp/commentary/20

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has rebuffed demands from China to retract her recent comments about Taiwan, saying there was no change to Tokyo’s stance on how it would respond to a major regional security crisis. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/11/

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has rebuffed demands from China to retract her recent comments about Taiwan, saying there was no change to Tokyo’s stance on how it would respond to a major regional security crisis. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/11/

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

“Concerns are mounting about potential impacts as we approach the upcoming winter peak season,” Hokkaido Gov. Naomichi Suzuki said. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/11/

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Bruno Philipe

@brunoph@breakpoint.cafe · Reply to Bruno Philipe's post

And lastly for today, the ever-present in the garden Brown-Eared Gulgul, which has an interesting squeaky call and long (think 3-5s long) raspy group calls, as well as the cute, tiny, and hard to spot Ryukyu Minivet, which I only saw once the entire day (I’m sure I heard it more than once, but missed spotting it.)

A brown-eared bulbul, a bird similar to a starling in shape and pattern, but in brown and white. It is perched on a leafy thin branch of a tree, looking towards the distance to the side. It is surrounded by green leafs, and the background is mostly a blur of green and white
ALT text detailsA brown-eared bulbul, a bird similar to a starling in shape and pattern, but in brown and white. It is perched on a leafy thin branch of a tree, looking towards the distance to the side. It is surrounded by green leafs, and the background is mostly a blur of green and white
The brown-eared bulbul has its beak open while it produces a long and raspy note of their group calls
ALT text detailsThe brown-eared bulbul has its beak open while it produces a long and raspy note of their group calls
A Ryukyu Minivet, a small flycatcher-like bird with a white belly and black wings, tail, and head with a white mask, is seen perched on the branch of a tree. It is looking towards the camera with suspicion
ALT text detailsA Ryukyu Minivet, a small flycatcher-like bird with a white belly and black wings, tail, and head with a white mask, is seen perched on the branch of a tree. It is looking towards the camera with suspicion
The Ryukyu now hoped further up the branch, and is now looking upwards towards the canopy. The background is a blurry mix of browns, greens, and yellows
ALT text detailsThe Ryukyu now hoped further up the branch, and is now looking upwards towards the canopy. The background is a blurry mix of browns, greens, and yellows
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Bruno Philipe

@brunoph@breakpoint.cafe · Reply to Bruno Philipe's post

Next, and industrious Varied Tit which I spotted finding seeds and cracking them up by holding them with their feet while smashing them with their beaks (like crows) which was quite impressive for a lil birb. And also this Japanese White-eye, which I only spotted from from away (these photos are cropped from 600mm), and which are really cute!

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Bruno Philipe

@brunoph@breakpoint.cafe

Today I spent most of the day at the Meiji Jingu garden and Yoyogi Park. It is full of birds of different species, some more numerous than others.

Here’s a thread of the bird pics I took, starting with the star of the show, this gorgeous Kingfisher who posed for me for a while, as well as a crow whose call sounded like someone saying “ah ah” monotonously.

A common kingfisher perched on a branch stub sticking off the water. It is holding a small fish in its beak. The fish is flailing trying to get loose
ALT text detailsA common kingfisher perched on a branch stub sticking off the water. It is holding a small fish in its beak. The fish is flailing trying to get loose
The common kingfisher is now perched on a low branch with yellow leaves just above the water (not visible), inspecting its surroundings
ALT text detailsThe common kingfisher is now perched on a low branch with yellow leaves just above the water (not visible), inspecting its surroundings
The common kingfisher is now perched on a bamboo stick coming off the surface of a pond, which has some red leaves floating on the surface. The bird is rising on its feet, but they’re sunken into its feathers, so it looks just plopped on the bamboo
ALT text detailsThe common kingfisher is now perched on a bamboo stick coming off the surface of a pond, which has some red leaves floating on the surface. The bird is rising on its feet, but they’re sunken into its feathers, so it looks just plopped on the bamboo
A long-billed crow perched on a thick tree branch, looking towards the distance, and seen from below. The background is a mix of green and white spots of the laves against the sky in the distance
ALT text detailsA long-billed crow perched on a thick tree branch, looking towards the distance, and seen from below. The background is a mix of green and white spots of the laves against the sky in the distance
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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

“Concerns are mounting about potential impacts as we approach the upcoming winter peak season,” Hokkaido Gov. Naomichi Suzuki said. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/11/

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Physicman

@physicman@famichiki.jp

OK, this one is for people with a scientific background and who also know Japanese.
My 10yo daughter has developed an interest for stargazing and we regularly go watch the moon and stars at a nearby ふれあいセンター.
I'd like to encourage this (and interest in STEM in general), so I'm looking for recommendations for a good book in Japanese and/or ressources in Japanese about STEM.
I tried searching around but my Japanese really sucks and I'm getting nowhere. 🫤

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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social

🍂👀LEAF HUNTING🙌🍁

In Japan 'autumn foliage', depending on the reading, is known as 'momiji' (紅葉) or 'kōyō' (紅葉).
Originally the terms referred to any tree that changed colour for autumn, but over time they became synonymous with the maple (楓 'kaede')🍁

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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Admiring the autumn foliage is known as 'momijigari' (紅葉狩り lit. 'hunting for autumn leaves') in Japanese🔎👀🍁👏

drawing near them
a sudden loneliness...
autumn leaves
近づけば急に淋しき紅葉哉
-Kobayashi Issa (小林一茶), 1807.
Trans. David Lanoue.

Admiring the autumn leaves from Uguisu-bashi (bridge).
ALT text detailsAdmiring the autumn leaves from Uguisu-bashi (bridge).
A lacquered floor is the perfect way to enjoy the autumn leaves, caught in the reflection of the dark wood.
ALT text detailsA lacquered floor is the perfect way to enjoy the autumn leaves, caught in the reflection of the dark wood.
Red and yellow momiji inspired kinton sweets called 'kinshu' (錦秋 'autumn brocade').
ALT text detailsRed and yellow momiji inspired kinton sweets called 'kinshu' (錦秋 'autumn brocade').
A komainu can't help but admire the autumn colours.
ALT text detailsA komainu can't help but admire the autumn colours.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Admiring the autumn foliage is known as 'momijigari' (紅葉狩り lit. 'hunting for autumn leaves') in Japanese🔎👀🍁👏

drawing near them
a sudden loneliness...
autumn leaves
近づけば急に淋しき紅葉哉
-Kobayashi Issa (小林一茶), 1807.
Trans. David Lanoue.

Admiring the autumn leaves from Uguisu-bashi (bridge).
ALT text detailsAdmiring the autumn leaves from Uguisu-bashi (bridge).
A lacquered floor is the perfect way to enjoy the autumn leaves, caught in the reflection of the dark wood.
ALT text detailsA lacquered floor is the perfect way to enjoy the autumn leaves, caught in the reflection of the dark wood.
Red and yellow momiji inspired kinton sweets called 'kinshu' (錦秋 'autumn brocade').
ALT text detailsRed and yellow momiji inspired kinton sweets called 'kinshu' (錦秋 'autumn brocade').
A komainu can't help but admire the autumn colours.
ALT text detailsA komainu can't help but admire the autumn colours.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social

🍂👀LEAF HUNTING🙌🍁

In Japan 'autumn foliage', depending on the reading, is known as 'momiji' (紅葉) or 'kōyō' (紅葉).
Originally the terms referred to any tree that changed colour for autumn, but over time they became synonymous with the maple (楓 'kaede')🍁

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Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

Gundam statues at National Museum, .

Gundam statues at #Tokyo National Museum, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsGundam statues at #Tokyo National Museum, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
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Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

Gundam statues at National Museum, .

Gundam statues at #Tokyo National Museum, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsGundam statues at #Tokyo National Museum, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social

👣🤔AUTUMN ALONG THE PHILOSOPHER'S PATH🍁🍂

Fall vibing.

Autumn at Eikan-do.
ALT text detailsAutumn at Eikan-do.
The pond at Eikan-do (with pagoda on the mountain behind).
ALT text detailsThe pond at Eikan-do (with pagoda on the mountain behind).
The rustic gate of Anraku-ji in autumn.
ALT text detailsThe rustic gate of Anraku-ji in autumn.
Warabe Jizo statues at Eikan-do.
ALT text detailsWarabe Jizo statues at Eikan-do.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

In the autumn Nao-san enjoyed an outside tea ceremony along the Path of Philosophy and was joined by an unexpected guest, glorious in the late afternoon sun.

An orange and white cat joins Nao-san on the Path of Philosophy.
ALT text detailsAn orange and white cat joins Nao-san on the Path of Philosophy.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Eikan-dō (永観堂) has over 3000 maple trees😲

That's a lot of leaves to rake up at the end of autumn🥹

The grounds of Eikan-ji in autumn are filled with beautiful reds and yellows, the gardens a carpet of colourful fallen leaves.
ALT text detailsThe grounds of Eikan-ji in autumn are filled with beautiful reds and yellows, the gardens a carpet of colourful fallen leaves.
The grounds of Eikan-ji in autumn are filled with beautiful reds and yellows, the gardens a carpet of colourful fallen leaves.
ALT text detailsThe grounds of Eikan-ji in autumn are filled with beautiful reds and yellows, the gardens a carpet of colourful fallen leaves.
The grounds of Eikan-ji in autumn are filled with beautiful reds and yellows, the gardens a carpet of colourful fallen leaves.
ALT text detailsThe grounds of Eikan-ji in autumn are filled with beautiful reds and yellows, the gardens a carpet of colourful fallen leaves.
The grounds of Eikan-ji in autumn are filled with beautiful reds and yellows, the gardens a carpet of colourful fallen leaves.
ALT text detailsThe grounds of Eikan-ji in autumn are filled with beautiful reds and yellows, the gardens a carpet of colourful fallen leaves.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Let us end our autumn stroll down The Path of the Philosophy at a temple that needs no introduction...

...Ginkaku-ji (銀閣寺).

Looking down at the roof of Ginkaku-ji.
ALT text detailsLooking down at the roof of Ginkaku-ji.
Ginkaku-ji in autumn.
ALT text detailsGinkaku-ji in autumn.
The white terrace and 'cone' of Ginkaku-ji.
ALT text detailsThe white terrace and 'cone' of Ginkaku-ji.
Ginkaku-ji in autumn.
ALT text detailsGinkaku-ji in autumn.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Let us end our autumn stroll down The Path of the Philosophy at a temple that needs no introduction...

...Ginkaku-ji (銀閣寺).

Looking down at the roof of Ginkaku-ji.
ALT text detailsLooking down at the roof of Ginkaku-ji.
Ginkaku-ji in autumn.
ALT text detailsGinkaku-ji in autumn.
The white terrace and 'cone' of Ginkaku-ji.
ALT text detailsThe white terrace and 'cone' of Ginkaku-ji.
Ginkaku-ji in autumn.
ALT text detailsGinkaku-ji in autumn.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

A detour to Shinnyo-dō (真如堂)...

The late autumn grounds at Shinnyo-do.
ALT text detailsThe late autumn grounds at Shinnyo-do.
The late autumn grounds at Shinnyo-do.
ALT text detailsThe late autumn grounds at Shinnyo-do.
The late autumn grounds at Shinnyo-do.
ALT text detailsThe late autumn grounds at Shinnyo-do.
The late autumn grounds at Shinnyo-do.
ALT text detailsThe late autumn grounds at Shinnyo-do.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Hōnen-in (法然院) was built close to the site of a simple hermitage where Hōnen (法然 1133-1212) and his disciples (Jūren 住蓮 and Anraku 安楽), worshiped the bodhisattva Amida (阿弥陀仏) 6 times each day and night on Shishigatani (鹿ヶ谷).

Thatched gate and terraces of white sand at Honen-in.
ALT text detailsThatched gate and terraces of white sand at Honen-in.
A rock left on a path indicates that it is out of bounds for guests.
ALT text detailsA rock left on a path indicates that it is out of bounds for guests.
Raised sand terrace (raked with a momiji design) at Honen-in.
ALT text detailsRaised sand terrace (raked with a momiji design) at Honen-in.
Thatched gate at Honen-in.
ALT text detailsThatched gate at Honen-in.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Eikan-dō (永観堂) has over 3000 maple trees😲

That's a lot of leaves to rake up at the end of autumn🥹

The grounds of Eikan-ji in autumn are filled with beautiful reds and yellows, the gardens a carpet of colourful fallen leaves.
ALT text detailsThe grounds of Eikan-ji in autumn are filled with beautiful reds and yellows, the gardens a carpet of colourful fallen leaves.
The grounds of Eikan-ji in autumn are filled with beautiful reds and yellows, the gardens a carpet of colourful fallen leaves.
ALT text detailsThe grounds of Eikan-ji in autumn are filled with beautiful reds and yellows, the gardens a carpet of colourful fallen leaves.
The grounds of Eikan-ji in autumn are filled with beautiful reds and yellows, the gardens a carpet of colourful fallen leaves.
ALT text detailsThe grounds of Eikan-ji in autumn are filled with beautiful reds and yellows, the gardens a carpet of colourful fallen leaves.
The grounds of Eikan-ji in autumn are filled with beautiful reds and yellows, the gardens a carpet of colourful fallen leaves.
ALT text detailsThe grounds of Eikan-ji in autumn are filled with beautiful reds and yellows, the gardens a carpet of colourful fallen leaves.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

In the autumn Nao-san enjoyed an outside tea ceremony along the Path of Philosophy and was joined by an unexpected guest, glorious in the late afternoon sun.

An orange and white cat joins Nao-san on the Path of Philosophy.
ALT text detailsAn orange and white cat joins Nao-san on the Path of Philosophy.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social

👣🤔AUTUMN ALONG THE PHILOSOPHER'S PATH🍁🍂

Fall vibing.

Autumn at Eikan-do.
ALT text detailsAutumn at Eikan-do.
The pond at Eikan-do (with pagoda on the mountain behind).
ALT text detailsThe pond at Eikan-do (with pagoda on the mountain behind).
The rustic gate of Anraku-ji in autumn.
ALT text detailsThe rustic gate of Anraku-ji in autumn.
Warabe Jizo statues at Eikan-do.
ALT text detailsWarabe Jizo statues at Eikan-do.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Eagle Owl (1968)

Artist: Toshi Yoshida

owlcation.com/social-sciences/

An impressive-looking eagle owl sits on a tree branch, surrounded by autumn foliage. Its attention is focused somewhere off to our left, its large golden eyes zeroing in on something out of sight, beyond the borders of the image.
ALT text detailsAn impressive-looking eagle owl sits on a tree branch, surrounded by autumn foliage. Its attention is focused somewhere off to our left, its large golden eyes zeroing in on something out of sight, beyond the borders of the image.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Eagle Owl (1968)

Artist: Toshi Yoshida

owlcation.com/social-sciences/

An impressive-looking eagle owl sits on a tree branch, surrounded by autumn foliage. Its attention is focused somewhere off to our left, its large golden eyes zeroing in on something out of sight, beyond the borders of the image.
ALT text detailsAn impressive-looking eagle owl sits on a tree branch, surrounded by autumn foliage. Its attention is focused somewhere off to our left, its large golden eyes zeroing in on something out of sight, beyond the borders of the image.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Tourism to Japan in October 2025 set a new record for the month at 3,896,300 visitors. But will threats from China and trouble with littering tourists put a dent in next month's numbers? A look at the current state of Japan travel in our latest:

unseen-japan.com/japan-october

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Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

Roshana statue, Todai-ji, . Main image of the Great Hall of Todai-ji, commonly known as the Great of . Production began in 745 at the request of Emperor Shomu, and it took 28 years to complete at a total construction cost of 465.7 billion yen (current). In 752, Bodhisenna, a monk from India, held an enlightening memorial service in front of 10,000 people.

Roshana #Buddha statue, Todai-ji, #Japan. Main image of the Great #Buddha Hall of Todai-ji, commonly known as the Great #Buddha of #Nara. Production began in 745 at the request of Emperor Shomu, and it took 28 years to complete at a total construction cost of 465.7 billion yen (current). In 752, Bodhisenna, a monk from India, held an enlightening memorial service in front of 10,000 people. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsRoshana #Buddha statue, Todai-ji, #Japan. Main image of the Great #Buddha Hall of Todai-ji, commonly known as the Great #Buddha of #Nara. Production began in 745 at the request of Emperor Shomu, and it took 28 years to complete at a total construction cost of 465.7 billion yen (current). In 752, Bodhisenna, a monk from India, held an enlightening memorial service in front of 10,000 people. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
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Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

Roshana statue, Todai-ji, . Main image of the Great Hall of Todai-ji, commonly known as the Great of . Production began in 745 at the request of Emperor Shomu, and it took 28 years to complete at a total construction cost of 465.7 billion yen (current). In 752, Bodhisenna, a monk from India, held an enlightening memorial service in front of 10,000 people.

Roshana #Buddha statue, Todai-ji, #Japan. Main image of the Great #Buddha Hall of Todai-ji, commonly known as the Great #Buddha of #Nara. Production began in 745 at the request of Emperor Shomu, and it took 28 years to complete at a total construction cost of 465.7 billion yen (current). In 752, Bodhisenna, a monk from India, held an enlightening memorial service in front of 10,000 people. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsRoshana #Buddha statue, Todai-ji, #Japan. Main image of the Great #Buddha Hall of Todai-ji, commonly known as the Great #Buddha of #Nara. Production began in 745 at the request of Emperor Shomu, and it took 28 years to complete at a total construction cost of 465.7 billion yen (current). In 752, Bodhisenna, a monk from India, held an enlightening memorial service in front of 10,000 people. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
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David in Setouchi

@David@gram.social

Good evening.

#Japan #seascape #evening #SetoInlandSea
The Seto Inland Sea, late afternoon. We can see some islands.
ALT text detailsThe Seto Inland Sea, late afternoon. We can see some islands.
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David in Setouchi

@David@gram.social

Good evening.

#Japan #seascape #evening #SetoInlandSea
The Seto Inland Sea, late afternoon. We can see some islands.
ALT text detailsThe Seto Inland Sea, late afternoon. We can see some islands.
slims :miyagi: 🐟⁂'s avatar
slims :miyagi: 🐟⁂

@slims@famichiki.jp

時間ギリギリだけど、can anyone recommend great ski-in, ski-out cabins/huts in Japan? Hokkaido, Nagano, Niigata, or preferably Tohoku.

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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

There is another theory behind the origin of the name 'ominaeshi'.
It is thought the yellow flowers were likened to 'onna-meshi' (女飯🍘), the cheaper, less-polished rice often eaten by women (men would typically get the finer rice, known as 'otoko-meshi' 男飯🍙).
🌾😠😡💢

An ominaeshi in bloom.
ALT text detailsAn ominaeshi in bloom.
A statue of a kitsune holds an ear of rice in its mouth.
ALT text detailsA statue of a kitsune holds an ear of rice in its mouth.
Harvested rice hung up to dry.
ALT text detailsHarvested rice hung up to dry.
Close up of the delicate yellow flowers on an ominaeshi.
ALT text detailsClose up of the delicate yellow flowers on an ominaeshi.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

There is a very similar flower called 'otokoeshi' (男郎花). It is considered a more manly plant than the ominaeshi, as it has thicker stems and plainer, less delicate flowers.
The white petals are once again likened to 'otoko-meshi' (男飯), the whiter rice demanded by men.

The flower 'otokoeshi', aka patrinia villosa.
ALT text detailsThe flower 'otokoeshi', aka patrinia villosa.
Woodblock print of the kabuki actor Kataoka Takao. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of the kabuki actor Kataoka Takao. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
Woodblock print of the kabuki actors Ichikawa Omezo and Otani Oniji. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of the kabuki actors Ichikawa Omezo and Otani Oniji. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
The flower 'otokoeshi', aka patrinia villosa.
ALT text detailsThe flower 'otokoeshi', aka patrinia villosa.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

There is a very similar flower called 'otokoeshi' (男郎花). It is considered a more manly plant than the ominaeshi, as it has thicker stems and plainer, less delicate flowers.
The white petals are once again likened to 'otoko-meshi' (男飯), the whiter rice demanded by men.

The flower 'otokoeshi', aka patrinia villosa.
ALT text detailsThe flower 'otokoeshi', aka patrinia villosa.
Woodblock print of the kabuki actor Kataoka Takao. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of the kabuki actor Kataoka Takao. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
Woodblock print of the kabuki actors Ichikawa Omezo and Otani Oniji. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of the kabuki actors Ichikawa Omezo and Otani Oniji. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
The flower 'otokoeshi', aka patrinia villosa.
ALT text detailsThe flower 'otokoeshi', aka patrinia villosa.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

There is another theory behind the origin of the name 'ominaeshi'.
It is thought the yellow flowers were likened to 'onna-meshi' (女飯🍘), the cheaper, less-polished rice often eaten by women (men would typically get the finer rice, known as 'otoko-meshi' 男飯🍙).
🌾😠😡💢

An ominaeshi in bloom.
ALT text detailsAn ominaeshi in bloom.
A statue of a kitsune holds an ear of rice in its mouth.
ALT text detailsA statue of a kitsune holds an ear of rice in its mouth.
Harvested rice hung up to dry.
ALT text detailsHarvested rice hung up to dry.
Close up of the delicate yellow flowers on an ominaeshi.
ALT text detailsClose up of the delicate yellow flowers on an ominaeshi.
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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Tokyo is working to smooth things over with Beijing — while telling nationals living in China to stay on alert for anti-Japan sentiment — as the fallout from a recent spat extends to realms outside politics. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/11/

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Tokyo is working to smooth things over with Beijing — while telling nationals living in China to stay on alert for anti-Japan sentiment — as the fallout from a recent spat extends to realms outside politics. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/11/

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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

The rules to ensure harmony at Rakushisha (落柿舎制札), by Mukai Kyorai.

💤do not disturb other sleepers (no snoring)
🥕vegetarian diet only
🚬be considerate when smoking
🔥be careful with naked flames (and the ash from smoking)
❤️look after one another
🥳enjoy yourself

A list of rules for guests entering Rakushisha by Mukai.
ALT text detailsA list of rules for guests entering Rakushisha by Mukai.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

master of persimmons
so close to the tree tops
Stormy Mountain
柿主や梢はちかきあらし山

Mukai Kyorai (向井去来) wrote this haiku to commemorate the fallen persimmons event, something he considered a humorous lesson in the pitfalls of pursuing worldly gain.

A monkey looks down at Arashiyama and Sagano from Iwata-yama.
ALT text detailsA monkey looks down at Arashiyama and Sagano from Iwata-yama.
Ripe persimmons outside the teahouse.
ALT text detailsRipe persimmons outside the teahouse.
Looking out from Daihikaku Senko-ji across Arashiyama.
ALT text detailsLooking out from Daihikaku Senko-ji across Arashiyama.
The Togetsu-kyo bridge in Arashiyama.
ALT text detailsThe Togetsu-kyo bridge in Arashiyama.
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Raymond Larabie

@typodermic@mastodon.social

The temple at Kakuozan, seen through bars.🏯🔵

柵の隙間から覗く覚王山の寺。悟りへの道も入場制限付きのように見える。🌞🙏

A color photo of a temple at Kakuōzan in Nagoya, viewed through vertical black bars in the foreground. The temple’s wooden architecture and sweeping tiled roof stand out against a vivid blue sky. A few visitors and a small white van are visible near the entrance.
ALT text detailsA color photo of a temple at Kakuōzan in Nagoya, viewed through vertical black bars in the foreground. The temple’s wooden architecture and sweeping tiled roof stand out against a vivid blue sky. A few visitors and a small white van are visible near the entrance.
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Raymond Larabie

@typodermic@mastodon.social

The temple at Kakuozan, seen through bars.🏯🔵

柵の隙間から覗く覚王山の寺。悟りへの道も入場制限付きのように見える。🌞🙏

A color photo of a temple at Kakuōzan in Nagoya, viewed through vertical black bars in the foreground. The temple’s wooden architecture and sweeping tiled roof stand out against a vivid blue sky. A few visitors and a small white van are visible near the entrance.
ALT text detailsA color photo of a temple at Kakuōzan in Nagoya, viewed through vertical black bars in the foreground. The temple’s wooden architecture and sweeping tiled roof stand out against a vivid blue sky. A few visitors and a small white van are visible near the entrance.
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Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

, Muro-ji, .

#Pagoda, Muro-ji, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text details#Pagoda, Muro-ji, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
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Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

, Muro-ji, .

#Pagoda, Muro-ji, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text details#Pagoda, Muro-ji, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Ginkgo seeds, called 'ginnan' (ぎんなん), are delicious.

I usually just heat them in a frying pan until the shells have browned, remove the shells, sprinkle on salt and eat.
They have a slightly bitter, but exceptionally moreish, flavour😋

Ginkgo fruits, hidden amongst gorgeous golden foliage.
ALT text detailsGinkgo fruits, hidden amongst gorgeous golden foliage.
Ginnan (the seeds of ginkgo), freshly cooked and salted.
ALT text detailsGinnan (the seeds of ginkgo), freshly cooked and salted.
Cooking ginnan in a frying pan.
ALT text detailsCooking ginnan in a frying pan.
Fallen ginkgo leaves and fruit.
ALT text detailsFallen ginkgo leaves and fruit.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Ginkgo seeds, called 'ginnan' (ぎんなん), are delicious.

I usually just heat them in a frying pan until the shells have browned, remove the shells, sprinkle on salt and eat.
They have a slightly bitter, but exceptionally moreish, flavour😋

Ginkgo fruits, hidden amongst gorgeous golden foliage.
ALT text detailsGinkgo fruits, hidden amongst gorgeous golden foliage.
Ginnan (the seeds of ginkgo), freshly cooked and salted.
ALT text detailsGinnan (the seeds of ginkgo), freshly cooked and salted.
Cooking ginnan in a frying pan.
ALT text detailsCooking ginnan in a frying pan.
Fallen ginkgo leaves and fruit.
ALT text detailsFallen ginkgo leaves and fruit.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

In China ginkgo is known as '鴨脚樹', the 'Duckfoot Tree', after the shape of the tree's leaves.
This name was rendered into Japanese as 'Ichō' (イチョウ/銀杏), but Engelbert Kaempfer would -somewhat incorrectly- introduce it as ginkgo (銀杏) to western audiences.

In China the ginkgo is known as the 'Duckfoot Tree' after the shape of its leaves.
ALT text detailsIn China the ginkgo is known as the 'Duckfoot Tree' after the shape of its leaves.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

If you were dropped into a teahouse at a random time of year, without access to the garden or any idea of the temperature outside, then the sweets served are your best bet for narrowing down the date...
'Ichō momiji' (銀杏紅葉 'autumn-leaved ginkgo') herald deep autumn.

'Icho Momiji', yellow ginkgo leaf shaped sweets.
ALT text details'Icho Momiji', yellow ginkgo leaf shaped sweets.
A carpet of fallen golden ginkgo leaves.
ALT text detailsA carpet of fallen golden ginkgo leaves.
'Icho Momiji', yellow ginkgo leaf shaped sweets.
ALT text details'Icho Momiji', yellow ginkgo leaf shaped sweets.
'Icho Momiji', yellow ginkgo leaf shaped sweets.
ALT text details'Icho Momiji', yellow ginkgo leaf shaped sweets.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Jurassic Park fanfare🎺🎶🎉

Nishi Hongan-ji's 'Upside Down Ginkgo'.
ALT text detailsNishi Hongan-ji's 'Upside Down Ginkgo'.
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Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:

@norbertwoehnl@famichiki.jp

Tokyo Sunday, Nov 16, 2025 (part 2)

After a café lunch in Ochanomizu, crossed Hijiri Bridge and passed Kanda Shrine to have a Taiyaki at“Naruto Taiyaki Honpo”, and to visit “Tohto Records & Books” in Yushima. Reasonably priced vinyl. I don’t own a player nor do I have sufficient space to start collecting records again, but I like to browse and find it comforting that they are still around.

View of early autumn colors across the street on Hijiri Bridge in Tokyo, Japan
ALT text detailsView of early autumn colors across the street on Hijiri Bridge in Tokyo, Japan
Passing the gate of Kanda Myojin Shrine in Tokyo, Japan
ALT text detailsPassing the gate of Kanda Myojin Shrine in Tokyo, Japan
Taiyaki at Naruto Taiyaki Honpo in Yushima, Tokyo, Japan.
ALT text detailsTaiyaki at Naruto Taiyaki Honpo in Yushima, Tokyo, Japan.
Ringo Starr’s 1973 album, “Ringo”, for ¥1500 (€8,35 / US＄9,70) at “Tohto Records & Books” in Yushima, Tokyo.
ALT text detailsRingo Starr’s 1973 album, “Ringo”, for ¥1500 (€8,35 / US＄9,70) at “Tohto Records & Books” in Yushima, Tokyo.
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Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:

@norbertwoehnl@famichiki.jp

Tokyo Sunday, Nov 16, 2025 (part 2)

After a café lunch in Ochanomizu, crossed Hijiri Bridge and passed Kanda Shrine to have a Taiyaki at“Naruto Taiyaki Honpo”, and to visit “Tohto Records & Books” in Yushima. Reasonably priced vinyl. I don’t own a player nor do I have sufficient space to start collecting records again, but I like to browse and find it comforting that they are still around.

View of early autumn colors across the street on Hijiri Bridge in Tokyo, Japan
ALT text detailsView of early autumn colors across the street on Hijiri Bridge in Tokyo, Japan
Passing the gate of Kanda Myojin Shrine in Tokyo, Japan
ALT text detailsPassing the gate of Kanda Myojin Shrine in Tokyo, Japan
Taiyaki at Naruto Taiyaki Honpo in Yushima, Tokyo, Japan.
ALT text detailsTaiyaki at Naruto Taiyaki Honpo in Yushima, Tokyo, Japan.
Ringo Starr’s 1973 album, “Ringo”, for ¥1500 (€8,35 / US＄9,70) at “Tohto Records & Books” in Yushima, Tokyo.
ALT text detailsRingo Starr’s 1973 album, “Ringo”, for ¥1500 (€8,35 / US＄9,70) at “Tohto Records & Books” in Yushima, Tokyo.
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:'s avatar
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:

@norbertwoehnl@famichiki.jp

Tokyo Sunday, Nov 16, 2025 (part 1)

Spent some time in Ochanomizu and Yushima today. Autumn colors were already nice around Yushima Seido and in adjacent areas. See ALT texts.

View from Hijiri Bridge towards Yushima Seido, a Confucian temple in the Bunkyo Ward of Tokyo, Japan.
ALT text detailsView from Hijiri Bridge towards Yushima Seido, a Confucian temple in the Bunkyo Ward of Tokyo, Japan.
Early autumn colors at Yushima Seido, a Confucian temple in the Bunkyo Ward of Tokyo, Japan.
ALT text detailsEarly autumn colors at Yushima Seido, a Confucian temple in the Bunkyo Ward of Tokyo, Japan.
Early autumn colors at Yushima Seido, a Confucian temple in the Bunkyo Ward of Tokyo, Japan.
ALT text detailsEarly autumn colors at Yushima Seido, a Confucian temple in the Bunkyo Ward of Tokyo, Japan.
Early autumn colors at Yushima Seido, a Confucian temple in the Bunkyo Ward of Tokyo, Japan.
ALT text detailsEarly autumn colors at Yushima Seido, a Confucian temple in the Bunkyo Ward of Tokyo, Japan.
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:'s avatar
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:

@norbertwoehnl@famichiki.jp

Tokyo Sunday, Nov 16, 2025 (part 1)

Spent some time in Ochanomizu and Yushima today. Autumn colors were already nice around Yushima Seido and in adjacent areas. See ALT texts.

View from Hijiri Bridge towards Yushima Seido, a Confucian temple in the Bunkyo Ward of Tokyo, Japan.
ALT text detailsView from Hijiri Bridge towards Yushima Seido, a Confucian temple in the Bunkyo Ward of Tokyo, Japan.
Early autumn colors at Yushima Seido, a Confucian temple in the Bunkyo Ward of Tokyo, Japan.
ALT text detailsEarly autumn colors at Yushima Seido, a Confucian temple in the Bunkyo Ward of Tokyo, Japan.
Early autumn colors at Yushima Seido, a Confucian temple in the Bunkyo Ward of Tokyo, Japan.
ALT text detailsEarly autumn colors at Yushima Seido, a Confucian temple in the Bunkyo Ward of Tokyo, Japan.
Early autumn colors at Yushima Seido, a Confucian temple in the Bunkyo Ward of Tokyo, Japan.
ALT text detailsEarly autumn colors at Yushima Seido, a Confucian temple in the Bunkyo Ward of Tokyo, Japan.
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Minoru Saba

@minorusaba@toad.social

"Sakurajima volcano erupts in southwest Japan, creating 4,400 m-high plume"

"An explosive eruption around 12:57 a.m. on Sunday"
mainichi.jp/english/articles/2

Photograph accompanying Kyodo news article "Sakurajima volcano erupts in southwest Japan, creating 4,400 m-high plume" A dark plume rises from the top of volcano silhouetted against a star-filled night sky. Red, glowing lava flows down the left side of the volcano. Caption: "This photo taken on Nov. 16, 2025, from an unmanned fixed-point camera in Tarumizu, Kagoshima Prefecture, shows Sakurajima volcano erupting. (Kyodo) "
ALT text detailsPhotograph accompanying Kyodo news article "Sakurajima volcano erupts in southwest Japan, creating 4,400 m-high plume" A dark plume rises from the top of volcano silhouetted against a star-filled night sky. Red, glowing lava flows down the left side of the volcano. Caption: "This photo taken on Nov. 16, 2025, from an unmanned fixed-point camera in Tarumizu, Kagoshima Prefecture, shows Sakurajima volcano erupting. (Kyodo) "
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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

China has warned its citizens not to travel to Japan, the first significant retaliatory move by Beijing following comments by Japan's leader that Tokyo could intervene militarily if China uses force against Taiwan. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/11/

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

China has warned its citizens not to travel to Japan, the first significant retaliatory move by Beijing following comments by Japan's leader that Tokyo could intervene militarily if China uses force against Taiwan. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/11/

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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Tajimamori gave half the leaves and seeds to the emperor's widow and the other half he offered at Suinin's tomb. He then died of grief!
There is a theory that 'tachibana' derives from 'tajimabana' (タヂマバナ/田道間花), the fruit named in honour of Tajimamori (田道間守).

A bowl of gorgeous looking mikan being prepared for presentation in the tea room.
ALT text detailsA bowl of gorgeous looking mikan being prepared for presentation in the tea room.
The tomb of Emperor Suinin.
ALT text detailsThe tomb of Emperor Suinin.
An orange is presented with other traditional sweets as part of a New Year temple meal.
ALT text detailsAn orange is presented with other traditional sweets as part of a New Year temple meal.
A tree bursting with oranges.
ALT text detailsA tree bursting with oranges.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

when I breathe in the scent
of the mandarin orange blossoms
that await the fifth month,
I recall the fragrance of the sleeves
of one I loved long ago
五月待つ 花橘 香をかげば
昔の人の 袖の香ぞする

-Anonymous. Kokin Wakashū (古今集), Summer 139.

Delicate white tachibana flower.
ALT text detailsDelicate white tachibana flower.
Tachibana tree outside the imperial palace's Shishin-den.
ALT text detailsTachibana tree outside the imperial palace's Shishin-den.
Tachibana fruit ready for picking.
ALT text detailsTachibana fruit ready for picking.
Delicate white tachibana flowers.
ALT text detailsDelicate white tachibana flowers.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Tachibana (橘), a fairly uncommon variety of mandarin orange, grow wild in Japan's forests.
Arriving from the mainland about 2000 years ago, they feature prominently in early Japanese poetry and the tale of Tajimamori (多遅麻毛理/田道間守), now considered the 'god of sweets'.

Tachibana trees in full fruit.
ALT text detailsTachibana trees in full fruit.
Illustration of Tajimamori, 'god of sweets'.
ALT text detailsIllustration of Tajimamori, 'god of sweets'.
Oimatsu's 'Yamato-tachibana' are made from whole tachibana, hollowed out, prepared in syrup and filled with mochi.
ALT text detailsOimatsu's 'Yamato-tachibana' are made from whole tachibana, hollowed out, prepared in syrup and filled with mochi.
Tachibana flowers have been used as family crests for over a thousand years.
ALT text detailsTachibana flowers have been used as family crests for over a thousand years.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social

A morning of quiet reflection.

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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Inverted world.

Reflections of autumn colours at Yusai-tei.
ALT text detailsReflections of autumn colours at Yusai-tei.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Inverted world.

Reflections of autumn colours at Yusai-tei.
ALT text detailsReflections of autumn colours at Yusai-tei.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

The 150-year old Yūsai-tei (祐斎亭) overlooks the Ōi-gawa (大堰川) in Arashiyama.
Once a 'ryōri ryokan' (料理旅館), a traditional inn priding itself on its cuisine, the buildings are now a workshop and exhibition space for 'yume kōro' dyeing.

Autumn colours peek through the windows at Yusai-tei, perfectly reflected in the polished table in the sitting room.
ALT text detailsAutumn colours peek through the windows at Yusai-tei, perfectly reflected in the polished table in the sitting room.
Persimmons strung up at Yusai-tei, with the Oi-gawa below.
ALT text detailsPersimmons strung up at Yusai-tei, with the Oi-gawa below.
Autumn colours peek through the windows at Yusai-tei, perfectly reflected in the polished table in the sitting room.
ALT text detailsAutumn colours peek through the windows at Yusai-tei, perfectly reflected in the polished table in the sitting room.
Autumn colours peek through the windows at Yusai-tei.
ALT text detailsAutumn colours peek through the windows at Yusai-tei.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Misty morning, damp paths, and the promise of new adventures👣🤔🖖

Autumn colours above the Oi-gawa.
ALT text detailsAutumn colours above the Oi-gawa.
Moss garden and fallen leaves at Yusai-tei.
ALT text detailsMoss garden and fallen leaves at Yusai-tei.
The mountains slowly become a patchwork of colour as autumn deepens in Arashiyama.
ALT text detailsThe mountains slowly become a patchwork of colour as autumn deepens in Arashiyama.
The path along the Oi-gawa in Arashiyama, red leaves and dripping after the rain.
ALT text detailsThe path along the Oi-gawa in Arashiyama, red leaves and dripping after the rain.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social

A morning of quiet reflection.

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Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

Pages from the dream journal kept by the monk Myōe (明恵, 1173-1232) for most of his adult life, here featuring his sketch of a female version of the (毘盧遮那仏) from a dream in 1221. .

Pages from the dream journal kept by the monk Myōe (明恵, 1173-1232) for most of his adult life, here featuring his sketch of a female version of the #cosmic #buddha #Vairocana (毘盧遮那仏) from a dream in 1221. #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsPages from the dream journal kept by the monk Myōe (明恵, 1173-1232) for most of his adult life, here featuring his sketch of a female version of the #cosmic #buddha #Vairocana (毘盧遮那仏) from a dream in 1221. #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
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Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

Pages from the dream journal kept by the monk Myōe (明恵, 1173-1232) for most of his adult life, here featuring his sketch of a female version of the (毘盧遮那仏) from a dream in 1221. .

Pages from the dream journal kept by the monk Myōe (明恵, 1173-1232) for most of his adult life, here featuring his sketch of a female version of the #cosmic #buddha #Vairocana (毘盧遮那仏) from a dream in 1221. #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsPages from the dream journal kept by the monk Myōe (明恵, 1173-1232) for most of his adult life, here featuring his sketch of a female version of the #cosmic #buddha #Vairocana (毘盧遮那仏) from a dream in 1221. #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Japanese lawmakers have criticized a Chinese diplomat after he made a social media post criticizing Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi that referred to "stupid politicians" and the need to "chop off their dirty heads." japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/11/

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Japanese lawmakers have criticized a Chinese diplomat after he made a social media post criticizing Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi that referred to "stupid politicians" and the need to "chop off their dirty heads." japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/11/

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Mera.tabi

@mera.tabi@pixelfed.social

Japanese macaque #2

#japan #snowmonkey #nagano #amateurphotography #japanesemacaque #nature #naturephotography #日本　#猿　#長野県 #wildlife
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The Suica penguin has been the face of JR East's popular IC transit card since its inception in 2001. Now, the company says it will replace the iconic character with an as-yet-unannounced mascot. That's left fans both perplexed and irate.

unseen-japan.com/suica-penguin

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Mera.tabi

@mera.tabi@pixelfed.social

Japanese macaque #2

#japan #snowmonkey #nagano #amateurphotography #japanesemacaque #nature #naturephotography #日本　#猿　#長野県 #wildlife
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Terence Eden

@Edent@mastodon.social

Hello Fedifriends in 🙂

Would you like to meet for a beer?

My wife and I are going to be visiting , , and in a few weeks time. It would be lovely to meet you, have dinner / drinks somewhere local, and see your beautiful cities.

DM me for dates.

We did this on our recent trip to Europe and it was lovely chatting with new friends.
shkspr.mobi/blog/2025/06/meeti

W3C Developers's avatar
W3C Developers

@w3cdevs@w3c.social

📢
The @w3c "Hackathon TPAC 2025: Kobe Edition" is underway, and participants have 1.5 hours to tackle one of two available challenges!

▶️ w3.org/2025/11/TPAC/hackathon/

Welcome screen: W3C TPAC Hackathon 2025
ALT text detailsWelcome screen: W3C TPAC Hackathon 2025
Two participants are building tiny mini figs with lego body parts
ALT text detailsTwo participants are building tiny mini figs with lego body parts
Remaining time to build one of the 2 challenges = 1:26:07
ALT text detailsRemaining time to build one of the 2 challenges = 1:26:07
A large sushi platter available to participants
ALT text detailsA large sushi platter available to participants
ateliersento's avatar
ateliersento

@ateliersento@mastodon.art

⛩️ Spirit of the Forest ⛩️
There is definitely a ghost in this machine…

Woodblock print of a holographic Jizo statue in a Japanese forest at sunset
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of a holographic Jizo statue in a Japanese forest at sunset
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Kawarahata, Gunma (1955)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

visit-gunma.jp/en/discover/sto

A bright autumn day on a farm in Gunma, Japan. A figure carrying a woven basket of what might be kindling trudges up a narrow path toward a farmhouse. Just in front of the house, a wide, tidy vegetable patch is full of green plants; nearby, a tall persimmon tree has already shed its leaves, and only the season's fruit remains clinging to the branches. Foliage on the ground and the surrounding mountains has rusted red-brown; above, a few puffy white clouds cross a bright blue sky.
ALT text detailsA bright autumn day on a farm in Gunma, Japan. A figure carrying a woven basket of what might be kindling trudges up a narrow path toward a farmhouse. Just in front of the house, a wide, tidy vegetable patch is full of green plants; nearby, a tall persimmon tree has already shed its leaves, and only the season's fruit remains clinging to the branches. Foliage on the ground and the surrounding mountains has rusted red-brown; above, a few puffy white clouds cross a bright blue sky.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Kawarahata, Gunma (1955)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

visit-gunma.jp/en/discover/sto

A bright autumn day on a farm in Gunma, Japan. A figure carrying a woven basket of what might be kindling trudges up a narrow path toward a farmhouse. Just in front of the house, a wide, tidy vegetable patch is full of green plants; nearby, a tall persimmon tree has already shed its leaves, and only the season's fruit remains clinging to the branches. Foliage on the ground and the surrounding mountains has rusted red-brown; above, a few puffy white clouds cross a bright blue sky.
ALT text detailsA bright autumn day on a farm in Gunma, Japan. A figure carrying a woven basket of what might be kindling trudges up a narrow path toward a farmhouse. Just in front of the house, a wide, tidy vegetable patch is full of green plants; nearby, a tall persimmon tree has already shed its leaves, and only the season's fruit remains clinging to the branches. Foliage on the ground and the surrounding mountains has rusted red-brown; above, a few puffy white clouds cross a bright blue sky.
Mera.tabi's avatar
Mera.tabi

@mera.tabi@pixelfed.social

First time seeing a Japanese macaque. I was hiking in Kamikochi when a group of wild macaques took over the road. What beautiful animals!

上高地で初めてニホンザルに出会いました。ハイキングしていたら、藪の中から野生のお猿の群れが出てきて、道を占拠してしまいました。なんて素敵な生き物なんでしょうね。

#japan #snowmonkey #nagano #amateurphotography #japanesemacaque #nature #naturephotography #日本　#猿　#長野県 #wildlife
Mera.tabi's avatar
Mera.tabi

@mera.tabi@pixelfed.social

First time seeing a Japanese macaque. I was hiking in Kamikochi when a group of wild macaques took over the road. What beautiful animals!

上高地で初めてニホンザルに出会いました。ハイキングしていたら、藪の中から野生のお猿の群れが出てきて、道を占拠してしまいました。なんて素敵な生き物なんでしょうね。

#japan #snowmonkey #nagano #amateurphotography #japanesemacaque #nature #naturephotography #日本　#猿　#長野県 #wildlife
ateliersento's avatar
ateliersento

@ateliersento@mastodon.art

⛩️ Spirit of the Forest ⛩️
There is definitely a ghost in this machine…

Woodblock print of a holographic Jizo statue in a Japanese forest at sunset
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of a holographic Jizo statue in a Japanese forest at sunset
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

[Insider] Japan's government is becoming stuck in a rut where its major policy initiatives seem aimed at punishing foreigners. It's a smokescreen aimed to obscure decades of failure. Learn more in our latest for subscribers below.

unseen-japan.com/japan-foreign

Kaori 🍉☮️'s avatar
Kaori 🍉☮️

@kaori@todon.eu

Iwate prefecture has advisory right now.
If you know someone in the area, tell them stay the fuck away from the coast.

At JST 17:03, We got emergency quake warnings in Tokyo, we got only a small shake though.
Magnitude 6.7, No malfunctions are reported in nuclear power plants so far.
Stronger quake are expected, experts are saying on national television.

Kaori 🍉☮️'s avatar
Kaori 🍉☮️

@kaori@todon.eu

Iwate prefecture has advisory right now.
If you know someone in the area, tell them stay the fuck away from the coast.

At JST 17:03, We got emergency quake warnings in Tokyo, we got only a small shake though.
Magnitude 6.7, No malfunctions are reported in nuclear power plants so far.
Stronger quake are expected, experts are saying on national television.

Nithin Coca నితిన్'s avatar
Nithin Coca నితిన్

@ncoca@social.coop

I think I've met more interesting western in a week in than I do in a year in .

Joel Klebanoff's avatar
Joel Klebanoff

@JoelKlebanoff@mas.to

This afternoon, I visited a castle and a market in Kyoto, Japan. Now I’m very tired and I’m going to go to sleep. While I’m asleep, feel free to read this post and then talk amongst yourselves, or talk to yourself, whichever you prefer. journeys.klebanoff.com/2025/11

Terence Eden's avatar
Terence Eden

@Edent@mastodon.social

Hello Fedifriends in 🙂

Would you like to meet for a beer?

My wife and I are going to be visiting , , and in a few weeks time. It would be lovely to meet you, have dinner / drinks somewhere local, and see your beautiful cities.

DM me for dates.

We did this on our recent trip to Europe and it was lovely chatting with new friends.
shkspr.mobi/blog/2025/06/meeti

@Aoiwave's avatar
@Aoiwave

@Aoiwave@mustard.blog

Neon rain reflects,
Tokyo Tower watches,
City sleeps softly.

​

h-pom's avatar
h-pom

@hpom@vivaldi.net

 

h-pom's avatar
h-pom

@hpom@vivaldi.net

 

Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

The ball in the fish's mouth represents 'bonnō' (煩悩), bad mental states (such as greed, jealousy and ignorance) that cloud one's mind.
Hitting the kaipan helps the fish 'spit out' the 'bonnō', the sound reminding the monks of their spiritual duties.

The ball in the kaipan's mouth represents bad mental states.
ALT text detailsThe ball in the kaipan's mouth represents bad mental states.
Manpuku-ji's 'kaipan' is a fish-shaped board struck to alert monks to mealtimes, lectures and daily tasks.
ALT text detailsManpuku-ji's 'kaipan' is a fish-shaped board struck to alert monks to mealtimes, lectures and daily tasks.
Manpuku-ji's 'kaipan' is a fish-shaped board struck to alert monks to mealtimes, lectures and daily tasks.
ALT text detailsManpuku-ji's 'kaipan' is a fish-shaped board struck to alert monks to mealtimes, lectures and daily tasks.
Signpost directing visitors to the kaipan.
ALT text detailsSignpost directing visitors to the kaipan.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Itsukushima Shrine, Miyajima (c.1930s)

Artist: Ito Yuhan

itsukushimajinja.jp/en/history

A yellow full moon rises over Itsukushima Shrine. The temple buildings are on piers, standing in the calm high tide of Matsushima Bay; hanging lanterns illuminate the empty buildings. Beyond, the famous 'floating' torii gate is a shadowy shape in the mist. Above, the full moon occupies a hazy, early evening sky.
ALT text detailsA yellow full moon rises over Itsukushima Shrine. The temple buildings are on piers, standing in the calm high tide of Matsushima Bay; hanging lanterns illuminate the empty buildings. Beyond, the famous 'floating' torii gate is a shadowy shape in the mist. Above, the full moon occupies a hazy, early evening sky.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Itsukushima Shrine, Miyajima (c.1930s)

Artist: Ito Yuhan

itsukushimajinja.jp/en/history

A yellow full moon rises over Itsukushima Shrine. The temple buildings are on piers, standing in the calm high tide of Matsushima Bay; hanging lanterns illuminate the empty buildings. Beyond, the famous 'floating' torii gate is a shadowy shape in the mist. Above, the full moon occupies a hazy, early evening sky.
ALT text detailsA yellow full moon rises over Itsukushima Shrine. The temple buildings are on piers, standing in the calm high tide of Matsushima Bay; hanging lanterns illuminate the empty buildings. Beyond, the famous 'floating' torii gate is a shadowy shape in the mist. Above, the full moon occupies a hazy, early evening sky.
The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

High school students from Sendai, a city hit by a massive tsunami in 2011, spoke at the U.N. headquarters in New York about the importance of disaster prevention education. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/11/ #311

The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

High school students from Sendai, a city hit by a massive tsunami in 2011, spoke at the U.N. headquarters in New York about the importance of disaster prevention education. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/11/ #311

Tokyo Outsider (337ppm)'s avatar
Tokyo Outsider (337ppm)

@tokyo_0@mas.to

" 'Would anyone visit a municipality that failed at coexistence? We've managed well with foreigners,' Murayama asserts. And yet, he continued, 'False claims spread on social media that our town was giving preferential treatment to foreigners. It's upsetting to think that some townspeople might believe such lies.' "

mainichi.jp/english/articles/2

The "foreigners" story it seems a lot of people in don't want to read. Nice work by The Mainichi.

Tokyo Outsider (337ppm)'s avatar
Tokyo Outsider (337ppm)

@tokyo_0@mas.to

" 'Would anyone visit a municipality that failed at coexistence? We've managed well with foreigners,' Murayama asserts. And yet, he continued, 'False claims spread on social media that our town was giving preferential treatment to foreigners. It's upsetting to think that some townspeople might believe such lies.' "

mainichi.jp/english/articles/2

The "foreigners" story a lot of people in don't want to read.

Kantoman's avatar
Kantoman

@Kantoman@pixelfed.social

Pagoda at #GokokujiTemple in #Bunkyo ward #Tokyo #Japan taken in 2019 #日本 #東京 #文京区 #護国寺
A two-storey pagoda contrasts with the backlit sky, blue with fuzzy clouds.
ALT text detailsA two-storey pagoda contrasts with the backlit sky, blue with fuzzy clouds.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

"Hōrensō" in Japan is more than just spinach - it's the secret to effective business communication. But as our author writes, the concept can also be used to shut down subordinates and shield superiors from responsibility.

buff.ly/m3mHwm1

Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:'s avatar
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:

@norbertwoehnl@famichiki.jp

Good evening from Tokyo!

Another slightly busy week for me - but here is some night photography from Itabashi Ward earlier this evening, on the way home from work. Straight out of camera iPhone shots.

Night photo from a quiet residential backstreet in the Itabashi Ward of Tokyo, Japan
ALT text detailsNight photo from a quiet residential backstreet in the Itabashi Ward of Tokyo, Japan
Night photo from a quiet residential backstreet in the Itabashi Ward of Tokyo, Japan
ALT text detailsNight photo from a quiet residential backstreet in the Itabashi Ward of Tokyo, Japan
Night photo from a quiet residential backstreet in the Itabashi Ward of Tokyo, Japan
ALT text detailsNight photo from a quiet residential backstreet in the Itabashi Ward of Tokyo, Japan
Night photo from a quiet residential backstreet in the Itabashi Ward of Tokyo, Japan
ALT text detailsNight photo from a quiet residential backstreet in the Itabashi Ward of Tokyo, Japan
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:'s avatar
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:

@norbertwoehnl@famichiki.jp

Good evening from Tokyo!

Another slightly busy week for me - but here is some night photography from Itabashi Ward earlier this evening, on the way home from work. Straight out of camera iPhone shots.

Night photo from a quiet residential backstreet in the Itabashi Ward of Tokyo, Japan
ALT text detailsNight photo from a quiet residential backstreet in the Itabashi Ward of Tokyo, Japan
Night photo from a quiet residential backstreet in the Itabashi Ward of Tokyo, Japan
ALT text detailsNight photo from a quiet residential backstreet in the Itabashi Ward of Tokyo, Japan
Night photo from a quiet residential backstreet in the Itabashi Ward of Tokyo, Japan
ALT text detailsNight photo from a quiet residential backstreet in the Itabashi Ward of Tokyo, Japan
Night photo from a quiet residential backstreet in the Itabashi Ward of Tokyo, Japan
ALT text detailsNight photo from a quiet residential backstreet in the Itabashi Ward of Tokyo, Japan
Tokyo's avatar
Tokyo

@Tokyo@channels.im

‘Palestine 36’ Wins Top Prize at Tokyo Film Festival

“Palestine 36,” Palestinian filmmaker Annemarie Jacir’s historical drama about a 1936 Palestinian uprising against British rule and Jewish settlers, won the Tokyo Grand Prix for best film at the 38th Tokyo International Film Festival in the Competition section. The award…

alojapan.com/1407334/palestine

Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

In 1637, when rice had become more affordable, Kazariya was opened (by Ichiwa) as a more general rest stop.
Thanks to the shrine's connections to the 'god of pestilence', pilgrims would consume the aburi-mochi as a form of protection from sickness and general misfortune.

Steaming hot aburi-mochi on a cold afternoon.
ALT text detailsSteaming hot aburi-mochi on a cold afternoon.
Raymond Larabie's avatar
Raymond Larabie

@typodermic@mastodon.social

The rest of the block prefers shadow and discretion. 🕶️🚶

陽射しがちょうど一面の壁だけを照らし、古びた看板を浮かび上がらせる。残りの街区は静かに影の中で様子をうかがっている。🌇🏙️

A black-and-white photo of a narrow urban street in Nagoya. Sunlight falls sharply on one side of a wooden building, illuminating a weathered sign with Japanese text while the rest remains in shadow. Power lines crisscross above the street, and apartment buildings line the background. The contrast between bright light and deep shadow gives the scene a cinematic stillness.
ALT text detailsA black-and-white photo of a narrow urban street in Nagoya. Sunlight falls sharply on one side of a wooden building, illuminating a weathered sign with Japanese text while the rest remains in shadow. Power lines crisscross above the street, and apartment buildings line the background. The contrast between bright light and deep shadow gives the scene a cinematic stillness.
Terence Eden's avatar
Terence Eden

@Edent@mastodon.social

Hello Fedifriends in 🙂

Would you like to meet for a beer?

My wife and I are going to be visiting , , and in a few weeks time. It would be lovely to meet you, have dinner / drinks somewhere local, and see your beautiful cities.

DM me for dates.

We did this on our recent trip to Europe and it was lovely chatting with new friends.
shkspr.mobi/blog/2025/06/meeti

Raymond Larabie's avatar
Raymond Larabie

@typodermic@mastodon.social

The rest of the block prefers shadow and discretion. 🕶️🚶

陽射しがちょうど一面の壁だけを照らし、古びた看板を浮かび上がらせる。残りの街区は静かに影の中で様子をうかがっている。🌇🏙️

A black-and-white photo of a narrow urban street in Nagoya. Sunlight falls sharply on one side of a wooden building, illuminating a weathered sign with Japanese text while the rest remains in shadow. Power lines crisscross above the street, and apartment buildings line the background. The contrast between bright light and deep shadow gives the scene a cinematic stillness.
ALT text detailsA black-and-white photo of a narrow urban street in Nagoya. Sunlight falls sharply on one side of a wooden building, illuminating a weathered sign with Japanese text while the rest remains in shadow. Power lines crisscross above the street, and apartment buildings line the background. The contrast between bright light and deep shadow gives the scene a cinematic stillness.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

What, exactly, is a "con cafe"? How does it differ from a girls' bar? And can you, as a foreign visitor to Japan, go to either one? Learn more in our comprehensive guide to three different but overlapping nightlife spots, how they work, and what to know before you go.

unseen-japan.com/maid-cafes-co

atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: House in Ontake (1951)

Artist: Kasamatsu Shiro

go-nagano.net/en/trip-idea/id1

An autumn afternoon at a farmhouse on Mount Ontake, on the border of Nagano and Gifu. A tall tree stands in the centre of the image, its leaves a bright orange-red with the season. On our right, a path leads up and away from the traditional-style thatched-roof house; on the left, a farmer approaches the front door of the house, carrying what looks like daikon in a woven basket on their back, and a branch of persimmons in their right hand. A trio of white chickens waits on the doorstep of the farmhouse.
ALT text detailsAn autumn afternoon at a farmhouse on Mount Ontake, on the border of Nagano and Gifu. A tall tree stands in the centre of the image, its leaves a bright orange-red with the season. On our right, a path leads up and away from the traditional-style thatched-roof house; on the left, a farmer approaches the front door of the house, carrying what looks like daikon in a woven basket on their back, and a branch of persimmons in their right hand. A trio of white chickens waits on the doorstep of the farmhouse.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: House in Ontake (1951)

Artist: Kasamatsu Shiro

go-nagano.net/en/trip-idea/id1

An autumn afternoon at a farmhouse on Mount Ontake, on the border of Nagano and Gifu. A tall tree stands in the centre of the image, its leaves a bright orange-red with the season. On our right, a path leads up and away from the traditional-style thatched-roof house; on the left, a farmer approaches the front door of the house, carrying what looks like daikon in a woven basket on their back, and a branch of persimmons in their right hand. A trio of white chickens waits on the doorstep of the farmhouse.
ALT text detailsAn autumn afternoon at a farmhouse on Mount Ontake, on the border of Nagano and Gifu. A tall tree stands in the centre of the image, its leaves a bright orange-red with the season. On our right, a path leads up and away from the traditional-style thatched-roof house; on the left, a farmer approaches the front door of the house, carrying what looks like daikon in a woven basket on their back, and a branch of persimmons in their right hand. A trio of white chickens waits on the doorstep of the farmhouse.
Buddhist Art's avatar
Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

Statue of , the god of thunder, enshrined at Sanjusangen-do, also known as Rengeo-in, in Higashiyama, , . Created during the period and designated as a national treasure.

Statue of #Raijin, the god of thunder, enshrined at Sanjusangen-do, also known as Rengeo-in, in Higashiyama, #Kyoto, #Japan. Created during the #Kamakura period and designated as a national treasure. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsStatue of #Raijin, the god of thunder, enshrined at Sanjusangen-do, also known as Rengeo-in, in Higashiyama, #Kyoto, #Japan. Created during the #Kamakura period and designated as a national treasure. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
Buddhist Art's avatar
Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

Statue of , the god of thunder, enshrined at Sanjusangen-do, also known as Rengeo-in, in Higashiyama, , . Created during the period and designated as a national treasure.

Statue of #Raijin, the god of thunder, enshrined at Sanjusangen-do, also known as Rengeo-in, in Higashiyama, #Kyoto, #Japan. Created during the #Kamakura period and designated as a national treasure. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsStatue of #Raijin, the god of thunder, enshrined at Sanjusangen-do, also known as Rengeo-in, in Higashiyama, #Kyoto, #Japan. Created during the #Kamakura period and designated as a national treasure. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
Mera.tabi's avatar
Mera.tabi

@mera.tabi@pixelfed.social

Between this world and the world of the kami stands the torii—quiet, enduring, sacred.

#japan #fushimiinaritaisha #fushimiinari #kyoto #amateurphotography #travel #日本　#京都　#伏見稲荷大社　#tokyocameraclub #traveljapan #visitjapan
Mera.tabi's avatar
Mera.tabi

@mera.tabi@pixelfed.social

Gliding through spring’s first reflections. The koi welcomes a new season.

#japan #amateurphotography #travel #日本 #traveljapan #visitjapann #koi #鯉　#animalphotography #nature #自然
Mera.tabi's avatar
Mera.tabi

@mera.tabi@pixelfed.social

Rainy days.

雨の日。

#japan #autumnleaves #autumn #amateurphotography　#nature #日本　#紅葉　#紅葉　#秋
Buddhist Art's avatar
Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

The Descent of Jizô, the of the Earth Matrix, 14th century. .

The Descent of Jizô, the #Bodhisattva of the Earth Matrix, 14th century. #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsThe Descent of Jizô, the #Bodhisattva of the Earth Matrix, 14th century. #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
Zen in Color's avatar
Zen in Color

@zencolor@mastodon.art

Shono, Kameyama, Seki, Sakanoshita, and Tsuchiyama, by Utagawa , ca. 1830-1835, .

Shono, Kameyama, Seki, Sakanoshita, and Tsuchiyama, by Utagawa #Hiroshige, ca. 1830-1835, #Japan. #ukiyoe
ALT text detailsShono, Kameyama, Seki, Sakanoshita, and Tsuchiyama, by Utagawa #Hiroshige, ca. 1830-1835, #Japan. #ukiyoe
Zen in Color's avatar
Zen in Color

@zencolor@mastodon.art

Shono, Kameyama, Seki, Sakanoshita, and Tsuchiyama, by Utagawa , ca. 1830-1835, .

Shono, Kameyama, Seki, Sakanoshita, and Tsuchiyama, by Utagawa #Hiroshige, ca. 1830-1835, #Japan. #ukiyoe
ALT text detailsShono, Kameyama, Seki, Sakanoshita, and Tsuchiyama, by Utagawa #Hiroshige, ca. 1830-1835, #Japan. #ukiyoe
Buddhist Art's avatar
Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

The Descent of Jizô, the of the Earth Matrix, 14th century. .

The Descent of Jizô, the #Bodhisattva of the Earth Matrix, 14th century. #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsThe Descent of Jizô, the #Bodhisattva of the Earth Matrix, 14th century. #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:'s avatar
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:

@norbertwoehnl@famichiki.jp

Happy weekend from Japan!

Autumn is upon us - so here is a set of seasonal photos from Seiryoji Temple in the Sagano area of Kyoto. Great spot for viewing the foliage 🍁.

Autumnal colors at Seiryoji Temple in the Sagano area of Kyoto, Japan.
ALT text detailsAutumnal colors at Seiryoji Temple in the Sagano area of Kyoto, Japan.
Autumnal colors at Seiryoji Temple in the Sagano area of Kyoto, Japan.
ALT text detailsAutumnal colors at Seiryoji Temple in the Sagano area of Kyoto, Japan.
Autumnal colors at Seiryoji Temple in the Sagano area of Kyoto, Japan.
ALT text detailsAutumnal colors at Seiryoji Temple in the Sagano area of Kyoto, Japan.
Autumnal colors at Seiryoji Temple in the Sagano area of Kyoto, Japan.
ALT text detailsAutumnal colors at Seiryoji Temple in the Sagano area of Kyoto, Japan.
Joel Klebanoff's avatar
Joel Klebanoff

@JoelKlebanoff@mas.to

This afternoon in Tokyo, I visited Senso-ji Temple, a very popular tourist attraction and highly rated temple. I then took in some other nearby sites. Read about it here: journeys.klebanoff.com/2025/11 . Or don’t read it if you don’t want to. As always, it’s up to you.

통 통조림's avatar
통 통조림

@bakedbean@sajin.life

하라주쿠

#사진토돈 #사진 #Photography #japan #写真 #マストドン写真部 #Misskey写真部 #마스토돈사진부 #미스키사진부
통 통조림's avatar
통 통조림

@bakedbean@sajin.life

하라주쿠

#사진토돈 #사진 #Photography #japan #写真 #マストドン写真部 #Misskey写真部 #마스토돈사진부 #미스키사진부
통 통조림's avatar
통 통조림

@bakedbean@sajin.life

밤의 신주쿠

#사진토돈 #사진 #Photography #japan #写真 #マストドン写真部 #Misskey写真部 #마스토돈사진부 #미스키사진부
통 통조림's avatar
통 통조림

@bakedbean@sajin.life

밤의 신주쿠

#사진토돈 #사진 #Photography #japan #写真 #マストドン写真部 #Misskey写真部 #마스토돈사진부 #미스키사진부
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:'s avatar
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:

@norbertwoehnl@famichiki.jp

Happy weekend from Japan!

Autumn is upon us - so here is a set of seasonal photos from Seiryoji Temple in the Sagano area of Kyoto. Great spot for viewing the foliage 🍁.

Autumnal colors at Seiryoji Temple in the Sagano area of Kyoto, Japan.
ALT text detailsAutumnal colors at Seiryoji Temple in the Sagano area of Kyoto, Japan.
Autumnal colors at Seiryoji Temple in the Sagano area of Kyoto, Japan.
ALT text detailsAutumnal colors at Seiryoji Temple in the Sagano area of Kyoto, Japan.
Autumnal colors at Seiryoji Temple in the Sagano area of Kyoto, Japan.
ALT text detailsAutumnal colors at Seiryoji Temple in the Sagano area of Kyoto, Japan.
Autumnal colors at Seiryoji Temple in the Sagano area of Kyoto, Japan.
ALT text detailsAutumnal colors at Seiryoji Temple in the Sagano area of Kyoto, Japan.
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통 통조림

@bakedbean@sajin.life

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#사진토돈 #사진 #Photography #japan #写真 #マストドン写真部 #Misskey写真部 #마스토돈사진부 #미스키사진부
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통 통조림

@bakedbean@sajin.life

시부야

#사진토돈 #사진 #Photography #japan #写真 #マストドン写真部 #Misskey写真部 #마스토돈사진부 #미스키사진부
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통 통조림

@bakedbean@sajin.life

시부야

#사진토돈 #사진 #Photography #japan #写真 #マストドン写真部 #Misskey写真部 #마스토돈사진부 #미스키사진부
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통 통조림

@bakedbean@sajin.life

메이지 신궁

#사진토돈 #사진 #Photography #japan #写真 #マストドン写真部 #Misskey写真部 #마스토돈사진부 #미스키사진부
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Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:

@norbertwoehnl@famichiki.jp

Happy weekend from Japan!

Autumn is upon us - so here is a set of seasonal photos from Seiryoji Temple in the Sagano area of Kyoto. Great spot for viewing the foliage 🍁.

Autumnal colors at Seiryoji Temple in the Sagano area of Kyoto, Japan.
ALT text detailsAutumnal colors at Seiryoji Temple in the Sagano area of Kyoto, Japan.
Autumnal colors at Seiryoji Temple in the Sagano area of Kyoto, Japan.
ALT text detailsAutumnal colors at Seiryoji Temple in the Sagano area of Kyoto, Japan.
Autumnal colors at Seiryoji Temple in the Sagano area of Kyoto, Japan.
ALT text detailsAutumnal colors at Seiryoji Temple in the Sagano area of Kyoto, Japan.
Autumnal colors at Seiryoji Temple in the Sagano area of Kyoto, Japan.
ALT text detailsAutumnal colors at Seiryoji Temple in the Sagano area of Kyoto, Japan.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

While most retro toys have fallen by the wayside, capsule toys are having a fourth revival in the mainstream thanks to a new twist on the arcade staple. Learn about how tourism and funny gimmicks are keeping gacha alive in our latest.

unseen-japan.com/capsule-toy-p

A row of capsule toy machines
ALT text detailsA row of capsule toy machines
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Rafaelito 🦤

@ipxfong@mastodon.sdf.org

I ❤️ natto! I'm tremendously grateful to the old Japanese woman who shamed me into trying it. Thanks whoever you are!

A blue bowl full of rice and fermented soy beans.
ALT text detailsA blue bowl full of rice and fermented soy beans.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

12) BOAR🐗 (N-N-W)

Enjō-ji (圓成寺), familiarly known as Iwato Myōken-gū (岩戸妙見宮), enshrines 'Myōken in the Direction of the Boar' (亥の方の妙見さん).
The temple was founded in 1630 by Nichinin (日任), the 21st abbot of Honman-ji (本満寺), but the shrine is far older.

Iwato Myoken-gu.
ALT text detailsIwato Myoken-gu.
Votive tablet depicting the 7 Gods of Fortune.
ALT text detailsVotive tablet depicting the 7 Gods of Fortune.
Guardian boar statue at Goo-jinja.
ALT text detailsGuardian boar statue at Goo-jinja.
Waterfall for purification at Iwato Myoken-gu.
ALT text detailsWaterfall for purification at Iwato Myoken-gu.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

People make 2 kinds of prayer here: 'Yamai-ga-saru' (病が去る 'dispel illness') and 'Fuun-ga-saru' (不運が去る 'dispel misfortune').
The word for monkey in Japanese is 'saru' (猿), which happens to be a homonym for 'saru' (去る), meaning 'expel' 'drive away' or 'send off'.

Frolicking monkeys at Iwata Monkey Park.
ALT text detailsFrolicking monkeys at Iwata Monkey Park.
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AI6YR Ben

@ai6yr@m.ai6yr.org

NHK: British govt. urges Britons visiting Japan to watch out for bears

"...The British government is calling on travelers to Japan to watch out for bears. This comes amid an increase in bear attacks across the country.

Information gathered by NHK shows that by noon on Thursday at least 86 people in Japan had been attacked by bears during the month of October...."

www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/new

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Pelican Dock Music

@dockwalk@mastodon.social

Spotify works for ICE, helps ICE recruit.
cancel Spotify


a green colored meme with text stating Spotify helps ICE recruitment via ICE ads, and urging listeners to drop Spotify until such ads are stopped
ALT text detailsa green colored meme with text stating Spotify helps ICE recruitment via ICE ads, and urging listeners to drop Spotify until such ads are stopped
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Pelican Dock Music

@dockwalk@mastodon.social

Spotify works for ICE, helps ICE recruit.
cancel Spotify


a green colored meme with text stating Spotify helps ICE recruitment via ICE ads, and urging listeners to drop Spotify until such ads are stopped
ALT text detailsa green colored meme with text stating Spotify helps ICE recruitment via ICE ads, and urging listeners to drop Spotify until such ads are stopped
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atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Moonlit Night (1958)

Artist: Kasamatsu Shiro

espunisinjapan.com/en/curiosit

An evening view down a shadowy, narrow path: on our left, the trail is bordered by a line of tall trees, while a healthy trimmed hedge forms a wall on our right. At the far end of the path, a little black cat pauses in a pool of moonlight, her eyes glowing in the dark as she glances in our direction.
ALT text detailsAn evening view down a shadowy, narrow path: on our left, the trail is bordered by a line of tall trees, while a healthy trimmed hedge forms a wall on our right. At the far end of the path, a little black cat pauses in a pool of moonlight, her eyes glowing in the dark as she glances in our direction.
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atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Moonlit Night (1958)

Artist: Kasamatsu Shiro

espunisinjapan.com/en/curiosit

An evening view down a shadowy, narrow path: on our left, the trail is bordered by a line of tall trees, while a healthy trimmed hedge forms a wall on our right. At the far end of the path, a little black cat pauses in a pool of moonlight, her eyes glowing in the dark as she glances in our direction.
ALT text detailsAn evening view down a shadowy, narrow path: on our left, the trail is bordered by a line of tall trees, while a healthy trimmed hedge forms a wall on our right. At the far end of the path, a little black cat pauses in a pool of moonlight, her eyes glowing in the dark as she glances in our direction.
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Mera.tabi

@mera.tabi@pixelfed.social

Rainy days.

雨の日。

#japan #autumnleaves #autumn #amateurphotography　#nature #日本　#紅葉　#紅葉　#秋
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

There were a number of ways to complete the pilgrimage, but it was most common to begin with the temple that corresponded to that year's animal. You then continued in the established order.
An alternative was to start with the animal of your birth year.

Rabbit guardian at Okazaki-jinja.
ALT text detailsRabbit guardian at Okazaki-jinja.
Ceiling dragons at Kennin-ji.
ALT text detailsCeiling dragons at Kennin-ji.
Mouse guardian (holding a scroll) at Otoyo-jinja.
ALT text detailsMouse guardian (holding a scroll) at Otoyo-jinja.
Celebrating Year of the Boar at Goo-jinja.
ALT text detailsCelebrating Year of the Boar at Goo-jinja.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

There were a number of ways to complete the pilgrimage, but it was most common to begin with the temple that corresponded to that year's animal. You then continued in the established order.
An alternative was to start with the animal of your birth year.

Rabbit guardian at Okazaki-jinja.
ALT text detailsRabbit guardian at Okazaki-jinja.
Ceiling dragons at Kennin-ji.
ALT text detailsCeiling dragons at Kennin-ji.
Mouse guardian (holding a scroll) at Otoyo-jinja.
ALT text detailsMouse guardian (holding a scroll) at Otoyo-jinja.
Celebrating Year of the Boar at Goo-jinja.
ALT text detailsCelebrating Year of the Boar at Goo-jinja.
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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

A Japanese research team that includes 2025 Nobel Prize laureate Shimon Sakaguchi has developed a technique to produce regulatory T cells that suppress excessive immune activity. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/10/

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atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Yama Temple, Sendai (1933)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

japan.travel/en/ca/news/experi

Autumn rain falls on a quiet mountain temple. On our left stands a temple building, the open front door revealing shadows within; just past and on the right is a bell tower, shuttered against the elements. A tree, its branches carrying a thinning batch of orange leaves, reaches out over the puddles forming in the uneven courtyard; just beyond the temple are the shadows of more trees. Above, the sky is slate-gray and overcast, and rain continues falling steadily across the scene. The space seems deserted and still, with no humans visible.
ALT text detailsAutumn rain falls on a quiet mountain temple. On our left stands a temple building, the open front door revealing shadows within; just past and on the right is a bell tower, shuttered against the elements. A tree, its branches carrying a thinning batch of orange leaves, reaches out over the puddles forming in the uneven courtyard; just beyond the temple are the shadows of more trees. Above, the sky is slate-gray and overcast, and rain continues falling steadily across the scene. The space seems deserted and still, with no humans visible.
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atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Yama Temple, Sendai (1933)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

japan.travel/en/ca/news/experi

Autumn rain falls on a quiet mountain temple. On our left stands a temple building, the open front door revealing shadows within; just past and on the right is a bell tower, shuttered against the elements. A tree, its branches carrying a thinning batch of orange leaves, reaches out over the puddles forming in the uneven courtyard; just beyond the temple are the shadows of more trees. Above, the sky is slate-gray and overcast, and rain continues falling steadily across the scene. The space seems deserted and still, with no humans visible.
ALT text detailsAutumn rain falls on a quiet mountain temple. On our left stands a temple building, the open front door revealing shadows within; just past and on the right is a bell tower, shuttered against the elements. A tree, its branches carrying a thinning batch of orange leaves, reaches out over the puddles forming in the uneven courtyard; just beyond the temple are the shadows of more trees. Above, the sky is slate-gray and overcast, and rain continues falling steadily across the scene. The space seems deserted and still, with no humans visible.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Yama Temple, Sendai (1933)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

japan.travel/en/ca/news/experi

Autumn rain falls on a quiet mountain temple. On our left stands a temple building, the open front door revealing shadows within; just past and on the right is a bell tower, shuttered against the elements. A tree, its branches carrying a thinning batch of orange leaves, reaches out over the puddles forming in the uneven courtyard; just beyond the temple are the shadows of more trees. Above, the sky is slate-gray and overcast, and rain continues falling steadily across the scene. The space seems deserted and still, with no humans visible.
ALT text detailsAutumn rain falls on a quiet mountain temple. On our left stands a temple building, the open front door revealing shadows within; just past and on the right is a bell tower, shuttered against the elements. A tree, its branches carrying a thinning batch of orange leaves, reaches out over the puddles forming in the uneven courtyard; just beyond the temple are the shadows of more trees. Above, the sky is slate-gray and overcast, and rain continues falling steadily across the scene. The space seems deserted and still, with no humans visible.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Hinomisaki in Izumo Province (1924)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

ancient-japan-izumo.com/experi

A stormy evening at the cape of Hinomisaki, in Izumo. Shadowy trees cling to the rough shoreline as waves smash against the rocks; wind whips through the branches of the trees, driving raggedy clouds across the night sky above.
ALT text detailsA stormy evening at the cape of Hinomisaki, in Izumo. Shadowy trees cling to the rough shoreline as waves smash against the rocks; wind whips through the branches of the trees, driving raggedy clouds across the night sky above.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Gods that miss the gathering are known as 'rusu-gami' (留守神 'absent gods').
Perhaps the most famous rusu-gami is Ebisu (恵比寿), one of the only gods to skip the annual event. Because he remains at home, many communities hold festivities during this time at his shrines.

Ebisu inspired sweets.
ALT text detailsEbisu inspired sweets.
Statue of the god Ebisu in the grounds of Ebisu-jinja.
ALT text detailsStatue of the god Ebisu in the grounds of Ebisu-jinja.
Ebisu-jinja in Kyoto.
ALT text detailsEbisu-jinja in Kyoto.
An actor dressed as the god Ebisu.
ALT text detailsAn actor dressed as the god Ebisu.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

9) September (九月) = Nagatsuki (長月 'The Long Month')
10) October (十月) = Kannazuki or Kaminazuki (神無月 'Month of the Gods')
11) November (十一月) = Shimotsuki (霜月 'Month of Frost')
12) December (十二月) = Shiwasu (師走 'Priests Running')

Rabbit statue at Okazaki-jinja.
ALT text detailsRabbit statue at Okazaki-jinja.
Pancake sweet inspired by the god Ebisu.
ALT text detailsPancake sweet inspired by the god Ebisu.
Nao-san frolics amongst yellow ginkgo leaves.
ALT text detailsNao-san frolics amongst yellow ginkgo leaves.
Santa Claus inspired sweet.
ALT text detailsSanta Claus inspired sweet.
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atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Hinomisaki in Izumo Province (1924)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

ancient-japan-izumo.com/experi

A stormy evening at the cape of Hinomisaki, in Izumo. Shadowy trees cling to the rough shoreline as waves smash against the rocks; wind whips through the branches of the trees, driving raggedy clouds across the night sky above.
ALT text detailsA stormy evening at the cape of Hinomisaki, in Izumo. Shadowy trees cling to the rough shoreline as waves smash against the rocks; wind whips through the branches of the trees, driving raggedy clouds across the night sky above.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social

😇👋A MONTH OF NO GODS🧳⛩️

There is a quaint belief that in the 10th month the gods of Japan congregate for a great gathering to discuss matchmaking at Izumo-taisha (出雲大社) in Shimane Prefecture.

Only hard-of-hearing Ebisu and the Sun Goddess miss this annual pilgrimage.

A deer poses at Mizuya-chaya (水谷茶屋) in Nara.
ALT text detailsA deer poses at Mizuya-chaya (水谷茶屋) in Nara.
A wonderful collection of dried sweets that mimic things found on the forest floor (fallen leaves, mushrooms, pine needles).
ALT text detailsA wonderful collection of dried sweets that mimic things found on the forest floor (fallen leaves, mushrooms, pine needles).
An unusual sweet that celebrates the autumn festival at Ebisu-jinja. A pancake is folded and branded to look like the head of the god Ebisu.
ALT text detailsAn unusual sweet that celebrates the autumn festival at Ebisu-jinja. A pancake is folded and branded to look like the head of the god Ebisu.
A gorgeous little persimmon bonsai.
ALT text detailsA gorgeous little persimmon bonsai.
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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Beneath Tokyo’s constant motion lie traces of another era. These “phantom” stations — once bustling gateways for commuters — now act as monuments to Japan’s prewar ambition and resilience. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/10/

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Beneath Tokyo’s constant motion lie traces of another era. These “phantom” stations — once bustling gateways for commuters — now act as monuments to Japan’s prewar ambition and resilience. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/10/

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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

In 2023 chief priest Nishikawa Genbō (西川玄房) spelt out 'banri seifū no aki' (万里清風秋), a zen phrase that might be translated as "when you get rid of earthly desires, a fresh breeze blows in your heart".
If you look closely the '万' and '里' are written on lanterns.

Candles and lanterns form the characters 'banri seifū no aki' (万里清風秋), a zen phrase that might be translated as "when you get rid of earthly desires, a fresh breeze blows in your heart".
ALT text detailsCandles and lanterns form the characters 'banri seifū no aki' (万里清風秋), a zen phrase that might be translated as "when you get rid of earthly desires, a fresh breeze blows in your heart".
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Minoru Saba

@minorusaba@toad.social

"Japan successfully launches new cargo spacecraft to deliver supplies to International Space Station"
apnews.com/article/japan-space

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atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Kawanishi Village, Tochigi Prefecture (1947)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

visit-tochigi.com/seasons-in-t

A bright autumn afternoon in Tochigi Prefecture. In the foreground, a watermill stands at the edge of a stone-reinforced embankment bordering a stream. At the end of a narrow stone walkway extending into the water, a female figure crouches low, washing something in a bucket. Just beyond, leaves of tall trees are turning yellow and orange with the season; further on, a group of houses block the horizon. Above, a few white clouds cross a blue sky.
ALT text detailsA bright autumn afternoon in Tochigi Prefecture. In the foreground, a watermill stands at the edge of a stone-reinforced embankment bordering a stream. At the end of a narrow stone walkway extending into the water, a female figure crouches low, washing something in a bucket. Just beyond, leaves of tall trees are turning yellow and orange with the season; further on, a group of houses block the horizon. Above, a few white clouds cross a blue sky.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Kawanishi Village, Tochigi Prefecture (1947)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

visit-tochigi.com/seasons-in-t

A bright autumn afternoon in Tochigi Prefecture. In the foreground, a watermill stands at the edge of a stone-reinforced embankment bordering a stream. At the end of a narrow stone walkway extending into the water, a female figure crouches low, washing something in a bucket. Just beyond, leaves of tall trees are turning yellow and orange with the season; further on, a group of houses block the horizon. Above, a few white clouds cross a blue sky.
ALT text detailsA bright autumn afternoon in Tochigi Prefecture. In the foreground, a watermill stands at the edge of a stone-reinforced embankment bordering a stream. At the end of a narrow stone walkway extending into the water, a female figure crouches low, washing something in a bucket. Just beyond, leaves of tall trees are turning yellow and orange with the season; further on, a group of houses block the horizon. Above, a few white clouds cross a blue sky.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Kawanishi Village, Tochigi Prefecture (1947)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

visit-tochigi.com/seasons-in-t

A bright autumn afternoon in Tochigi Prefecture. In the foreground, a watermill stands at the edge of a stone-reinforced embankment bordering a stream. At the end of a narrow stone walkway extending into the water, a female figure crouches low, washing something in a bucket. Just beyond, leaves of tall trees are turning yellow and orange with the season; further on, a group of houses block the horizon. Above, a few white clouds cross a blue sky.
ALT text detailsA bright autumn afternoon in Tochigi Prefecture. In the foreground, a watermill stands at the edge of a stone-reinforced embankment bordering a stream. At the end of a narrow stone walkway extending into the water, a female figure crouches low, washing something in a bucket. Just beyond, leaves of tall trees are turning yellow and orange with the season; further on, a group of houses block the horizon. Above, a few white clouds cross a blue sky.
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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Newly appointed farm minister Norikazu Suzuki has hinted of a potential rethink of a policy to increase rice production advocated by the administration of former Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/10/

The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Newly appointed farm minister Norikazu Suzuki has hinted of a potential rethink of a policy to increase rice production advocated by the administration of former Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/10/

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Emperor Naruhito, Empress Masako and their daughter, Princess Aiko, visited the Tokyo memorial hall on Thursday to mourn the victims of the U.S. military’s air raid on the Japanese capital during World War II. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/10/

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Germán Vidal

@the_heruman@mastodon.social

📷️ Recuerdos del viaje del año pasado por estas fechas: tercer y último día en Kioto (1/9).

Decidí comenzar la jornada explorando el noreste de la ciudad, una zona que no conocía, comenzando por el pabellón de plata (Ginkakuji).

Un torii típico de madera pintado de rojo (tiene forma de pi griega) rodeado de árboles y al bien de unas escaleras de piedra que suben hacia otra zona. A su lado, dos linternas de piedra.
ALT text detailsUn torii típico de madera pintado de rojo (tiene forma de pi griega) rodeado de árboles y al bien de unas escaleras de piedra que suben hacia otra zona. A su lado, dos linternas de piedra.
Un jardín zen (gravilla rastrillada) formando círculos alrededor de un cono de piedra sin pinta que recuerda vagamente el monte Fuji. Detrás, los árboles del jardín.
ALT text detailsUn jardín zen (gravilla rastrillada) formando círculos alrededor de un cono de piedra sin pinta que recuerda vagamente el monte Fuji. Detrás, los árboles del jardín.
El pabellón de plata al fondo de un lago rodeado de árboles. No tiene nada de color de plata, por cierto. Es como el pabellón de oro (dos alturas, de base cuadrada y no más de unos 3-4 metros de lado) pero con la madera a la vista.
ALT text detailsEl pabellón de plata al fondo de un lago rodeado de árboles. No tiene nada de color de plata, por cierto. Es como el pabellón de oro (dos alturas, de base cuadrada y no más de unos 3-4 metros de lado) pero con la madera a la vista.
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Germán Vidal

@the_heruman@mastodon.social

📷️ Recuerdos del viaje del año pasado por estas fechas: tercer y último día en Kioto (1/9).

Decidí comenzar la jornada explorando el noreste de la ciudad, una zona que no conocía, comenzando por el pabellón de plata (Ginkakuji).

Un torii típico de madera pintado de rojo (tiene forma de pi griega) rodeado de árboles y al bien de unas escaleras de piedra que suben hacia otra zona. A su lado, dos linternas de piedra.
ALT text detailsUn torii típico de madera pintado de rojo (tiene forma de pi griega) rodeado de árboles y al bien de unas escaleras de piedra que suben hacia otra zona. A su lado, dos linternas de piedra.
Un jardín zen (gravilla rastrillada) formando círculos alrededor de un cono de piedra sin pinta que recuerda vagamente el monte Fuji. Detrás, los árboles del jardín.
ALT text detailsUn jardín zen (gravilla rastrillada) formando círculos alrededor de un cono de piedra sin pinta que recuerda vagamente el monte Fuji. Detrás, los árboles del jardín.
El pabellón de plata al fondo de un lago rodeado de árboles. No tiene nada de color de plata, por cierto. Es como el pabellón de oro (dos alturas, de base cuadrada y no más de unos 3-4 metros de lado) pero con la madera a la vista.
ALT text detailsEl pabellón de plata al fondo de un lago rodeado de árboles. No tiene nada de color de plata, por cierto. Es como el pabellón de oro (dos alturas, de base cuadrada y no más de unos 3-4 metros de lado) pero con la madera a la vista.
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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Emperor Naruhito, Empress Masako and their daughter, Princess Aiko, visited the Tokyo memorial hall on Thursday to mourn the victims of the U.S. military’s air raid on the Japanese capital during World War II. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/10/

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James :fukushima:

@jamesrg@famichiki.jp

Lucky Pierrot burgers: the most Japanese hamburger I've ever eaten, a fever dream within the Japanese imaginary of Americana, covered in meat and cheese sauce

it was average (meat wasn't great) but I'm about as full as you can get for 1400円 (including the beer)

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

The peak of Mount Fuji was capped with snow for the first time this fall on Thursday, reaching the milestone 21 days later than the average since records began in 1894. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/10/

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

With inflation ravaging Japan, the government needs more revenue - but can't get it from cash-strapped citizens. The plan? Get it from tourists. The gov plans to raise visa fees and other levies to fund popular measures such as free high school.

buff.ly/vKCuxj2

Tourists near a gate in Asakusa, Tokyo
ALT text detailsTourists near a gate in Asakusa, Tokyo
The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Major American and Japanese animation studios, including HBO Max and Amazon, have unwittingly hired undercover North Korean IT workers. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/10/

The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Major American and Japanese animation studios, including HBO Max and Amazon, have unwittingly hired undercover North Korean IT workers. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/10/

The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

A long-running line of teacups that caricature every Japanese prime minister will now feature a woman for the first time, following the appointment of Sanae Takaichi as prime minister. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/10/

The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

A long-running line of teacups that caricature every Japanese prime minister will now feature a woman for the first time, following the appointment of Sanae Takaichi as prime minister. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/10/

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The Mount Tsukuba Cable Car in Ibaraki Prefecture celebrated its 100th year this month. Learn more about the attraction's history, why you should visit, and how its operator is working to balance tourism with preservation.

buff.ly/Gj2Dgkr

atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Takaichi has already caused controversy with her 'abandon work-life balance' remarks; now, one of her first moves as PM is to push removal of the maximum limits on overtime hours. Not a promising start.

mainichi.jp/english/articles/2

atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Takaichi has already caused controversy with her 'abandon work-life balance' remarks; now, one of her first moves as PM is to push removal of the maximum limits on overtime hours. Not a promising start.

mainichi.jp/english/articles/2

atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Takaichi has already caused controversy with her 'abandon work-life balance' remarks; now, one of her first moves as PM is to push removal of the maximum limits on overtime hours. Not a promising start.

mainichi.jp/english/articles/2

James :fukushima:'s avatar
James :fukushima:

@jamesrg@famichiki.jp

Lucky Pierrot burgers: the most Japanese hamburger I've ever eaten, a fever dream within the Japanese imaginary of Americana, covered in meat and cheese sauce

it was average (meat wasn't great) but I'm about as full as you can get for 1400円 (including the beer)

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Wanna enjoy one of Japan's signature dishes but still stay halal? Most ramen contains pork, as well as alcohol to preserve the noodles. These five ramen shops in Tokyo, though, go above and beyond to create a bowl that any Muslim can eat.

unseen-japan.com/halal-ramen-t

Liz's avatar
Liz

@Daisbeth@pixelfed.social

Shinjuku Juniso Kumano-jinja Shrine at sunset.

#Japan #tokyo #shinjuku #shrine #travel #wanderlust #worldtraveler #sunset #dusk #clouds #cityscape #cityview #citylife #temple #cityliving #nature #urban #urbanphotography #lantern #explore
Buddhist Art's avatar
Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

Statue of Daiitoku Myōō, To-ji, . As an incarnation of Nyorai in Esoteric Shingon , he has the power to abolish all evils. The Sanskrit name Yamantaka means 'those who also kill the grim reaper Yama'. He is also called Kaenma no Mikoto. With six faces, six arms and six legs, he stretches over a buffalo (divine messenger).

Statue of Daiitoku Myōō, To-ji, #Japan. As an incarnation of #Amida Nyorai in Esoteric Shingon #Buddhism, he has the power to abolish all evils. The Sanskrit name Yamantaka means 'those who also kill the grim reaper Yama'. He is also called Kaenma no Mikoto. With six faces, six arms and six legs, he stretches over a buffalo (divine messenger). #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsStatue of Daiitoku Myōō, To-ji, #Japan. As an incarnation of #Amida Nyorai in Esoteric Shingon #Buddhism, he has the power to abolish all evils. The Sanskrit name Yamantaka means 'those who also kill the grim reaper Yama'. He is also called Kaenma no Mikoto. With six faces, six arms and six legs, he stretches over a buffalo (divine messenger). #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
Buddhist Art's avatar
Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

Statue of Daiitoku Myōō, To-ji, . As an incarnation of Nyorai in Esoteric Shingon , he has the power to abolish all evils. The Sanskrit name Yamantaka means 'those who also kill the grim reaper Yama'. He is also called Kaenma no Mikoto. With six faces, six arms and six legs, he stretches over a buffalo (divine messenger).

Statue of Daiitoku Myōō, To-ji, #Japan. As an incarnation of #Amida Nyorai in Esoteric Shingon #Buddhism, he has the power to abolish all evils. The Sanskrit name Yamantaka means 'those who also kill the grim reaper Yama'. He is also called Kaenma no Mikoto. With six faces, six arms and six legs, he stretches over a buffalo (divine messenger). #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsStatue of Daiitoku Myōō, To-ji, #Japan. As an incarnation of #Amida Nyorai in Esoteric Shingon #Buddhism, he has the power to abolish all evils. The Sanskrit name Yamantaka means 'those who also kill the grim reaper Yama'. He is also called Kaenma no Mikoto. With six faces, six arms and six legs, he stretches over a buffalo (divine messenger). #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

For three decades, Mako Nishimura was one of Japan's few female yakuza. These days, she helps other retired gangsters reintegrate into society. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/10/

The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

For three decades, Mako Nishimura was one of Japan's few female yakuza. These days, she helps other retired gangsters reintegrate into society. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/10/

Eugene Alvin Villar 🇵🇭's avatar
Eugene Alvin Villar 🇵🇭

@seav@en.osm.town

🇯🇵 finally got their first female PM! Unfortunately, I don’t like most of her far-right political views, such as opposition to same-sex marriage, desire to amend Japan’s pacifist constitution, support for anti-immigration policies, and downplaying of Japanese war crimes.

reuters.com/world/asia-pacific

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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

It was almost impossible to see in the masks, so I'm impressed Nao-san could feel her way to making matcha.

But...I'm not sure why she had these Noh masks just lying around🤔🎭🍵😱

Nao-san is your spooky host (and it is not as easy as it looks to make matcha in a mask).
ALT text detailsNao-san is your spooky host (and it is not as easy as it looks to make matcha in a mask).
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social

😈TEAHOUSE TERROR🎃

Nao-san thought it would be fun to shoot a short video in the tearoom for Halloween.

I didn't realise it would turn into a full horror movie...
...as dusk crept on, Nao-san relished her acting role a little too much😫😱

Nao-san relishes her role as spooky host (surprising us with a rather unsettling Noh mask).
ALT text detailsNao-san relishes her role as spooky host (surprising us with a rather unsettling Noh mask).
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

A 400-year old horse-chestnut tree (トチノキ) soars above Kayabuki-no-sato's (かやぶきの里) Inari-jinja (稲荷神社).

The seeds of these trees were once leached and eaten by the Jōmon people (14,000–300 BCE), but nowadays are most commonly used in 'tochimochi' (栃餅).

Miyama Inari-jinja's great horse chestnut tree slowly turns yellow as autumn deepens.
ALT text detailsMiyama Inari-jinja's great horse chestnut tree slowly turns yellow as autumn deepens.
Next to many of the traditional farmhouses in Kayabuki-no-sato you will see a small shed (mimicking the shape of the farmhouse). This conceals fire fighting equipment to quickly tackle any fires that break out in the precious buildings.
ALT text detailsNext to many of the traditional farmhouses in Kayabuki-no-sato you will see a small shed (mimicking the shape of the farmhouse). This conceals fire fighting equipment to quickly tackle any fires that break out in the precious buildings.
Miyama Inari-jinja.
ALT text detailsMiyama Inari-jinja.
Golden sun bathes Miyama as autumn draws on.
ALT text detailsGolden sun bathes Miyama as autumn draws on.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

A 400-year old horse-chestnut tree (トチノキ) soars above Kayabuki-no-sato's (かやぶきの里) Inari-jinja (稲荷神社).

The seeds of these trees were once leached and eaten by the Jōmon people (14,000–300 BCE), but nowadays are most commonly used in 'tochimochi' (栃餅).

Miyama Inari-jinja's great horse chestnut tree slowly turns yellow as autumn deepens.
ALT text detailsMiyama Inari-jinja's great horse chestnut tree slowly turns yellow as autumn deepens.
Next to many of the traditional farmhouses in Kayabuki-no-sato you will see a small shed (mimicking the shape of the farmhouse). This conceals fire fighting equipment to quickly tackle any fires that break out in the precious buildings.
ALT text detailsNext to many of the traditional farmhouses in Kayabuki-no-sato you will see a small shed (mimicking the shape of the farmhouse). This conceals fire fighting equipment to quickly tackle any fires that break out in the precious buildings.
Miyama Inari-jinja.
ALT text detailsMiyama Inari-jinja.
Golden sun bathes Miyama as autumn draws on.
ALT text detailsGolden sun bathes Miyama as autumn draws on.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

A few friends I met along the way.

A gorgeous ginger cat watches us from a vegetable patch in Miyama.
ALT text detailsA gorgeous ginger cat watches us from a vegetable patch in Miyama.
A husky sticks his nose through a cafe's fence to greet guests.
ALT text detailsA husky sticks his nose through a cafe's fence to greet guests.
Even in quiet Miyama there is a Tobidashi-kun (a sign warning motorists to slow down in case children run out into the road).
ALT text detailsEven in quiet Miyama there is a Tobidashi-kun (a sign warning motorists to slow down in case children run out into the road).
A sweet potato dressed up as Billiken. Why? We don't know.
ALT text detailsA sweet potato dressed up as Billiken. Why? We don't know.
Raymond Larabie's avatar
Raymond Larabie

@typodermic@mastodon.social

Shadows, pipes, and one lonely bicycle complete the illusion of comfort. 🚲🌤️

影と配線、そして一台の自転車がその錯覚を仕上げている。☀️🏚️

A black-and-white photo of a quiet Nagoya street scene. The building façade is made of corrugated metal, lit by sharp sunlight that casts deep shadows from nearby structures. A bicycle leans against a utility pole in front, next to a pedestrian crossing sign. The textures of metal, shadow, and light create an unexpectedly warm, nostalgic feeling despite the industrial materials.
ALT text detailsA black-and-white photo of a quiet Nagoya street scene. The building façade is made of corrugated metal, lit by sharp sunlight that casts deep shadows from nearby structures. A bicycle leans against a utility pole in front, next to a pedestrian crossing sign. The textures of metal, shadow, and light create an unexpectedly warm, nostalgic feeling despite the industrial materials.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

In 713 violent deaths were reported about the village of Sasari (south east Miyama). The court, via divination, determined that the cause was a monstrous, 8-headed deer that lived in the mountains.

Empress Genmei sent Kōga Saburō Kaneie (甲賀三郎兼家) to kill the beast.

Elaborate carvings on Chii Hachiman-gu's main hall.
ALT text detailsElaborate carvings on Chii Hachiman-gu's main hall.
Elaborate carvings on Chii Hachiman-gu's main hall.
ALT text detailsElaborate carvings on Chii Hachiman-gu's main hall.
Woodblock print by Hokusai. It depicts the deer familiar of the lucky god Fukurokuju.
ALT text detailsWoodblock print by Hokusai. It depicts the deer familiar of the lucky god Fukurokuju.
Elaborate carvings on Chii Hachiman-gu's main hall.
ALT text detailsElaborate carvings on Chii Hachiman-gu's main hall.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Indigo is quite remarkable, and has been used across the globe since ancient times.
Material dyed with indigo (藍染め 'aizome') not only has antibacterial and insect repellent qualities, but also helps to prevent odors, and is incredibly kind on sensitive skin and eczema🙌

Kimono with rabbit motif in indigo.
ALT text detailsKimono with rabbit motif in indigo.
Bolts of indigo dyed material.
ALT text detailsBolts of indigo dyed material.
The Little Indigo Museum displays items of indigo dyed clothing from around the world.
ALT text detailsThe Little Indigo Museum displays items of indigo dyed clothing from around the world.
An early form of back support, designed for carrying loads such as bundles of wood. The material is dyed with indigo.
ALT text detailsAn early form of back support, designed for carrying loads such as bundles of wood. The material is dyed with indigo.
GENKI's avatar
GENKI

@nibushibu@vivaldi.net

space-nobi さんで新しい企画展示がはじまるそう。
（トークイベントの会場席もまだ空きがあるようです）

櫻井崇史「絵を見る会」 | SPACE NOBI space-nobi.net/exhibition/2025

> 3D空間上にスキャンされた粘土を支持体として絵を描いています。

> 〜 3D空間内での描画行為の明示によって、コンピュータグラフィクスであると同時にアナログな絵画であるという、奇妙なユーモアを生みだしています。

Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Known after their thatched roofs, 'kayabuki' (茅葺) farmhouses are increasingly a rare sight nowadays.

Kayabuki-no-sato (かやぶきの里) has the highest concentration of traditional farmhouses in Japan, and most of the 40 properties remain as private homes.

Looking across farmland to the thatched roofs of 'Kayabuki-no-sato'.
ALT text detailsLooking across farmland to the thatched roofs of 'Kayabuki-no-sato'.
Raymond Larabie's avatar
Raymond Larabie

@typodermic@mastodon.social

Shadows, pipes, and one lonely bicycle complete the illusion of comfort. 🚲🌤️

影と配線、そして一台の自転車がその錯覚を仕上げている。☀️🏚️

A black-and-white photo of a quiet Nagoya street scene. The building façade is made of corrugated metal, lit by sharp sunlight that casts deep shadows from nearby structures. A bicycle leans against a utility pole in front, next to a pedestrian crossing sign. The textures of metal, shadow, and light create an unexpectedly warm, nostalgic feeling despite the industrial materials.
ALT text detailsA black-and-white photo of a quiet Nagoya street scene. The building façade is made of corrugated metal, lit by sharp sunlight that casts deep shadows from nearby structures. A bicycle leans against a utility pole in front, next to a pedestrian crossing sign. The textures of metal, shadow, and light create an unexpectedly warm, nostalgic feeling despite the industrial materials.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

(Subscriber only) After twenty-six years together as the ruling coalition, Kōmeitō has split from the LDP. The breakup ends one of the longest, most enduring political partnerships in postwar history. How did it all come to an end? Subscribe and read today:

unseen-japan.com/ldp-komeito-c

LDP's Takaichi Sanae and Kōmeitō's Saitō Tetsuo in black and white against a backdrop of lightning
ALT text detailsLDP's Takaichi Sanae and Kōmeitō's Saitō Tetsuo in black and white against a backdrop of lightning
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

More tourists say they're using AI translation to get around in their host countries. But many admit they don't actually like the experience. Here's why some businesses in Japan hate it too, and what you can do instead of talking through a machine.

unseen-japan.com/ai-translatio

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

What's the most charming place to get your drink on in Tokyo? A review company recently put out its list of the top 10 most popular areas for imbibing. What’s surprising is not which spots made the list, but which prominent location did not.

unseen-japan.com/tokyo-top-10-

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Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

Nyorai Seated Statue, Juraku-ji, Shiga Prefecture, . It is said that there was originally a temple of the Tendai sect in this area, but it was destroyed in the fires of Nobunaga, and this temple was built. The principal image is the Joroku Nyorai seated statue, which is one of the largest in . The temple also enshrines a statue of Lady Maya, 's birth mother.

#Amida Nyorai Seated Statue, Juraku-ji, Shiga Prefecture, #Japan. It is said that there was originally a temple of the Tendai sect in this area, but it was destroyed in the fires of Nobunaga, and this temple was built. The principal image is the Joroku #Amida Nyorai seated statue, which is one of the largest in #Japan. The temple also enshrines a statue of Lady Maya, #Buddha's birth mother. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text details#Amida Nyorai Seated Statue, Juraku-ji, Shiga Prefecture, #Japan. It is said that there was originally a temple of the Tendai sect in this area, but it was destroyed in the fires of Nobunaga, and this temple was built. The principal image is the Joroku #Amida Nyorai seated statue, which is one of the largest in #Japan. The temple also enshrines a statue of Lady Maya, #Buddha's birth mother. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
Buddhist Art's avatar
Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

Nyorai Seated Statue, Juraku-ji, Shiga Prefecture, . It is said that there was originally a temple of the Tendai sect in this area, but it was destroyed in the fires of Nobunaga, and this temple was built. The principal image is the Joroku Nyorai seated statue, which is one of the largest in . The temple also enshrines a statue of Lady Maya, 's birth mother.

#Amida Nyorai Seated Statue, Juraku-ji, Shiga Prefecture, #Japan. It is said that there was originally a temple of the Tendai sect in this area, but it was destroyed in the fires of Nobunaga, and this temple was built. The principal image is the Joroku #Amida Nyorai seated statue, which is one of the largest in #Japan. The temple also enshrines a statue of Lady Maya, #Buddha's birth mother. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text details#Amida Nyorai Seated Statue, Juraku-ji, Shiga Prefecture, #Japan. It is said that there was originally a temple of the Tendai sect in this area, but it was destroyed in the fires of Nobunaga, and this temple was built. The principal image is the Joroku #Amida Nyorai seated statue, which is one of the largest in #Japan. The temple also enshrines a statue of Lady Maya, #Buddha's birth mother. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
YongZS永値生 :misskey: :paricafelogo:'s avatar
YongZS永値生 :misskey: :paricafelogo:

@yongzs1218@pari.cafe

舊二條離宮（二條城）🏯
Former Imperial Villa Nijō Castle 🏯

攝於2024年12月26日
2024年12月26日に撮影
Taken on December 26, 2024

Jordi Mallol i Comas's avatar
Jordi Mallol i Comas

@gatillepis@mastodont.cat

#fujifilmphotography

Ombres dels arbres reflectides sobre una paret de fusta.
ALT text detailsOmbres dels arbres reflectides sobre una paret de fusta.
Jordi Mallol i Comas's avatar
Jordi Mallol i Comas

@gatillepis@mastodont.cat

#fujifilmphotography

Ombres dels arbres reflectides sobre una paret de fusta.
ALT text detailsOmbres dels arbres reflectides sobre una paret de fusta.
EkkaART's avatar
EkkaART

@amazing_Ekka@ohai.social

Decided to combine two Inktober 2025 days ORNATE and DEAL.

Paula Gentle on Friendica's avatar
Paula Gentle on Friendica

@gehrke_test@libranet.de

bedankt sich für die freundliche Unterstützung bei .

taz.de/Trostfrauen-Mahnmal-in-…

Paula Gentle on Friendica's avatar
Paula Gentle on Friendica

@gehrke_test@libranet.de

bedankt sich für die freundliche Unterstützung bei .

taz.de/Trostfrauen-Mahnmal-in-…

Buddhist Art's avatar
Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

A 19th-century color print of at Seiganto-ji in present-day Nachi Katsuura, Wakayama Prefecture, , first temple in the Thirty-three Temple Western Pilgrimage Circuit. Woodblock print (), ink on paper, with hand-applied color and gold.

A 19th-century color print of #Nyoirin #Kannon #Bodhisattva at Seiganto-ji in present-day Nachi Katsuura, Wakayama Prefecture, #Japan, first temple in the Thirty-three Temple Western Pilgrimage Circuit. Woodblock print (#ukiyoe), ink on paper, with hand-applied color and gold. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsA 19th-century color print of #Nyoirin #Kannon #Bodhisattva at Seiganto-ji in present-day Nachi Katsuura, Wakayama Prefecture, #Japan, first temple in the Thirty-three Temple Western Pilgrimage Circuit. Woodblock print (#ukiyoe), ink on paper, with hand-applied color and gold. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
Buddhist Art's avatar
Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

A 19th-century color print of at Seiganto-ji in present-day Nachi Katsuura, Wakayama Prefecture, , first temple in the Thirty-three Temple Western Pilgrimage Circuit. Woodblock print (), ink on paper, with hand-applied color and gold.

A 19th-century color print of #Nyoirin #Kannon #Bodhisattva at Seiganto-ji in present-day Nachi Katsuura, Wakayama Prefecture, #Japan, first temple in the Thirty-three Temple Western Pilgrimage Circuit. Woodblock print (#ukiyoe), ink on paper, with hand-applied color and gold. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsA 19th-century color print of #Nyoirin #Kannon #Bodhisattva at Seiganto-ji in present-day Nachi Katsuura, Wakayama Prefecture, #Japan, first temple in the Thirty-three Temple Western Pilgrimage Circuit. Woodblock print (#ukiyoe), ink on paper, with hand-applied color and gold. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The Shibuya around Shibuya Scramble is more of a mess than ever. Of course, there's an easy way to avoid this: don't go there! The other option is to go, but take just a few steps away from the madding crowd to "back Shibuya." (Subscriber article)

unseen-japan.com/shibuya-unsee

Side street off of the Hachiman Shopping Arcade
ALT text detailsSide street off of the Hachiman Shopping Arcade
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Stereotypes of Japan as a land of vague meaning and blunted expression are just straight-up Orientalism and obscure a complex reality. Here's why blanket statements about Japanese being a "subtle language" need to be taken with a grain of salt.

unseen-japan.com/the-myth-of-j

jon ellis's avatar
jon ellis

@jon_ellis@chaos.social

Tokyo, 2009. Canon Powershot G9

what's on your mind? Some days you're just having a day...

black and white photograph of a despondent looking man staring out of a train window, taken from the next carriage
ALT text detailsblack and white photograph of a despondent looking man staring out of a train window, taken from the next carriage
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Currently, fans worldwide have to go through Japanese third parties to access Mercari listings for Japan-exclusive products. The growing market has led to the emergence of specialized aggregation and warehousing services. That's about to change.

unseen-japan.com/mercari-globa

Mercari app in multiple languages
ALT text detailsMercari app in multiple languages
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Fujiyama (1988)

Artist: Clifton Karhu

www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/new

In the foreground, the modern buildings of Fuji City seem tiny and insignificant, dwarfed by the blocky shape of a towering Mount Fuji rising just beyond. The landscape is gray and still, while the sky at the horizon is an ominous deep red bleeding away into darkness above.
ALT text detailsIn the foreground, the modern buildings of Fuji City seem tiny and insignificant, dwarfed by the blocky shape of a towering Mount Fuji rising just beyond. The landscape is gray and still, while the sky at the horizon is an ominous deep red bleeding away into darkness above.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

The Shimogamo Villa was intended as a rest house for members of the Mitsui family visiting the Akina Rei-sha (京都顕名霊社), a shrine constructed in 1909 on this site to enshrine ancestors of the Mitsui.

The Shimogamo Villa.
ALT text detailsThe Shimogamo Villa.
Beautiful lattice windows in Shimogamo Villa.
ALT text detailsBeautiful lattice windows in Shimogamo Villa.
Blossom shaped window at Shimogamo Villa.
ALT text detailsBlossom shaped window at Shimogamo Villa.
Autumn leaves in a stone wash basin.
ALT text detailsAutumn leaves in a stone wash basin.
The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

A concert held in Hiroshima featured for the first time the digitized sounds of a piano that survived the U.S. atomic bombing of the city 80 years ago. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/10/

Canada News Beep's avatar
Canada News Beep

@ca@newsbeep.org

Symbolplus “quietly integrates” natural materials into its own office in Tokyo

Design studio Symbolplus has renovated its office in Tokyo, using earthen plaster and delicate Japanese paper to complement…
:all :interiors -designedstudios
newsbeep.com/ca/219555/

Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

The villa's garden is centred around a gourd-shaped pond, fed by water channelled from the Izumi-gawa (泉川).

Shimogamo Villa's gourd-shaped pond.
ALT text detailsShimogamo Villa's gourd-shaped pond.
Villa and pond.
ALT text detailsVilla and pond.
Shimogamo Villa's gourd-shaped pond.
ALT text detailsShimogamo Villa's gourd-shaped pond.
Shimogamo Villa's verdant garden.
ALT text detailsShimogamo Villa's verdant garden.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

come one! come all!
the rustling
plume grass
誰ぞ来よ来よとてさわぐすすき哉
-Kobayashi Issa (小林一茶), 1812.
Trans. David Lanoue.

Displays of obana (susuki) and small pyramids of dango are often seen around 'moon viewing' season (月見), prayers for (and symbols of) a bountiful harvest.

Woodblock print of preparations being made for moon viewing. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of preparations being made for moon viewing. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
Woodblock print of the Ladies of Chiyoda Palace preparing for moon viewing. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of the Ladies of Chiyoda Palace preparing for moon viewing. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
Woodblock print of a woman in kimono amongst pampas grass. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of a woman in kimono amongst pampas grass. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
Woodblock print of rabbits amongst pampas grass, under the full moon. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of rabbits amongst pampas grass, under the full moon. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Obana features in a famous proverb...
幽霊の正体見たり枯れ尾花
(ゆうれいのしょうたいみたりかれおばな)
"The ghost, when examined closely, is withered silver grass".

In English we might say "fear makes the wolf bigger than he is" or "things are not as scary as they seem".

Woodblock print of the ghost Okiku appearing from the well. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of the ghost Okiku appearing from the well. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
Woodblock print of Maruyama Okyo being startled by a ghost. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of Maruyama Okyo being startled by a ghost. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
Woodblock print of the lantern ghost 'Iwa'. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of the lantern ghost 'Iwa'. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
Woodblock print of the ghost of Rui-no-Hitodama. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of the ghost of Rui-no-Hitodama. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Obana features in a famous proverb...
幽霊の正体見たり枯れ尾花
(ゆうれいのしょうたいみたりかれおばな)
"The ghost, when examined closely, is withered silver grass".

In English we might say "fear makes the wolf bigger than he is" or "things are not as scary as they seem".

Woodblock print of the ghost Okiku appearing from the well. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of the ghost Okiku appearing from the well. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
Woodblock print of Maruyama Okyo being startled by a ghost. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of Maruyama Okyo being startled by a ghost. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
Woodblock print of the lantern ghost 'Iwa'. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of the lantern ghost 'Iwa'. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
Woodblock print of the ghost of Rui-no-Hitodama. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of the ghost of Rui-no-Hitodama. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

come one! come all!
the rustling
plume grass
誰ぞ来よ来よとてさわぐすすき哉
-Kobayashi Issa (小林一茶), 1812.
Trans. David Lanoue.

Displays of obana (susuki) and small pyramids of dango are often seen around 'moon viewing' season (月見), prayers for (and symbols of) a bountiful harvest.

Woodblock print of preparations being made for moon viewing. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of preparations being made for moon viewing. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
Woodblock print of the Ladies of Chiyoda Palace preparing for moon viewing. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of the Ladies of Chiyoda Palace preparing for moon viewing. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
Woodblock print of a woman in kimono amongst pampas grass. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of a woman in kimono amongst pampas grass. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
Woodblock print of rabbits amongst pampas grass, under the full moon. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of rabbits amongst pampas grass, under the full moon. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

The villa's garden is centred around a gourd-shaped pond, fed by water channelled from the Izumi-gawa (泉川).

Shimogamo Villa's gourd-shaped pond.
ALT text detailsShimogamo Villa's gourd-shaped pond.
Villa and pond.
ALT text detailsVilla and pond.
Shimogamo Villa's gourd-shaped pond.
ALT text detailsShimogamo Villa's gourd-shaped pond.
Shimogamo Villa's verdant garden.
ALT text detailsShimogamo Villa's verdant garden.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

That wonderful moment when you realise you have the entire house and grounds to yourself🙌

Looking across the grounds of the Shimogamo Villa.
ALT text detailsLooking across the grounds of the Shimogamo Villa.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

A glimpse into the tearoom's 'mizuya' (水屋)...this is a room adjacent to the tea ceremony room, where utensils are washed and certain preparations made for tea ceremony.

The Shimogamo Villa's mizuya.
ALT text detailsThe Shimogamo Villa's mizuya.
The Shimogamo Villa's mizuya.
ALT text detailsThe Shimogamo Villa's mizuya.
Kameya Yoshinaga (亀屋良長) crafted a special sweet for the Shimogamo Villa called 'yearning for autumn' (秋想う)...ginkgo and maple leaves drifting in a stream.
ALT text detailsKameya Yoshinaga (亀屋良長) crafted a special sweet for the Shimogamo Villa called 'yearning for autumn' (秋想う)...ginkgo and maple leaves drifting in a stream.
Kameya Yoshinaga (亀屋良長) crafted a special sweet for the Shimogamo Villa called 'yearning for autumn' (秋想う)...ginkgo and maple leaves drifting in a stream.
ALT text detailsKameya Yoshinaga (亀屋良長) crafted a special sweet for the Shimogamo Villa called 'yearning for autumn' (秋想う)...ginkgo and maple leaves drifting in a stream.
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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

A concert held in Hiroshima featured for the first time the digitized sounds of a piano that survived the U.S. atomic bombing of the city 80 years ago. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/10/

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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

The Shimogamo Villa was intended as a rest house for members of the Mitsui family visiting the Akina Rei-sha (京都顕名霊社), a shrine constructed in 1909 on this site to enshrine ancestors of the Mitsui.

The Shimogamo Villa.
ALT text detailsThe Shimogamo Villa.
Beautiful lattice windows in Shimogamo Villa.
ALT text detailsBeautiful lattice windows in Shimogamo Villa.
Blossom shaped window at Shimogamo Villa.
ALT text detailsBlossom shaped window at Shimogamo Villa.
Autumn leaves in a stone wash basin.
ALT text detailsAutumn leaves in a stone wash basin.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social

🍃🍂AUTUMN AT THE VILLA😌🍵

The leaves are rather late to begin their reddening this year, but the onset of colder weather hints that their transformation is imminent.
This season of crisp mornings and clear skies is one of the finest to enjoy the city's gardens.

Nao-san poses in front of the Old Mitsui Family Shimogamo Villa.
ALT text detailsNao-san poses in front of the Old Mitsui Family Shimogamo Villa.
A leopard plant ('Tsuwabuki' ツワブキ) growing in the villa garden. It is native to streams and seashores.
ALT text detailsA leopard plant ('Tsuwabuki' ツワブキ) growing in the villa garden. It is native to streams and seashores.
Inner courtyard garden within the Old Mitsui Family Shimogamo Villa.
ALT text detailsInner courtyard garden within the Old Mitsui Family Shimogamo Villa.
Cicada shells, a reminder of the summer just past.
ALT text detailsCicada shells, a reminder of the summer just past.
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atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Fujiyama (1988)

Artist: Clifton Karhu

www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/new

In the foreground, the modern buildings of Fuji City seem tiny and insignificant, dwarfed by the blocky shape of a towering Mount Fuji rising just beyond. The landscape is gray and still, while the sky at the horizon is an ominous deep red bleeding away into darkness above.
ALT text detailsIn the foreground, the modern buildings of Fuji City seem tiny and insignificant, dwarfed by the blocky shape of a towering Mount Fuji rising just beyond. The landscape is gray and still, while the sky at the horizon is an ominous deep red bleeding away into darkness above.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Fujiyama (1988)

Artist: Clifton Karhu

www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/new

In the foreground, the modern buildings of Fuji City seem tiny and insignificant, dwarfed by the blocky shape of a towering Mount Fuji rising just beyond. The landscape is gray and still, while the sky at the horizon is an ominous deep red bleeding away into darkness above.
ALT text detailsIn the foreground, the modern buildings of Fuji City seem tiny and insignificant, dwarfed by the blocky shape of a towering Mount Fuji rising just beyond. The landscape is gray and still, while the sky at the horizon is an ominous deep red bleeding away into darkness above.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Say “donuts,” and people in Japan think one thing: Mister Donut. In recent years, Krispy Kreme and even 7-Eleven have tried displacing the household name. Here's how the chain has continued to thrive despite increasing competition.

unseen-japan.com/mister-donut-

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The December run of the Japanese Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) is fast approaching. Which raises the question: Should you cram for it? Here are our recommendations for how to prepare as the days count down.

unseen-japan.com/cram-for-the-

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Here’s a quick tour of some of the smaller, independent places to shop, eat, and drink in Shibuya away from the big-box stores. We also tell you where you can find some quiet spots to relax right within the heart of Shibuya itself. (Subscriber article)

unseen-japan.com/shibuya-unsee

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Alo Japan

@alojapan@channels.im

alojapan.com/1393509/japans-ex Japan’s extreme rainfall will intensify as temperatures rise Rain no longer behaves the way it once did. Across Japan, skies that once poured gently now release torrents capable of reshaping land. The heat rising from Earth’s surface isn’t just warming oceans or melting ice. It’s thickening the very air we breathe, loading it with invisible water vapor that waits for the right trigger.

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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Penjing began to arrive in Japan from the 7thC, brought back from the mainland by returning embassy officials and Buddhist students, but the first appearance of (what we would recognize as) Bonsai in Japanese art is in the 1195 'Saigyō Monogatari emaki' (西行物語絵巻).

Woodblock print depicting kabuki actors, and a scene where one threatens to hack up a beloved bonsai. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print depicting kabuki actors, and a scene where one threatens to hack up a beloved bonsai. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
Woodblock print of a woman tending bonsai in the snow. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of a woman tending bonsai in the snow. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
Woodblock print of a women admiring bonsai. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of a women admiring bonsai. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
Woodblock print of a woman carrying a bonsai. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of a woman carrying a bonsai. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
Alo Japan's avatar
Alo Japan

@alojapan@channels.im

alojapan.com/1393509/japans-ex Japan’s extreme rainfall will intensify as temperatures rise Rain no longer behaves the way it once did. Across Japan, skies that once poured gently now release torrents capable of reshaping land. The heat rising from Earth’s surface isn’t just warming oceans or melting ice. It’s thickening the very air we breathe, loading it with invisible water vapor that waits for the right trigger.

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Nithin Coca నితిన్

@ncoca@social.coop

Legacy news sources in aren’t doing their part in engaging younger audiences. I sat down with Japan Today to discuss why the new generation is turning to clips and updates instead of .

japantoday.com/category/spotli

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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Penjing began to arrive in Japan from the 7thC, brought back from the mainland by returning embassy officials and Buddhist students, but the first appearance of (what we would recognize as) Bonsai in Japanese art is in the 1195 'Saigyō Monogatari emaki' (西行物語絵巻).

Woodblock print depicting kabuki actors, and a scene where one threatens to hack up a beloved bonsai. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print depicting kabuki actors, and a scene where one threatens to hack up a beloved bonsai. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
Woodblock print of a woman tending bonsai in the snow. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of a woman tending bonsai in the snow. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
Woodblock print of a women admiring bonsai. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of a women admiring bonsai. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
Woodblock print of a woman carrying a bonsai. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of a woman carrying a bonsai. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
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fotoquark

@fotoquark@pixey.org

Zen garden.
Ryoanji Temple. Kyoto, Japan
#zen #garden #ryoanji #kyoto #japan #photography
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fotoquark

@fotoquark@pixey.org

Zen garden.
Ryoanji Temple. Kyoto, Japan
#zen #garden #ryoanji #kyoto #japan #photography
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Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

Nio statue, Jingu-ji, Obama City, .

Nio statue, Jingu-ji, Obama City, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsNio statue, Jingu-ji, Obama City, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
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Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

Nio statue, Jingu-ji, Obama City, .

Nio statue, Jingu-ji, Obama City, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsNio statue, Jingu-ji, Obama City, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
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Kevin Karhan :verified:

@kkarhan@infosec.space · Reply to wakest ⁂'s post

@liaizon granted, I wounder why @sixtus got one...

  • Maybe it was since the doesn't seem to have and demands .alists to register in advance?

Cuz AFAICT there's no benefit fir a compared to since the (and , abeit the latter one isn't notorious for it) allows it's to reject entrants at random with neither dispute resolution nor appeals.

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: Rupan Sansei is in full kabuki mode through almost its entire run, with language that tends to be just as inscrutable for Japanese speakers as Shakespeare can be for English natives. Still, the characters shine through.

unseen-japan.com/we-saw-the-lu

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Ever seen a Japanese calendar and wondered why each day is labeled with a word like 大安 or 仏滅? These words are part of a Japan-exclusive tradition called rokuyō. Learn more about them and what each one means below.

unseen-japan.com/rokuyo-lunar-

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Ricard Torres

@ricard@ricard.social

🇯🇵 View from Shiroishi Castle, Japan (March 2024)

We're a bit north of Fukushima. You can see the snowy Japanese Alps far away.

More photos from this day ➡️ quicoto.com/castillos-y-flores

Top of a castle hill, looking at snow mountains
ALT text detailsTop of a castle hill, looking at snow mountains
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atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Mount Fuji From Ohito, Autumn (1962)

Artist: Toshi Yoshida

explore-izu.com/destinations/i

An autumn afternoon in rural Japan. In the foreground, the crops have been harvested and the fields are flat and gold-coloured, with a few farmhouses scattered over the plain. Just beyond, a river draws a thin blue line between the farms and foothills covered in trees turning gold, orange and brown with the season. Further on, Mount Fuji rises above the foothills, details of the mountain's base lost in bluish haze, its snowy peak standing out cold and white against the warm gold and orange hues of the sky.
ALT text detailsAn autumn afternoon in rural Japan. In the foreground, the crops have been harvested and the fields are flat and gold-coloured, with a few farmhouses scattered over the plain. Just beyond, a river draws a thin blue line between the farms and foothills covered in trees turning gold, orange and brown with the season. Further on, Mount Fuji rises above the foothills, details of the mountain's base lost in bluish haze, its snowy peak standing out cold and white against the warm gold and orange hues of the sky.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Some time during the Tang dynasty, 'penjing' (盆景), the Chinese tradition of creating miniature landscapes in a tray, arrived in Japan. Here the emphasis moved from creating entire scenes to focusing on individual trees, replicating full-grown specimens on a minute scale.

A miniature persimmon bonsai, perfect to show off the autumn season.
ALT text detailsA miniature persimmon bonsai, perfect to show off the autumn season.
A miniature pine bonsai.
ALT text detailsA miniature pine bonsai.
A deciduous bonsai after shedding its leaves.
ALT text detailsA deciduous bonsai after shedding its leaves.
A beautiful 'deadwood' bonsai.
ALT text detailsA beautiful 'deadwood' bonsai.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: Across Japan, former NHK Party supporters are getting demand notices for years of unpaid fees. Late interest and litigation costs push totals even higher. Some households now owe more than ¥100,000 ($678).

unseen-japan.com/nhk-party-fee

Faded poster for the NHK Party
ALT text detailsFaded poster for the NHK Party
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: Another member of the far-right Sanseitō party in Japan has stirred controversy with her comments. Wada Keiko claimed that identifying as transgender could “spread contagiously,” likening it to a disease.

unseen-japan.com/sanseito-tran

atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Mount Fuji From Ohito, Autumn (1962)

Artist: Toshi Yoshida

explore-izu.com/destinations/i

An autumn afternoon in rural Japan. In the foreground, the crops have been harvested and the fields are flat and gold-coloured, with a few farmhouses scattered over the plain. Just beyond, a river draws a thin blue line between the farms and foothills covered in trees turning gold, orange and brown with the season. Further on, Mount Fuji rises above the foothills, details of the mountain's base lost in bluish haze, its snowy peak standing out cold and white against the warm gold and orange hues of the sky.
ALT text detailsAn autumn afternoon in rural Japan. In the foreground, the crops have been harvested and the fields are flat and gold-coloured, with a few farmhouses scattered over the plain. Just beyond, a river draws a thin blue line between the farms and foothills covered in trees turning gold, orange and brown with the season. Further on, Mount Fuji rises above the foothills, details of the mountain's base lost in bluish haze, its snowy peak standing out cold and white against the warm gold and orange hues of the sky.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

In 'The Tale of Genji', Murasaki Shikibu often uses nadeshiko as a metaphor for a child needing protection from life's hardships. Despite the flowers fragile appearance, it blooms for most of the year, and thus it became a perfect symbol for women...delicate yet enduring🤔

Woodblock print of young women in kimono watering nadeshiko. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of young women in kimono watering nadeshiko. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
Woodblock print of a kingfisher amongst nadeshiko. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of a kingfisher amongst nadeshiko. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
Woodblock print of nadeshiko blooming, with a temple pagoda in the background. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of nadeshiko blooming, with a temple pagoda in the background. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
Woodblock print of nadeshiko, a rooster and a hen. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of nadeshiko, a rooster and a hen. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Kuzu (葛) is a popular ingredient for makers of traditional Japanese sweets, especially in the hotter months.

the arrowroot vine
holds on tight...
a post
葛蔓の手にしてまとふ柱かな
-Kobayashi Issa (小林一茶), 1819.
Trans. David G. Lanoue.

Kagizen's (鍵善) 'Gion-bayashi' (祇園囃子) is named after the unique music of the Gion Festival. The three colours of bean paste represent the instruments used to play Gion-bayashi: a drum (太鼓), flute (笛) and gong (鉦).
ALT text detailsKagizen's (鍵善) 'Gion-bayashi' (祇園囃子) is named after the unique music of the Gion Festival. The three colours of bean paste represent the instruments used to play Gion-bayashi: a drum (太鼓), flute (笛) and gong (鉦).
Kagijin's (かぎ甚) 'sawabe-no-hotaru' (沢辺の蛍) depicts a firefly flitting over a riverbank. The insect is cleverly made up of a single 'daitokuji nattō' (大徳寺納豆)🫘
ALT text detailsKagijin's (かぎ甚) 'sawabe-no-hotaru' (沢辺の蛍) depicts a firefly flitting over a riverbank. The insect is cleverly made up of a single 'daitokuji nattō' (大徳寺納豆)🫘
Kameya Shigehisa's (亀屋重久) 'sawabe-no-hotaru' (沢辺の蛍) uses vivid colours to depict a firefly brilliantly illuminated at dusk.
ALT text detailsKameya Shigehisa's (亀屋重久) 'sawabe-no-hotaru' (沢辺の蛍) uses vivid colours to depict a firefly brilliantly illuminated at dusk.
Shioyoshiken's (塩芳軒) chrysanthemum inspired 'manjū kiku' (万寿菊).
ALT text detailsShioyoshiken's (塩芳軒) chrysanthemum inspired 'manjū kiku' (万寿菊).
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

In 'The Tale of Genji', Murasaki Shikibu often uses nadeshiko as a metaphor for a child needing protection from life's hardships. Despite the flowers fragile appearance, it blooms for most of the year, and thus it became a perfect symbol for women...delicate yet enduring🤔

Woodblock print of young women in kimono watering nadeshiko. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of young women in kimono watering nadeshiko. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
Woodblock print of a kingfisher amongst nadeshiko. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of a kingfisher amongst nadeshiko. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
Woodblock print of nadeshiko blooming, with a temple pagoda in the background. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of nadeshiko blooming, with a temple pagoda in the background. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
Woodblock print of nadeshiko, a rooster and a hen. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of nadeshiko, a rooster and a hen. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: Southeast Asia has long been a favorite among Japanese tourists: affordable, just a short flight away, and offering unique cultural and natural experiences. But behind the postcards and tourist brochures lies a far darker reality.

unseen-japan.com/japanese-sex-

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: D-Up, the company accused of driving Satomi to suicide, released a statement on its website. The company apologized and confirmed that the company President, Sakai Mitsuru, stepped down on September 10.

unseen-japan.com/d-up-harassme

Tokyo District Court
ALT text detailsTokyo District Court
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: A brown bear in Hokkaido, well known to locals as the “Mother of Iwaobetsu," was normally calm. After being fed by tourists, her behavior changed. On August 14, 2025, she attacked and killed a 26-year-old hiker on Mt. Rausu.

unseen-japan.com/tourists-feed

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Sin

@s1n_9rph@mastodon.social




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Sin

@s1n_9rph@mastodon.social




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David :SetouchiExplorer:

@David@setouchi.social

When you're having a walk on a small island and you suddenly realize that... there are cicada!!!

loops.video/v/bkZzwx4q34

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Mercari is an extremely popular place for buying second-hand collectibles. That's made it the subject of controversy. The service is a primary outlet for resellers who buy up and scalp new releases of limited-edition goods at ridiculous prices.

unseen-japan.com/mercari-globa

Mercari app in multiple languages
ALT text detailsMercari app in multiple languages
Fedi.Garden 🌱's avatar
Fedi.Garden 🌱

@FediGarden@social.growyourown.services

Urusai.social is a friendly and non-toxic Glitch Mastodon server for anime, manga, and other otaku subjects. It includes lots of extra features including extended posts, emoji reactions, additional themes, hover-zoom for emoji etc.

This server has a post size of up to 800 characters.

:Fediverse: urusai.social

You can find out more at urusai.social/about or contact the admin @neatchee

Fedi.Garden 🌱's avatar
Fedi.Garden 🌱

@FediGarden@social.growyourown.services

Urusai.social is a friendly and non-toxic Glitch Mastodon server for anime, manga, and other otaku subjects. It includes lots of extra features including extended posts, emoji reactions, additional themes, hover-zoom for emoji etc.

This server has a post size of up to 800 characters.

:Fediverse: urusai.social

You can find out more at urusai.social/about or contact the admin @neatchee

Buddhist Art's avatar
Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

Seated statue of Bosatsu enshrined in the Hall of Atago Nenbutsu-ji, Arashiyama, , .

Seated statue of #Jizo Bosatsu enshrined in the #Jizo Hall of Atago Nenbutsu-ji, Arashiyama, #Kyoto, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsSeated statue of #Jizo Bosatsu enshrined in the #Jizo Hall of Atago Nenbutsu-ji, Arashiyama, #Kyoto, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
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Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

Seated statue of Bosatsu enshrined in the Hall of Atago Nenbutsu-ji, Arashiyama, , .

Seated statue of #Jizo Bosatsu enshrined in the #Jizo Hall of Atago Nenbutsu-ji, Arashiyama, #Kyoto, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsSeated statue of #Jizo Bosatsu enshrined in the #Jizo Hall of Atago Nenbutsu-ji, Arashiyama, #Kyoto, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Are you a food fan? Do you love trying new restaurants, sampling local specialties, and broadening your culinary horizons? In that case, you should definitely get to know Inogashira Goro - particularly his favorite places to eat in Tokyo.

unseen-japan.com/kodoku-no-gur

atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Lake Towada (1952)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

japan.travel/en/destinations/t

A little wooden lug-rigged sailboat navigates between rocky outcrops on Lake Towada. The rocks are covered with trees rusting red, yellow, and orange with the season. Beyond, on the far side of the lake, low hills are covered in yellowing foliage. The surface of the lake is calm, reflecting the boat and the rocks; above, a few puffy clouds hug the horizon as they cross the bright blue sky.
ALT text detailsA little wooden lug-rigged sailboat navigates between rocky outcrops on Lake Towada. The rocks are covered with trees rusting red, yellow, and orange with the season. Beyond, on the far side of the lake, low hills are covered in yellowing foliage. The surface of the lake is calm, reflecting the boat and the rocks; above, a few puffy clouds hug the horizon as they cross the bright blue sky.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Unlike Iceland, Japan’s feminist gains later faced organized backlash. After the Basic Act for a Gender Equal Society was passed in 1999, conservative groups and politicians began targeting “gender free” education and local equality ordinances.

unseen-japan.com/iceland-japan

atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Lake Towada (1952)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

japan.travel/en/destinations/t

A little wooden lug-rigged sailboat navigates between rocky outcrops on Lake Towada. The rocks are covered with trees rusting red, yellow, and orange with the season. Beyond, on the far side of the lake, low hills are covered in yellowing foliage. The surface of the lake is calm, reflecting the boat and the rocks; above, a few puffy clouds hug the horizon as they cross the bright blue sky.
ALT text detailsA little wooden lug-rigged sailboat navigates between rocky outcrops on Lake Towada. The rocks are covered with trees rusting red, yellow, and orange with the season. Beyond, on the far side of the lake, low hills are covered in yellowing foliage. The surface of the lake is calm, reflecting the boat and the rocks; above, a few puffy clouds hug the horizon as they cross the bright blue sky.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japan's most popular online marketplace is only available in a handful of other countries. That's all about to change. Mercari is slowly rolling out a worldwide app that will let anyone buy anything sold in Japan from anywhere.

unseen-japan.com/mercari-globa

Mercari app in multiple languages
ALT text detailsMercari app in multiple languages
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Less than a century earlier, Japan had urged the poorer segments of its rural population to leave their homes for the shores of Brazil. In the 1980s, for the first time in decades, it remembered its millions of prodigal sons and daughters living there.

unseen-japan.com/japanese-braz

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Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

Jurakuen Daibutsu, Tsubosaka-ji, .

Jurakuen Daibutsu, Tsubosaka-ji, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsJurakuen Daibutsu, Tsubosaka-ji, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
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Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

Jurakuen Daibutsu, Tsubosaka-ji, .

Jurakuen Daibutsu, Tsubosaka-ji, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsJurakuen Daibutsu, Tsubosaka-ji, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

As far as anyone can tell, "pien" as a word came into fashion among the JC (女子中学生; joshichuugakusei, middle schoolers) and JK (女子高校生; joshikoukousei, high schoolers) set around 2018. It took off in popularity around that time.

unseen-japan.com/pien-japanese

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

In 2009, Happy Science founded the Happiness Realization Party, blending “spiritual science” with outspoken nationalism and calls for rearmament of Japan. Founder Ōkawa Ryūhō became notorious for books he claimed to write by channeling historical figures.

unseen-japan.com/religion-poli

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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Many temples along Teramachi Street, such as Kō-dō (革堂 aka Gyōgan-ji 行願寺 the 'Deer Hide Temple'), grow tubs of fujibakama from the late summer, attracting large numbers of butterflies.

Butterfly on fujibakama.
ALT text detailsButterfly on fujibakama.
The main hall of Gyogan-ji.
ALT text detailsThe main hall of Gyogan-ji.
Gyogan-ji grows pots of fujibakama to attract butterflies in the autumn.
ALT text detailsGyogan-ji grows pots of fujibakama to attract butterflies in the autumn.
Gyogan-ji's incense holder.
ALT text detailsGyogan-ji's incense holder.
damian ☃️ willcox's avatar
damian ☃️ willcox

@dorkboycomics@sakurajima.social

Hello folks/friends/followers!

 My name is damian willcox - I have been making comics for MANY(possibly too many) years. You can find those at https://dorkboycomics.com . I also paint watercolours, so expect to see , , , paintings, and random notes periodically.

Here's a comic I made a few years back telling the story of the time I was in Japan and attended "Comiket" dressed up in my Godzilla costume. It was wonderful.

Also, you might have had a follow notification recently…It’s me, damian™, same guy just trying out a new Firefish server. Hoping to import my past posts, but still exploring that possibility so haven't done the full migration yet...stay tuned.

Comic re-telling the time I attended a comic convention in Japan dressed in a Godzilla costume.
ALT text detailsComic re-telling the time I attended a comic convention in Japan dressed in a Godzilla costume.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Many temples along Teramachi Street, such as Kō-dō (革堂 aka Gyōgan-ji 行願寺 the 'Deer Hide Temple'), grow tubs of fujibakama from the late summer, attracting large numbers of butterflies.

Butterfly on fujibakama.
ALT text detailsButterfly on fujibakama.
The main hall of Gyogan-ji.
ALT text detailsThe main hall of Gyogan-ji.
Gyogan-ji grows pots of fujibakama to attract butterflies in the autumn.
ALT text detailsGyogan-ji grows pots of fujibakama to attract butterflies in the autumn.
Gyogan-ji's incense holder.
ALT text detailsGyogan-ji's incense holder.
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:'s avatar
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:

@norbertwoehnl@famichiki.jp

Good morning from Japan!

Kagoshima on Kyushu is often compared with its Italian sister city Naples due to a similarly mild climate, relatively hot-tempered inhabitants and the presence of Mt. Sakurajima, an active volcano.

View through a narrow alley in Kagoshima, Japan.
ALT text detailsView through a narrow alley in Kagoshima, Japan.
On the ferry to Mt. Sakurajima in Kagoshima, Japan.
ALT text detailsOn the ferry to Mt. Sakurajima in Kagoshima, Japan.
Wedding procession at Terukuni Shrine in Kagoshima, Japan.
ALT text detailsWedding procession at Terukuni Shrine in Kagoshima, Japan.
Mt. Sakurajima volcano doing its thing, as seen from downtown Kagoshima, Japan.
ALT text detailsMt. Sakurajima volcano doing its thing, as seen from downtown Kagoshima, Japan.
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:'s avatar
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:

@norbertwoehnl@famichiki.jp

Good morning from Japan!

Kagoshima on Kyushu is often compared with its Italian sister city Naples due to a similarly mild climate, relatively hot-tempered inhabitants and the presence of Mt. Sakurajima, an active volcano.

View through a narrow alley in Kagoshima, Japan.
ALT text detailsView through a narrow alley in Kagoshima, Japan.
On the ferry to Mt. Sakurajima in Kagoshima, Japan.
ALT text detailsOn the ferry to Mt. Sakurajima in Kagoshima, Japan.
Wedding procession at Terukuni Shrine in Kagoshima, Japan.
ALT text detailsWedding procession at Terukuni Shrine in Kagoshima, Japan.
Mt. Sakurajima volcano doing its thing, as seen from downtown Kagoshima, Japan.
ALT text detailsMt. Sakurajima volcano doing its thing, as seen from downtown Kagoshima, Japan.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social

🦋BUTTERFLIES🐛

Sonyō-in (尊陽院), a sub-temple of Honpō-ji (本法寺), has a rather stunning ceiling.

not yet a butterfly
even as autumn passes
the caterpillar
秋を経て蝶もなめるや菊の露
-Matsuo Bashō (松尾芭蕉)
Trans. Reichhold.

Sonyo-in's sumptuous coffered ceiling features paintings of flowers and butterflies on a gilded background.
ALT text detailsSonyo-in's sumptuous coffered ceiling features paintings of flowers and butterflies on a gilded background.
A chestnut tiger buttefly.
ALT text detailsA chestnut tiger buttefly.
Sonyo-in's sumptuous coffered ceiling features paintings of flowers and butterflies on a gilded background.
ALT text detailsSonyo-in's sumptuous coffered ceiling features paintings of flowers and butterflies on a gilded background.
Sonyo-in's sumptuous coffered ceiling features paintings of flowers and butterflies on a gilded background.
ALT text detailsSonyo-in's sumptuous coffered ceiling features paintings of flowers and butterflies on a gilded background.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

[Insider] Want to see something beyond Shibuya Scramble? The famed ward of Tokyo is so much more than its bustling heart and Harajuku. In our latest paid newsletter, we dive into some of the less-traveled areas a short walk away from the station.

unseen-japan.com/shibuya-unsee

Side street off of the Hachiman Shopping Arcade
ALT text detailsSide street off of the Hachiman Shopping Arcade
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Wherever you go in Japan, there will certainly be plenty of onsens around. From Hokkaido to Okinawa, Japan is home to thousands of onsens, both natural and man-made. Here are some of the best to check out on your next trip.

unseen-japan.com/best-onsen-ja

atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Rising Moon at Katase River (1953)

Artist: Kasamatsu Shiro

kanpai-japan.com/tsukimi-moon-

A bright yellow full moon rises over a stretch of the Katase River. Tall grasses line the riverbank on our side of the water; on the opposite bank, houses stand along stone embankments and a short pier. A single pilot steers a little boat along the river with a pole, while another small boat is tied up alongside the dock. Beyond the houses, past a shadowy tree-lined silhouette of a nearby hill, the full moon shines in a clear, starless night sky. The light of the moon and the lights shining in the windows of the houses reflect and scatter along the surface of the river.
ALT text detailsA bright yellow full moon rises over a stretch of the Katase River. Tall grasses line the riverbank on our side of the water; on the opposite bank, houses stand along stone embankments and a short pier. A single pilot steers a little boat along the river with a pole, while another small boat is tied up alongside the dock. Beyond the houses, past a shadowy tree-lined silhouette of a nearby hill, the full moon shines in a clear, starless night sky. The light of the moon and the lights shining in the windows of the houses reflect and scatter along the surface of the river.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Rising Moon at Katase River (1953)

Artist: Kasamatsu Shiro

kanpai-japan.com/tsukimi-moon-

A bright yellow full moon rises over a stretch of the Katase River. Tall grasses line the riverbank on our side of the water; on the opposite bank, houses stand along stone embankments and a short pier. A single pilot steers a little boat along the river with a pole, while another small boat is tied up alongside the dock. Beyond the houses, past a shadowy tree-lined silhouette of a nearby hill, the full moon shines in a clear, starless night sky. The light of the moon and the lights shining in the windows of the houses reflect and scatter along the surface of the river.
ALT text detailsA bright yellow full moon rises over a stretch of the Katase River. Tall grasses line the riverbank on our side of the water; on the opposite bank, houses stand along stone embankments and a short pier. A single pilot steers a little boat along the river with a pole, while another small boat is tied up alongside the dock. Beyond the houses, past a shadowy tree-lined silhouette of a nearby hill, the full moon shines in a clear, starless night sky. The light of the moon and the lights shining in the windows of the houses reflect and scatter along the surface of the river.
Design Brouhaha's avatar
Design Brouhaha

@MoritzBrouhaha@typo.social

OK, it's time to talk about the last project I spent many, many days to make:
The digitalization of the Lovers Communication System (LoCoS)
I am thrilled to announce that I will present it at the next Symbol 24 Conference on September 20th. Grab a ticket here; this is an online conference!
symbol-group.org/

↓ 1/8 small thread to discover the project. Thanks for sharing !

Animated GIF depicting several symbols contained in LoCoS with Japanese, French, and English translations.
ALT text detailsAnimated GIF depicting several symbols contained in LoCoS with Japanese, French, and English translations.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Today in Japan, "mama" and "papa" for one's parents are now commonplace. But they were once so controversial that one legislator sought to have them banned. Here's the story of how Japan's native words lost out to their English counterparts.

unseen-japan.com/mama-papa-how

atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Hirakawa Bridge (1929)

Artist: Hiroshi Yoshida

asahi.com/ajw/articles/16073395

A full moon shines down on Tokyo's Hirakawa Bridge. The traditional wooden bridge spans the inner moat at Edo Castle in a graceful arc; the water below is calm and still, while beyond, the shadows of trees obscure the horizon. The bridge is deserted at this time of night. Above, a bright full moon shines in a starless night sky, illuminating tattered clouds as they slide by.
ALT text detailsA full moon shines down on Tokyo's Hirakawa Bridge. The traditional wooden bridge spans the inner moat at Edo Castle in a graceful arc; the water below is calm and still, while beyond, the shadows of trees obscure the horizon. The bridge is deserted at this time of night. Above, a bright full moon shines in a starless night sky, illuminating tattered clouds as they slide by.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Hirakawa Bridge (1929)

Artist: Hiroshi Yoshida

asahi.com/ajw/articles/16073395

A full moon shines down on Tokyo's Hirakawa Bridge. The traditional wooden bridge spans the inner moat at Edo Castle in a graceful arc; the water below is calm and still, while beyond, the shadows of trees obscure the horizon. The bridge is deserted at this time of night. Above, a bright full moon shines in a starless night sky, illuminating tattered clouds as they slide by.
ALT text detailsA full moon shines down on Tokyo's Hirakawa Bridge. The traditional wooden bridge spans the inner moat at Edo Castle in a graceful arc; the water below is calm and still, while beyond, the shadows of trees obscure the horizon. The bridge is deserted at this time of night. Above, a bright full moon shines in a starless night sky, illuminating tattered clouds as they slide by.
Buddhist Art's avatar
Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

Seated statue of Kujaku Myōō at Shoryaku-ji, , period. Peacocks have a handsome appearance, but it is said that they like to eat poisonous insects and poisonous snakes. However, peacocks are not affected by the poison. From this, Kujaku Myōō is said to have the merit of removing suffering, misfortune, and worldly desires that are poisonous to humans.

Seated statue of Kujaku Myōō at Shoryaku-ji, #Japan, #Kamakura period. Peacocks have a handsome appearance, but it is said that they like to eat poisonous insects and poisonous snakes. However, peacocks are not affected by the poison. From this, Kujaku Myōō is said to have the merit of removing suffering, misfortune, and worldly desires that are poisonous to humans. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsSeated statue of Kujaku Myōō at Shoryaku-ji, #Japan, #Kamakura period. Peacocks have a handsome appearance, but it is said that they like to eat poisonous insects and poisonous snakes. However, peacocks are not affected by the poison. From this, Kujaku Myōō is said to have the merit of removing suffering, misfortune, and worldly desires that are poisonous to humans. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
Buddhist Art's avatar
Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

Seated statue of Kujaku Myōō at Shoryaku-ji, , period. Peacocks have a handsome appearance, but it is said that they like to eat poisonous insects and poisonous snakes. However, peacocks are not affected by the poison. From this, Kujaku Myōō is said to have the merit of removing suffering, misfortune, and worldly desires that are poisonous to humans.

Seated statue of Kujaku Myōō at Shoryaku-ji, #Japan, #Kamakura period. Peacocks have a handsome appearance, but it is said that they like to eat poisonous insects and poisonous snakes. However, peacocks are not affected by the poison. From this, Kujaku Myōō is said to have the merit of removing suffering, misfortune, and worldly desires that are poisonous to humans. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsSeated statue of Kujaku Myōō at Shoryaku-ji, #Japan, #Kamakura period. Peacocks have a handsome appearance, but it is said that they like to eat poisonous insects and poisonous snakes. However, peacocks are not affected by the poison. From this, Kujaku Myōō is said to have the merit of removing suffering, misfortune, and worldly desires that are poisonous to humans. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: Ryokan or hotel for your Japan trip? Many assume hotels are the more convenient option, while ryokan are more of a cultural experience. And while there’s some truth to that, the reality is a little more nuanced.

unseen-japan.com/ryokans-vs-ho

Buddhist Art's avatar
Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

A painted example of the Fuji Mandara (富士曼荼羅), a mandala depicting the sacred landscape of Mount Fuji populated with earnest pilgrims making their way to the peaks above inhabited by three manifesting deities. Color on silk dating to the Muromachi period (1336-1573) from the collection of Fujisan Hongū Sengen Taisha Grand Shrine (富士山本宮浅間大社) in Fujinomiya, Shizuoka Prefecture, .

A painted example of the Fuji Mandara (富士曼荼羅), a mandala depicting the sacred landscape of Mount Fuji populated with earnest pilgrims making their way to the peaks above inhabited by three manifesting #Buddhist deities. Color on silk dating to the Muromachi period (1336-1573) from the collection of Fujisan Hongū Sengen Taisha Grand Shrine (富士山本宮浅間大社) in Fujinomiya, Shizuoka Prefecture, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsA painted example of the Fuji Mandara (富士曼荼羅), a mandala depicting the sacred landscape of Mount Fuji populated with earnest pilgrims making their way to the peaks above inhabited by three manifesting #Buddhist deities. Color on silk dating to the Muromachi period (1336-1573) from the collection of Fujisan Hongū Sengen Taisha Grand Shrine (富士山本宮浅間大社) in Fujinomiya, Shizuoka Prefecture, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
Buddhist Art's avatar
Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

A painted example of the Fuji Mandara (富士曼荼羅), a mandala depicting the sacred landscape of Mount Fuji populated with earnest pilgrims making their way to the peaks above inhabited by three manifesting deities. Color on silk dating to the Muromachi period (1336-1573) from the collection of Fujisan Hongū Sengen Taisha Grand Shrine (富士山本宮浅間大社) in Fujinomiya, Shizuoka Prefecture, .

A painted example of the Fuji Mandara (富士曼荼羅), a mandala depicting the sacred landscape of Mount Fuji populated with earnest pilgrims making their way to the peaks above inhabited by three manifesting #Buddhist deities. Color on silk dating to the Muromachi period (1336-1573) from the collection of Fujisan Hongū Sengen Taisha Grand Shrine (富士山本宮浅間大社) in Fujinomiya, Shizuoka Prefecture, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsA painted example of the Fuji Mandara (富士曼荼羅), a mandala depicting the sacred landscape of Mount Fuji populated with earnest pilgrims making their way to the peaks above inhabited by three manifesting #Buddhist deities. Color on silk dating to the Muromachi period (1336-1573) from the collection of Fujisan Hongū Sengen Taisha Grand Shrine (富士山本宮浅間大社) in Fujinomiya, Shizuoka Prefecture, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: The Tokyo Metropolitan Government and the Tokyo Sento Association are promoting the unique appeal of public bathhouses (sento) to international visitors in a new campaign running through the end of February 2026.

unseen-japan.com/sento-tokyo-t

Raymond Larabie's avatar
Raymond Larabie

@typodermic@mastodon.social

Order amid urban entropy, courtesy of a single red kanji. 🔷🔺

混沌の中の整然、赤い漢字がまとめ役。🟥⬡

A color photo showing a glowing hexagonal shop sign with a red kanji character at its center. The sign juts out from a textured wall painted dark blue and beige. Above and beside it, a security camera and light fixtures echo the angular shapes.
ALT text detailsA color photo showing a glowing hexagonal shop sign with a red kanji character at its center. The sign juts out from a textured wall painted dark blue and beige. Above and beside it, a security camera and light fixtures echo the angular shapes.
Raymond Larabie's avatar
Raymond Larabie

@typodermic@mastodon.social

Order amid urban entropy, courtesy of a single red kanji. 🔷🔺

混沌の中の整然、赤い漢字がまとめ役。🟥⬡

A color photo showing a glowing hexagonal shop sign with a red kanji character at its center. The sign juts out from a textured wall painted dark blue and beige. Above and beside it, a security camera and light fixtures echo the angular shapes.
ALT text detailsA color photo showing a glowing hexagonal shop sign with a red kanji character at its center. The sign juts out from a textured wall painted dark blue and beige. Above and beside it, a security camera and light fixtures echo the angular shapes.
The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

JR East on Saturday started operating trains decorated with designs of two past Yamanote Line models, ahead of the 100th anniversary of the line's circular operation on Nov. 1. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/10/

Resolviendo la incógnita 🌐's avatar
Resolviendo la incógnita 🌐

@RLIBlog@mastodon.social

En su primera expedición, Inō Tadataka no logró financiación para cartografiar Japón y los gastos corrieron de su bolsillo, pero su excelente labor cambió esa situación. Pasó 17 años recorriendo las costas y parte del interior de Japon. Al morir en 1818, dejó inacabado el Dai Nihon Enkai Yochi Zenzu ("Mapas de la zona costera de Japón"), pero su equipo lo finalizó 3 años después.

Composición de mapas para completar todas las costas de Japón.
ALT text detailsComposición de mapas para completar todas las costas de Japón.
Resolviendo la incógnita 🌐's avatar
Resolviendo la incógnita 🌐

@RLIBlog@mastodon.social

En su primera expedición, Inō Tadataka no logró financiación para cartografiar Japón y los gastos corrieron de su bolsillo, pero su excelente labor cambió esa situación. Pasó 17 años recorriendo las costas y parte del interior de Japon. Al morir en 1818, dejó inacabado el Dai Nihon Enkai Yochi Zenzu ("Mapas de la zona costera de Japón"), pero su equipo lo finalizó 3 años después.

Composición de mapas para completar todas las costas de Japón.
ALT text detailsComposición de mapas para completar todas las costas de Japón.
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:'s avatar
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:

@norbertwoehnl@famichiki.jp

Happy Friday from Japan!

The scorching heat is over for this year, and I'm getting in the mood for a much-needed autumn season - so hear are some photos from Ukan Valley, a fabulous location in Okayama Prefecture.

Colorful autumn foliage at Ukan Gorge, a tributary of the Asahikawa River in Okayama Prefecture, Japan.
ALT text detailsColorful autumn foliage at Ukan Gorge, a tributary of the Asahikawa River in Okayama Prefecture, Japan.
Colorful autumn foliage at Ukan Gorge, a tributary of the Asahikawa River in Okayama Prefecture, Japan.
ALT text detailsColorful autumn foliage at Ukan Gorge, a tributary of the Asahikawa River in Okayama Prefecture, Japan.
Colorful autumn foliage at Ukan Gorge, a tributary of the Asahikawa River in Okayama Prefecture, Japan.
ALT text detailsColorful autumn foliage at Ukan Gorge, a tributary of the Asahikawa River in Okayama Prefecture, Japan.
Colorful autumn foliage at Ukan Gorge, a tributary of the Asahikawa River in Okayama Prefecture, Japan.
ALT text detailsColorful autumn foliage at Ukan Gorge, a tributary of the Asahikawa River in Okayama Prefecture, Japan.
The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

JR East on Saturday started operating trains decorated with designs of two past Yamanote Line models, ahead of the 100th anniversary of the line's circular operation on Nov. 1. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/10/

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

When most people think “Japanese food,” they probably think of sushi or ramen. But there’s so much more to Japanese cuisine. Here's why tourists increasingly have their eyes on the country’s vast number of variations on the incredible, edible egg.

unseen-japan.com/japan-egg-cui

Darnell Clayton :verified:'s avatar
Darnell Clayton :verified:

@darnell@one.darnell.one

This would be an incredible first for Japan 🇯🇵, although I do not know much about her politics other than the fact that she is labeled conservative by media outlets.

👉🏾 🇯🇵 Set for First Female Prime Minister nytimes.com/2025/10/04/world/a

Update: I had a few more minutes to read more into the article (getting ready for work). Yeah, she is super conservative & I think her & Trump would “get along” with each other.

Darnell Clayton :verified:'s avatar
Darnell Clayton :verified:

@darnell@one.darnell.one

This would be an incredible first for Japan 🇯🇵, although I do not know much about her politics other than the fact that she is labeled conservative by media outlets.

👉🏾 🇯🇵 Set for First Female Prime Minister nytimes.com/2025/10/04/world/a

Update: I had a few more minutes to read more into the article (getting ready for work). Yeah, she is super conservative & I think her & Trump would “get along” with each other.

Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Like a cosmos in the wind...🌬️

Cosmos blowing in the wind.
ALT text detailsCosmos blowing in the wind.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Autumn in Hakone Museum (1954)

Artist: Toshi Yoshida

hakone-japan.com/discover/hist

A bright autumn day in the gardens at Hakone Museum. In the foreground, a narrow path curves and divides: one branch leads toward an archway on the right, while the other leads toward a small pond enclosed by a steep banks up ahead. Trees and shrubs of various kinds populate the landscape, all turning yellow and orange and red with the season. Beyond, dramatic mountains dominate the view; a trail of white smoke rises from a valley somewhere among them, drifting off into the clear blue sky.
ALT text detailsA bright autumn day in the gardens at Hakone Museum. In the foreground, a narrow path curves and divides: one branch leads toward an archway on the right, while the other leads toward a small pond enclosed by a steep banks up ahead. Trees and shrubs of various kinds populate the landscape, all turning yellow and orange and red with the season. Beyond, dramatic mountains dominate the view; a trail of white smoke rises from a valley somewhere among them, drifting off into the clear blue sky.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Autumn in Hakone Museum (1954)

Artist: Toshi Yoshida

hakone-japan.com/discover/hist

A bright autumn day in the gardens at Hakone Museum. In the foreground, a narrow path curves and divides: one branch leads toward an archway on the right, while the other leads toward a small pond enclosed by a steep banks up ahead. Trees and shrubs of various kinds populate the landscape, all turning yellow and orange and red with the season. Beyond, dramatic mountains dominate the view; a trail of white smoke rises from a valley somewhere among them, drifting off into the clear blue sky.
ALT text detailsA bright autumn day in the gardens at Hakone Museum. In the foreground, a narrow path curves and divides: one branch leads toward an archway on the right, while the other leads toward a small pond enclosed by a steep banks up ahead. Trees and shrubs of various kinds populate the landscape, all turning yellow and orange and red with the season. Beyond, dramatic mountains dominate the view; a trail of white smoke rises from a valley somewhere among them, drifting off into the clear blue sky.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

There's a pervasive myth that the Japanese language lacks swear words. It's true that Japanese doesn't have a codified list of socially egregious expletives à la English. Yet there does, in fact, exist a level of words beyond mere rudeness.

unseen-japan.com/kotobagari-ja

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The “Nikoniko Lunch” was created as an allergy-friendly option, not for religious purposes. However, some people distorted this fact and spread false claims on social media, saying that Muslim-friendly lunches were now on the menu.

unseen-japan.com/kitakyushu-mu

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Through its political wing, the Shintō Association of Spiritual Leadership (SAS, or Shintō Seiji Renmei), Jinja Honchō lobbies for conservative causes such as constitutional revision, moral education, and support for Yasukuni Shrine.

buff.ly/rF8F1zZ

Headquarters for Jinja Honchō (the Association of Shintō Shrines)
ALT text detailsHeadquarters for Jinja Honchō (the Association of Shintō Shrines)
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Like a cosmos in the wind...🌬️

Cosmos blowing in the wind.
ALT text detailsCosmos blowing in the wind.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Deep Autumn (1979)

Artist: Kasamatsu Shiro

asahi.com/ajw/articles/16022626

A clear autumn day, looking toward a snow-capped Mount Fuji. In the foreground, a slow-moving river flows past; on the opposite bank, a high wall conceals all but the upper floor of a traditional thatched-roof house. Nearby, trees and grasses are golden yellow with the turning season. Further on, Mount Fuji dominates the view, its snowy peak reflected in the river below.
ALT text detailsA clear autumn day, looking toward a snow-capped Mount Fuji. In the foreground, a slow-moving river flows past; on the opposite bank, a high wall conceals all but the upper floor of a traditional thatched-roof house. Nearby, trees and grasses are golden yellow with the turning season. Further on, Mount Fuji dominates the view, its snowy peak reflected in the river below.
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:'s avatar
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:

@norbertwoehnl@famichiki.jp

Happy Friday from Japan!

The scorching heat is over for this year, and I'm getting in the mood for a much-needed autumn season - so hear are some photos from Ukan Valley, a fabulous location in Okayama Prefecture.

Colorful autumn foliage at Ukan Gorge, a tributary of the Asahikawa River in Okayama Prefecture, Japan.
ALT text detailsColorful autumn foliage at Ukan Gorge, a tributary of the Asahikawa River in Okayama Prefecture, Japan.
Colorful autumn foliage at Ukan Gorge, a tributary of the Asahikawa River in Okayama Prefecture, Japan.
ALT text detailsColorful autumn foliage at Ukan Gorge, a tributary of the Asahikawa River in Okayama Prefecture, Japan.
Colorful autumn foliage at Ukan Gorge, a tributary of the Asahikawa River in Okayama Prefecture, Japan.
ALT text detailsColorful autumn foliage at Ukan Gorge, a tributary of the Asahikawa River in Okayama Prefecture, Japan.
Colorful autumn foliage at Ukan Gorge, a tributary of the Asahikawa River in Okayama Prefecture, Japan.
ALT text detailsColorful autumn foliage at Ukan Gorge, a tributary of the Asahikawa River in Okayama Prefecture, Japan.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Deep Autumn (1979)

Artist: Kasamatsu Shiro

asahi.com/ajw/articles/16022626

A clear autumn day, looking toward a snow-capped Mount Fuji. In the foreground, a slow-moving river flows past; on the opposite bank, a high wall conceals all but the upper floor of a traditional thatched-roof house. Nearby, trees and grasses are golden yellow with the turning season. Further on, Mount Fuji dominates the view, its snowy peak reflected in the river below.
ALT text detailsA clear autumn day, looking toward a snow-capped Mount Fuji. In the foreground, a slow-moving river flows past; on the opposite bank, a high wall conceals all but the upper floor of a traditional thatched-roof house. Nearby, trees and grasses are golden yellow with the turning season. Further on, Mount Fuji dominates the view, its snowy peak reflected in the river below.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Tourists to Japan used to be able to get a powerful souvenir: a Japanese driver's license. But that's all changed. The country has officially closed a loophole that let some travelers get a local license with nothing but a letter from their hotel.

unseen-japan.com/japan-drivers

Woman holding fake Japanese driver's license behind a toy car
ALT text detailsWoman holding fake Japanese driver's license behind a toy car
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: The National Police Agency (NPA) is considering amendments to Japan’s Stalker Regulation Act. The proposed changes would enable officers to issue warnings to suspected stalkers without requiring victims to file requests first.

unseen-japan.com/japan-stalkin

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: With its strict drug laws, it can be hard to get high in Japan. That leads some people to resort to any means necessary for a buzz. The latest dangerous trend is leading to calls for an outright ban on all vaping.

unseen-japan.com/zombie-cigare

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: Some in Japan choose to use karaoke booths to do the deed rather than spend the extra money on a couple of hours at a love hotel. The question is: why? And what happens if you're caught?

unseen-japan.com/karaoke-room-

atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Phoenix Hall, Byodo-in, Uji (1933)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

byodoin.or.jp/en/around/

Dusk falls at the the Phoenix Hall, part of the Byodo-in Temple in Uji, Kyoto Prefecture. In the foreground, the surface of the Aji-ike pond is still and calm; just beyond, one wing of the Phoenix Hall stands backed by tall trees, their leaves turning colour with the season. No people are visible, and everything seems peaceful and quiet. Above, the sky glows burnt orange and coral, with deeper evening beginning to colour the horizon.
ALT text detailsDusk falls at the the Phoenix Hall, part of the Byodo-in Temple in Uji, Kyoto Prefecture. In the foreground, the surface of the Aji-ike pond is still and calm; just beyond, one wing of the Phoenix Hall stands backed by tall trees, their leaves turning colour with the season. No people are visible, and everything seems peaceful and quiet. Above, the sky glows burnt orange and coral, with deeper evening beginning to colour the horizon.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social

🙏BIG BUDDHA AMONGST THE COSMOS😇

Nara is one of the best places in Japan to see cosmos, and in recent years Hannya-ji (般若寺) has taken great efforts to make itself one of the best places in Nara to enjoy the flowers...
...that, and a very unusual soda🥤

A soda inspired by Nara's Great Buddha (big candy floss hair!).
ALT text detailsA soda inspired by Nara's Great Buddha (big candy floss hair!).
A display of vibrant pink cosmos at Hannya-ji.
ALT text detailsA display of vibrant pink cosmos at Hannya-ji.
Nao-san pushes against a large rock in the grounds of Hannya-ji.
ALT text detailsNao-san pushes against a large rock in the grounds of Hannya-ji.
Cosmos flowers blooming in the grounds of Hannya-ji.
ALT text detailsCosmos flowers blooming in the grounds of Hannya-ji.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Phoenix Hall, Byodo-in, Uji (1933)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

byodoin.or.jp/en/around/

Dusk falls at the the Phoenix Hall, part of the Byodo-in Temple in Uji, Kyoto Prefecture. In the foreground, the surface of the Aji-ike pond is still and calm; just beyond, one wing of the Phoenix Hall stands backed by tall trees, their leaves turning colour with the season. No people are visible, and everything seems peaceful and quiet. Above, the sky glows burnt orange and coral, with deeper evening beginning to colour the horizon.
ALT text detailsDusk falls at the the Phoenix Hall, part of the Byodo-in Temple in Uji, Kyoto Prefecture. In the foreground, the surface of the Aji-ike pond is still and calm; just beyond, one wing of the Phoenix Hall stands backed by tall trees, their leaves turning colour with the season. No people are visible, and everything seems peaceful and quiet. Above, the sky glows burnt orange and coral, with deeper evening beginning to colour the horizon.
Airports Bot's avatar
Airports Bot

@airports_bot@mastodon.world

Chubu Centrair International Airport - Tokoname, Japan

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ch%C5%AB
openstreetmap.org/#map=13/34.8

Airports Bot's avatar
Airports Bot

@airports_bot@mastodon.world

Chubu Centrair International Airport - Tokoname, Japan

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ch%C5%AB
openstreetmap.org/#map=13/34.8

Djamila Knopf's avatar
Djamila Knopf

@djamilaknopf@mastodon.art

I painted this autumn scene a few years ago. medium: Photoshop

a digital painting of a girl and a fox in front of a torii gate and shrine; autumn colours
ALT text detailsa digital painting of a girl and a fox in front of a torii gate and shrine; autumn colours
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: More municipalities across Japan plan to introduce lodging taxes on hotel and inn stays, a Kyodo News survey found. The poll, covering 1,723 municipalities nationwide, showed 92 in 32 prefectures are considering new levies.

unseen-japan.com/lodging-taxes

Djamila Knopf's avatar
Djamila Knopf

@djamilaknopf@mastodon.art

I painted this autumn scene a few years ago. medium: Photoshop

a digital painting of a girl and a fox in front of a torii gate and shrine; autumn colours
ALT text detailsa digital painting of a girl and a fox in front of a torii gate and shrine; autumn colours
Djamila Knopf's avatar
Djamila Knopf

@djamilaknopf@mastodon.art

I painted this autumn scene a few years ago. medium: Photoshop

a digital painting of a girl and a fox in front of a torii gate and shrine; autumn colours
ALT text detailsa digital painting of a girl and a fox in front of a torii gate and shrine; autumn colours
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Yabusame takes years of practice to perfect, but it is a highly coveted art that emphasizes the samurai spirit and the unspoken language between rider and horse, known as kyuba no michi (弓馬の道) (きゅばのみち), or “the way of the bow and horse.”

unseen-japan.com/yabusame-japa

The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Japan has decided to allow same-sex couples to be treated as being in de facto marriages under a total of nine more laws and ordinances, including the disaster condolence grant law. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/10/

Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

While it is known as 'jigokubana' (地獄花 'hell flower'), higanbana have numerous medicinal qualities.

The plants' alkaloid properties are antibacterial, its roots can be used to treat ulcers and swellings, and the bulbs are antitoxin in nature and can help with burns!

Close up of a red spider lily.
ALT text detailsClose up of a red spider lily.
A field of red spider lilies.
ALT text detailsA field of red spider lilies.
Close up of a red spider lily flower.
ALT text detailsClose up of a red spider lily flower.
Close up of a red spider lily flower.
ALT text detailsClose up of a red spider lily flower.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

In a round about way this brings us back to red, long seen as a protective colour in Japan.

One reason for this may well be to do with smallpox. When a person's skin turned red (rather than purple) it was believed they would recover, and so the colour became significant❤️

A small statue of a tanuki with his own red bib.
ALT text detailsA small statue of a tanuki with his own red bib.
Small statues of Jizo, each with their own bib.
ALT text detailsSmall statues of Jizo, each with their own bib.
Old wooden statue of Binzuru at Todai-ji, with red hat and bib.
ALT text detailsOld wooden statue of Binzuru at Todai-ji, with red hat and bib.
A red bibbed Komainu.
ALT text detailsA red bibbed Komainu.
Japan's avatar
Japan

@Japan@channels.im

Same-sex partners recognized under more laws in Japan

The government has decided to allow same-sex couples to be treated as being in de facto marriages under a total of nine more laws and ordinances, including the disaster condolence grant law, it was learned Tuesday. The decision follows a Supreme Court ruling in M…
-sexmarriage
alojapan.com/1381871/same-sex-

Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

There was a belief amongst the Japanese Kirishitans (吉利支丹/切支丹/キリシタン) during the long persecution of Christianity in the Edo period, that the flowers would grow wherever the blood of Christian martyrs was spilt.

Higanbana bloom before a 'Kirishitan' lantern at Taizo-in.
ALT text detailsHiganbana bloom before a 'Kirishitan' lantern at Taizo-in.
Painting of the Christian Martyrs of Nagasaki.
ALT text detailsPainting of the Christian Martyrs of Nagasaki.
Woodblock print of a Christian mass being held in Japan. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of a Christian mass being held in Japan. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
Woodblock print of a potential Kirishitan being forced by the authorities to walk on a Christian idol to prove he is not Kirishitan. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of a potential Kirishitan being forced by the authorities to walk on a Christian idol to prove he is not Kirishitan. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

While it is known as 'jigokubana' (地獄花 'hell flower'), higanbana have numerous medicinal qualities.

The plants' alkaloid properties are antibacterial, its roots can be used to treat ulcers and swellings, and the bulbs are antitoxin in nature and can help with burns!

Close up of a red spider lily.
ALT text detailsClose up of a red spider lily.
A field of red spider lilies.
ALT text detailsA field of red spider lilies.
Close up of a red spider lily flower.
ALT text detailsClose up of a red spider lily flower.
Close up of a red spider lily flower.
ALT text detailsClose up of a red spider lily flower.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Did you come to Japan to admire the natural beauty, only to find yourself surrounded by ugly power lines? Why ARE Japanese skies so wiry, anyway? We take a look at how cable and power lines came to blanket the urban Japanese landscape.

buff.ly/LKOHT1Y

Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

It's likely that higanbana were introduced from China at the same time as rice cultivation.
The poisonous scarlet flowers were once commonly planted around graveyards and fields to deter animals (particularly mice and rats) from feasting on corpses and rice.

Higanbana growing between rice fields. It is thought the flowers acted as a deterrent for pests.
ALT text detailsHiganbana growing between rice fields. It is thought the flowers acted as a deterrent for pests.
A butterfly alights on a red spider lily.
ALT text detailsA butterfly alights on a red spider lily.
Higanbana shoots.
ALT text detailsHiganbana shoots.
Red spider lilies were brought to Japan from the mainland along with the first rice plants.
ALT text detailsRed spider lilies were brought to Japan from the mainland along with the first rice plants.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

In the Lotus Sutra (妙法蓮華経) higanbana are described as growing in profusion in hell, their vibrant colour guiding the dead towards reincarnation.

It is said that the flowers will bloom on paths for lovers or loved ones who, for whatever reason, will never meet again😢

A forest floor filled with blooming higanbana.
ALT text detailsA forest floor filled with blooming higanbana.
Votive tablet featuring Jizo saving souls being tortured in hell!
ALT text detailsVotive tablet featuring Jizo saving souls being tortured in hell!
Not a firework, but the close up of a red spider lily flower.
ALT text detailsNot a firework, but the close up of a red spider lily flower.
Higanbana odd an eerie red glow to a gloomy forest interior.
ALT text detailsHiganbana odd an eerie red glow to a gloomy forest interior.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

In the Lotus Sutra (妙法蓮華経) higanbana are described as growing in profusion in hell, their vibrant colour guiding the dead towards reincarnation.

It is said that the flowers will bloom on paths for lovers or loved ones who, for whatever reason, will never meet again😢

A forest floor filled with blooming higanbana.
ALT text detailsA forest floor filled with blooming higanbana.
Votive tablet featuring Jizo saving souls being tortured in hell!
ALT text detailsVotive tablet featuring Jizo saving souls being tortured in hell!
Not a firework, but the close up of a red spider lily flower.
ALT text detailsNot a firework, but the close up of a red spider lily flower.
Higanbana odd an eerie red glow to a gloomy forest interior.
ALT text detailsHiganbana odd an eerie red glow to a gloomy forest interior.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

It's likely that higanbana were introduced from China at the same time as rice cultivation.
The poisonous scarlet flowers were once commonly planted around graveyards and fields to deter animals (particularly mice and rats) from feasting on corpses and rice.

Higanbana growing between rice fields. It is thought the flowers acted as a deterrent for pests.
ALT text detailsHiganbana growing between rice fields. It is thought the flowers acted as a deterrent for pests.
A butterfly alights on a red spider lily.
ALT text detailsA butterfly alights on a red spider lily.
Higanbana shoots.
ALT text detailsHiganbana shoots.
Red spider lilies were brought to Japan from the mainland along with the first rice plants.
ALT text detailsRed spider lilies were brought to Japan from the mainland along with the first rice plants.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

In the Lotus Sutra (妙法蓮華経) higanbana are described as growing in profusion in hell, their vibrant colour guiding the dead towards reincarnation.

It is said that the flowers will bloom on paths for lovers or loved ones who, for whatever reason, will never meet again😢

A forest floor filled with blooming higanbana.
ALT text detailsA forest floor filled with blooming higanbana.
Votive tablet featuring Jizo saving souls being tortured in hell!
ALT text detailsVotive tablet featuring Jizo saving souls being tortured in hell!
Not a firework, but the close up of a red spider lily flower.
ALT text detailsNot a firework, but the close up of a red spider lily flower.
Higanbana odd an eerie red glow to a gloomy forest interior.
ALT text detailsHiganbana odd an eerie red glow to a gloomy forest interior.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

It's likely that higanbana were introduced from China at the same time as rice cultivation.
The poisonous scarlet flowers were once commonly planted around graveyards and fields to deter animals (particularly mice and rats) from feasting on corpses and rice.

Higanbana growing between rice fields. It is thought the flowers acted as a deterrent for pests.
ALT text detailsHiganbana growing between rice fields. It is thought the flowers acted as a deterrent for pests.
A butterfly alights on a red spider lily.
ALT text detailsA butterfly alights on a red spider lily.
Higanbana shoots.
ALT text detailsHiganbana shoots.
Red spider lilies were brought to Japan from the mainland along with the first rice plants.
ALT text detailsRed spider lilies were brought to Japan from the mainland along with the first rice plants.
Nithin Coca నితిన్'s avatar
Nithin Coca నితిన్

@ncoca@social.coop

I always get overwhelmed by the sheer number of cafes in . It feels like, to me, that there are 5-10X as many cafes here compared to a similar neighborhood in or

It's so hard to tell which ones are good for and which ones aren't - most are mediocre but some are amazing.

In I've got this skill down - identifying good vs mediocre just from appearance, but in I'm lost.

Alfie Goodrich's avatar
Alfie Goodrich

@alfiegoodrich@photog.social

Good morning. Refreshingly cooler so far here today, in Tokyo.
Heading out soon to do a photo lesson with a student. Looking forward to that.

Whatever you're up too today, make it a great day!

Photo from 2017, using a tilt-shift lens on the Hasselblad to get this of the Tokyo Tower.

Luv&peace
❤️

he Tokyo Tower on a sunny day in 2017, photographed from the old World Trade Centre building in Hamamatsucho. We see Zojoji shrine in the left foreground, surrounded by trees. It's all rendered out of focus by the thin plane of focus created by the titl-shift lens setup used to make this photograph. The sun is setting. Warm light pervades the scene, reflecting brightly in places from several other buildings in the area. A haze is in the sky, filtering the sunlight.
ALT text detailshe Tokyo Tower on a sunny day in 2017, photographed from the old World Trade Centre building in Hamamatsucho. We see Zojoji shrine in the left foreground, surrounded by trees. It's all rendered out of focus by the thin plane of focus created by the titl-shift lens setup used to make this photograph. The sun is setting. Warm light pervades the scene, reflecting brightly in places from several other buildings in the area. A haze is in the sky, filtering the sunlight.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Just an FYI - we're busy with tours this week, so the next issues of the Unseen Japan Newsletter and UJ Insider are delayed. We'll be back at full strength next week! In the meantime, you can subscribe to the free Newsletter here:

unseen-japan.com/newsletter

Alfie Goodrich's avatar
Alfie Goodrich

@alfiegoodrich@photog.social

Good morning. Refreshingly cooler so far here today, in Tokyo.
Heading out soon to do a photo lesson with a student. Looking forward to that.

Whatever you're up too today, make it a great day!

Photo from 2017, using a tilt-shift lens on the Hasselblad to get this of the Tokyo Tower.

Luv&peace
❤️

he Tokyo Tower on a sunny day in 2017, photographed from the old World Trade Centre building in Hamamatsucho. We see Zojoji shrine in the left foreground, surrounded by trees. It's all rendered out of focus by the thin plane of focus created by the titl-shift lens setup used to make this photograph. The sun is setting. Warm light pervades the scene, reflecting brightly in places from several other buildings in the area. A haze is in the sky, filtering the sunlight.
ALT text detailshe Tokyo Tower on a sunny day in 2017, photographed from the old World Trade Centre building in Hamamatsucho. We see Zojoji shrine in the left foreground, surrounded by trees. It's all rendered out of focus by the thin plane of focus created by the titl-shift lens setup used to make this photograph. The sun is setting. Warm light pervades the scene, reflecting brightly in places from several other buildings in the area. A haze is in the sky, filtering the sunlight.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: Ishikawa Prefecture and Kanazawa City have launched a targeted social media campaign aimed at foreign visitors. It echoes measures in other regions of Japan that are grappling with overtourism.

unseen-japan.com/japan-tourism

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: Are Chinese solar panels warming Japan? Do they pose an infrastructure threat to the country? The answer is simple - and complicated. Learn more in our post for our Insider subscribers. Not a member? Subscribe below.

unseen-japan.com/chinese-solar

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: After several African news outlets misreported a pedestrian announcement, Japan’s right-wing sprang into action. The result? A protest in Tokyo where over a hundred clueless people openly expressed their Fear of a Black Japan.

unseen-japan.com/japan-africa-

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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Red higanbana may be most prevalent, but spider lilies also come in white and yellow varieties😲

Within Umenomiya Taisha's (梅宮大社) sprawling garden is a quiet grove filled with colourful higanbana. The shrine is always a treasure trove of flowers🙌

Red and yellow spider lilies at Umenomiya Taisha.
ALT text detailsRed and yellow spider lilies at Umenomiya Taisha.
Gorgeous white spider lilies at Umenomiya Taisha.
ALT text detailsGorgeous white spider lilies at Umenomiya Taisha.
Vivid yellow spider lilies at Umenomiya Taisha.
ALT text detailsVivid yellow spider lilies at Umenomiya Taisha.
Gorgeous white spider lilies at Umenomiya Taisha.
ALT text detailsGorgeous white spider lilies at Umenomiya Taisha.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Higan (彼岸) translates as 'Other Shore', a reference to the far shore of the Sanzu River (三途の川 Sanzu-no-kawa, aka 'River of the Three Crossings'). Similar to the River Styx in Greek Mythology, the dead would cross the river to reach the afterlife.

A couple walks along a river bank filled with red spider lilies.
ALT text detailsA couple walks along a river bank filled with red spider lilies.
Woodblock print of the hell hag 'Datsue-ba' and king of hell 'Enma'. Behind Datsue-ba it is possible to see clothes hanging from the tree (she would strip the dead of their clothes). Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org and https://bunkakanko-annai.city.shinjuku.lg.jp
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of the hell hag 'Datsue-ba' and king of hell 'Enma'. Behind Datsue-ba it is possible to see clothes hanging from the tree (she would strip the dead of their clothes). Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org and https://bunkakanko-annai.city.shinjuku.lg.jp
Statue of the hell hag 'Datsue-ba' (奪衣婆), who strips the dead of their clothes once they cross the 'River of Three Crossings', Photo thanks - https://bunkakanko-annai.city.shinjuku.lg.jp
ALT text detailsStatue of the hell hag 'Datsue-ba' (奪衣婆), who strips the dead of their clothes once they cross the 'River of Three Crossings', Photo thanks - https://bunkakanko-annai.city.shinjuku.lg.jp
Stones are piled into small towers at a shrine in Arashiyama. Traditionally the souls of children and babies would build such towers after cross the 'River of Three Crossings' as penance.
ALT text detailsStones are piled into small towers at a shrine in Arashiyama. Traditionally the souls of children and babies would build such towers after cross the 'River of Three Crossings' as penance.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Red higanbana may be most prevalent, but spider lilies also come in white and yellow varieties😲

Within Umenomiya Taisha's (梅宮大社) sprawling garden is a quiet grove filled with colourful higanbana. The shrine is always a treasure trove of flowers🙌

Red and yellow spider lilies at Umenomiya Taisha.
ALT text detailsRed and yellow spider lilies at Umenomiya Taisha.
Gorgeous white spider lilies at Umenomiya Taisha.
ALT text detailsGorgeous white spider lilies at Umenomiya Taisha.
Vivid yellow spider lilies at Umenomiya Taisha.
ALT text detailsVivid yellow spider lilies at Umenomiya Taisha.
Gorgeous white spider lilies at Umenomiya Taisha.
ALT text detailsGorgeous white spider lilies at Umenomiya Taisha.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social

🙏'FLOWERS OF THE DEAD'😰

From early autumn vivid clusters of flowers begin to frequently appear beside the roads, rice fields and waterways of Kyōto.

In Japan spider lilies (particularly the red variety) are known as 'higanbana' (彼岸花), as they bloom around the fall equinox.

Red spider lilies (higanbana) bloom beside the path in Myoshin-ji.
ALT text detailsRed spider lilies (higanbana) bloom beside the path in Myoshin-ji.
Higanbana can be seen growing by the wayside all across the city during autumn.
ALT text detailsHiganbana can be seen growing by the wayside all across the city during autumn.
Higanbana and lantern in Taizo-in.
ALT text detailsHiganbana and lantern in Taizo-in.
Higanbana preparing to bloom in Myoshin-ji.
ALT text detailsHiganbana preparing to bloom in Myoshin-ji.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: A new survey from a major Japanese marketing firm finds that Japan remains a top draw for repeat tourism. The country’s combini also remain as popular as ever – with an unexpected dish topping travelers’ list of must-try goods.

unseen-japan.com/combini-sushi

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Minoru Saba

@minorusaba@toad.social

"Census takers carry an ID and a designated tote bag when visiting homes..."
🔸Seems weak as a method of authentication as anyone could run off a fake ID badge and tote bag.
Census form packet containing a return enveloped was dropped in the post when we were out a few days ago.
Checked return address to make sure it wasn't a scam.
Filled census form and posted envelope obviating need to meet census taker, genuine or otherwise.
mastodon.social/@thejapantimes

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

In 1964, Sōka Gakkai founded Kōmeitō as its political arm. The new party claimed to represent ordinary citizens, especially those outside Japan’s traditional elite. Over time, it became known for pacifism, social welfare, and education reform.

unseen-japan.com/religion-poli

The Kōmeitō poster above touts new policies that started in 2023, including free medical care for kids up to the third year of high school, free daycare for a family’s first two children until age 2, and a one-time 500,000 yen ($3,380) payment at birth.
ALT text detailsThe Kōmeitō poster above touts new policies that started in 2023, including free medical care for kids up to the third year of high school, free daycare for a family’s first two children until age 2, and a one-time 500,000 yen ($3,380) payment at birth.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Dietary requirements. Personal tastes. General uncertainty. Restaurants can be a minefield of problems for some, especially when abroad. Here are some Japanese phrases and words you can use to navigate the experience on your next trip.

unseen-japan.com/dining-out-in

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The misinformation campaign alleged that an Afghan Muslim woman petitioned the city of Kitakyushu to provide school lunches for her elementary school child that excluded pork and pork extract, which are religiously prohibited.

unseen-japan.com/kitakyushu-mu

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Dyptre

@geoff_eg@mastodon.social

Alright my enthusiasts, thoughts on this plan?

I'm wanting a small pocketable cameras like the Ricoh GR and similar for an upcoming trip to . But, even 10yr old models are $800CAD+. I realized maybe I should just take a film camera instead.

I have an Olympus Pen EE2 and some that might do the trick. This would be my only camera on the trip aside from my phone. Thoughts?

インディー通信 Indie Tsushin's avatar
インディー通信 Indie Tsushin

@indietsushin@mastodon.gamedev.place

The Kobe Game Labyrinth will be held on October 25 (Saturday) from 11:00-17:00. Admission is free! They have the list of exhibitors up on their website now, so even if you can't go, you can check out these games:

ktmg-llc.com/kobegamelabyrinth

Kobe Game Labyrinth
ALT text detailsKobe Game Labyrinth
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Dyptre

@geoff_eg@mastodon.social

Alright my enthusiasts, thoughts on this plan?

I'm wanting a small pocketable cameras like the Ricoh GR and similar for an upcoming trip to . But, even 10yr old models are $800CAD+. I realized maybe I should just take a film camera instead.

I have an Olympus Pen EE2 and some that might do the trick. This would be my only camera on the trip aside from my phone. Thoughts?

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Misinformation about school lunches for Muslim students has sparked a storm in Kitakyushu City in Fukuoka Prefecture. There, false claims of "Muslim-friendly meals" triggered more than 1,000 complaints and disrupted city operations.

unseen-japan.com/kitakyushu-mu

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Taiwan is showcasing its biodiversity, art and advanced computer chip manufacturing technology as a private exhibitor at the Osaka Expo. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/09/

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Taiwan is showcasing its biodiversity, art and advanced computer chip manufacturing technology as a private exhibitor at the Osaka Expo. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/09/

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atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Ohara in Autumn (1963)

Artist: Kasamatsu Shiro

insidekyoto.com/a-day-trip-to-

A bright autumn day on a farm in Ohara, near Kyoto, Japan. In the foreground, layers of farming terraces separated by stone retaining walls are filled with golden rice; the sheaves closest to us have been cut and hung to dry on racks, while just beyond, a trio of farm workers continues to harvest the crop. Further on, a group of buildings including traditional thatched-roof houses stands sheltered by a dark forest marching up the mountainside and out of view.
ALT text detailsA bright autumn day on a farm in Ohara, near Kyoto, Japan. In the foreground, layers of farming terraces separated by stone retaining walls are filled with golden rice; the sheaves closest to us have been cut and hung to dry on racks, while just beyond, a trio of farm workers continues to harvest the crop. Further on, a group of buildings including traditional thatched-roof houses stands sheltered by a dark forest marching up the mountainside and out of view.
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atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Ohara in Autumn (1963)

Artist: Kasamatsu Shiro

insidekyoto.com/a-day-trip-to-

A bright autumn day on a farm in Ohara, near Kyoto, Japan. In the foreground, layers of farming terraces separated by stone retaining walls are filled with golden rice; the sheaves closest to us have been cut and hung to dry on racks, while just beyond, a trio of farm workers continues to harvest the crop. Further on, a group of buildings including traditional thatched-roof houses stands sheltered by a dark forest marching up the mountainside and out of view.
ALT text detailsA bright autumn day on a farm in Ohara, near Kyoto, Japan. In the foreground, layers of farming terraces separated by stone retaining walls are filled with golden rice; the sheaves closest to us have been cut and hung to dry on racks, while just beyond, a trio of farm workers continues to harvest the crop. Further on, a group of buildings including traditional thatched-roof houses stands sheltered by a dark forest marching up the mountainside and out of view.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: Women-only parking spaces first appeared in Japan in the 1980s. They were introduced to improve safety and convenience, but they also spark debate. Supporters see them as practical and secure. Others claim they amount to gender discrimination. .

unseen-japan.com/women-only-pa

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Need more Japanese reading practice? Trying to understand newspaper-level Japanese? For the most part, it requires a lot of immersive reading. But there are some tools you can use to help give you a leg up.

unseen-japan.com/japanese-read

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Dazai Osamu was raised by a rotating cast of nursemaids and relatives. He became more isolated and anxious as he grew older. As he grew, he would adopt what he would call his “clown persona” as a consequence of his family’s emotional distance.

unseen-japan.com/dazai-osamu-r

Dazai’s most famous work, No Longer Human (人間失格; ningen shikkaku), has been adapted numerous times for other media, including a manga by esteemed horror artist Itō Junji in 2017.
ALT text detailsDazai’s most famous work, No Longer Human (人間失格; ningen shikkaku), has been adapted numerous times for other media, including a manga by esteemed horror artist Itō Junji in 2017.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The Welcome Suica Mobile app will now be linked to the JR-East Train Reservation service. This means that users can use the app to book tickets on the Narita Express (N’EX), the rapid train service from Narita Airport to Tokyo and Yokohama.

unseen-japan.com/welcome-suica

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: Online marketplaces in Japan often ban items deemed inappropriate for resale. The most recent banned product is one that some say has only one purpose: blackmailing men by making them think they're about to become a daddy.

unseen-japan.com/mercarci-ultr

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Some say Japan isn't religious. You wouldn't conclude that by looking at its politics, though. Here's a full run-down on how various religious groups have intertwined themselves with the country's major political parties, from Sōka Gakkai to the Unification Church.

unseen-japan.com/religion-poli

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Velocipede Rider

@ruari@velocipederider.com

So @sotolf reminded me of something I kind of love. The Japanese "30-hour system". Used in nightlife, broadcasting, and transport, the time extends the day past midnight to keep late-night events grouped with the same calendar day. So a club open from 11PM to 1AM might list its hours as 23:00–25:00.

We should all adopt this!

Sadly Wikipedia does not have a detailed page on this system in English but here is a little longer explanation:

skdesu.com/en/30-hours-from/

A sign for underground bike parking from Japan. The opening hours state 5:00 to 25:00
ALT text detailsA sign for underground bike parking from Japan. The opening hours state 5:00 to 25:00
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

There are "customs" in Japan that many consider trite and outdated. One drew a pretty strong reaction on Twitter back in the day. It's something a lot of people both in - and out - of Japan - do on the regular: putting wasabi in their soy sauce.

unseen-japan.com/wasabi-soy-sa

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NIGHTEͶ

@NIGHTEN@hi.nighten.fr

I made a dream come true: I traveled to the other side of the world to bring my art to its model 😊

In case you missed it, here is the full story!

#MastoArt #Inspiration #Illustration #FediArt #Japan

Video: A hand holding a print of an illustration showing a Japanese street in pink shades. The hand then move over, revealing the exact street that was used as a model
ALT text detailsVideo: A hand holding a print of an illustration showing a Japanese street in pink shades. The hand then move over, revealing the exact street that was used as a model
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: A recent article interviewed tourists about their favorite lesser-known travel spots in Tokyo. They highlight a mix of cultural sites, shopping experiences, and even a few places to relax and take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city.

unseen-japan.com/hidden-travel

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Back in May, two police officers in Kyoto were arrested for planting cameras in women's station bathrooms. Now, an inspector in Shizuoka Prefecture has been arrested for putting a camera in the women's in a police box. WHY JAPANESE POLICE OFFICERS??

news.livedoor.com/article/deta

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atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Mount Fuji from Hara, on the Tokaido (1942)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

wattention.com/traditional-ric

An autumn day on a rice farm somewhere in Hara, Japan. In the foreground, a lone farm worker stoops to tend to a field of golden rice. Just beyond, a group of farmhouses stands amongst tall trees; further on, low tree-covered mountains cross the horizon. In the distance, dominating the view, the snow-capped Mount Fuji rises into a hazy sky.
ALT text detailsAn autumn day on a rice farm somewhere in Hara, Japan. In the foreground, a lone farm worker stoops to tend to a field of golden rice. Just beyond, a group of farmhouses stands amongst tall trees; further on, low tree-covered mountains cross the horizon. In the distance, dominating the view, the snow-capped Mount Fuji rises into a hazy sky.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Mount Fuji from Hara, on the Tokaido (1942)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

wattention.com/traditional-ric

An autumn day on a rice farm somewhere in Hara, Japan. In the foreground, a lone farm worker stoops to tend to a field of golden rice. Just beyond, a group of farmhouses stands amongst tall trees; further on, low tree-covered mountains cross the horizon. In the distance, dominating the view, the snow-capped Mount Fuji rises into a hazy sky.
ALT text detailsAn autumn day on a rice farm somewhere in Hara, Japan. In the foreground, a lone farm worker stoops to tend to a field of golden rice. Just beyond, a group of farmhouses stands amongst tall trees; further on, low tree-covered mountains cross the horizon. In the distance, dominating the view, the snow-capped Mount Fuji rises into a hazy sky.
NIGHTEͶ's avatar
NIGHTEͶ

@NIGHTEN@hi.nighten.fr

I made a dream come true: I traveled to the other side of the world to bring my art to its model 😊

In case you missed it, here is the full story!

#MastoArt #Inspiration #Illustration #FediArt #Japan

Video: A hand holding a print of an illustration showing a Japanese street in pink shades. The hand then move over, revealing the exact street that was used as a model
ALT text detailsVideo: A hand holding a print of an illustration showing a Japanese street in pink shades. The hand then move over, revealing the exact street that was used as a model
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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Hoping to convey the horrors of war, a former resident of Tinian in the Mariana Islands is passing on the tragedy of his father killing his younger sisters during a mass suicide after U.S. forces landed in World War II. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/09/

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Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

A copy of the Sonshō , a deployed in rituals praying for prosperity, longevity, rain, and/or the purification of sins, with the (大日如来) in the center surrounded by emanating & as well as to the lower left and to the lower right. Kamakura period (1185-1333) at Hōjū-in (宝寿院) on Mount Kōya in Wakayama Prefecture, .

A copy of the Sonshō #Mandara, a #mandala deployed in rituals praying for prosperity, longevity, rain, and/or the purification of sins, with the #cosmic #buddha #Dainichi #Nyorai (大日如来) in the center surrounded by emanating #buddhas & #bodhisattvas as well as #FudōMyōō to the lower left and #GōsanzeMyōō to the lower right. Kamakura period (1185-1333) at Hōjū-in (宝寿院) on Mount Kōya in Wakayama Prefecture, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsA copy of the Sonshō #Mandara, a #mandala deployed in rituals praying for prosperity, longevity, rain, and/or the purification of sins, with the #cosmic #buddha #Dainichi #Nyorai (大日如来) in the center surrounded by emanating #buddhas & #bodhisattvas as well as #FudōMyōō to the lower left and #GōsanzeMyōō to the lower right. Kamakura period (1185-1333) at Hōjū-in (宝寿院) on Mount Kōya in Wakayama Prefecture, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
NIGHTEͶ's avatar
NIGHTEͶ

@NIGHTEN@hi.nighten.fr

I made a dream come true: I traveled to the other side of the world to bring my art to its model 😊

In case you missed it, here is the full story!

#MastoArt #Inspiration #Illustration #FediArt #Japan

Video: A hand holding a print of an illustration showing a Japanese street in pink shades. The hand then move over, revealing the exact street that was used as a model
ALT text detailsVideo: A hand holding a print of an illustration showing a Japanese street in pink shades. The hand then move over, revealing the exact street that was used as a model
Buddhist Art's avatar
Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

A copy of the Sonshō , a deployed in rituals praying for prosperity, longevity, rain, and/or the purification of sins, with the (大日如来) in the center surrounded by emanating & as well as to the lower left and to the lower right. Kamakura period (1185-1333) at Hōjū-in (宝寿院) on Mount Kōya in Wakayama Prefecture, .

A copy of the Sonshō #Mandara, a #mandala deployed in rituals praying for prosperity, longevity, rain, and/or the purification of sins, with the #cosmic #buddha #Dainichi #Nyorai (大日如来) in the center surrounded by emanating #buddhas & #bodhisattvas as well as #FudōMyōō to the lower left and #GōsanzeMyōō to the lower right. Kamakura period (1185-1333) at Hōjū-in (宝寿院) on Mount Kōya in Wakayama Prefecture, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsA copy of the Sonshō #Mandara, a #mandala deployed in rituals praying for prosperity, longevity, rain, and/or the purification of sins, with the #cosmic #buddha #Dainichi #Nyorai (大日如来) in the center surrounded by emanating #buddhas & #bodhisattvas as well as #FudōMyōō to the lower left and #GōsanzeMyōō to the lower right. Kamakura period (1185-1333) at Hōjū-in (宝寿院) on Mount Kōya in Wakayama Prefecture, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Local legends in Japan urge couples to avoid these spots like the plague. Some are said to be bad luck. Others aren’t haunted or hexed – they’re just places you shouldn’t go until you and your partner have truly tested your relationship.

unseen-japan.com/couples-break

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Hoping to convey the horrors of war, a former resident of Tinian in the Mariana Islands is passing on the tragedy of his father killing his younger sisters during a mass suicide after U.S. forces landed in World War II. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/09/

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Velocipede Rider

@ruari@velocipederider.com

So @sotolf reminded me of something I kind of love. The Japanese "30-hour system". Used in nightlife, broadcasting, and transport, the time extends the day past midnight to keep late-night events grouped with the same calendar day. So a club open from 11PM to 1AM might list its hours as 23:00–25:00.

We should all adopt this!

Sadly Wikipedia does not have a detailed page on this system in English but here is a little longer explanation:

skdesu.com/en/30-hours-from/

A sign for underground bike parking from Japan. The opening hours state 5:00 to 25:00
ALT text detailsA sign for underground bike parking from Japan. The opening hours state 5:00 to 25:00
Velocipede Rider's avatar
Velocipede Rider

@ruari@velocipederider.com

So @sotolf reminded me of something I kind of love. The Japanese "30-hour system". Used in nightlife, broadcasting, and transport, the time extends the day past midnight to keep late-night events grouped with the same calendar day. So a club open from 11PM to 1AM might list its hours as 23:00–25:00.

We should all adopt this!

Sadly Wikipedia does not have a detailed page on this system in English but here is a little longer explanation:

skdesu.com/en/30-hours-from/

A sign for underground bike parking from Japan. The opening hours state 5:00 to 25:00
ALT text detailsA sign for underground bike parking from Japan. The opening hours state 5:00 to 25:00
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

blades of grass
are plucked for their sake...
equinox dumplings
草の葉や彼岸団子にむしらるる
-Kobayashi Issa (小林一茶), 1805.
Trans. David G. Lanoue.

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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Botamochi (牡丹餅) feature in a lovely little proverb (ことわざ 'kotowaza').

'Tana kara botamochi' (棚からぼたもち), lit. 'a botamochi falls down from the shelf'.

It means to 'receive a windfall' or get 'a lucky break'.

Enjoying the cherry blossoms in Nara.
ALT text detailsEnjoying the cherry blossoms in Nara.
Ohagi for tea time.
ALT text detailsOhagi for tea time.
A perfectly smooth botamochi.
ALT text detailsA perfectly smooth botamochi.
Enjoying the cherry blossoms in Nara.
ALT text detailsEnjoying the cherry blossoms in Nara.
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:'s avatar
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:

@norbertwoehnl@famichiki.jp

Good morning from Tokyo on a bright Wednesday! I am working at the office today, and the view from the 18th floor never gets old for me. Also a nice showcase for Heliographe’s panoramic 65x24 app.

From an office building in the Otemachi area of Tokyo, Japan, a view towards Tokyo Station and surrounding high-rise buildings.
ALT text detailsFrom an office building in the Otemachi area of Tokyo, Japan, a view towards Tokyo Station and surrounding high-rise buildings.
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Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:

@norbertwoehnl@famichiki.jp

Good morning from Tokyo on a bright Wednesday! I am working at the office today, and the view from the 18th floor never gets old for me. Also a nice showcase for Heliographe’s panoramic 65x24 app.

From an office building in the Otemachi area of Tokyo, Japan, a view towards Tokyo Station and surrounding high-rise buildings.
ALT text detailsFrom an office building in the Otemachi area of Tokyo, Japan, a view towards Tokyo Station and surrounding high-rise buildings.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Tourists from all over the world are flocking to Kamakura in Japan. However, more visitors mean more problems, as the idyllic setting of the anime SLAM DUNK says it's struggling with everything from vandalism to people using public spaces as toilets.

unseen-japan.com/kamakura-tour

Komachi Street in Kamakura
ALT text detailsKomachi Street in Kamakura
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Akihabara is famous the world over as Japan’s capital of anime and electronics. But is it losing its edge? Here's why, as tourism booms and Japan’s otaku (geek) culture shifts and changes, Akiba is facing stiff competition.

unseen-japan.com/akihabara-ota

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: Designed to crack down on what many felt was a growing lawlessness and licentiousness in Japan, the 1984 Entertainment Law revision drove the so-called “no-panties cafes” and many other sexually-charged businesses out of business.

unseen-japan.com/1980s-japan-s

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Local LGBTQ advocacy group Pink Dot Okinawa condemned Wada Keiko's remarks on transgender people and demanded an official apology. Editorials in Okinawan newspapers echoed these demands, calling her remarks “clearly discriminatory.”

unseen-japan.com/sanseito-tran

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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

In Buddhism the equinox is known as Higan (彼岸).
Higan translates as 'Other Shore', a reference to the far shore of the 'Sanzu-no-kawa' (三途の川 'River of the 3 Crossings').
Similar to the River Styx in Greek Mythology, the dead would cross the river to reach the afterlife.

Nao-san contemplates the dry landscape garden at Ryoan-ji.
ALT text detailsNao-san contemplates the dry landscape garden at Ryoan-ji.
Autumn colours at Shinnyo-do.
ALT text detailsAutumn colours at Shinnyo-do.
The Buddhist colours flying at Chishaku-in.
ALT text detailsThe Buddhist colours flying at Chishaku-in.
A small pilgrim walks along the base of this unusual sweet.
ALT text detailsA small pilgrim walks along the base of this unusual sweet.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs stressed that child sex tourism to Laos could result in prosecution back in Japan. Recently, Aichi Prefectural Police arrested two men in their 60s for filming minors in Laos and sharing the content online.

unseen-japan.com/japanese-sex-

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

"This is funny first thing in the morning lol"

ゆうま @yuma55subway 朝からこれは笑うだろwwwww
ALT text detailsゆうま @yuma55subway 朝からこれは笑うだろwwwww
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

An X user laments that Japanese manga and pop culture retailer Mandarake is using crappy AI imagery for a poster seeking new employees (look at the store name on the woman's lapel, and the number of digits on the guy's hand in the bottom left)

ゲームブロガー双葉ラー油 @daikai6 まんだらけならもっとちゃんとしたイラストを使って欲しいな……って通る度に思う張り紙
ALT text details ゲームブロガー双葉ラー油 @daikai6 まんだらけならもっとちゃんとしたイラストを使って欲しいな……って通る度に思う張り紙
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atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Rice Planting (1953)

Artist: Kasamatsu Shiro

worldhistory.org/article/1082/

Spring in a mountain village somewhere in Japan. Villagers in broad bamboo hats plant rice in a flooded paddy; beyond, farmhouses stand tucked in among trees at the base of the mountains. Further on, the forested peaks of mountains are obscured by mist. Above, the sky is pale blue with a few stray clouds passing by.
ALT text detailsSpring in a mountain village somewhere in Japan. Villagers in broad bamboo hats plant rice in a flooded paddy; beyond, farmhouses stand tucked in among trees at the base of the mountains. Further on, the forested peaks of mountains are obscured by mist. Above, the sky is pale blue with a few stray clouds passing by.
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atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Rice Harvesting (1953)

Artist: Kasamatsu Shiro

mainichi.jp/english/articles/2

A bright autumn day on a farm somewhere in rural Japan. In the foreground, the rice paddies have been drained, and workers cut down golden sheaves of rice. On our right, a cow pauses by a cleared paddy, observing the humans' progress. Beyond, a cluster of traditional thatched-roof buildings stands next to a small lake; further on, a line of evergreens underscores the hazy shapes of mountains in the distance. Above, a few puffy while clouds cross a bright blue sky.
ALT text detailsA bright autumn day on a farm somewhere in rural Japan. In the foreground, the rice paddies have been drained, and workers cut down golden sheaves of rice. On our right, a cow pauses by a cleared paddy, observing the humans' progress. Beyond, a cluster of traditional thatched-roof buildings stands next to a small lake; further on, a line of evergreens underscores the hazy shapes of mountains in the distance. Above, a few puffy while clouds cross a bright blue sky.
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atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Rice Harvesting (1953)

Artist: Kasamatsu Shiro

mainichi.jp/english/articles/2

A bright autumn day on a farm somewhere in rural Japan. In the foreground, the rice paddies have been drained, and workers cut down golden sheaves of rice. On our right, a cow pauses by a cleared paddy, observing the humans' progress. Beyond, a cluster of traditional thatched-roof buildings stands next to a small lake; further on, a line of evergreens underscores the hazy shapes of mountains in the distance. Above, a few puffy while clouds cross a bright blue sky.
ALT text detailsA bright autumn day on a farm somewhere in rural Japan. In the foreground, the rice paddies have been drained, and workers cut down golden sheaves of rice. On our right, a cow pauses by a cleared paddy, observing the humans' progress. Beyond, a cluster of traditional thatched-roof buildings stands next to a small lake; further on, a line of evergreens underscores the hazy shapes of mountains in the distance. Above, a few puffy while clouds cross a bright blue sky.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The August 14 bear attack wasn’t the first red flag in Hokkaido's Shiretoko. Locals had already dealt with “Rusha Taro,” a male bear that killed or mauled at least eight pet dogs between 2018 and 2021. In 2022, hunters killed him after he ate a dog in broad daylight.

unseen-japan.com/tourists-feed

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: In Ashikaga City, Tochigi Prefecture, a full-scale replica of the Shibuya Scramble Crossing has attracted filmmakers, TV crews, and musicians since 2019. In November, the city will open the set to the public.

unseen-japan.com/ashikaga-repl

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Anime fans, too, are becoming new readers of Dazai Osamu in part due to shows like Bungo Stray Dogs. The show’s writer, Kafka Asagiri, was deeply inspired by No Longer Human and based much of the anime’s themes on those found in Dazai’s work.

unseen-japan.com/dazai-osamu-r

The character of Dazai Osamu from Bungo Stray Dogs, based loosely on the real-life author
ALT text detailsThe character of Dazai Osamu from Bungo Stray Dogs, based loosely on the real-life author
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

During the meeting, which lasted about 50 minutes, the president scolded her, saying, “Stop mocking grown-ups” and “Go home, you’re on leave.” He also insulted her, saying, “You’re like a stray dog.”

unseen-japan.com/d-up-harassme

Tokyo District Court
ALT text detailsTokyo District Court
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: Accidents involving cars rented by foreign tourists have spiked dramatically in the Fuji foothills of Yamanashi Prefecture. What’s driving the sudden increase? And what are authorities doing to drive the numbers back down?

unseen-japan.com/mt-fuji-drivi

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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

bush clover blooms,
silver grass and kudzu,
pinks,
valerian
and fujibakama,
morning glory blooms.
萩の花尾花葛花くずはな撫子の花
女郎花をみなへしまた藤袴ふぢはかま朝顔の花

-Yamanoue-no-Okura (山上憶良).
Man'yōshū (万葉集) poem 1538.

Pictures of the '7 Flowers of Autumn'. Image thanks - http://ochirato.com/1164.html
ALT text detailsPictures of the '7 Flowers of Autumn'. Image thanks - http://ochirato.com/1164.html
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

bush clover blooms,
silver grass and kudzu,
pinks,
valerian
and fujibakama,
morning glory blooms.
萩の花尾花葛花くずはな撫子の花
女郎花をみなへしまた藤袴ふぢはかま朝顔の花

-Yamanoue-no-Okura (山上憶良).
Man'yōshū (万葉集) poem 1538.

Pictures of the '7 Flowers of Autumn'. Image thanks - http://ochirato.com/1164.html
ALT text detailsPictures of the '7 Flowers of Autumn'. Image thanks - http://ochirato.com/1164.html
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

For supporters of Tachibana Takashi who stopped paying their NHK broadcast fees, the reckoning was brutal. Lump-sum demands for years of unpaid fees arrived in inboxes. Late interest and court costs ballooned those amounts even higher.

unseen-japan.com/nhk-party-fee

Picture of a TV in a living room with the NHK logo, Tachibana Takashi, and a request for payment slip
ALT text detailsPicture of a TV in a living room with the NHK logo, Tachibana Takashi, and a request for payment slip
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Joseph Lim :mastodon:

@joseph11lim@mastodon.social · Reply to Joseph Lim :mastodon:'s post

allows by 🤦‍♂️

Japan to reject Palestinian state recognition at to avoid ‘annoying’ Trump
"puts Tokyo in a ‘weak position’ as other US allies r expected to support the resolution at .. a move one analyst described as “embarrassing”.. UK, Australia, Canada & France said they'll back formal recognition of a .. Tokyo’s position was influenced by US, which “conveyed its opposition to Japan regarding te matter”"

scmp.com/week-asia/politics/ar

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japan's papa-katsu (パパ活; sugar daddy) apps are styled after US-based services like Seeking Arrangement. Users are men and women looking for either long-term financial arrangements or one-off sexual encounters.

unseen-japan.com/hikaru-open-m

In Instagram ads, Paddy bills itself as "the dating app where old guys are so sought after it's chaos"
ALT text detailsIn Instagram ads, Paddy bills itself as "the dating app where old guys are so sought after it's chaos"
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Friends & authorities in Makkari, Hokkaido were looking for an 87yo man who went missing while foraging for mushrooms. While Fuji News was interviewing his friends, the man emerged from the woods: "Hey guys, sorry."

youtube.com/watch?v=le3xzSzXTk

Rescuers actively looking for the man
ALT text detailsRescuers actively looking for the man
Friend describes where man entered the woods
ALT text detailsFriend describes where man entered the woods
Friends turn around as man calls
ALT text detailsFriends turn around as man calls
"I just got back"
ALT text details"I just got back"
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Some castles in Japan may boast a greater fame. All share a beauty that invites visitors to step into a nostalgic past. Which Japanese castles are most popular among tourists? Check out our ranking below to find out.

unseen-japan.com/top-castles-j

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

On October 24, 1975, 90% of Icelandic women stopped working for a day. On that day, women refused to cook, clean, or provide childcare. They walked off their jobs in offices, schools, factories, and airlines.

unseen-japan.com/iceland-japan

Photo of Icelandic women participating in the general women's strike
ALT text detailsPhoto of Icelandic women participating in the general women's strike
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atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Fuji from Kawaguchi-ko (1933)

Artist: Koitsu Tsuchiya

www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/sho

An early morning view looking over Lake Kawaguchi, toward a snow-capped Mount Fuji beyond. In the foreground, a pair of wiry pine trees screen our view of the calm lake; on the far side of the water, Mount Fuji rises from a skirt of mist and a few puffy clouds, its eastern-facing flank tinted rose with the dawn.
ALT text detailsAn early morning view looking over Lake Kawaguchi, toward a snow-capped Mount Fuji beyond. In the foreground, a pair of wiry pine trees screen our view of the calm lake; on the far side of the water, Mount Fuji rises from a skirt of mist and a few puffy clouds, its eastern-facing flank tinted rose with the dawn.
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atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Fuji from Kawaguchi-ko (1933)

Artist: Koitsu Tsuchiya

www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/sho

An early morning view looking over Lake Kawaguchi, toward a snow-capped Mount Fuji beyond. In the foreground, a pair of wiry pine trees screen our view of the calm lake; on the far side of the water, Mount Fuji rises from a skirt of mist and a few puffy clouds, its eastern-facing flank tinted rose with the dawn.
ALT text detailsAn early morning view looking over Lake Kawaguchi, toward a snow-capped Mount Fuji beyond. In the foreground, a pair of wiry pine trees screen our view of the calm lake; on the far side of the water, Mount Fuji rises from a skirt of mist and a few puffy clouds, its eastern-facing flank tinted rose with the dawn.
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Ukraine War Bulletins and News

@SocraticEthics@mastodon.online

⛔️🇭🇺EU plans to pay €550 million to Hungary in blackmail ransom to secure sanctions against Russia – FT (more) pravda.com.ua/eng/news/2025/09

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Ukraine War Bulletins and News

@SocraticEthics@mastodon.online

⛔️🇭🇺EU plans to pay €550 million to Hungary in blackmail ransom to secure sanctions against Russia – FT (more) pravda.com.ua/eng/news/2025/09

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Serhii Nazarovets

@serhii@mstdn.science

The Biology Prize goes to Japanese scientists… for painting cows like zebras! 🇯🇵🐄 Black cows with white stripes got 50% fewer fly bites – no pesticides, just paint and creativity.

🎨 doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0

Happy cows, fewer flies, and a lot of laughs. Genius is simple! 👏

Kojima T, Oishi K, Matsubara Y, Uchiyama Y, Fukushima Y, Aoki N, et al. (2019) Cows painted with zebra-like striping can avoid biting fly attack. PLoS ONE 14(10): e0223447. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0223447
ALT text detailsKojima T, Oishi K, Matsubara Y, Uchiyama Y, Fukushima Y, Aoki N, et al. (2019) Cows painted with zebra-like striping can avoid biting fly attack. PLoS ONE 14(10): e0223447. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0223447
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Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

Dainichi Nyorai, Zenko-ji, .

Dainichi Nyorai, Zenko-ji, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsDainichi Nyorai, Zenko-ji, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
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Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

Dainichi Nyorai, Zenko-ji, .

Dainichi Nyorai, Zenko-ji, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsDainichi Nyorai, Zenko-ji, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

While Kabukicho Tower may not be popular as a tourist attraction, it's profitable as a tourist epicenter. Its businesses constitute a large hotel lobby that picks up incidental business from lodgers, concert-goers, and the random passers-by.

unseen-japan.com/kabukicho-tow

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

When is a Japanese combini not a combini? When it's located in the Tokyo Bay area. Learn about Tokyo's oddly-marked "port stores," why they exist, and who runs them below.

unseen-japan.com/port-store-to

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

A group of Japanese researchers won this year's Ig Nobel Prize for biology — a spoof of the Nobel Prize — for discovering that painting cows in a zebra pattern makes them attract fewer blood-feeding insects. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/09/

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

A group of Japanese researchers won this year's Ig Nobel Prize for biology — a spoof of the Nobel Prize — for discovering that painting cows in a zebra pattern makes them attract fewer blood-feeding insects. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/09/

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Calls are growing in Osaka Prefecture for a review of "minpaku" private lodging services in special zones, with locals annoyed by the behavior of some foreign guests. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/09/

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Joseph Lim :mastodon:

@joseph11lim@mastodon.social

🤦‍♂️Disappointing sovereign

won’t recognise a Palestinian state given US ties, says report
"Japan won't recognise a for now, likely to maintain relations w & to avoid a harden'g of ’s attitude, Asahi newspaper reported cit'g unidentified sources. Several govts, incl'g , , & , hv said they wld recognise a Palestinian state at te in Sept, add'g international pressure on Israel"
straitstimes.com/asia/east-asi

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Serhii Nazarovets

@serhii@mstdn.science

The Biology Prize goes to Japanese scientists… for painting cows like zebras! 🇯🇵🐄 Black cows with white stripes got 50% fewer fly bites – no pesticides, just paint and creativity.

🎨 doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0

Happy cows, fewer flies, and a lot of laughs. Genius is simple! 👏

Kojima T, Oishi K, Matsubara Y, Uchiyama Y, Fukushima Y, Aoki N, et al. (2019) Cows painted with zebra-like striping can avoid biting fly attack. PLoS ONE 14(10): e0223447. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0223447
ALT text detailsKojima T, Oishi K, Matsubara Y, Uchiyama Y, Fukushima Y, Aoki N, et al. (2019) Cows painted with zebra-like striping can avoid biting fly attack. PLoS ONE 14(10): e0223447. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0223447
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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Calls are growing in Osaka Prefecture for a review of "minpaku" private lodging services in special zones, with locals annoyed by the behavior of some foreign guests. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/09/

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: If you’re into Japanese subculture or just pure kitsch, odds are you’ve been to this chain somewhere in Japan. The store shocked fans recently, however, when it announced that it was closing almost a third of its existing stores. What happened?

unseen-japan.com/village-vangu

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

If you find yourself in Japan for multiple weeks and months at a time – whether for work, leisure, or otherwise – you’ll need an affordable place to stay. Luckily, today there are tons of options. Here are some of the best.

unseen-japan.com/the-best-plac

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Nithin Coca నితిన్

@ncoca@social.coop

Someone shared an article written by a visitor to that started by calling Nishinomiya - a city of nearly 500,000 in , near a "neighborhood on the outskirts of .

And that was when I decided this article wasn't worth reading anymore.

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: For centuries, Japan has jealously guarded its reputation as a gun-free nation, offering a striking contrast to countries where owning a firearm can be as easy as grabbing a morning coffee. And by most measures, it’s worked.

unseen-japan.com/japan-gun-con

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Extinct media. Bugs and parasites. The history of tobacco and waterworks. These are just a few of the interesting topics you can explore in this collection of unique museums located around Tokyo. How many have you been to (and which one is your fave)?

unseen-japan.com/fun-museums-i

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Sanseitō emphasizes the restoration of traditional Japanese values and resistance to "Western liberal influence." Its members frequently challenge LGBTQ inclusion, framing diversity initiatives as harmful to social cohesion and family stability.

unseen-japan.com/sanseito-tran

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

In the 2025 Gender Gap report, Iceland again held the top spot at number one – a spot it’s held for 14 years. By contrast, Japan ranked 118th out of 146 countries – a result not much different from its poor showings in 2024, 2023, and 2022.

unseen-japan.com/iceland-japan

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Despite its very 70s vibes, international settings, and jazzy music, Lupin often features deep Japanese cultural pulls. Transposing the action to late 16th-century Japan works more easily than you might imagine.

unseen-japan.com/we-saw-the-lu

The Lupin cast in their usual anime form in an advertisement for the Minami-za production of Rupan Sansei.
ALT text detailsThe Lupin cast in their usual anime form in an advertisement for the Minami-za production of Rupan Sansei.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

The '7 Flowers of Autumn' (秋の七草):

💮bellflowers (桔梗 'kikyō')
💮bush clover (萩 'hagi')
💮miscanthus (尾花 'obana')
💮kudzu (葛 'kuzu')
💮large pink (撫子 'nadeshiko')
💮yellow valerian (女郎花 'ominaeshi')
💮boneset (藤袴 'fujibakama')

Fields of fujibakama in Ohara.
ALT text detailsFields of fujibakama in Ohara.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

flowers blossoming
in autumn fields-
when I count them on my fingers
they then number seven
秋の野に咲きたる花を
指および折りかき数ふれば七種ななくさの花

-Yamanoue-no-Okura (山上憶良 660–733).
Man'yōshū (万葉集), poem 1537.

A short video of the shishi-odoshi (鹿おどし) at Daihikaku Senkō-ji (大悲閣千光寺).
ALT text detailsA short video of the shishi-odoshi (鹿おどし) at Daihikaku Senkō-ji (大悲閣千光寺).
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

The '7 Flowers of Autumn' (秋の七草):

💮bellflowers (桔梗 'kikyō')
💮bush clover (萩 'hagi')
💮miscanthus (尾花 'obana')
💮kudzu (葛 'kuzu')
💮large pink (撫子 'nadeshiko')
💮yellow valerian (女郎花 'ominaeshi')
💮boneset (藤袴 'fujibakama')

Fields of fujibakama in Ohara.
ALT text detailsFields of fujibakama in Ohara.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social

🌿THE 7 FLOWERS OF AUTUMN🥣

Mirroring the '7 Herbs of Spring' (七草の節句), consumed for good health and luck in January, come the '7 Flowers of Autumn', known as 'Aki-no-Nanakusa' (秋の七草/秋の七種).

These plants are mostly a feast for the eyes and not the belly.

Sweets inspired by Japanese bellflowers.
ALT text detailsSweets inspired by Japanese bellflowers.
A selection of dried sweets for teatime... red dragonflies and bush clover symbolise the coming of autumn. The last is in the shape of a 'Genji Window' (itself inspired by Murasaki Shikibu's visit to Ishiyama-dera).
ALT text detailsA selection of dried sweets for teatime... red dragonflies and bush clover symbolise the coming of autumn. The last is in the shape of a 'Genji Window' (itself inspired by Murasaki Shikibu's visit to Ishiyama-dera).
An unusual sweet that symbolises the blustery weather that typically arrives with autumn. A grass is depicted almost flat, as if it has been pushed down by the wind.
ALT text detailsAn unusual sweet that symbolises the blustery weather that typically arrives with autumn. A grass is depicted almost flat, as if it has been pushed down by the wind.
Another sweet inspired by Japanese bellflowers. The flower is branded onto the delicately purple gyuhi (a softer version of mochi) which surrounds a white bean paste interior.
ALT text detailsAnother sweet inspired by Japanese bellflowers. The flower is branded onto the delicately purple gyuhi (a softer version of mochi) which surrounds a white bean paste interior.
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atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Sacred Bridge, Nikko (1942)

Artist: Kasamatsu Shiro

visitnikko.jp/en/spots/shinkyo

A rainy day in Nikko, looking toward the famous Shinkyo bridge. On our right, our view is framed by tall pine trees growing on top of a solid stone embankment; up ahead, a lone pedestrian carrying an umbrella approaches the red-lacqured bridge crossing the gorge. Beyond, healthy looking trees cover the the steep hillsides leading down toward the Daiya River below. Rain continues to fall across the scene.
ALT text detailsA rainy day in Nikko, looking toward the famous Shinkyo bridge. On our right, our view is framed by tall pine trees growing on top of a solid stone embankment; up ahead, a lone pedestrian carrying an umbrella approaches the red-lacqured bridge crossing the gorge. Beyond, healthy looking trees cover the the steep hillsides leading down toward the Daiya River below. Rain continues to fall across the scene.
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atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

67% of villages, towns, cities & wards across suffered disasters in the last 15 years - 30% more than once:

By type of disaster, typhoons & destructive torrential rain made up the largest portion, with a figure five times greater than the period up to 2010. Heavy snowfall had "catastrophic effects" as well, recording a tenfold increase.

asahi.com/ajw/articles/16006189

atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

67% of villages, towns, cities & wards across suffered disasters in the last 15 years - 30% more than once:

By type of disaster, typhoons & destructive torrential rain made up the largest portion, with a figure five times greater than the period up to 2010. Heavy snowfall had "catastrophic effects" as well, recording a tenfold increase.

asahi.com/ajw/articles/16006189

atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Sacred Bridge, Nikko (1942)

Artist: Kasamatsu Shiro

visitnikko.jp/en/spots/shinkyo

A rainy day in Nikko, looking toward the famous Shinkyo bridge. On our right, our view is framed by tall pine trees growing on top of a solid stone embankment; up ahead, a lone pedestrian carrying an umbrella approaches the red-lacqured bridge crossing the gorge. Beyond, healthy looking trees cover the the steep hillsides leading down toward the Daiya River below. Rain continues to fall across the scene.
ALT text detailsA rainy day in Nikko, looking toward the famous Shinkyo bridge. On our right, our view is framed by tall pine trees growing on top of a solid stone embankment; up ahead, a lone pedestrian carrying an umbrella approaches the red-lacqured bridge crossing the gorge. Beyond, healthy looking trees cover the the steep hillsides leading down toward the Daiya River below. Rain continues to fall across the scene.
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NIGHTEͶ

@NIGHTEN@hi.nighten.fr

Have you ever seen this picture?

This is one of the most popular Japanese street pictures on Pinterest, and yet nobody knew where it was.

So I took matters into my own hands and tracked down the exact street that inspired the start of my illustration journey 2 years ago.

Here’s the full story ↓

https://arc.nighten.fr/posts/my-impossible-quest-to-locate-a-japanese-street

#MastoArt #FediArt #illustration #Japan #Kyoto #Newsletter #Blog

Japanese street with a bright sun and a lot of signage. Stairs at the back leads to a train station.
ALT text detailsJapanese street with a bright sun and a lot of signage. Stairs at the back leads to a train station.
Artistic rendition of this exact street, with big brush strokes and pink shades
ALT text detailsArtistic rendition of this exact street, with big brush strokes and pink shades
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The anaesthetic etomidate is banned in Japan. That hasn’t stopped some users from inhaling cartridges of the stuff, causing them to lose control of their bodies. This can lead to them stumbling around like “zombies" - hence the nickname.

unseen-japan.com/zombie-cigare

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Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

Kenjiba statue, Kofuku-ji, .

Kenjiba statue, Kofuku-ji, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsKenjiba statue, Kofuku-ji, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
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Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

Kenjiba statue, Kofuku-ji, .

Kenjiba statue, Kofuku-ji, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsKenjiba statue, Kofuku-ji, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Most languages use a variation of the name Japan. The exception? Japan! Learn how the country's own modern name evolved, the etymology of "Japan," and the reason for the difference.

unseen-japan.com/etymology-of-

NIGHTEͶ's avatar
NIGHTEͶ

@NIGHTEN@hi.nighten.fr

Have you ever seen this picture?

This is one of the most popular Japanese street pictures on Pinterest, and yet nobody knew where it was.

So I took matters into my own hands and tracked down the exact street that inspired the start of my illustration journey 2 years ago.

Here’s the full story ↓

https://arc.nighten.fr/posts/my-impossible-quest-to-locate-a-japanese-street

#MastoArt #FediArt #illustration #Japan #Kyoto #Newsletter #Blog

Japanese street with a bright sun and a lot of signage. Stairs at the back leads to a train station.
ALT text detailsJapanese street with a bright sun and a lot of signage. Stairs at the back leads to a train station.
Artistic rendition of this exact street, with big brush strokes and pink shades
ALT text detailsArtistic rendition of this exact street, with big brush strokes and pink shades
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Child sex tourism from Laos to Japan has grown so severe that warnings are now being broadcast even on flights to Laos. On AirAsia flights, crews remind passengers before landing that “human trafficking and child prostitution are illegal in Laos.”

unseen-japan.com/japanese-sex-

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

At the heart of Tachibana Takashi's pitch was a bold promise. “You don’t have to pay the reception fee.” Lawsuits, he said, were rare. Even if NHK sued, the party would cover all costs. Thousands believed him. Many stopped paying.

Now, the bills are due.

unseen-japan.com/nhk-party-fee

Picture of a TV in a living room with the NHK logo, Tachibana Takashi, and a request for payment slip
ALT text detailsPicture of a TV in a living room with the NHK logo, Tachibana Takashi, and a request for payment slip
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social

🎑THE MOON RABBIT🐇

In many Western countries people see a "Man in the Moon" (often considered "god of drunks"), but in Japan folk see the image of a rabbit pounding rice cakes in a mortar.
China's rabbit is crushing laurel leaves to create an immortality potion.

A gorgeous sweet for Moon Viewing. Branded onto the sweet is the image of a Moon Rabbit pounding mochi.
ALT text detailsA gorgeous sweet for Moon Viewing. Branded onto the sweet is the image of a Moon Rabbit pounding mochi.
Rabbit statue at Okazaki-jinja. They are familiars of the enshrined god Susanoo and his wife, symbols of fertility and family protectors.
ALT text detailsRabbit statue at Okazaki-jinja. They are familiars of the enshrined god Susanoo and his wife, symbols of fertility and family protectors.
Rabbits feature on the yukata of the Tsuki-boko float (of the Gion Matsuri).
ALT text detailsRabbits feature on the yukata of the Tsuki-boko float (of the Gion Matsuri).
For tea time rakugan (pressed soy flour and sugar sweets) in the shape of rabbits, and a moon kohaku (jelly like sweet).
ALT text detailsFor tea time rakugan (pressed soy flour and sugar sweets) in the shape of rabbits, and a moon kohaku (jelly like sweet).
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

So the whole world might know of Rabbit's selfless act, Taishakuten (帝釈天) drew an image of the rabbit on the white face of the moon.
Some say that the markings on the moon actually came from the smoke that billowed up when the rabbit jumped into the flames!

a full moon is shown in a black and white image
ALT text detailsa full moon is shown in a black and white image
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Because 'Moon Viewing' (月見) is celebrated at this time of year, images of rabbits pop up everywhere.

The idea of a Moon Rabbit was imported from China. A story in the 'Songs of Chu' (楚辞) first mentions a toad and rabbit on the moon pounding herbs for the immortals.

Fortune slips left by the faithful at Kamigamo-jinja. Here they have been folded onto a rabbit shaped frame (celebrating the Year of the Rabbit).
ALT text detailsFortune slips left by the faithful at Kamigamo-jinja. Here they have been folded onto a rabbit shaped frame (celebrating the Year of the Rabbit).
A cute little pink mochi rabbit (with green ears!).
ALT text detailsA cute little pink mochi rabbit (with green ears!).
A Moon Rabbit themed oshiruko (お汁粉), a sweet bean soup. The wafer exterior is broken and hot water poured on to the powdered contents to create the soup.
ALT text detailsA Moon Rabbit themed oshiruko (お汁粉), a sweet bean soup. The wafer exterior is broken and hot water poured on to the powdered contents to create the soup.
Rabbit statue at Mimuroto-ji.
ALT text detailsRabbit statue at Mimuroto-ji.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social

🎑THE MOON RABBIT🐇

In many Western countries people see a "Man in the Moon" (often considered "god of drunks"), but in Japan folk see the image of a rabbit pounding rice cakes in a mortar.
China's rabbit is crushing laurel leaves to create an immortality potion.

A gorgeous sweet for Moon Viewing. Branded onto the sweet is the image of a Moon Rabbit pounding mochi.
ALT text detailsA gorgeous sweet for Moon Viewing. Branded onto the sweet is the image of a Moon Rabbit pounding mochi.
Rabbit statue at Okazaki-jinja. They are familiars of the enshrined god Susanoo and his wife, symbols of fertility and family protectors.
ALT text detailsRabbit statue at Okazaki-jinja. They are familiars of the enshrined god Susanoo and his wife, symbols of fertility and family protectors.
Rabbits feature on the yukata of the Tsuki-boko float (of the Gion Matsuri).
ALT text detailsRabbits feature on the yukata of the Tsuki-boko float (of the Gion Matsuri).
For tea time rakugan (pressed soy flour and sugar sweets) in the shape of rabbits, and a moon kohaku (jelly like sweet).
ALT text detailsFor tea time rakugan (pressed soy flour and sugar sweets) in the shape of rabbits, and a moon kohaku (jelly like sweet).
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The Tokyo District Court has ruled that a 25-year-old woman's death by suicide was directly due to harassment by her company's president. It's one of many examples of how harassment and stress are taking a toll on employees in Japan.

unseen-japan.com/d-up-harassme

Tokyo District Court sign
ALT text detailsTokyo District Court sign
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japanese politician Tachibana Takashi told his supporters they didn't have to pay Japan's national broadcaster fee. He claimed the party would protect them. Now, his followers are awash in debt - and Tachibana's reneging on his promise.

unseen-japan.com/nhk-party-fee

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: We’ve written about the history of love hotels and the things you’ll commonly find there. But what’s it like to actually USE them? Here are some of the quirks you might not have thought of before trying this uniquely Japanese experience.

buff.ly/s0Yq7Gz

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Across Japan, bear encounters are reaching record levels. Climate shifts, poor nut harvests, and growing populations all play a role. But when tourists treat predators like the tame deer of Nara or Miyajima, they create a deadly cycle of habituation.

unseen-japan.com/tourists-feed

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: Tourists’ broken and abandoned suitcases are making headlines in Japan. Which raises the question: what do you do if your luggage craps the bed mid-trip? Here’s why broken suitcases are becoming such a problem – and how to dispose of yours responsibly.

unseen-japan.com/broken-suitca

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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

It is said 'The Legend of Yōrō Falls' (養老の滝) inspired the mayor of Nomadani-mura (野間谷村), in Hyōgo Prefecture, to create the first "Old Folks' Day" (としよりの日 "Toshiyori-no-hi").

Let us put aside for the moment that this famous tale likely took place in October.

Woodblock print of men and women paying a visit to a waterfall. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of men and women paying a visit to a waterfall. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
Woodblock print of travelers passing a waterfall. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of travelers passing a waterfall. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
Woodblock print of men paying a visit to a waterfall. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of men paying a visit to a waterfall. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
Woodblock print of a waterfall in autumn. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of a waterfall in autumn. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

It is said 'The Legend of Yōrō Falls' (養老の滝) inspired the mayor of Nomadani-mura (野間谷村), in Hyōgo Prefecture, to create the first "Old Folks' Day" (としよりの日 "Toshiyori-no-hi").

Let us put aside for the moment that this famous tale likely took place in October.

Woodblock print of men and women paying a visit to a waterfall. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of men and women paying a visit to a waterfall. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
Woodblock print of travelers passing a waterfall. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of travelers passing a waterfall. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
Woodblock print of men paying a visit to a waterfall. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of men paying a visit to a waterfall. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
Woodblock print of a waterfall in autumn. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of a waterfall in autumn. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

The origins of the holiday are fairly recent.

On September 15th 1947 Nomadani-mura (野間谷村 later Yachiyo-chō 八千代町, currently Taka-chō 多可町八千代区) in Hyōgo Prefecture (兵庫県) hosted the first "Old Folks' Day" (としよりの日 'Toshiyori-no-hi').

Votive dolls of the god Fukurokuju, left by the faithful at Sekizanzen-in. He is the god of wisdom, luck, longevity, wealth and happiness.
ALT text detailsVotive dolls of the god Fukurokuju, left by the faithful at Sekizanzen-in. He is the god of wisdom, luck, longevity, wealth and happiness.
Otsu-e (print) of the gods Fukurokuju and Ebisu wrestling. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsOtsu-e (print) of the gods Fukurokuju and Ebisu wrestling. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
Woodblock print of the 7 Gods of Fortune. Fukurokuju is comically using his elongated head to write calligraphy. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of the 7 Gods of Fortune. Fukurokuju is comically using his elongated head to write calligraphy. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
Statue of Fukurokuju at Sekizanzen-in.
ALT text detailsStatue of Fukurokuju at Sekizanzen-in.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social

👵RESPECT-FOR-THE-AGED DAY👴

Today is Keirō-no-hi (敬老の日) in Japan🎊
Traditionally held on September 15th, in 2003 the national holiday was changed to the 3rd Monday in September. Commemorative silver saké cups are given by the government to those who have turned 100.

Old statue of Binzuru at Todai-ji. People rub the statue in the hope of healing a sickness or ache. It is customary to rub the part of the statue that equates to where you are having trouble on your own body, and then pray.
ALT text detailsOld statue of Binzuru at Todai-ji. People rub the statue in the hope of healing a sickness or ache. It is customary to rub the part of the statue that equates to where you are having trouble on your own body, and then pray.
Within the grounds of Kumano-jinja (熊野神社) is an image of Nishio Tameji (西尾為冶 1879-1962), erected in 1994. Nishio's ancestor is credited in 1689 with having invented Yatsuhashi (八ッ橋 lit. '8 Bridges'), though possibly he modified an earlier known recipe.
ALT text detailsWithin the grounds of Kumano-jinja (熊野神社) is an image of Nishio Tameji (西尾為冶 1879-1962), erected in 1994. Nishio's ancestor is credited in 1689 with having invented Yatsuhashi (八ッ橋 lit. '8 Bridges'), though possibly he modified an earlier known recipe.
A dosojin (道祖神) statue, here depicted as a couple. These Japanese folk deities protect travelers, pilgrims, villages, and boundaries. When seen as a couple they also represent fertility.
ALT text detailsA dosojin (道祖神) statue, here depicted as a couple. These Japanese folk deities protect travelers, pilgrims, villages, and boundaries. When seen as a couple they also represent fertility.
Seated statue of Binzuru.
ALT text detailsSeated statue of Binzuru.
Ukraine War Bulletins and News's avatar
Ukraine War Bulletins and News

@SocraticEthics@mastodon.online

youtu.be/O6bZJuKOWto
⚡️🇬🇧Q&A: Is It Time For Europe To Give Up On Trump? (Mallen Baker VIDEO) 


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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

You’d think that with bear attacks rising in Japan, tourists wouldn’t risk feeding them. Yet in Hokkaido’s Shiretoko Peninsula, visitors tossed snack foods to a brown bear well known to locals as the “Mother of Iwaobetsu." The results were tragic.

unseen-japan.com/tourists-feed

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

We're about to hit a milestone with our Insider program - we're four subscribers away from 100! Wanna help us hit our goal? Subscribe today for $5/mo. and get a full bonus UJ article every week, access to our growing back catalog, and more.

unseen-japan.com/subscribe

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Child sex tourism is not new in places like Laos, but demand appears to be rising, driven by a growing number of Japanese nationals traveling there with that specific intent. Some Japanese residents are even offering tours to facilitate it.

unseen-japan.com/japanese-sex-

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Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

Shakyamuni , Kosho-ji, .

Shakyamuni #Buddha, Kosho-ji, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsShakyamuni #Buddha, Kosho-ji, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
NIGHTEͶ's avatar
NIGHTEͶ

@NIGHTEN@hi.nighten.fr

This artwork is more than 2 years old now, but I still like it very much :)

And I have something incredible to share on my next newsletter about it, stay tuned! I’m sending it next Tuesday!

https://club.nighten.fr

#MastoArt #Art #illustration #Japan

Illustration with large strokes and simple pink colors of a japanese street
ALT text detailsIllustration with large strokes and simple pink colors of a japanese street
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Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

Shakyamuni , Kosho-ji, .

Shakyamuni #Buddha, Kosho-ji, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsShakyamuni #Buddha, Kosho-ji, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Tokyo's "neo-yokochō" lack the organic grittiness of locations like Golden Gai that have been molded by history and scarred by circumstance. They're mall food courts festooned with paper lanterns, the "yokochō" label slapped on them as an afterthought.

unseen-japan.com/kabukicho-tow

Picture of Kabukicho Yokochō in Tokyu Kabukicho Tower
ALT text detailsPicture of Kabukicho Yokochō in Tokyu Kabukicho Tower
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Sanshu Tadotsu (1936)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

japan-guide.com/list/e1233.html

Sunset by the water in what was once Sanshu Province, now modern-day Kagawa Prefecture. A small stone lantern stands at the end of a solid stone pier, serving as a lighthouse; sunset warms the lantern, and colours the sky above with pale blue fading into yellow and deeper orange. Further on, another lantern stands on a similar pier. Beyond, the Seto Inland Sea is calm; further on, tall mountains cross the horizon in the distance. The lanterns are not yet lit for the evening.
ALT text detailsSunset by the water in what was once Sanshu Province, now modern-day Kagawa Prefecture. A small stone lantern stands at the end of a solid stone pier, serving as a lighthouse; sunset warms the lantern, and colours the sky above with pale blue fading into yellow and deeper orange. Further on, another lantern stands on a similar pier. Beyond, the Seto Inland Sea is calm; further on, tall mountains cross the horizon in the distance. The lanterns are not yet lit for the evening.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Three energetic kittens love playing on the roof of a building by sliding down the slope and pouncing on dead leaves. In a seaside town, a cat named Kinako leads us to a beautiful scenic spot.

www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/sho

An image of a cat surrounded by trees beginning to turn with the season. The text reads: "Hiroshima: Hills and Slopes", "A Cat's-Eye View of Japan"
ALT text detailsAn image of a cat surrounded by trees beginning to turn with the season. The text reads: "Hiroshima: Hills and Slopes", "A Cat's-Eye View of Japan"
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Three energetic kittens love playing on the roof of a building by sliding down the slope and pouncing on dead leaves. In a seaside town, a cat named Kinako leads us to a beautiful scenic spot.

www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/sho

An image of a cat surrounded by trees beginning to turn with the season. The text reads: "Hiroshima: Hills and Slopes", "A Cat's-Eye View of Japan"
ALT text detailsAn image of a cat surrounded by trees beginning to turn with the season. The text reads: "Hiroshima: Hills and Slopes", "A Cat's-Eye View of Japan"
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Sanshu Tadotsu (1936)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

japan-guide.com/list/e1233.html

Sunset by the water in what was once Sanshu Province, now modern-day Kagawa Prefecture. A small stone lantern stands at the end of a solid stone pier, serving as a lighthouse; sunset warms the lantern, and colours the sky above with pale blue fading into yellow and deeper orange. Further on, another lantern stands on a similar pier. Beyond, the Seto Inland Sea is calm; further on, tall mountains cross the horizon in the distance. The lanterns are not yet lit for the evening.
ALT text detailsSunset by the water in what was once Sanshu Province, now modern-day Kagawa Prefecture. A small stone lantern stands at the end of a solid stone pier, serving as a lighthouse; sunset warms the lantern, and colours the sky above with pale blue fading into yellow and deeper orange. Further on, another lantern stands on a similar pier. Beyond, the Seto Inland Sea is calm; further on, tall mountains cross the horizon in the distance. The lanterns are not yet lit for the evening.
08956495

@08956495@infosec.exchange

マスとドンコミュニティ：もうすぐ日本に旅行するので、観光客から離れた場所を見つけたいです。おすすめを送ってください。🙏 ありがとうごさいます！ :nyanpasu:

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Bunkitsu (文喫) in Tokyo’s Roppongi neighborhood is a bookstore that boasts over 30,000 titles. It also boasts something else: an admission fee. It costs 1,650 yen (USD $10.50) on weekdays and 2,530 yen ($16) on weekends.

unseen-japan.com/tokyo-bunkits

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AI6YR Ben

@ai6yr@m.ai6yr.org

Can't trust anything on social media anymore, so geolocated the kitty sign that is going around today on social media.

39.2787517,141.1340412

google.com/maps/@39.2787517,14

Sign with flying cats in Japan
ALT text detailsSign with flying cats in Japan
AI6YR Ben's avatar
AI6YR Ben

@ai6yr@m.ai6yr.org

Can't trust anything on social media anymore, so geolocated the kitty sign that is going around today on social media.

39.2787517,141.1340412

google.com/maps/@39.2787517,14

Sign with flying cats in Japan
ALT text detailsSign with flying cats in Japan
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The Emperor of Japan recently asked Iceland's president a very good question: Why is your gender gap so much smaller than ours? Here's how Iceland ended up with the world's smallest gender gap, while Japan still remains near the bottom of the pile.

unseen-japan.com/iceland-japan

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Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

founder (空海, aka , 弘法大師, 774-835) manifesting a sun disc halo along with a sword & prayer beads while lecturing at the palace on his text, 'The Secret Key to the '. period (1336-1573) from the collection of Ryūkō-in (龍光院) on Mount Kōya (高野山) in Wakayama Prefecture, .

#Shingon founder #Kūkai (空海, aka #Kōbō #Daishi, 弘法大師, 774-835) manifesting a sun disc halo along with a sword & prayer beads while lecturing at the palace on his text, 'The Secret Key to the #HeartSutra'. #Muromachi period (1336-1573) from the collection of Ryūkō-in (龍光院) on Mount Kōya (高野山) in Wakayama Prefecture, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text details#Shingon founder #Kūkai (空海, aka #Kōbō #Daishi, 弘法大師, 774-835) manifesting a sun disc halo along with a sword & prayer beads while lecturing at the palace on his text, 'The Secret Key to the #HeartSutra'. #Muromachi period (1336-1573) from the collection of Ryūkō-in (龍光院) on Mount Kōya (高野山) in Wakayama Prefecture, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
Buddhist Art's avatar
Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

founder (空海, aka , 弘法大師, 774-835) manifesting a sun disc halo along with a sword & prayer beads while lecturing at the palace on his text, 'The Secret Key to the '. period (1336-1573) from the collection of Ryūkō-in (龍光院) on Mount Kōya (高野山) in Wakayama Prefecture, .

#Shingon founder #Kūkai (空海, aka #Kōbō #Daishi, 弘法大師, 774-835) manifesting a sun disc halo along with a sword & prayer beads while lecturing at the palace on his text, 'The Secret Key to the #HeartSutra'. #Muromachi period (1336-1573) from the collection of Ryūkō-in (龍光院) on Mount Kōya (高野山) in Wakayama Prefecture, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text details#Shingon founder #Kūkai (空海, aka #Kōbō #Daishi, 弘法大師, 774-835) manifesting a sun disc halo along with a sword & prayer beads while lecturing at the palace on his text, 'The Secret Key to the #HeartSutra'. #Muromachi period (1336-1573) from the collection of Ryūkō-in (龍光院) on Mount Kōya (高野山) in Wakayama Prefecture, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

A new fraud tactic has emerged in Osaka Prefecture, in which scammers send elderly people smartphones before swindling them using the devices. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/09/

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

As tourism to Japan spikes, illegal barkers (touts in UK English) are becoming an increasing problem in nightlife districts like Kabukicho. Here’s why police enforcement hasn’t been effective – and why you should avoid them at all costs.

buff.ly/zv8oxw6

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A prime user of karaoke rooms for sex in Japan? Cheapskates. A love hotel will run you at least between 3000 yen ($33) and 8000 yen ($53) for a few hours. You can get in and out of a karaoke room for as little as 1,000 yen (around seven bucks) per person.

unseen-japan.com/karaoke-room-

The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

A new fraud tactic has emerged in Osaka Prefecture, in which scammers send elderly people smartphones before swindling them using the devices. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/09/

atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Nikko Futatsu-do (1929)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

visitnikko.jp/en/spots/nikko-t

A rainy day at Futatsu-do (or, the Second Hall) at Nikko's Toshogu shrine. In the foreground, a lone figure wearing a broad straw hat and a straw cape crosses the muddy ground; just beyond, the red-lacquered buildings of the shrine are empty and quiet. Further on, tall green trees rise high up above the rooftops of the shrine buildings. Rain continues to fall from an overcast sky.
ALT text detailsA rainy day at Futatsu-do (or, the Second Hall) at Nikko's Toshogu shrine. In the foreground, a lone figure wearing a broad straw hat and a straw cape crosses the muddy ground; just beyond, the red-lacquered buildings of the shrine are empty and quiet. Further on, tall green trees rise high up above the rooftops of the shrine buildings. Rain continues to fall from an overcast sky.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Nikko Futatsu-do (1929)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

visitnikko.jp/en/spots/nikko-t

A rainy day at Futatsu-do (or, the Second Hall) at Nikko's Toshogu shrine. In the foreground, a lone figure wearing a broad straw hat and a straw cape crosses the muddy ground; just beyond, the red-lacquered buildings of the shrine are empty and quiet. Further on, tall green trees rise high up above the rooftops of the shrine buildings. Rain continues to fall from an overcast sky.
ALT text detailsA rainy day at Futatsu-do (or, the Second Hall) at Nikko's Toshogu shrine. In the foreground, a lone figure wearing a broad straw hat and a straw cape crosses the muddy ground; just beyond, the red-lacquered buildings of the shrine are empty and quiet. Further on, tall green trees rise high up above the rooftops of the shrine buildings. Rain continues to fall from an overcast sky.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Ryokan trace their roots back to the Edo-period hatago, inns that fed and sheltered travelers across Japan. Though they’ve evolved over the centuries, they still reflect a unique layer of Japanese culture, philosophy, and aesthetics.

unseen-japan.com/ryokans-vs-ho

Japanese women eating a traditional kaiseki meal and toasting with champagne glasses at a low-rise table
ALT text detailsJapanese women eating a traditional kaiseki meal and toasting with champagne glasses at a low-rise table
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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Japan Airlines was hit by a new warning from the transport ministry for insufficient oversight regarding its pilots drinking heavily before flights. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/09/

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Middle school dropout. Troublemaker. Hostess. Porn star. Author. Media darling. Iijima Ai never settled for the stereotypes that society created for her. Instead, she defied them and reinvented herself at every turn. This is her all-too-brief story.

unseen-japan.com/iijima-ai/

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US news | The Guardian

@theguardian_us_news@halo.nu

From ‘hellhole’ UK to ‘stolen elections’ in South Korea, Charlie Kirk took his message abroad theguardian.com/us-news/2025/s (US)

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US news | The Guardian

@theguardian_us_news@halo.nu

From ‘hellhole’ UK to ‘stolen elections’ in South Korea, Charlie Kirk took his message abroad theguardian.com/us-news/2025/s (US)

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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

The space is seemingly frozen in time, with fixtures, fittings and furnishings left as they were when the potter lived here.

The museum rotates the pieces on display to reflect the changes of season, but almost all of Kanjirō's works here are on permanent display.

Sculptures on display at the Kawai Kanjiro Museum.
ALT text detailsSculptures on display at the Kawai Kanjiro Museum.
Sculptures on display at the Kawai Kanjiro Museum.
ALT text detailsSculptures on display at the Kawai Kanjiro Museum.
Sculptures on display at the Kawai Kanjiro Museum.
ALT text detailsSculptures on display at the Kawai Kanjiro Museum.
Sculptures on display at the Kawai Kanjiro Museum.
ALT text detailsSculptures on display at the Kawai Kanjiro Museum.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Kawai Kanjirō was a key figure in the mingei (民芸 - Japanese folk art) and studio pottery movement.

Work by fellow artists Kuroda Tatsuaki (黒田辰秋 1904-82), Yanagi Sōetsu (柳宗悦 1889-1961) and others can also be found within the museum.

Artwork in the Kawai Kanjiro Museum.
ALT text detailsArtwork in the Kawai Kanjiro Museum.
Interior of the Kawai Kanjiro Museum.
ALT text detailsInterior of the Kawai Kanjiro Museum.
Artwork in the Kawai Kanjiro Museum.
ALT text detailsArtwork in the Kawai Kanjiro Museum.
Artwork in the Kawai Kanjiro Museum (Eki-chan the cat curled up on the floor).
ALT text detailsArtwork in the Kawai Kanjiro Museum (Eki-chan the cat curled up on the floor).
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Kawai Kanjirō was a key figure in the mingei (民芸 - Japanese folk art) and studio pottery movement.

Work by fellow artists Kuroda Tatsuaki (黒田辰秋 1904-82), Yanagi Sōetsu (柳宗悦 1889-1961) and others can also be found within the museum.

Artwork in the Kawai Kanjiro Museum.
ALT text detailsArtwork in the Kawai Kanjiro Museum.
Interior of the Kawai Kanjiro Museum.
ALT text detailsInterior of the Kawai Kanjiro Museum.
Artwork in the Kawai Kanjiro Museum.
ALT text detailsArtwork in the Kawai Kanjiro Museum.
Artwork in the Kawai Kanjiro Museum (Eki-chan the cat curled up on the floor).
ALT text detailsArtwork in the Kawai Kanjiro Museum (Eki-chan the cat curled up on the floor).
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

One regular visitor to the museum is Eki-chan (えきちゃん), a tortoiseshell cat that spends her days amongst the precious antiques.

Eki-chan, the tortoiseshell cat that lives in the Kawai Kanjiro Museum.
ALT text detailsEki-chan, the tortoiseshell cat that lives in the Kawai Kanjiro Museum.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

The space is seemingly frozen in time, with fixtures, fittings and furnishings left as they were when the potter lived here.

The museum rotates the pieces on display to reflect the changes of season, but almost all of Kanjirō's works here are on permanent display.

Sculptures on display at the Kawai Kanjiro Museum.
ALT text detailsSculptures on display at the Kawai Kanjiro Museum.
Sculptures on display at the Kawai Kanjiro Museum.
ALT text detailsSculptures on display at the Kawai Kanjiro Museum.
Sculptures on display at the Kawai Kanjiro Museum.
ALT text detailsSculptures on display at the Kawai Kanjiro Museum.
Sculptures on display at the Kawai Kanjiro Museum.
ALT text detailsSculptures on display at the Kawai Kanjiro Museum.
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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Former Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen is visiting Japan on a "personal" trip, her office said, prompting an angry rebuke from China. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/09/

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Former Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen is visiting Japan on a "personal" trip, her office said, prompting an angry rebuke from China. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/09/

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Japan Airlines was hit by a new warning from the transport ministry for insufficient oversight regarding its pilots drinking heavily before flights. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/09/

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The good news is that, like many onsen still, sento in Japan don’t prohibit people with tattoos. They’re open to all – inked or not! So don’t hesitate to use a sento even if you’re sporting a few (or more) designs.

unseen-japan.com/sento-tokyo-t

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Viewing the fall foliage in Japan has been a popular pastime since the Heian era.
Where are the best viewing places? Read on below to learn the top five spots chosen by residents.

unseen-japan.com/japan-fall-fo

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atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Rain at Yasuniwa, Nagano (1946)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

go-nagano.net/en/history-and-c

A rainy afternoon in a mountain village in Nagano Prefecture. Traditional thatched-roof houses stand by a slow-moving river; a lone pedestrian carrying an umbrella walks between the houses and the water. Green plants line the riverbank, and healthy-looking green trees grow next to and around the houses. Beyond, low clouds pass among forested mountains; above, rainclouds fill the sky. The calm surface of the river reflects the scene.
ALT text detailsA rainy afternoon in a mountain village in Nagano Prefecture. Traditional thatched-roof houses stand by a slow-moving river; a lone pedestrian carrying an umbrella walks between the houses and the water. Green plants line the riverbank, and healthy-looking green trees grow next to and around the houses. Beyond, low clouds pass among forested mountains; above, rainclouds fill the sky. The calm surface of the river reflects the scene.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Rain at Yasuniwa, Nagano (1946)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

go-nagano.net/en/history-and-c

A rainy afternoon in a mountain village in Nagano Prefecture. Traditional thatched-roof houses stand by a slow-moving river; a lone pedestrian carrying an umbrella walks between the houses and the water. Green plants line the riverbank, and healthy-looking green trees grow next to and around the houses. Beyond, low clouds pass among forested mountains; above, rainclouds fill the sky. The calm surface of the river reflects the scene.
ALT text detailsA rainy afternoon in a mountain village in Nagano Prefecture. Traditional thatched-roof houses stand by a slow-moving river; a lone pedestrian carrying an umbrella walks between the houses and the water. Green plants line the riverbank, and healthy-looking green trees grow next to and around the houses. Beyond, low clouds pass among forested mountains; above, rainclouds fill the sky. The calm surface of the river reflects the scene.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

This week, police in Saga Prefecture, Japan, admitted that an employee falsified crucial DNA evidence in 130 cases. The incident raises serious questions about prefectural police’s quality control procedures.

unseen-japan.com/saga-prefectu

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Stalking arrests and restraining orders have been on the rise in Japan. In 2024, authorities arrested 1,341 suspects in stalking cases, the highest number since the 2016 legal revision. Courts issued 2,415 restraining orders, the most ever recorded.

unseen-japan.com/japan-stalkin

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Okinawa’s Bin, written as “保栄茂,” has been the subject of multiple articles and linguistic studies. This set of kanji would more commonly be read as “Hoeishige” or “Hoemo,” but is instead read “Bin,” pronounced like the Japanese word for “bottle.”

unseen-japan.com/hardest-japan

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

It’s hard to find a place to sit and rest in Tokyo for free. However, it’s even getting harder to find a place to sit and rest if you’re willing to pay. The change in cafe usage in Japan is prompting businesses to manage more closely how long people sit and dawdle.

unseen-japan.com/tokyo-cafe-re

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Vaping in Japan is in a weird Twilight Zone. It’s legal to buy vaping pens. It’s not legal to sell vaping liquid. However, there are no restrictions on purchasing vaping cartridges from abroad. Unless they contain, well, something else...

unseen-japan.com/zombie-cigare

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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

One sweet in great demand at this time of year, and one that Nao-san finally got her hands on, is 'Kikuka Senbei' (菊花せんべい), a speciality of Moroeya (諸江屋) in Kanazawa.

The sweet rice crackers, moulded into the shape of chrysanthemum heads, are lightly flavoured with ginger.

'Kikuka Senbei', a sweet rice cracker moulded into the shape of chrysanthemum flowers.
ALT text details'Kikuka Senbei', a sweet rice cracker moulded into the shape of chrysanthemum flowers.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

“I’m afraid of Africans,” said one Japanese woman from Kisarazu, explaining it’s because they’re so much bigger and stronger than Japanese people. “People will call this discrimination. But we can’t protect Japan unless we protest.”

unseen-japan.com/japan-africa-

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Global Museum

@globalmuseum@mastodon.online

Bronze incense burner (koro) in the form of a long‑eared hare; Japan, Edo period, 19th century; height c. 9.9 cm; with a fitted wood storage box. Collection: Christie's
@archaeologyart

Bronze incense burner (koro) in the form of a long‑eared hare; Japan, Edo period, 19th century
ALT text detailsBronze incense burner (koro) in the form of a long‑eared hare; Japan, Edo period, 19th century
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Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

() painting of Dakiniten, .

#Hangingscroll (#kakemono) painting of Dakiniten, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text details#Hangingscroll (#kakemono) painting of Dakiniten, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
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Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

() painting of Dakiniten, .

#Hangingscroll (#kakemono) painting of Dakiniten, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text details#Hangingscroll (#kakemono) painting of Dakiniten, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Karaoke rooms in Japan aren’t just for karaoke. The Pasela chain explicitly supports renting rooms as remote office spaces, complete with monitors and whiteboards. Joysound even rents sewing machines so you can concoct your own fashion atelier.

unseen-japan.com/karaoke-room-

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Lodging taxes are a type of extra-statutory levy that municipalities in Japan can introduce by ordinance. Importantly, revenue from lodging taxes isn't included when calculating local allocation taxes, making it a true net gain for tourist-heavy locales.

unseen-japan.com/lodging-taxes

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

In Minoh City in Japan’s Kansai region, maple leaves, or momiji, aren’t just something pretty to look at. In Minoh, momiji tempura is a delicious snack popular with both locals and tourists. Find out more about this seasonal treat below.

unseen-japan.com/momiji-tempur

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: New numbers show Japan hitting new population lows. The other headline, however, is that its foreign population is positively booming. This comes at a time when the country’s right-wing is surging under the motto “Japanese First.”

unseen-japan.com/japan-foreign

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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

The 'go-sekku' (lunar calendar):

🎍1/1 Kochōhai (小朝拝 New Year)
🎎3/3 Kyokusui-no-en (曲水の宴 Feast of Drinking around a Meandering Stream)
🎏5/5 Tango-no-sekku (端午の節句 Boys' Festival)
🪡7/7 Kikkōden (乞功奠 Tanabata)
🍶9/9 Chōyō-no-en (重陽の宴 Feast of Chrysanthemums)

Woodblock print showing New year celebrations (with branches of pine set up as decoration outside a business). Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print showing New year celebrations (with branches of pine set up as decoration outside a business). Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
Woodblock print of children setting up dolls for Girl's Day. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of children setting up dolls for Girl's Day. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
Woodblock print of a black koinobori (windsock) hung up for Boy's Day. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of a black koinobori (windsock) hung up for Boy's Day. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
Woodblock print of a display of chrysanthemums for the 9th day of the 9th month. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of a display of chrysanthemums for the 9th day of the 9th month. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

The 'go-sekku' (lunar calendar):

🎍1/1 Kochōhai (小朝拝 New Year)
🎎3/3 Kyokusui-no-en (曲水の宴 Feast of Drinking around a Meandering Stream)
🎏5/5 Tango-no-sekku (端午の節句 Boys' Festival)
🪡7/7 Kikkōden (乞功奠 Tanabata)
🍶9/9 Chōyō-no-en (重陽の宴 Feast of Chrysanthemums)

Woodblock print showing New year celebrations (with branches of pine set up as decoration outside a business). Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print showing New year celebrations (with branches of pine set up as decoration outside a business). Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
Woodblock print of children setting up dolls for Girl's Day. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of children setting up dolls for Girl's Day. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
Woodblock print of a black koinobori (windsock) hung up for Boy's Day. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of a black koinobori (windsock) hung up for Boy's Day. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
Woodblock print of a display of chrysanthemums for the 9th day of the 9th month. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of a display of chrysanthemums for the 9th day of the 9th month. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japan's sento, or public bathhouses, are declining in number. To counter this, Tokyo and the Tokyo Sento Association are promoting this unique aspect of traditional Japanese culture to foreign tourists. Read the details on how to participate below.

unseen-japan.com/sento-tokyo-t

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

"Zombie cigarettes" - vaping pen cartridges loaded with the general anaesthetic etomidate - have been growing in popularity in Asia. Their increasing prevalence in Japan has led to calls for a crackdown, with some calling for a total ban on vaping.

unseen-japan.com/zombie-cigare

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

These days, more foreigners are moving to Japan. However, many here report having trouble finding a home to call home. Many landlords flat-out refuse to rent to foreigners (especially non-white ones), making the housing search a humiliating process.

unseen-japan.com/housing-discr

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noco｜Flower Photographer

@noco3n_com@mstdn.jp

retro style.

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noco｜Flower Photographer

@noco3n_com@mstdn.jp

retro style.

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atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Cloudy Day at Mizuki, Ibaraki (1946)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

asahi.com/ajw/articles/16011504

A cloudy day in a seaside village in Ibaraki Prefecture. In the foreground, houses and wooden buildings line a path down toward the shore. The house on the left has opened its sliding doors wide to let in the sea air; its front yard is cluttered with firewood, buckets, boxes and a bicycle propped up against a bin of wood. Beyond, a pair of figures - one youth and one adult - pause on the path, talking. Further on, the Pacific Ocean stretches out to the horizon, rolling waves crashing on the shore. Above, the sky is steely and overcast, promising rain.
ALT text detailsA cloudy day in a seaside village in Ibaraki Prefecture. In the foreground, houses and wooden buildings line a path down toward the shore. The house on the left has opened its sliding doors wide to let in the sea air; its front yard is cluttered with firewood, buckets, boxes and a bicycle propped up against a bin of wood. Beyond, a pair of figures - one youth and one adult - pause on the path, talking. Further on, the Pacific Ocean stretches out to the horizon, rolling waves crashing on the shore. Above, the sky is steely and overcast, promising rain.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Cloudy Day at Mizuki, Ibaraki (1946)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

asahi.com/ajw/articles/16011504

A cloudy day in a seaside village in Ibaraki Prefecture. In the foreground, houses and wooden buildings line a path down toward the shore. The house on the left has opened its sliding doors wide to let in the sea air; its front yard is cluttered with firewood, buckets, boxes and a bicycle propped up against a bin of wood. Beyond, a pair of figures - one youth and one adult - pause on the path, talking. Further on, the Pacific Ocean stretches out to the horizon, rolling waves crashing on the shore. Above, the sky is steely and overcast, promising rain.
ALT text detailsA cloudy day in a seaside village in Ibaraki Prefecture. In the foreground, houses and wooden buildings line a path down toward the shore. The house on the left has opened its sliding doors wide to let in the sea air; its front yard is cluttered with firewood, buckets, boxes and a bicycle propped up against a bin of wood. Beyond, a pair of figures - one youth and one adult - pause on the path, talking. Further on, the Pacific Ocean stretches out to the horizon, rolling waves crashing on the shore. Above, the sky is steely and overcast, promising rain.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Based on the manga series by artist Sasae Noriko, Uterine Love takes a…unique approach to describing the locus of a burgeoning love. Many who watch the key scenes have the same reaction: What the actual fvck did I just witness?

Scene from Shikyuu Renai (Uterine Love).
ALT text detailsScene from Shikyuu Renai (Uterine Love).
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Unlike homegrown ryokan, hotels in Japan are a foreign import. After more than two centuries of isolation, the country opened its ports in the 1850s. With foreign diplomats and merchants suddenly arriving, the first hotel, the Yokohama Hotel, opened in 1860.

unseen-japan.com/ryokans-vs-ho

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

You can use karaoke rooms, not just for karaoke, but for business meetings and even sewing. But what about getting it on? Learn why some people have sex in karaoke rooms - and why you really shouldn't - in our latest article for subscribers:

unseen-japan.com/karaoke-room-

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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

under the scorching sky
on the ground these flowers-
crape myrtle
炎天の 地上花あり 百日紅
-Takahama Kyoshi (高浜虚子 1874-1959).

In the language of flowers, 'hanakotoba' (花言葉), crape myrtle symbolise respect, speaking eloquently and innocence.

A bonsai crepe myrtle in bloom.
ALT text detailsA bonsai crepe myrtle in bloom.
Crepe myrtle at Fushimi Inari.
ALT text detailsCrepe myrtle at Fushimi Inari.
White crepe myrtle in bloom.
ALT text detailsWhite crepe myrtle in bloom.
Crepe myrtle buds about to bloom.
ALT text detailsCrepe myrtle buds about to bloom.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

under the scorching sky
on the ground these flowers-
crape myrtle
炎天の 地上花あり 百日紅
-Takahama Kyoshi (高浜虚子 1874-1959).

In the language of flowers, 'hanakotoba' (花言葉), crape myrtle symbolise respect, speaking eloquently and innocence.

A bonsai crepe myrtle in bloom.
ALT text detailsA bonsai crepe myrtle in bloom.
Crepe myrtle at Fushimi Inari.
ALT text detailsCrepe myrtle at Fushimi Inari.
White crepe myrtle in bloom.
ALT text detailsWhite crepe myrtle in bloom.
Crepe myrtle buds about to bloom.
ALT text detailsCrepe myrtle buds about to bloom.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Crape (also crepe) myrtle gets its name from the appearance of its flowers, which look very much like crepe paper.
Blooming from mid-summer through to autumn, the flowers (commonly bright pink) are also known in Japan as 'hyakujitsukō' (百日紅 'red for 100 days').

Pink crepe myrtle flowers.
ALT text detailsPink crepe myrtle flowers.
White crepe myrtle flowers.
ALT text detailsWhite crepe myrtle flowers.
Close up of crepe myrtle flowers. As the name suggests, they look very much like they are made from crepe paper.
ALT text detailsClose up of crepe myrtle flowers. As the name suggests, they look very much like they are made from crepe paper.
Pink crepe myrtle flowers.
ALT text detailsPink crepe myrtle flowers.
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noco｜Flower Photographer

@noco3n_com@mstdn.jp

Today is my birthday and I have a favor to ask.
I would like many people to see these works, so please spread the word!

I chose cosmos as I was born in autumn!
(Tap to view the vertical image.)

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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

More commonly known as crape myrtle (百日紅), older generations in Japan fondly call the tree 'saru suberi' (サルスベリ the "monkey's slide").
The bark of the tree is so smooth that even monkeys struggle to get a foothold!

A monkey looks out from Iwatayama Monkey Park in Arashiyama.
ALT text detailsA monkey looks out from Iwatayama Monkey Park in Arashiyama.
The 3 Wise Monkeys at Yasaka Koshin-do.
ALT text detailsThe 3 Wise Monkeys at Yasaka Koshin-do.
The smooth trunk of a crepe myrtle tree.
ALT text detailsThe smooth trunk of a crepe myrtle tree.
'Masaru', monkey familiar of the god of Hiyoshi Taisha.
ALT text details'Masaru', monkey familiar of the god of Hiyoshi Taisha.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social

🙊THE MONKEY'S SLIDE🛝

At first glance the teahouse garden appears to be made up of mostly moss, pine and camellia...but if you look more closely the borders are packed thick with dozens of varieties of plants.

One of the most beautiful at this time of year is the "Monkey's Slide".

Crepe myrtle blooms close to Yasaka Pagoda.
ALT text detailsCrepe myrtle blooms close to Yasaka Pagoda.
White crepe myrtle in bloom.
ALT text detailsWhite crepe myrtle in bloom.
A crepe myrtle inspired kinton (the pink balls of gathered dough representing the flowers).
ALT text detailsA crepe myrtle inspired kinton (the pink balls of gathered dough representing the flowers).
Crepe myrtle at Fushimi Inari.
ALT text detailsCrepe myrtle at Fushimi Inari.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Should you stay in a "traditional" ryokan or a "modern" hotel on your trip to Japan? Here's a rundown of the history of both types of accommodations in the country, what to expect, and some tips on how to decide.

unseen-japan.com/ryokans-vs-ho

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

When asked what they most wanted to experience about Japan, 56.4% said washoku (和食), or traditional Japanese food. That was followed by nature sites (45.3%), experiencing Japan’s four seasons (cough) at 39.3%, and traditional culture at 36.4%.

unseen-japan.com/combini-sushi

Picture of nigiri-sushi being dipped into soy sauce with chopsticks
ALT text detailsPicture of nigiri-sushi being dipped into soy sauce with chopsticks
@Aoiwave's avatar
@Aoiwave

@Aoiwave@mustard.blog

Anime, nostalgic vibes, and Japanese culture await! Click and explore every detail!

aoiwave.wordpress.com/

, , , , , ,

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Yokocho (横丁) are narrow, semi-hidden alleyways filled with bars and restaurants. They often carry a feeling of old Tokyo. That makes sense: many of the most famous emerged from the black markets around major train stations in the wake of World War II.

unseen-japan.com/emergent-toky

Nonbei Yokocho ("Drunkard's Alley")
ALT text detailsNonbei Yokocho ("Drunkard's Alley")
adamghill's avatar
adamghill

@adamghill@indieweb.social

My wife is on a stained glass kick recently and this is amazing.

I love the fire everywhere, atomic breath, and the textured glass for its body.

Stained glass of Godzilla with buildings and fire in the background. Godzilla has atomic breath and textured glass for its body.
ALT text detailsStained glass of Godzilla with buildings and fire in the background. Godzilla has atomic breath and textured glass for its body.
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noco｜Flower Photographer

@noco3n_com@mstdn.jp

Today is my birthday and I have a favor to ask.
I would like many people to see these works, so please spread the word!

I chose cosmos as I was born in autumn!
(Tap to view the vertical image.)

The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Following the attack on Pearl Harbor in World War II, the U.S. government sent those of Japanese ancestry to internment camps in remote areas. Eighty years later, many see troubling echoes of that time. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/09/

The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Following the attack on Pearl Harbor in World War II, the U.S. government sent those of Japanese ancestry to internment camps in remote areas. Eighty years later, many see troubling echoes of that time. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/09/

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Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

Fudō Myōō (), Daisho-ji, Minobe Town, Yamanashi Prefecture, .

Fudō Myōō (#FudōMyōō), Daisho-ji, Minobe Town, Yamanashi Prefecture, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsFudō Myōō (#FudōMyōō), Daisho-ji, Minobe Town, Yamanashi Prefecture, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
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Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

Fudō Myōō (), Daisho-ji, Minobe Town, Yamanashi Prefecture, .

Fudō Myōō (#FudōMyōō), Daisho-ji, Minobe Town, Yamanashi Prefecture, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsFudō Myōō (#FudōMyōō), Daisho-ji, Minobe Town, Yamanashi Prefecture, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

[Subscriber content] China is the world leader in the photovoltaic industry. As a result, much of the solar energy equipment in the world is produced by China. 90% of the solar equipment in Japan is produced abroad, with 80% of that Chinese-made.

unseen-japan.com/chinese-solar

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The brutal murder of Furuta Junko still reverberates through Japanese society today. A look at what happened and how the incident sparked a debate over criminal justice reform in Japan. (WARNING: Graphic content)

unseen-japan.com/furuta-junko-

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Japanese high school students advocating for the abolition of nuclear weapons presented 110,000 signatures for world peace to the United Nations during a trip to Geneva on Tuesday. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/09/

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Japanese high school students advocating for the abolition of nuclear weapons presented 110,000 signatures for world peace to the United Nations during a trip to Geneva on Tuesday. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/09/

adamghill's avatar
adamghill

@adamghill@indieweb.social

My wife is on a stained glass kick recently and this is amazing.

I love the fire everywhere, atomic breath, and the textured glass for its body.

Stained glass of Godzilla with buildings and fire in the background. Godzilla has atomic breath and textured glass for its body.
ALT text detailsStained glass of Godzilla with buildings and fire in the background. Godzilla has atomic breath and textured glass for its body.
adamghill's avatar
adamghill

@adamghill@indieweb.social

My wife is on a stained glass kick recently and this is amazing.

I love the fire everywhere, atomic breath, and the textured glass for its body.

Stained glass of Godzilla with buildings and fire in the background. Godzilla has atomic breath and textured glass for its body.
ALT text detailsStained glass of Godzilla with buildings and fire in the background. Godzilla has atomic breath and textured glass for its body.
adamghill's avatar
adamghill

@adamghill@indieweb.social

My wife is on a stained glass kick recently and this is amazing.

I love the fire everywhere, atomic breath, and the textured glass for its body.

Stained glass of Godzilla with buildings and fire in the background. Godzilla has atomic breath and textured glass for its body.
ALT text detailsStained glass of Godzilla with buildings and fire in the background. Godzilla has atomic breath and textured glass for its body.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

I am begging Daiso to rethink this product 🫠

(And someone already made the "DIE-so" crack, so don't think you're being funny)

X post from @aiki_1582. JP text: ダイソーさん、マジすか…
ALT text detailsX post from @aiki_1582. JP text: ダイソーさん、マジすか…
Nithin Coca నితిన్'s avatar
Nithin Coca నితిన్

@ncoca@social.coop

The , @Unfiltered_Coop, I've been working with for 2+ years has (soft) relaunched with a timely article on mixed-race athletes and how they are perceived in Japan, by Aviraj Gokool.

And we're on the !

unfiltered.coop/osaka-hachimur

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Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

Taishakuten, period, To-ji, . God of power. Taishakuten, said to be a hero who won against Ashura and made him believe in .

Taishakuten, #Heian period, To-ji, #Japan. God of power. Taishakuten, said to be a hero who won against Ashura and made him believe in #Buddhism. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsTaishakuten, #Heian period, To-ji, #Japan. God of power. Taishakuten, said to be a hero who won against Ashura and made him believe in #Buddhism. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
adamghill's avatar
adamghill

@adamghill@indieweb.social

My wife is on a stained glass kick recently and this is amazing.

I love the fire everywhere, atomic breath, and the textured glass for its body.

Stained glass of Godzilla with buildings and fire in the background. Godzilla has atomic breath and textured glass for its body.
ALT text detailsStained glass of Godzilla with buildings and fire in the background. Godzilla has atomic breath and textured glass for its body.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japan's National Police Agency may tighten Japan's anti-stalking law in the wake of a murder in Kawasaki, in which police did nothing even after the victim reported her ex-boyfriend nine times. More details on the change below.

unseen-japan.com/japan-stalkin

Buddhist Art's avatar
Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

Taishakuten, period, To-ji, . God of power. Taishakuten, said to be a hero who won against Ashura and made him believe in .

Taishakuten, #Heian period, To-ji, #Japan. God of power. Taishakuten, said to be a hero who won against Ashura and made him believe in #Buddhism. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsTaishakuten, #Heian period, To-ji, #Japan. God of power. Taishakuten, said to be a hero who won against Ashura and made him believe in #Buddhism. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Women-only parking spaces aim to improve safety and convenience, but some critics call them gender discrimination. Others argue that the spaces reinforce the stereotype that women are poor drivers.

unseen-japan.com/women-only-pa

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Mercari and similar sites like Rakuten have also forbidden the sale of other items that were deemed public interest goods. The most recent example was a ban on reselling rice released from Japan’s strategic reserves.

unseen-japan.com/mercarci-ultr

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Nerima City in Tokyo is well-known as the backdrop of some of Japan's most famous anime. While there are plenty of places to recreate scenes from some of your favorite shows, anime tourism isn’t the only thing to do here.

unseen-japan.com/nerima-city-j

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Kyoto City, long known for its struggles with overtourism, is preparing to significantly raise the ceiling on its hotel accommodation tax. City officials have confirmed plans to increase the maximum levy from the current 1,000 yen per night to 10,000 yen.

unseen-japan.com/lodging-taxes

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The revision to Japan's Entertainment Law in 1984 aimed for better monitoring of sex-related businesses. However, it couldn't require nightlife "licenses," as that would seem like a government endorsement of prostitution. Read below to discover what Japan did instead.

unseen-japan.com/1980s-japan-s

atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Chuzenji Utagahama (1931)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

tibetanbuddhistencyclopedia.co

A bright summer day at the shore of Lake Chuzenji. A pair of Buddhist pilgrims in traditional white garments and sedge hats, with one wearing a straw cape, approach a torii gate standing on the shore of the lake. Beyond, a little wooden ferry has only just left, five passengers occupying the low flat boat while the pilot stands at the stern, steering their progress with a long oar. The pilgrims will have to wait for the next one. Further out, a little sailboat crosses the flat, blue water; low, forest-covered mountains populate the horizon on the other side of the lake. Chuzen-ji is one of the thirty-three temples on the Bando Sanjusankasho pilgrimage route.
ALT text detailsA bright summer day at the shore of Lake Chuzenji. A pair of Buddhist pilgrims in traditional white garments and sedge hats, with one wearing a straw cape, approach a torii gate standing on the shore of the lake. Beyond, a little wooden ferry has only just left, five passengers occupying the low flat boat while the pilot stands at the stern, steering their progress with a long oar. The pilgrims will have to wait for the next one. Further out, a little sailboat crosses the flat, blue water; low, forest-covered mountains populate the horizon on the other side of the lake. Chuzen-ji is one of the thirty-three temples on the Bando Sanjusankasho pilgrimage route.
Nithin Coca నితిన్'s avatar
Nithin Coca నితిన్

@ncoca@social.coop

The , @Unfiltered_Coop, I've been working with for 2+ years has (soft) relaunched with a timely article on mixed-race athletes and how they are perceived in Japan, by Aviraj Gokool.

And we're on the !

unfiltered.coop/osaka-hachimur

atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Chuzenji Utagahama (1931)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

tibetanbuddhistencyclopedia.co

A bright summer day at the shore of Lake Chuzenji. A pair of Buddhist pilgrims in traditional white garments and sedge hats, with one wearing a straw cape, approach a torii gate standing on the shore of the lake. Beyond, a little wooden ferry has only just left, five passengers occupying the low flat boat while the pilot stands at the stern, steering their progress with a long oar. The pilgrims will have to wait for the next one. Further out, a little sailboat crosses the flat, blue water; low, forest-covered mountains populate the horizon on the other side of the lake. Chuzen-ji is one of the thirty-three temples on the Bando Sanjusankasho pilgrimage route.
ALT text detailsA bright summer day at the shore of Lake Chuzenji. A pair of Buddhist pilgrims in traditional white garments and sedge hats, with one wearing a straw cape, approach a torii gate standing on the shore of the lake. Beyond, a little wooden ferry has only just left, five passengers occupying the low flat boat while the pilot stands at the stern, steering their progress with a long oar. The pilgrims will have to wait for the next one. Further out, a little sailboat crosses the flat, blue water; low, forest-covered mountains populate the horizon on the other side of the lake. Chuzen-ji is one of the thirty-three temples on the Bando Sanjusankasho pilgrimage route.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Can you read 保栄茂 ? If not, don't feel bad: many native speakers can't either! Here are some of the most difficult-to-read Japanese place names from around the country based on various polls.

unseen-japan.com/hardest-japan

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Could it cost more to stay in Japan? It very likely will. The good news is that you probably won’t notice. Here's why close to 100 municipalities are considering lodging taxes to fuel growth and manage overtourism.

unseen-japan.com/lodging-taxes

atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

"Japan suffers through its hottest summer on record"; "June to August was 2.36 degrees hotter than average", "the third straight record for summer heat".

The Japan Meteorological Agency "also indicated that the rise in temperatures could be speeding up."

asahi.com/ajw/articles/16000901

A headline from the Asahi Shimbun, reading: "Japan suffers through its hottest summer on record", along with a photo of pedestrians in Tokyo carrying umbrellas as shelter from the intense sun
ALT text detailsA headline from the Asahi Shimbun, reading: "Japan suffers through its hottest summer on record", along with a photo of pedestrians in Tokyo carrying umbrellas as shelter from the intense sun
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Japan just "had its hottest summer on record", with extreme heat passing 40C or higher nine days this year:

www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/new

A headline from NHK News, reading "Japan sets record for hottest summer", along with a photo of a child cooling off in a fountain
ALT text detailsA headline from NHK News, reading "Japan sets record for hottest summer", along with a photo of a child cooling off in a fountain
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Japan just "had its hottest summer on record", with extreme heat passing 40C or higher nine days this year:

www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/new

A headline from NHK News, reading "Japan sets record for hottest summer", along with a photo of a child cooling off in a fountain
ALT text detailsA headline from NHK News, reading "Japan sets record for hottest summer", along with a photo of a child cooling off in a fountain
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

"Japan suffers through its hottest summer on record"; "June to August was 2.36 degrees hotter than average", "the third straight record for summer heat".

The Japan Meteorological Agency "also indicated that the rise in temperatures could be speeding up."

asahi.com/ajw/articles/16000901

A headline from the Asahi Shimbun, reading: "Japan suffers through its hottest summer on record", along with a photo of pedestrians in Tokyo carrying umbrellas as shelter from the intense sun
ALT text detailsA headline from the Asahi Shimbun, reading: "Japan suffers through its hottest summer on record", along with a photo of pedestrians in Tokyo carrying umbrellas as shelter from the intense sun
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

There are dozens of shopping streets throughout Tokyo. Stretching from Minowabashi Station to Arakawa-itchumae Station, Joyful Minowa is an over 400-meter-long line of stores and cafes first established in 1919.

unseen-japan.com/hidden-travel

The sign for the Joyful Minowa Shopping Street in Arakawa City, Tokyo
ALT text detailsThe sign for the Joyful Minowa Shopping Street in Arakawa City, Tokyo
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

"I've been shouting 'No immigrants' and 'Stay out, Africans,'" said one woman. "I don't wanna say that. I know there are good people in Africa. But these forced immigration policies are stirring up these discriminatory-like feelings."

unseen-japan.com/japan-africa-

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Eighty years on, the Occupation remains one of history’s unlikeliest success stories. The story of one couple demonstrates how enemies could eventually become family. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/09/

Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

In Japan it's common to see the traditional 'katori senkō' (蚊取り線香) outside homes and in gardens during the summer.

To combat mosquitoes Ueyama Ei'ichirō (上山英一郎) developed incense sticks in the late 1800s mixed from starch, orange skin, and pyrethrum powder.

A traditional mosquito coil (katori senko)...a spiral-shaped, slow-burning incense designed to repel or kill mosquitoes by releasing pyrethroid-based smoke into the air.
ALT text detailsA traditional mosquito coil (katori senko)...a spiral-shaped, slow-burning incense designed to repel or kill mosquitoes by releasing pyrethroid-based smoke into the air.
The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

The Soviet Union sinking of three Japanese ships near Hokkaido a week after World War II ended was a brutal final act made all the more significant because of one of history's greatest "what if" questions surrounding it. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/09/

The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

The Soviet Union sinking of three Japanese ships near Hokkaido a week after World War II ended was a brutal final act made all the more significant because of one of history's greatest "what if" questions surrounding it. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/09/

Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

In Japan it's common to see the traditional 'katori senkō' (蚊取り線香) outside homes and in gardens during the summer.

To combat mosquitoes Ueyama Ei'ichirō (上山英一郎) developed incense sticks in the late 1800s mixed from starch, orange skin, and pyrethrum powder.

A traditional mosquito coil (katori senko)...a spiral-shaped, slow-burning incense designed to repel or kill mosquitoes by releasing pyrethroid-based smoke into the air.
ALT text detailsA traditional mosquito coil (katori senko)...a spiral-shaped, slow-burning incense designed to repel or kill mosquitoes by releasing pyrethroid-based smoke into the air.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

But why a pig?

There is no definitive answer, but the connection between pigs (in reality boars) and mosquitoes may have solidified in Edo times.
It is likely the pottery pig-shaped coil holders appeared from the Meiji period in Aichi prefecture.

An old kayari buta at Omuro-tei (villa).
ALT text detailsAn old kayari buta at Omuro-tei (villa).
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

In Japan it's common to see the traditional 'katori senkō' (蚊取り線香) outside homes and in gardens during the summer.

To combat mosquitoes Ueyama Ei'ichirō (上山英一郎) developed incense sticks in the late 1800s mixed from starch, orange skin, and pyrethrum powder.

A traditional mosquito coil (katori senko)...a spiral-shaped, slow-burning incense designed to repel or kill mosquitoes by releasing pyrethroid-based smoke into the air.
ALT text detailsA traditional mosquito coil (katori senko)...a spiral-shaped, slow-burning incense designed to repel or kill mosquitoes by releasing pyrethroid-based smoke into the air.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

close to my ear
a single breeze
from a mosquito
只一ッ耳際に蚊の羽かぜ哉
-Kobayashi Issa (小林一茶), 1793.
Trans. Ogawa Shinji.

Nao-san braves the mosquitoes and performs tea ceremony with the garden doors open.
ALT text detailsNao-san braves the mosquitoes and performs tea ceremony with the garden doors open.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social

🐗🔥PIG PROTECTION🌪️🦟

One of the great joys of summer is taking out the sliding doors and blurring the line between garden and tearoom, relishing the morning cool before it gets too hot.

But...
Mosquitoes also love the garden.

So what to do?🤔

Atsuko-san throws open the doors to the teahouse garden to enjoy a quiet matcha moment.
ALT text detailsAtsuko-san throws open the doors to the teahouse garden to enjoy a quiet matcha moment.
During the summer we mostly keep the doors to the garden closed beside the tea room. Not only does this keep the cool air inside, it also traps the mosquitoes outside.
ALT text detailsDuring the summer we mostly keep the doors to the garden closed beside the tea room. Not only does this keep the cool air inside, it also traps the mosquitoes outside.
Atsuko-san poses for a photographer in the teahouse garden.
ALT text detailsAtsuko-san poses for a photographer in the teahouse garden.
The gardens have tsukubai (purification basins), but we only use these during occasional tea gatherings. Each morning we change the water to keep them clean, and to prevent mosquitoes breeding!
ALT text detailsThe gardens have tsukubai (purification basins), but we only use these during occasional tea gatherings. Each morning we change the water to keep them clean, and to prevent mosquitoes breeding!
The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Eighty years on, the Occupation remains one of history’s unlikeliest success stories. The story of one couple demonstrates how enemies could eventually become family. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/09/

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

An independent government agency in Japan declared four cities as "hometowns" of four African countries. Here's how Japan's far right jumped on bad reporting from Africa, leading to protestors in Japan shouting that they didn't want to see their cities "turn Black."

buff.ly/7fCU7uz

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Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

Seated Fudō Myōō () statue, To-ji, .

Seated Fudō Myōō (#FudōMyōō) statue, To-ji, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsSeated Fudō Myōō (#FudōMyōō) statue, To-ji, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
Buddhist Art's avatar
Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

Seated Fudō Myōō () statue, To-ji, .

Seated Fudō Myōō (#FudōMyōō) statue, To-ji, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsSeated Fudō Myōō (#FudōMyōō) statue, To-ji, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
Ren Tatsumoto :gnujihad: 's avatar
Ren Tatsumoto :gnujihad:

@tatsumoto@freesoftwareextremist.com

技量に見合った運転は大事 #japan #road

Can you explain why Japanese people drive like this?

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A 39yo elementary school teacher in Hiroshima has been arrested three times for sexually assaulting a student. The arrests mean the school board hasn't been able to interview him fully, so they have yet to fire him...and thus he's still drawing a salary.

news.yahoo.co.jp/articles/09d9

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Design Brouhaha

@MoritzBrouhaha@typo.social

OK, it's time to talk about the last project I spent many, many days to make:
The digitalization of the Lovers Communication System (LoCoS)
I am thrilled to announce that I will present it at the next Symbol 24 Conference on September 20th. Grab a ticket here; this is an online conference!
symbol-group.org/

↓ 1/8 small thread to discover the project. Thanks for sharing !

Animated GIF depicting several symbols contained in LoCoS with Japanese, French, and English translations.
ALT text detailsAnimated GIF depicting several symbols contained in LoCoS with Japanese, French, and English translations.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japanese prosecutors have conveniently determined it's "not necessary" for the lawyers for Abe Shinzo's assassin, Yamagami Tetsuya, to interview his mother & other believers of the Unification Church - despite Abe's ties to the Church being his motivation for the crime.

digital.asahi.com/articles/AST

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Weather Mizu

@mizu@mastodon.social

40.5C/105F observed in Kuwana, Mie prefecture.🥵

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japan continues to enjoy record tourism. But with more tourists come more problems. In response, some Japanese cities like Kanazawa are using social media to teach visitors basic manners, such as where to put their trash and how to take off their shoes.

unseen-japan.com/japan-tourism

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Edward Philips

@EdwardPhilips@toot.community

Morning all. As it’s Friday, let’s sneak into the weekend like this here Night Heron. You’re welcome. xx

Japanese inspired poster of a Night Heron. Available to buy on my website.
ALT text detailsJapanese inspired poster of a Night Heron. Available to buy on my website.
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MikeDunnAuthor

@MikeDunnAuthor@kolektiva.social

Shinkansen:

*60 billion passengers in 60 years
*0 fatalities
*Near perfect punctuality

US Train System:

*Slow, late, expensive
*>200 fatalities per year

slashgear.com/1643321/bullet-t

MikeDunnAuthor's avatar
MikeDunnAuthor

@MikeDunnAuthor@kolektiva.social

Shinkansen:

*60 billion passengers in 60 years
*0 fatalities
*Near perfect punctuality

US Train System:

*Slow, late, expensive
*>200 fatalities per year

slashgear.com/1643321/bullet-t

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Love what we do at Unseen Japan? We're fully supported by our readers - we couldn't do it without you. Help us do more by making a donation in any amount to UJ or subscribing to our weekly newsletter today. Learn more below.

unseen-japan.com/support/

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

In Japan, combini are more than just a place to buy food. Typical services offered include bill payment, paying for online purchases, shipping and returns, purchasing concert tickets, printing documents and photos, taking out money, and more.

unseen-japan.com/combini-sushi

Woman walking past a 7 Eleven
ALT text detailsWoman walking past a 7 Eleven
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

[Subscriber content] In May, Reuters reported that US experts had found rogue communication devices in Chinese-made solar power inverters. Security officials said the cellular devices could potentially be used to turn off parts of the US energy grid remotely.

unseen-japan.com/chinese-solar

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atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Cormorant Fishing (1954)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

visitgifu.com/see-do/cormorant

A summer evening on the Nagara River in Gifu, and Ukai fishermen and their cormorants are out on the water. Men in small wooden boats maintain small bonfires in baskets suspended over the calm water, to attract the sweetfish below. Trained cormorants on leads swim nearby; looking to the fisherman, the birds will dive to retrieve the fish. Beyond the river, shadowy mountains rise in a dim, starless night sky.
ALT text detailsA summer evening on the Nagara River in Gifu, and Ukai fishermen and their cormorants are out on the water. Men in small wooden boats maintain small bonfires in baskets suspended over the calm water, to attract the sweetfish below. Trained cormorants on leads swim nearby; looking to the fisherman, the birds will dive to retrieve the fish. Beyond the river, shadowy mountains rise in a dim, starless night sky.
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Edward Philips

@EdwardPhilips@toot.community

Morning all. As it’s Friday, let’s sneak into the weekend like this here Night Heron. You’re welcome. xx

Japanese inspired poster of a Night Heron. Available to buy on my website.
ALT text detailsJapanese inspired poster of a Night Heron. Available to buy on my website.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

1)
🎊A spring themed Pichu, Cleffa, and Igglybuff (ピチュ/ピィ/ププリン) are be found at Maruyama Kōen, close to the park's famous weeping cherry tree.

Pichu, Cleffa, and Igglybuff manhole cover.
ALT text detailsPichu, Cleffa, and Igglybuff manhole cover.
Maruyama Park's great weeping cherry tree in full bloom.
ALT text detailsMaruyama Park's great weeping cherry tree in full bloom.
Statue of Sakamoto Ryoma and Nakaoka Shintaro in Maruyama Park.
ALT text detailsStatue of Sakamoto Ryoma and Nakaoka Shintaro in Maruyama Park.
The main gate of Chion-in flanked by cherry blossoms.
ALT text detailsThe main gate of Chion-in flanked by cherry blossoms.
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dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Osaka Port at dusk. #photography #streetphotography #japan
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dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Osaka Port at dusk. #photography #streetphotography #japan
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Police in Nara arrested a 59yo Osaka man (name withheld) who snapped nonconsensual panty vids of three female tourists at Nara Park & uploaded them to YouTube. The man admits to the crime. Cops are investigating footage he uploaded of other potential victims.

topics.smt.docomo.ne.jp/articl

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atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Cormorant Fishing (1954)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

visitgifu.com/see-do/cormorant

A summer evening on the Nagara River in Gifu, and Ukai fishermen and their cormorants are out on the water. Men in small wooden boats maintain small bonfires in baskets suspended over the calm water, to attract the sweetfish below. Trained cormorants on leads swim nearby; looking to the fisherman, the birds will dive to retrieve the fish. Beyond the river, shadowy mountains rise in a dim, starless night sky.
ALT text detailsA summer evening on the Nagara River in Gifu, and Ukai fishermen and their cormorants are out on the water. Men in small wooden boats maintain small bonfires in baskets suspended over the calm water, to attract the sweetfish below. Trained cormorants on leads swim nearby; looking to the fisherman, the birds will dive to retrieve the fish. Beyond the river, shadowy mountains rise in a dim, starless night sky.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Combini in Japan didn't always sell sushi, with common wisdom holding that it was a dish best eaten fresh. Today, it's a top seller. In fact, in a new survey, tourists say it's what they're most looking forward to when they enter a 7-11 or Lawson.

unseen-japan.com/combini-sushi

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Tourists to Japan today crave something fresh and undiscovered. According to recent surveys, Katsuyama City in Fukui Prefecture has surprisingly become a new favorite, winning over visitors’ hearts quickly. Here's why you should go.

unseen-japan.com/katsuyama-tou

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Tokyo faces an impossible choice between an unreliable America and an assertive China. The solution? Don’t choose. japantimes.co.jp/commentary/20

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Tokyo faces an impossible choice between an unreliable America and an assertive China. The solution? Don’t choose. japantimes.co.jp/commentary/20

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atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Caravan from Afghanistan (1932)

Artist: Hiroshi Yoshida

japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/08/

A camel caravan makes its way across the desert and toward the viewer. In the foreground, male figures walk alongside a line of camels loaded with cargo; on the right, a single small donkey is similarly laden. Beyond, the flat desert is hazy in the heat; in the distance, a line of shadowy indistinct mountains crosses the horizon. Above, the sky is pale and cloudless
ALT text detailsA camel caravan makes its way across the desert and toward the viewer. In the foreground, male figures walk alongside a line of camels loaded with cargo; on the right, a single small donkey is similarly laden. Beyond, the flat desert is hazy in the heat; in the distance, a line of shadowy indistinct mountains crosses the horizon. Above, the sky is pale and cloudless
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Is China trying to control Japan via...solar panels? That might have been a ridiculous claim before US researchers made a surprising discovery earlier this year. We debunk bad science & look at energy security issues in tomorrow's Insider newsletter - subscribe today:

unseen-japan.com/subscribe

There seems almost nothing that the Japanese right wing can't somehow blame on China. The country and its citizens have long been a target of discrimination here, particularly in areas such as housing. That's only increased since the pandemic. Japan's right rails against what it calls the "China-fication" of Japan. In particular, they claim that Chinese businesses and wealthy individuals buying property here amounts to a stealth takeover. They've also protested against the Liberal Democratic Party's plans to make it easier for wealthy Chinese tourists to obtain lengthy visitor visas. But some say China's attacking Japan in a more nefarious way: through solar panels.
ALT text detailsThere seems almost nothing that the Japanese right wing can't somehow blame on China. The country and its citizens have long been a target of discrimination here, particularly in areas such as housing. That's only increased since the pandemic. Japan's right rails against what it calls the "China-fication" of Japan. In particular, they claim that Chinese businesses and wealthy individuals buying property here amounts to a stealth takeover. They've also protested against the Liberal Democratic Party's plans to make it easier for wealthy Chinese tourists to obtain lengthy visitor visas. But some say China's attacking Japan in a more nefarious way: through solar panels.
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atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Caravan from Afghanistan (1932)

Artist: Hiroshi Yoshida

japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/08/

A camel caravan makes its way across the desert and toward the viewer. In the foreground, male figures walk alongside a line of camels loaded with cargo; on the right, a single small donkey is similarly laden. Beyond, the flat desert is hazy in the heat; in the distance, a line of shadowy indistinct mountains crosses the horizon. Above, the sky is pale and cloudless
ALT text detailsA camel caravan makes its way across the desert and toward the viewer. In the foreground, male figures walk alongside a line of camels loaded with cargo; on the right, a single small donkey is similarly laden. Beyond, the flat desert is hazy in the heat; in the distance, a line of shadowy indistinct mountains crosses the horizon. Above, the sky is pale and cloudless
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Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

Mountain deity (蔵王権現) venerated especially in the Yoshino and Kumano area, , held to be the local incarnation of multiple divinities, and especially central to practice. Color & gold on silk dating to the period (1185-1333).

Mountain deity #Zao #Gongen (蔵王権現) venerated especially in the Yoshino and Kumano area, #Japan, held to be the local incarnation of multiple #Buddhist divinities, and especially central to #Shugendō practice. Color & gold on silk dating to the #Kamakura period (1185-1333). #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsMountain deity #Zao #Gongen (蔵王権現) venerated especially in the Yoshino and Kumano area, #Japan, held to be the local incarnation of multiple #Buddhist divinities, and especially central to #Shugendō practice. Color & gold on silk dating to the #Kamakura period (1185-1333). #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
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Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

Mountain deity (蔵王権現) venerated especially in the Yoshino and Kumano area, , held to be the local incarnation of multiple divinities, and especially central to practice. Color & gold on silk dating to the period (1185-1333).

Mountain deity #Zao #Gongen (蔵王権現) venerated especially in the Yoshino and Kumano area, #Japan, held to be the local incarnation of multiple #Buddhist divinities, and especially central to #Shugendō practice. Color & gold on silk dating to the #Kamakura period (1185-1333). #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsMountain deity #Zao #Gongen (蔵王権現) venerated especially in the Yoshino and Kumano area, #Japan, held to be the local incarnation of multiple #Buddhist divinities, and especially central to #Shugendō practice. Color & gold on silk dating to the #Kamakura period (1185-1333). #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Takegawa Yūichi started his Twitter account in 2020. Since then, he's earned notoriety by "exposing" Japan's underworld and nightlife. That includes putting sex workers in Japan at risk by outing their personal info - even though he himself is reportedly a cabaret club addict.

X post from Takizawa Gareso. Japanese text: 5月頭時点でまず、キャバクラ(？)で飲んでいた竹川さんが何者かに「晒し屋の方ですか？」とリアル凸される動画がupされました。 その直後、竹川さんらしき男性が暗闇のなかで全裸で縛られ、リンチされスタンガンを押さえつけられるヤバい動画もupされて過去の晒しポストが全削除されました。
ALT text detailsX post from Takizawa Gareso. Japanese text: 5月頭時点でまず、キャバクラ(？)で飲んでいた竹川さんが何者かに「晒し屋の方ですか？」とリアル凸される動画がupされました。 その直後、竹川さんらしき男性が暗闇のなかで全裸で縛られ、リンチされスタンガンを押さえつけられるヤバい動画もupされて過去の晒しポストが全削除されました。
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Karl Baron

@kalleboo@bitbang.social

🚨 Network Rack Gacha Alert 🚨

The Network Rack Series 3 has been announced and goes on sale in June! Now with That APC UPS That Everyone Has, a huge NetApp device, and a half-width NEC router + shelf

tarlin-capsule.jp/product/528

手のひらネットワーク機器３ A little plastic toy rack with servers and network devices in it
ALT text details手のひらネットワーク機器３ A little plastic toy rack with servers and network devices in it
A litte plastic [APC Smart-UPS 1500 RM 2U LCD 100V)
ALT text detailsA litte plastic [APC Smart-UPS 1500 RM 2U LCD 100V)
NetApp (AFF A70)
ALT text detailsNetApp (AFF A70)
NEC (UNIVERGE IX-R2530]
ALT text detailsNEC (UNIVERGE IX-R2530]
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

It's a dying art - but at one time, it was a form of rebellion. Here's how enka, a form of political protest music, came to be regarded as an art form that captures "the heart of Japan."

unseen-japan.com/enka-music-ja

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Jordi Mallol i Comas

@gatillepis@kfem.cat

　

Noia amb quimono asseguda en un passeig de Kamakura, mira a la càmera.
ALT text detailsNoia amb quimono asseguda en un passeig de Kamakura, mira a la càmera.
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Jordi Mallol i Comas

@gatillepis@kfem.cat

　

Noia amb quimono asseguda en un passeig de Kamakura, mira a la càmera.
ALT text detailsNoia amb quimono asseguda en un passeig de Kamakura, mira a la càmera.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Mercari has taken heat for its inability to crack down on resellers who buy up limited-edition collectibles to sell at a markup. Resellers have reaped healthy profits on everything from Hello Kitty and My Melody goods to McDonald’s Happy Meal toys.

unseen-japan.com/mercarci-ultr

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dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Japanese streetscapes that evoke a nostalgic feeling. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Japanese streetscapes that evoke a nostalgic feeling
ALT text detailsJapanese streetscapes that evoke a nostalgic feeling
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dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Japanese streetscapes that evoke a nostalgic feeling. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Japanese streetscapes that evoke a nostalgic feeling
ALT text detailsJapanese streetscapes that evoke a nostalgic feeling
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Although the shrine dates to 1190, it was given its current name when the thrills of Emperor Go-Saga's (後嵯峨天皇 1220-72) carriage broke just outside the main gate.

Locals reported that broken wheels and shafts were a common occurrence before the shrine.

An ox carriage (as used in the Heian period) decorated with wisteria blossoms, part of the Aoi Matsuri procession.
ALT text detailsAn ox carriage (as used in the Heian period) decorated with wisteria blossoms, part of the Aoi Matsuri procession.
A horseman participating in the Aoi Matsuri procession, dressed in Heian period costume.
ALT text detailsA horseman participating in the Aoi Matsuri procession, dressed in Heian period costume.
Participants in the Aoi Matsuri procession. A lady is shaded by a giant parasol, little protection again the fierce May sunshine.
ALT text detailsParticipants in the Aoi Matsuri procession. A lady is shaded by a giant parasol, little protection again the fierce May sunshine.
An ox carriage (as used in the Heian period) decorated with wisteria blossoms, part of the Aoi Matsuri procession.
ALT text detailsAn ox carriage (as used in the Heian period) decorated with wisteria blossoms, part of the Aoi Matsuri procession.
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dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Summer rain in Kyoto Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

TIME magazine unveiled its list of the top 100 greatest places to see around the world. Japan has four locations that made the cut. Some of these are gems of Japanese history, while others recognize the influence Japanese pop culture has had around the globe.

unseen-japan.com/worlds-greate

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The so-called no-pan kissa (ノーパン喫茶) rose to prominence in Japan’s roaring 1980sThe shops didn’t just insist that their waitresses not wear undergarments: they also installed mirrors on the floor so that the (mostly male) customers could get a better look.

unseen-japan.com/1980s-japan-s

Black and white picture of female servers in a no-pan kissa. A mirror is clearly visible on the floor behind them
ALT text detailsBlack and white picture of female servers in a no-pan kissa. A mirror is clearly visible on the floor behind them
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A parking facility in Tokyo said it created women-only parking spaces to make it "easier for women who are not used to driving.” Built in the 1980s, the multi-story structure set aside 35 spaces for women that are larger than standard spots.

unseen-japan.com/women-only-pa

Empty parking lot in Japan
ALT text detailsEmpty parking lot in Japan
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The Nezu Shrine, one of Tokyo’s oldest shrines, has been in its present location since 1705. Legend claims that the Shinto shrine was first established in Sendagi many centuries ago by the folk hero Yamato Takeru.

unseen-japan.com/hidden-travel

Line of Torii gates at Nezu Shrine, Tokyo
ALT text detailsLine of Torii gates at Nezu Shrine, Tokyo
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

'Tobari' can mean to cover or conceal something, so 'kiri-no-tobari' conjures up the image of a beautiful covering, such as mist at dawn, or clouds at sunset.

Woodblock print of travelers walking over a misty river. Image thanks🙇‍♂️-https://ukiyo-e.org
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of travelers walking over a misty river. Image thanks🙇‍♂️-https://ukiyo-e.org
Woodblock print of a misty gorge. Image thanks🙇‍♂️-https://ukiyo-e.org
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of a misty gorge. Image thanks🙇‍♂️-https://ukiyo-e.org
Woodblock print of travelers passing by a shrine shrouded in mist. Image thanks🙇‍♂️-https://ukiyo-e.org
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of travelers passing by a shrine shrouded in mist. Image thanks🙇‍♂️-https://ukiyo-e.org
Woodblock print of pedlar passing through the grounds a shrine. The shrine and mountains behind are disappearing in mist. Image thanks🙇‍♂️-https://ukiyo-e.org
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of pedlar passing through the grounds a shrine. The shrine and mountains behind are disappearing in mist. Image thanks🙇‍♂️-https://ukiyo-e.org
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Itotatsu's vivid 'kiri-no-tobari' (霧のとばり)...a lime-flavoured kuzugashi (葛菓子).
A 'tobari' (帳/とばり) was a type of curtain used to partition a room.

'Kiri-no-tobari' (霧のとばり) can be read as 'mist on the curtain', but the meaning is a little trickier to convey.

'Kiri-no-tobari' (霧のとばり)...a lime-flavoured kuzugashi coloured in gorgeous purples.
ALT text details'Kiri-no-tobari' (霧のとばり)...a lime-flavoured kuzugashi coloured in gorgeous purples.
A gorgeous pink and purple sunset over the main gate of Chion-in.
ALT text detailsA gorgeous pink and purple sunset over the main gate of Chion-in.
In this scene from The Tale of Genji scrolls you can see a 'tobari' (帳/とばり), a type of curtain used to partition a room.
ALT text detailsIn this scene from The Tale of Genji scrolls you can see a 'tobari' (帳/とばり), a type of curtain used to partition a room.
A hazy morning in the hydrangea gardens of Yoshimine-dera.
ALT text detailsA hazy morning in the hydrangea gardens of Yoshimine-dera.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

'Tobari' can mean to cover or conceal something, so 'kiri-no-tobari' conjures up the image of a beautiful covering, such as mist at dawn, or clouds at sunset.

Woodblock print of travelers walking over a misty river. Image thanks🙇‍♂️-https://ukiyo-e.org
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of travelers walking over a misty river. Image thanks🙇‍♂️-https://ukiyo-e.org
Woodblock print of a misty gorge. Image thanks🙇‍♂️-https://ukiyo-e.org
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of a misty gorge. Image thanks🙇‍♂️-https://ukiyo-e.org
Woodblock print of travelers passing by a shrine shrouded in mist. Image thanks🙇‍♂️-https://ukiyo-e.org
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of travelers passing by a shrine shrouded in mist. Image thanks🙇‍♂️-https://ukiyo-e.org
Woodblock print of pedlar passing through the grounds a shrine. The shrine and mountains behind are disappearing in mist. Image thanks🙇‍♂️-https://ukiyo-e.org
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of pedlar passing through the grounds a shrine. The shrine and mountains behind are disappearing in mist. Image thanks🙇‍♂️-https://ukiyo-e.org
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

From ancient times right through to the Edo period the dayflower was used to produce a vivid blue dye, and from the 18th-early 19thC artists used the blue pigment in ukiyo-e woodcuts.
But like the flower, the dye has a short life (especially if made wet) and fades quickly.

Woodblock print - "Night Rain at Karasaki" by Utagawa Hiroshige. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print - "Night Rain at Karasaki" by Utagawa Hiroshige. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
Woodblock print of two kimono dressed women stopping their cleaning to read a letter. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of two kimono dressed women stopping their cleaning to read a letter. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
Woodblock print of a mackerel and crab by Utagawa Hiroshige. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of a mackerel and crab by Utagawa Hiroshige. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
Woodblock print of Tsukuda Island in Musashi Province by Katsushika Hokusai. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of Tsukuda Island in Musashi Province by Katsushika Hokusai. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Itotatsu's vivid 'kiri-no-tobari' (霧のとばり)...a lime-flavoured kuzugashi (葛菓子).
A 'tobari' (帳/とばり) was a type of curtain used to partition a room.

'Kiri-no-tobari' (霧のとばり) can be read as 'mist on the curtain', but the meaning is a little trickier to convey.

'Kiri-no-tobari' (霧のとばり)...a lime-flavoured kuzugashi coloured in gorgeous purples.
ALT text details'Kiri-no-tobari' (霧のとばり)...a lime-flavoured kuzugashi coloured in gorgeous purples.
A gorgeous pink and purple sunset over the main gate of Chion-in.
ALT text detailsA gorgeous pink and purple sunset over the main gate of Chion-in.
In this scene from The Tale of Genji scrolls you can see a 'tobari' (帳/とばり), a type of curtain used to partition a room.
ALT text detailsIn this scene from The Tale of Genji scrolls you can see a 'tobari' (帳/とばり), a type of curtain used to partition a room.
A hazy morning in the hydrangea gardens of Yoshimine-dera.
ALT text detailsA hazy morning in the hydrangea gardens of Yoshimine-dera.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

I'll let the dayflowers dye my robe even if the colour fades away in the morning dew
月草に衣はすらむ 朝露に 濡れての後は 色かはるとも
-Man'yōshū (萬葉集), Vol 7, 1351.

Known as 'tsukikusa' in classical Japanese, the flowers are a common motif in poetry.

Scenes from The Tale of Genji scrolls.
ALT text detailsScenes from The Tale of Genji scrolls.
Scenes from The Tale of Genji scrolls.
ALT text detailsScenes from The Tale of Genji scrolls.
Scenes from The Tale of Genji scrolls.
ALT text detailsScenes from The Tale of Genji scrolls.
Scenes from The Tale of Genji scrolls.
ALT text detailsScenes from The Tale of Genji scrolls.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

I'll let the dayflowers dye my robe even if the colour fades away in the morning dew
月草に衣はすらむ 朝露に 濡れての後は 色かはるとも
-Man'yōshū (萬葉集), Vol 7, 1351.

Known as 'tsukikusa' in classical Japanese, the flowers are a common motif in poetry.

Scenes from The Tale of Genji scrolls.
ALT text detailsScenes from The Tale of Genji scrolls.
Scenes from The Tale of Genji scrolls.
ALT text detailsScenes from The Tale of Genji scrolls.
Scenes from The Tale of Genji scrolls.
ALT text detailsScenes from The Tale of Genji scrolls.
Scenes from The Tale of Genji scrolls.
ALT text detailsScenes from The Tale of Genji scrolls.
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dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Summer rain in Kyoto Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

From ancient times right through to the Edo period the dayflower was used to produce a vivid blue dye, and from the 18th-early 19thC artists used the blue pigment in ukiyo-e woodcuts.
But like the flower, the dye has a short life (especially if made wet) and fades quickly.

Woodblock print - "Night Rain at Karasaki" by Utagawa Hiroshige. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print - "Night Rain at Karasaki" by Utagawa Hiroshige. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
Woodblock print of two kimono dressed women stopping their cleaning to read a letter. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of two kimono dressed women stopping their cleaning to read a letter. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
Woodblock print of a mackerel and crab by Utagawa Hiroshige. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of a mackerel and crab by Utagawa Hiroshige. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
Woodblock print of Tsukuda Island in Musashi Province by Katsushika Hokusai. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of Tsukuda Island in Musashi Province by Katsushika Hokusai. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

On the way to work I saw a few dayflowers growing beside the path.

Just a gentle rub and the petals melt into an almost purplish blue ink.

Rubbing the petals of the dayflower leaves a blueish purplish inky colour on the fingertips.
ALT text detailsRubbing the petals of the dayflower leaves a blueish purplish inky colour on the fingertips.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

'Tsuyukusa' (ツユクサ, 露草, 鴨跖草, 鴨跖) goes by many names, but because its flowers open at dawn and wither at dusk, it is commonly known as the 'dayflower'.

This brief burst of life has made it a symbol of fleeting affections, changes of heart, and nostalgic feelings.

The delicate, vivid blue petals of the dayflower. As the name suggests, these flowers barely last for a day.
ALT text detailsThe delicate, vivid blue petals of the dayflower. As the name suggests, these flowers barely last for a day.
The delicate, vivid blue petals of the dayflower. As the name suggests, these flowers barely last for a day.
ALT text detailsThe delicate, vivid blue petals of the dayflower. As the name suggests, these flowers barely last for a day.
A bee pays a visit to a dayflower, collecting pollen before the flower withers at the end of the day.
ALT text detailsA bee pays a visit to a dayflower, collecting pollen before the flower withers at the end of the day.
The delicate, vivid blue petals of the dayflower. As the name suggests, these flowers barely last for a day.
ALT text detailsThe delicate, vivid blue petals of the dayflower. As the name suggests, these flowers barely last for a day.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social

🪻SUMMER BLUES🎨

Despite what the humidity may be telling us outside,
the traditional calendar promises that we are now in a season called 'shosho' (処暑 'manageable heat' - August 23rd to September 7th).

From now until autumn the delicate Asiatic dayflower (ツユクサ) begins to bloom.

The beautifully blue Asiatic dayflower.
ALT text detailsThe beautifully blue Asiatic dayflower.
Kagizen Yoshifusa's 'aki-no-sora' is a wave-like sweep of light-blue rakugan (落雁) and yokan (羊羹) over white bean paste, symbolising the clear skies in early fall.
ALT text detailsKagizen Yoshifusa's 'aki-no-sora' is a wave-like sweep of light-blue rakugan (落雁) and yokan (羊羹) over white bean paste, symbolising the clear skies in early fall.
Kameya Yoshinaga has done the impossible and perfectly captured the blue skies and cotton puff clouds of May in sweet form☺️ The wonderful 'hikōki-gumo' (ひこうき雲).
ALT text detailsKameya Yoshinaga has done the impossible and perfectly captured the blue skies and cotton puff clouds of May in sweet form☺️ The wonderful 'hikōki-gumo' (ひこうき雲).
The beautifully blue Asiatic dayflower.
ALT text detailsThe beautifully blue Asiatic dayflower.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Many people are familiar with women-only trains in Japan. However, the country also has several women-only parking spaces. Some contend they keep women safe - while some men say it amounts to discrimination.

unseen-japan.com/women-only-pa

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Looking for a quiet spot away from the crowds? Tourists to Tokyo rated these three locations as their favorite pit stops. Check them out and share your own favorite secluded little spots or places to take a breather in the comments.

unseen-japan.com/hidden-travel

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Covering 6,585 square meters, Ashikaga Scramble City Studio reproduces the Shibuya Scramble Crossing at full scale. The studio team carefully recreated details such as chewing gum stains and graffiti to match the real intersection.

unseen-japan.com/ashikaga-repl

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

At its height, Japan's Village Vanguard had 400 stores. With its recent announcement that it'll close 81 stores, it will be down to a mere 200. What went wrong for Japan's unique subculture bookstore?

unseen-japan.com/village-vangu

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Some department stores and specialty luggage stores will be happy to help you out by disposing of a broken suitcase. Many Internet users report that Ginza Karen in Osaka’s Shinsaibashi will do this for a mere 500 yen if you ask.

unseen-japan.com/broken-suitca

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Tanuki.no.mori

@tanukinomori_jp@mastodon.social

Summer glimpses of Kyoto beneath blue skies

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Tanuki.no.mori

@tanukinomori_jp@mastodon.social

Summer glimpses of Kyoto beneath blue skies

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Should you try nagashi somen when you're in Japan? It's generally a safe and fun way to eat noodles. However, as one incident shows, it's best to be cautious. Here's how one nagashi somen event in the country turned dangerous.

unseen-japan.com/nagashi-somen

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The YT account Human Train mimics not just the announcements, but the sounds of various train lines in Japan (link below is for the JR East Jōban Line). Some commenters quip that he seems sad he wasn't born a train.

buff.ly/sL8aYua

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

In 1980s Japan, "no-panties cafes" - known for scantily-clad waitresses and mirrored floors - offered a salacious take on the traditional kissa. Here's how authorities responded - and how the new restrictions on sex clubs shape Japan's nightlife scene to this day.

unseen-japan.com/1980s-japan-s

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

More tourists than ever want to see Mt. Fuji. Some of them are driving to do it. That's led to a significant increase in traffic accidents, largely due to drivers from right-hand traffic countries who are unaccustomed to Japan's left-hand traffic rules.

unseen-japan.com/mt-fuji-drivi

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Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

Page of a ’s Visiting Album, , late 18th–19th century.

Page of a #Pilgrim’s Visiting Album, #Japan, late 18th–19th century. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsPage of a #Pilgrim’s Visiting Album, #Japan, late 18th–19th century. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
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Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

Page of a ’s Visiting Album, , late 18th–19th century.

Page of a #Pilgrim’s Visiting Album, #Japan, late 18th–19th century. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsPage of a #Pilgrim’s Visiting Album, #Japan, late 18th–19th century. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Ever see Shibuya Scramble in a movie or drama set in Tokyo? Odds are it wasn't shot in Shibuya, but Tochigi Prefecture. This fall, the company behind Shibuya Scramble City Studio is making the iconic set open to the public for their own personal photo shoots.

unseen-japan.com/ashikaga-repl

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atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Sengaku-ji at Takanawa, Tokyo (1933)

Artist: Koitsu Tsuchiya

fodors.com/world/asia/japan/to

A dark, rainy evening at Sengaku-ji, in Tokyo. A female figure and a child approach the temple; she is carrying a bamboo umbrella over their heads with one hand, and a lit lantern suspended from a pole in the other. Up ahead, another figure is closing their umbrella as they climb a short series of steps leading into a temple building. A pair of tall wiry trees stand in the foreground, near another temple building; the courtyard is slick with rain, reflecting and scattering light from the woman's lantern and the interior of the temple. Above, the sky is dark and overcast, and rain continues to fall across the scene.
ALT text detailsA dark, rainy evening at Sengaku-ji, in Tokyo. A female figure and a child approach the temple; she is carrying a bamboo umbrella over their heads with one hand, and a lit lantern suspended from a pole in the other. Up ahead, another figure is closing their umbrella as they climb a short series of steps leading into a temple building. A pair of tall wiry trees stand in the foreground, near another temple building; the courtyard is slick with rain, reflecting and scattering light from the woman's lantern and the interior of the temple. Above, the sky is dark and overcast, and rain continues to fall across the scene.
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atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Sengaku-ji at Takanawa, Tokyo (1933)

Artist: Koitsu Tsuchiya

fodors.com/world/asia/japan/to

A dark, rainy evening at Sengaku-ji, in Tokyo. A female figure and a child approach the temple; she is carrying a bamboo umbrella over their heads with one hand, and a lit lantern suspended from a pole in the other. Up ahead, another figure is closing their umbrella as they climb a short series of steps leading into a temple building. A pair of tall wiry trees stand in the foreground, near another temple building; the courtyard is slick with rain, reflecting and scattering light from the woman's lantern and the interior of the temple. Above, the sky is dark and overcast, and rain continues to fall across the scene.
ALT text detailsA dark, rainy evening at Sengaku-ji, in Tokyo. A female figure and a child approach the temple; she is carrying a bamboo umbrella over their heads with one hand, and a lit lantern suspended from a pole in the other. Up ahead, another figure is closing their umbrella as they climb a short series of steps leading into a temple building. A pair of tall wiry trees stand in the foreground, near another temple building; the courtyard is slick with rain, reflecting and scattering light from the woman's lantern and the interior of the temple. Above, the sky is dark and overcast, and rain continues to fall across the scene.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Coming to Japan? Don’t want to stick to the same-old tourist traps that everyone else is seeing? Let Unseen Japan Tours take you where tourists generally can’t go with custom itineraries and guided, interpreted tours.

unseen-japan.com/unseen-japan-

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Exposé (暴露系; bakuro-kei) influencers in Japan trade in rumors and gossip. Many focus on the "underside" of Japanese society, which includes both criminal organizations like the yakuza as well as legal nightlife businesses, such as cabaret, host, and sex clubs.

Entertainer Orihara is another "exposé influencer" who focuses on publishing secrets about Japan's sex workers and others.
ALT text detailsEntertainer Orihara is another "exposé influencer" who focuses on publishing secrets about Japan's sex workers and others.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

If you needed any more reasons not to use Duolingo to learn Japanese or other languages, they're now catering to transphobes.

Post from disgruntled Karen about a dig at JK Rowling in Duolingo referring to her as "mean." Author says "trans ideology" is infecting Duolingo
ALT text detailsPost from disgruntled Karen about a dig at JK Rowling in Duolingo referring to her as "mean." Author says "trans ideology" is infecting Duolingo
Duolingo: We apologise for any offence caused and will remove this content from the app.
ALT text detailsDuolingo: We apologise for any offence caused and will remove this content from the app.
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Mike Edwards

@mike_edwards@mas.to

Oh, wow, Japanese is officially going with Hepburn-style romanization

japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/08/

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Mike Edwards

@mike_edwards@mas.to

Oh, wow, Japanese is officially going with Hepburn-style romanization

japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/08/

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

If you needed any more reasons not to use Duolingo to learn Japanese or other languages, they're now catering to transphobes.

Post from disgruntled Karen about a dig at JK Rowling in Duolingo referring to her as "mean." Author says "trans ideology" is infecting Duolingo
ALT text detailsPost from disgruntled Karen about a dig at JK Rowling in Duolingo referring to her as "mean." Author says "trans ideology" is infecting Duolingo
Duolingo: We apologise for any offence caused and will remove this content from the app.
ALT text detailsDuolingo: We apologise for any offence caused and will remove this content from the app.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Can you buy a Japanese sword in Japan? Yes! That's very easy! The problem, however, isn't buying the sword - it's exporting it from Japan. Here's what you need to know before you attempt to live out your dream of becoming a modern-day samurai.

unseen-japan.com/samurai-sword

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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

⛩️THE CAT SHRINE😸

Iwagō Mitsuaki helped revive the fortunes of Umenomiya Taisha (梅宮大社). His photographs of the cats cared for by the shrine priest became an instant hit, and nowadays a steady stream of visitors come to catch a glimpse of the pampered felines.

Gorgeous chubby black cat asleep at Umenomiya Taisha.
ALT text detailsGorgeous chubby black cat asleep at Umenomiya Taisha.
Main shrine at Umenomiya Taisha.
ALT text detailsMain shrine at Umenomiya Taisha.
Thatched hut on an island in the pond at Umenomiya Taisha.
ALT text detailsThatched hut on an island in the pond at Umenomiya Taisha.
White cat asleep on the visitor benches at Umenomiya Taisha.
ALT text detailsWhite cat asleep on the visitor benches at Umenomiya Taisha.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A 93yo man was found dead in his home in Daisen, Akita Prefecture. At first, authorities thought he'd been killed by a bear. However, an autopsy has concluded that he was, in fact, murdered with a knife 😶

newsdig.tbs.co.jp/articles/-/2

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Despite the punishing summer, tourists are still flocking to Japan. JNTO reports that the country set a new July record of 3,437,000 visitors - a 4.4% increase over 2024. Tourism from China saw the largest increase at 25.5%, with travel from the US up 10.3%.

yomiuri.co.jp/economy/20250820

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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

⛩️THE CAT SHRINE😸

Iwagō Mitsuaki helped revive the fortunes of Umenomiya Taisha (梅宮大社). His photographs of the cats cared for by the shrine priest became an instant hit, and nowadays a steady stream of visitors come to catch a glimpse of the pampered felines.

Gorgeous chubby black cat asleep at Umenomiya Taisha.
ALT text detailsGorgeous chubby black cat asleep at Umenomiya Taisha.
Main shrine at Umenomiya Taisha.
ALT text detailsMain shrine at Umenomiya Taisha.
Thatched hut on an island in the pond at Umenomiya Taisha.
ALT text detailsThatched hut on an island in the pond at Umenomiya Taisha.
White cat asleep on the visitor benches at Umenomiya Taisha.
ALT text detailsWhite cat asleep on the visitor benches at Umenomiya Taisha.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The followers of Japan's "exposé influencers" view them as champions of the little guy. In truth, many are simply ruining people's lives. Some are even profiting off extortion. Read all about it in tomorrow's Unseen Japan Insider newsletter - subscribe today:

unseen-japan.com/subscribe/

In other words, the account appears to have been hijacked by someone who, to put it mildly, is none too fond of Takegawa and his posts. We got a little insight into what happened earlier this month. Police in Tokyo arrested two 32-year-old men for breaking into Takegawa's home. On top of forcing him to tell them the password of his socials, they stripped him naked, forced him to apologize, and then microwaved his phone until it was unusable. To add insult to injury, they posted pics of the assault on his Twitter account. You may feel sorry for Takegawa at this point. And let's be clear: What happened to him is a crime, and his attackers should be punished to the full extent of the law. But, personally, I'm not crying for the guy. And many others aren't, either.
ALT text detailsIn other words, the account appears to have been hijacked by someone who, to put it mildly, is none too fond of Takegawa and his posts. We got a little insight into what happened earlier this month. Police in Tokyo arrested two 32-year-old men for breaking into Takegawa's home. On top of forcing him to tell them the password of his socials, they stripped him naked, forced him to apologize, and then microwaved his phone until it was unusable. To add insult to injury, they posted pics of the assault on his Twitter account. You may feel sorry for Takegawa at this point. And let's be clear: What happened to him is a crime, and his attackers should be punished to the full extent of the law. But, personally, I'm not crying for the guy. And many others aren't, either.
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Kagi HQ

@kagihq@mastodon.social

We're honored to join the Shibuya Startups accelerator program in Japan! 🇯🇵

Japan has already become our #2 traffic source through organic growth, thanks largely to Kagi Translate, and we see tremendous potential to deepen our presence there.

Being part of this program opens doors to bring Kagi directly to Shibuya's libraries and schools.

To the Shibuya Startups community and fellow founders: thank you for welcoming us. Excited to build and grow alongside you. upshibuya.com/en/

Slide with bold text ‘Thank you, Shibuya Startups!’ beside the Kagi logo on a large yellow semicircle. A cartoon version of the iconic Hachiko Statue stands on a gray podium while Doggo, Kagi's cartoon dog mascot, sits in front of it next to a tennis ball.
ALT text detailsSlide with bold text ‘Thank you, Shibuya Startups!’ beside the Kagi logo on a large yellow semicircle. A cartoon version of the iconic Hachiko Statue stands on a gray podium while Doggo, Kagi's cartoon dog mascot, sits in front of it next to a tennis ball.
Kagi HQ's avatar
Kagi HQ

@kagihq@mastodon.social

We're honored to join the Shibuya Startups accelerator program in Japan! 🇯🇵

Japan has already become our #2 traffic source through organic growth, thanks largely to Kagi Translate, and we see tremendous potential to deepen our presence there.

Being part of this program opens doors to bring Kagi directly to Shibuya's libraries and schools.

To the Shibuya Startups community and fellow founders: thank you for welcoming us. Excited to build and grow alongside you. upshibuya.com/en/

Slide with bold text ‘Thank you, Shibuya Startups!’ beside the Kagi logo on a large yellow semicircle. A cartoon version of the iconic Hachiko Statue stands on a gray podium while Doggo, Kagi's cartoon dog mascot, sits in front of it next to a tennis ball.
ALT text detailsSlide with bold text ‘Thank you, Shibuya Startups!’ beside the Kagi logo on a large yellow semicircle. A cartoon version of the iconic Hachiko Statue stands on a gray podium while Doggo, Kagi's cartoon dog mascot, sits in front of it next to a tennis ball.
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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

A government advisory panel on Wednesday suggested revisions to the country's system for romanizing the Japanese language based on the currently widely used Hepburn style. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/08/

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

A government advisory panel on Wednesday suggested revisions to the country's system for romanizing the Japanese language based on the currently widely used Hepburn style. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/08/

The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Japan's oldest professional player of the board game go retired at age 98 after saying she can no longer handle "six hours without a break." japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/08/

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Japan's oldest professional player of the board game go retired at age 98 after saying she can no longer handle "six hours without a break." japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/08/

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Tokugawa Ieyasu is easily one of the greatest leaders in Japan's history. And yet, remains the Rodney Dangerfield of Japanese history. Despite his great accomplishments, he gets no respect. Why?

unseen-japan.com/tokugawa-ieya

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atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Sacred Grove (1941)

Artist: Toshi Yoshida

japanshrinestemples.blogspot.c

A small red-lacquered shinto shrine stands in a little forest clearing. The shrine is surrounded by tall cryptomeria trees, moss clinging to the bases of their trunks and growing nearby in clumps across the ground. Above, a tiny glimpse of sky afforded by a break in the tree canopy shows an overcast day. There are no people in the scene.
ALT text detailsA small red-lacquered shinto shrine stands in a little forest clearing. The shrine is surrounded by tall cryptomeria trees, moss clinging to the bases of their trunks and growing nearby in clumps across the ground. Above, a tiny glimpse of sky afforded by a break in the tree canopy shows an overcast day. There are no people in the scene.
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Raymond Larabie

@typodermic@mastodon.social

A coffee shop that looks permanently closed but still manages to advertise caffeine with conviction. ☕🚪

すでに眠りについているのに、堂々と「Coffee」と看板に主張する喫茶店。シャッターは下りても、文字だけは元気いっぱい。🍂🔒

Description for the visually impaired: A black-and-white photo of an old Japanese coffee shop. The storefront has two closed metal shutters, above which is a sign reading “Coffee” in English and “すえひろ屋” in Japanese. The building shows signs of age with worn paint, tangled wires, and tiled roofing. The scene feels like a portrait of a café that once thrived but now sleeps behind its shutters.
ALT text detailsDescription for the visually impaired: A black-and-white photo of an old Japanese coffee shop. The storefront has two closed metal shutters, above which is a sign reading “Coffee” in English and “すえひろ屋” in Japanese. The building shows signs of age with worn paint, tangled wires, and tiled roofing. The scene feels like a portrait of a café that once thrived but now sleeps behind its shutters.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

The temple's other garden, 'Kanmin-tei' (閑眠庭), references Ōtomo's conversion to Christianity in 1578.

7 rocks, when viewed from a certain angle, form a cross (symbolising the 'hidden Christians' 隠れキリシタン).
A stone lantern also conceals a statue of the Virgin Mary.

Zuiho-in's 'Kanmin-tei' took inspiration from the 'Hidden Christians' ('Kirishitans') and the temple founder's conversion to christianity.
ALT text detailsZuiho-in's 'Kanmin-tei' took inspiration from the 'Hidden Christians' ('Kirishitans') and the temple founder's conversion to christianity.
Zuiho-in's 'Kanmin-tei' took inspiration from the 'Hidden Christians' ('Kirishitans') and the temple founder's conversion to christianity.
ALT text detailsZuiho-in's 'Kanmin-tei' took inspiration from the 'Hidden Christians' ('Kirishitans') and the temple founder's conversion to christianity.
Zuiho-in's 'Kanmin-tei' took inspiration from the 'Hidden Christians' ('Kirishitans') and the temple founder's conversion to christianity.
ALT text detailsZuiho-in's 'Kanmin-tei' took inspiration from the 'Hidden Christians' ('Kirishitans') and the temple founder's conversion to christianity.
Zuiho-in's 'Kanmin-tei' took inspiration from the 'Hidden Christians' ('Kirishitans') and the temple founder's conversion to christianity.
ALT text detailsZuiho-in's 'Kanmin-tei' took inspiration from the 'Hidden Christians' ('Kirishitans') and the temple founder's conversion to christianity.
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Raymond Larabie

@typodermic@mastodon.social

A coffee shop that looks permanently closed but still manages to advertise caffeine with conviction. ☕🚪

すでに眠りについているのに、堂々と「Coffee」と看板に主張する喫茶店。シャッターは下りても、文字だけは元気いっぱい。🍂🔒

Description for the visually impaired: A black-and-white photo of an old Japanese coffee shop. The storefront has two closed metal shutters, above which is a sign reading “Coffee” in English and “すえひろ屋” in Japanese. The building shows signs of age with worn paint, tangled wires, and tiled roofing. The scene feels like a portrait of a café that once thrived but now sleeps behind its shutters.
ALT text detailsDescription for the visually impaired: A black-and-white photo of an old Japanese coffee shop. The storefront has two closed metal shutters, above which is a sign reading “Coffee” in English and “すえひろ屋” in Japanese. The building shows signs of age with worn paint, tangled wires, and tiled roofing. The scene feels like a portrait of a café that once thrived but now sleeps behind its shutters.
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Weather Mizu

@mizu@mastodon.social

Sea surface temperature & its anomalies on the 18th. Much higher than normal that brings hot night🥵

Daily SST on the 18th.
ALT text detailsDaily SST on the 18th.
Daily SST anomalies on the 18th
ALT text detailsDaily SST anomalies on the 18th
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Sacred Grove (1941)

Artist: Toshi Yoshida

japanshrinestemples.blogspot.c

A small red-lacquered shinto shrine stands in a little forest clearing. The shrine is surrounded by tall cryptomeria trees, moss clinging to the bases of their trunks and growing nearby in clumps across the ground. Above, a tiny glimpse of sky afforded by a break in the tree canopy shows an overcast day. There are no people in the scene.
ALT text detailsA small red-lacquered shinto shrine stands in a little forest clearing. The shrine is surrounded by tall cryptomeria trees, moss clinging to the bases of their trunks and growing nearby in clumps across the ground. Above, a tiny glimpse of sky afforded by a break in the tree canopy shows an overcast day. There are no people in the scene.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Musical roads are variations on the rumble strip, which warns sleepy drivers when they’re veering off the road. Some enterprising folks discovered that, if you put such grooves in the road apart at specified intervals, they’ll produce musical notes.

unseen-japan.com/musical-roads

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Village Vanguard started with a single shop in Nagoya in 1996. It premiered in Tokyo in 1998 with its shop in the subculture mecca of Shimokitazawa. Its “second home” store in Tokyo’s Shibuya is both a store and a performance stage for idols and artists.

A set of metal drinking cups with the words “Alcoholism” and “Drinking Alone” is one of the…interesting products you can pick up at Village Vanguard.
ALT text detailsA set of metal drinking cups with the words “Alcoholism” and “Drinking Alone” is one of the…interesting products you can pick up at Village Vanguard.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Actual shootings remain rare in Japan. Between 2017 and 2024, annual shootings ranged from 10 to 22. Casualties Peaked at 12. Most involved organized crime.

In 2018, nine people died from gun-related accidents. For comparison, the U.S. saw 39,740 gun deaths that year.

Chart from Japan's National Police Agency showing shootings and deaths (the numbers on the X axis are years in Imperial era notation - Reiwa 2, Reiwa 3, etc.)
ALT text detailsChart from Japan's National Police Agency showing shootings and deaths (the numbers on the X axis are years in Imperial era notation - Reiwa 2, Reiwa 3, etc.)
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

To the Japanese, Drew-Baker is celebrated as 'Mother of the Sea'.
Although she died before she could visit Japan, aged only 55, she was honored with a monument in Uto (enshrining her graduation gown and scientific papers) paid for by hundreds of grateful nori farmers.

The setting sun casts the sea and coast in fabulous oranges.
ALT text detailsThe setting sun casts the sea and coast in fabulous oranges.
The setting sun casts the sea and coast in fabulous oranges.
ALT text detailsThe setting sun casts the sea and coast in fabulous oranges.
The setting sun casts the sea and coast in fabulous oranges.
ALT text detailsThe setting sun casts the sea and coast in fabulous oranges.
The setting sun casts the sea and coast in fabulous oranges.
ALT text detailsThe setting sun casts the sea and coast in fabulous oranges.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Nikko Kaido (1930)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

visitnikko.jp/en/spots/nikko-k

A solitary figure carrying a large woven basket on their back trudges along the Nikko Kaido, one of the old routes connecting Edo and Nikko. The road is narrow, flat and unpaved; dappled sunlight falls across its surface. Growing close on either side of the road, tall green cryptomeria tower over the traveller, providing shade. Up ahead, a break in the trees allows the sunshine to stream in. Above, puffy white clouds populate an intense blue sky.
ALT text detailsA solitary figure carrying a large woven basket on their back trudges along the Nikko Kaido, one of the old routes connecting Edo and Nikko. The road is narrow, flat and unpaved; dappled sunlight falls across its surface. Growing close on either side of the road, tall green cryptomeria tower over the traveller, providing shade. Up ahead, a break in the trees allows the sunshine to stream in. Above, puffy white clouds populate an intense blue sky.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

'Tōtekiko' is just 1 of 5 gardens at Ryōgen-in. For a brief time each day it is illuminated completely by the noon sun.

The temple's 'Ryōgin-tei' garden is believed to be the oldest in the Daitoku-ji (大徳寺) complex, and may well have been created by Sōami (相阿弥 ?-1525).

The Ryogin-tei garden is to believed to be Daitoku-ji's oldest.
ALT text detailsThe Ryogin-tei garden is to believed to be Daitoku-ji's oldest.
Ryogen-in's "Founder's Hall".
ALT text detailsRyogen-in's "Founder's Hall".
Ryogen-in's Koda-tei garden.
ALT text detailsRyogen-in's Koda-tei garden.
Ryogen-in's Isshi-dan garden.
ALT text detailsRyogen-in's Isshi-dan garden.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Most of Kyōto's Rinzai temple complexes are known by similar nicknames according to what they were/are famed for...

🧮Myōshin-ji (妙心寺) = 'Soroban-zura' (算盤面), 'The Face of Abacus' (frugal accounting, austere conditions, strict regulations).

Snow falls in the grounds of Myoshin-ji.
ALT text detailsSnow falls in the grounds of Myoshin-ji.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

🎓Kennin-ji (建仁時) 'Gakumon-zura' (学問面) 'The Face of scholarship'.

⚔️Nanzen-ji (南禅寺) 'Buke-zura' (武家面) 'The Face of Warriors' - many daimyō took the tonsure, provided financial support, and helped found sub-temples here.

The great gate at Nanzen-ji.
ALT text detailsThe great gate at Nanzen-ji.
Autumn colours reflected in the pond at Tenju-an.
ALT text detailsAutumn colours reflected in the pond at Tenju-an.
The twin dragons on the ceiling at Kennin-ji.
ALT text detailsThe twin dragons on the ceiling at Kennin-ji.
Kennin-ji's main hall.
ALT text detailsKennin-ji's main hall.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

To the Japanese, Drew-Baker is celebrated as 'Mother of the Sea'.
Although she died before she could visit Japan, aged only 55, she was honored with a monument in Uto (enshrining her graduation gown and scientific papers) paid for by hundreds of grateful nori farmers.

The setting sun casts the sea and coast in fabulous oranges.
ALT text detailsThe setting sun casts the sea and coast in fabulous oranges.
The setting sun casts the sea and coast in fabulous oranges.
ALT text detailsThe setting sun casts the sea and coast in fabulous oranges.
The setting sun casts the sea and coast in fabulous oranges.
ALT text detailsThe setting sun casts the sea and coast in fabulous oranges.
The setting sun casts the sea and coast in fabulous oranges.
ALT text detailsThe setting sun casts the sea and coast in fabulous oranges.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

🎓Kennin-ji (建仁時) 'Gakumon-zura' (学問面) 'The Face of scholarship'.

⚔️Nanzen-ji (南禅寺) 'Buke-zura' (武家面) 'The Face of Warriors' - many daimyō took the tonsure, provided financial support, and helped found sub-temples here.

The great gate at Nanzen-ji.
ALT text detailsThe great gate at Nanzen-ji.
Autumn colours reflected in the pond at Tenju-an.
ALT text detailsAutumn colours reflected in the pond at Tenju-an.
The twin dragons on the ceiling at Kennin-ji.
ALT text detailsThe twin dragons on the ceiling at Kennin-ji.
Kennin-ji's main hall.
ALT text detailsKennin-ji's main hall.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Most of Kyōto's Rinzai temple complexes are known by similar nicknames according to what they were/are famed for...

🧮Myōshin-ji (妙心寺) = 'Soroban-zura' (算盤面), 'The Face of Abacus' (frugal accounting, austere conditions, strict regulations).

Snow falls in the grounds of Myoshin-ji.
ALT text detailsSnow falls in the grounds of Myoshin-ji.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

'Tōtekiko' is just 1 of 5 gardens at Ryōgen-in. For a brief time each day it is illuminated completely by the noon sun.

The temple's 'Ryōgin-tei' garden is believed to be the oldest in the Daitoku-ji (大徳寺) complex, and may well have been created by Sōami (相阿弥 ?-1525).

The Ryogin-tei garden is to believed to be Daitoku-ji's oldest.
ALT text detailsThe Ryogin-tei garden is to believed to be Daitoku-ji's oldest.
Ryogen-in's "Founder's Hall".
ALT text detailsRyogen-in's "Founder's Hall".
Ryogen-in's Koda-tei garden.
ALT text detailsRyogen-in's Koda-tei garden.
Ryogen-in's Isshi-dan garden.
ALT text detailsRyogen-in's Isshi-dan garden.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Nikko Kaido (1930)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

visitnikko.jp/en/spots/nikko-k

A solitary figure carrying a large woven basket on their back trudges along the Nikko Kaido, one of the old routes connecting Edo and Nikko. The road is narrow, flat and unpaved; dappled sunlight falls across its surface. Growing close on either side of the road, tall green cryptomeria tower over the traveller, providing shade. Up ahead, a break in the trees allows the sunshine to stream in. Above, puffy white clouds populate an intense blue sky.
ALT text detailsA solitary figure carrying a large woven basket on their back trudges along the Nikko Kaido, one of the old routes connecting Edo and Nikko. The road is narrow, flat and unpaved; dappled sunlight falls across its surface. Growing close on either side of the road, tall green cryptomeria tower over the traveller, providing shade. Up ahead, a break in the trees allows the sunshine to stream in. Above, puffy white clouds populate an intense blue sky.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Like maid cafes? Wanna know what it'd be like to work in one? A recent pop-up event in Shimokitazawa, Tokyo, gave attendees the chance to be a "maid for a day." Attendees got to pick their apron, serve a "guest," and even take cheki (Polaroid pics).

Maid for a Day ad
ALT text detailsMaid for a Day ad
Maid for a Day instructions and QR code for registering for the event (now closed).
ALT text detailsMaid for a Day instructions and QR code for registering for the event (now closed).
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

People often applaud Japan for feeling "safe." One reason for that: It has one of the lowest rates of gun crime in the world. How did that start, and how has it stayed that way? A look at how Japan's strict gun control laws contribute to overall safety.

unseen-japan.com/japan-gun-con

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Village Vanguard is a bookstore in Japan where you can get manga and a whole lot more. But the chain says it's being forced to close 81 stores nationwide. Here's why the iconic subculture store is feeling the heat from some unlikely competitors.

unseen-japan.com/village-vangu

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

These days, it isn't hip to be "woke." But don't tell that to Spike Spiegel or Mugen. Here's how Watanabe Shinichiro's Cowboy Bebop and Samurai Champloo both present a vision for radical acceptance and multicultural soul-searching.

unseen-japan.com/anime-is-poli

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A recent report from FNN Prime Online, focused on Chūbu Airport in Aichi Prefecture, says the international airport had 85 incidents of abandoned suitcases last year. When reporters went to the airport, officials had 20 abandoned suitcases in their possession.

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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

It is no exaggeration to say that Drew-Baker inadvertently saved Japan's entire seaweed industry.

Marine biologist Segawa Sōkichi (瀬川宗吉) read about her detailed findings in 'Nature' magazine in 1949 and was finally able to piece together how to revitalise seaweed production.

Woodblock print of fishing boats amongst reed beds. Photo thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of fishing boats amongst reed beds. Photo thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
Woodblock print of women in a boat gathering reeds. Photo thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of women in a boat gathering reeds. Photo thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
Woodblock print of women wading in the sea and collecting seaweed. Photo thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of women wading in the sea and collecting seaweed. Photo thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
Woodblock print of women collecting seaweed. Photo thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of women collecting seaweed. Photo thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

How does the Japanese right-wing plan to have enough workers to support the economy? By making sure Japanese women are barefoot and pregnant. One of Sanseitō's key platform tenets is “ensuring that becoming a housewife is seen as an honorable choice.”

unseen-japan.com/japan-foreign

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Love hotels have two modes: “rest” and “stay” – i.e., short-term and overnight. “Rest” is a great euphemism, given that there’s usually little resting going on. Traditionally, however, both had one hard and fast rule: You couldn’t leave until your stay was over.

An ordinary-ish room at the Gotana SARA GRANDE.
ALT text detailsAn ordinary-ish room at the Gotana SARA GRANDE.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

More tourists to Japan are abandoning their busted suitcases in the country - sometimes at their hotels or even at the airport. More on how this problem is vexing airports and hotels - and how not to be part of the problem yourself if your luggage craps out mid-trip.

unseen-japan.com/broken-suitca

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A sign of changing times, perhaps? A Gallup Korea poll shows that 56% of South Koreans polled view Japanese people favorably - a 10pt increase. And 38% view the country of Japan favorably. In 2019, that number stood at a mere 12%.

news.yahoo.co.jp/articles/4b8f

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A sign of changing times, perhaps? A Gallup Korea poll shows that 56% of South Koreans polled view Japanese people favorably - a 10pt increase. And 38% view the country of Japan favorably. In 2019, that number stood at a mere 12%.

news.yahoo.co.jp/articles/4b8f

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A new poll from Jiji puts Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party's support at around 15.7%. The big headline, though, is that it's lost everyone but the old: its support among age groups below 49 doesn't break 10%. Only 4.8% of 30-year-olds support the party.

buff.ly/Ja2F1tP

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A vivid demonstration of what 1,500 yen ($10) gets you at the Osaka Expo vs. what 1,450 yen gets you at Saizeriya.

Saizeriya FTW, as usual.

X post from user @torautoa. Japanese text: ←万博で1500円 　　　　　　　　　　サイゼリアで1450円→
ALT text detailsX post from user @torautoa. Japanese text: ←万博で1500円 　　　　　　　　　　サイゼリアで1450円→
Nithin Coca నితిన్'s avatar
Nithin Coca నితిన్

@ncoca@social.coop

On the keycard at this hotel far from , someone seems to have included (unless I am mistaken) as one of the many languages. Interesting - and cool - choice!

Welcome card at a hotel that has "Welcome" in many languages, including Okinawan in Japanese phonetic script.
ALT text detailsWelcome card at a hotel that has "Welcome" in many languages, including Okinawan in Japanese phonetic script.
Nithin Coca నితిన్'s avatar
Nithin Coca నితిన్

@ncoca@social.coop

On the keycard at this hotel far from , someone seems to have included (unless I am mistaken) as one of the many languages. Interesting - and cool - choice!

Welcome card at a hotel that has "Welcome" in many languages, including Okinawan in Japanese phonetic script.
ALT text detailsWelcome card at a hotel that has "Welcome" in many languages, including Okinawan in Japanese phonetic script.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Want more Unseen Japan? Our Insider newsletter delivers a full bonus article every week. Join Insider below and unlock access to all of our back issues online. Plus, get next week's issue in your inbox within a few days.

unseen-japan.com/category/unse

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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

3) MANTŌRŌ🏮

By the 14thC 'mantōrō' ceremonies (万燈籠), involving the lighting of thousands of lanterns, were prevalent in many temples at Obon.

Lanterns visible on mountainside temples in Kyōto at this time may have inspired the idea of creating a more permanent event.

A lantern display at Kasuga Taisha.
ALT text detailsA lantern display at Kasuga Taisha.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Rokuharamitsu-ji remembers Kūya’s original memorial on the evening before the Gozan-no-Okuribi.

108 lanterns recreate the shapes '大'.
Interestingly here '大' most definitely represents the 5 elements, important in esoteric Buddhism (密教).

Lanterns at Rokuharamitsu-ji form the shape '大'. Photo thanks - https://uryu-tsushin.kyoto-art.ac.jp/
ALT text detailsLanterns at Rokuharamitsu-ji form the shape '大'. Photo thanks - https://uryu-tsushin.kyoto-art.ac.jp/
Lanterns at Rokuharamitsu-ji form the shape '大'. Photo thanks - https://uryu-tsushin.kyoto-art.ac.jp/
ALT text detailsLanterns at Rokuharamitsu-ji form the shape '大'. Photo thanks - https://uryu-tsushin.kyoto-art.ac.jp/
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:'s avatar
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:

@norbertwoehnl@famichiki.jp

Happy Friday from Japan! Glad to wrap up this surprisingly busy week.

A digest of Tokyo backstreet moments, mostly from my home ward of Itabashi. I love running into, and capturing, scenes like this.

A woman on a "mamachari" (Japanese utility bicycle) is turning a corner in the Nakajuku area of Itabashi Ward in Tokyo, Japan.
ALT text detailsA woman on a "mamachari" (Japanese utility bicycle) is turning a corner in the Nakajuku area of Itabashi Ward in Tokyo, Japan.
In the Oyama area of Itabashi Ward in Tokyo, Japan, a man is standing beside his bicycle reading a pamphlet. The awning of the old building in front of which he stands is decorated with a pair of eyes looking through glasses, appearing to watch him. A small blue door on the left is the entrance to a tiny bar.
ALT text detailsIn the Oyama area of Itabashi Ward in Tokyo, Japan, a man is standing beside his bicycle reading a pamphlet. The awning of the old building in front of which he stands is decorated with a pair of eyes looking through glasses, appearing to watch him. A small blue door on the left is the entrance to a tiny bar.
View of a Tonkatsu (fried pork cutlet) restaurant near JR Itabashi Station in Tokyo, Japan, seen through a narrow foreground alley of old buildings.
ALT text detailsView of a Tonkatsu (fried pork cutlet) restaurant near JR Itabashi Station in Tokyo, Japan, seen through a narrow foreground alley of old buildings.
In the Oyama area of Itabashi Ward in Tokyo, Japan, a multitude of blankets and futons are hung out to air on the second floor of a buliding, atop its entrance. On the left side of the frame, a brick-style building is home to a few restaurants, outside one of which a man is checking the menu display boards.
ALT text detailsIn the Oyama area of Itabashi Ward in Tokyo, Japan, a multitude of blankets and futons are hung out to air on the second floor of a buliding, atop its entrance. On the left side of the frame, a brick-style building is home to a few restaurants, outside one of which a man is checking the menu display boards.
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:'s avatar
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:

@norbertwoehnl@famichiki.jp

Happy Friday from Japan! Glad to wrap up this surprisingly busy week.

A digest of Tokyo backstreet moments, mostly from my home ward of Itabashi. I love running into, and capturing, scenes like this.

A woman on a "mamachari" (Japanese utility bicycle) is turning a corner in the Nakajuku area of Itabashi Ward in Tokyo, Japan.
ALT text detailsA woman on a "mamachari" (Japanese utility bicycle) is turning a corner in the Nakajuku area of Itabashi Ward in Tokyo, Japan.
In the Oyama area of Itabashi Ward in Tokyo, Japan, a man is standing beside his bicycle reading a pamphlet. The awning of the old building in front of which he stands is decorated with a pair of eyes looking through glasses, appearing to watch him. A small blue door on the left is the entrance to a tiny bar.
ALT text detailsIn the Oyama area of Itabashi Ward in Tokyo, Japan, a man is standing beside his bicycle reading a pamphlet. The awning of the old building in front of which he stands is decorated with a pair of eyes looking through glasses, appearing to watch him. A small blue door on the left is the entrance to a tiny bar.
View of a Tonkatsu (fried pork cutlet) restaurant near JR Itabashi Station in Tokyo, Japan, seen through a narrow foreground alley of old buildings.
ALT text detailsView of a Tonkatsu (fried pork cutlet) restaurant near JR Itabashi Station in Tokyo, Japan, seen through a narrow foreground alley of old buildings.
In the Oyama area of Itabashi Ward in Tokyo, Japan, a multitude of blankets and futons are hung out to air on the second floor of a buliding, atop its entrance. On the left side of the frame, a brick-style building is home to a few restaurants, outside one of which a man is checking the menu display boards.
ALT text detailsIn the Oyama area of Itabashi Ward in Tokyo, Japan, a multitude of blankets and futons are hung out to air on the second floor of a buliding, atop its entrance. On the left side of the frame, a brick-style building is home to a few restaurants, outside one of which a man is checking the menu display boards.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Toyo Keizai asks: Does more foreigners in Japan = more crime? As we've reported before, they found the data doesn't support this: Despite immigration increasing 1.8x in the past 15 years, crime rates among foreign residents remain at the same levels as ever.

buff.ly/J7dZ1hB

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Two Japanese college students were arrested for shoplifting Kuromi goods at the Osaka Expo. But that's not all! The two were part of a group of five trainspotters who rode from Tokyo to Kobe on the Shinkansen w/o tickets - something they claim trainspotters do "all the time."

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Go to any “tourist-y” location in Tokyo these days and, depending on the day and time, you’re bound to find yourself stuck in pedestrian traffic jams and long cafe lines. That’s not true, however, of a relatively new tourist trap located near the Toyosu fish market.

unseen-japan.com/senkyaku-banr

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Wanna go to a love hotel in Japan? Not sure what to expect? Here are some things that you may not have known, gleaned from both our author's hard-earned experience and feedback from the UJ community.

unseen-japan.com/love-hotels-k

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Two men in Japan (not foreigners) were upset with a controversy YouTuber - so they broke into his home, hijacked his social accounts, forced him to do an apology bow, microwaved his smartphone, and leaked his personal info online. They're under arrest now.

news.livedoor.com/article/deta

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atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Sunset, Ichinokura, Ikegami (1928)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

unique-ota.city.ota.tokyo.jp/e

Sunset over a farm in Ikegami, in modern-day Tokyo's Ota Ward. In the foreground, a figure wearing a broad hat and carrying a hoe over their shoulder walks past a field full of tidy rows of crops. Beyond, tall wiry pine trees line a short ridge overlooking the farm. Further on, a red sun sinks toward a misty horizon, turning the sky yellow as it sets.
ALT text detailsSunset over a farm in Ikegami, in modern-day Tokyo's Ota Ward. In the foreground, a figure wearing a broad hat and carrying a hoe over their shoulder walks past a field full of tidy rows of crops. Beyond, tall wiry pine trees line a short ridge overlooking the farm. Further on, a red sun sinks toward a misty horizon, turning the sky yellow as it sets.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

In Japan's Tochigi Prefecture, police arrested 38-year-old high school teacher Koguchi Daisuke (not a foreigner) after a student discovered he'd planted multiple hidden cameras to take vid of female students in locker rooms & bathrooms. "It was fun," he confessed.

jiji.com/jc/article?k=20250813

atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Sunset, Ichinokura, Ikegami (1928)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

unique-ota.city.ota.tokyo.jp/e

Sunset over a farm in Ikegami, in modern-day Tokyo's Ota Ward. In the foreground, a figure wearing a broad hat and carrying a hoe over their shoulder walks past a field full of tidy rows of crops. Beyond, tall wiry pine trees line a short ridge overlooking the farm. Further on, a red sun sinks toward a misty horizon, turning the sky yellow as it sets.
ALT text detailsSunset over a farm in Ikegami, in modern-day Tokyo's Ota Ward. In the foreground, a figure wearing a broad hat and carrying a hoe over their shoulder walks past a field full of tidy rows of crops. Beyond, tall wiry pine trees line a short ridge overlooking the farm. Further on, a red sun sinks toward a misty horizon, turning the sky yellow as it sets.
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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Yasukuni Shrine is widely misunderstood as a symbol of militarism, yet its true purpose is to honor the spirits of Japan’s war dead and promote peace, reflecting both Japan’s losses and the suffering caused to others. japantimes.co.jp/commentary/20

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Yasukuni Shrine is widely misunderstood as a symbol of militarism, yet its true purpose is to honor the spirits of Japan’s war dead and promote peace, reflecting both Japan’s losses and the suffering caused to others. japantimes.co.jp/commentary/20

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Why would someone from the West eat “Western” food when going to Japan? Well, because it’s delicious! And it’s also uniquely Japanese. Here’s how yōshoku (洋食; Western-style food) became a trend in Japan and what to taste while you're here.

unseen-japan.com/best-western-

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Tokyo

@Tokyo@channels.im

Scoot Launches New Routes to Chiang Rai, Okinawa and Tokyo (Haneda)

Scoot, the low-cost subsidiary of Singapore Airlines, has announced the launch of new flight services to Chiang Rai in Thailand, and Okinawa and Tokyo (Haneda) in Japan. These flights will commence progressively between December 2025 and March 2026 and will increase Scoot’s weekly fli…

alojapan.com/1345420/scoot-lau

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

"The McDonald's Pokémon card promotion caused more harm than just a child's tears. It resulted in massive food loss - a chronic problem in Japan that the country has been tackling aggressively for the past decade."

unseen-japan.com/mcdonalds-res

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

It has been 80 years, but Hideo Shimizu still remembers the 4½ months he spent with Unit 731, the biological and chemical warfare unit of the now-defunct Imperial Japanese Army, like they were yesterday. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/08/

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

It has been 80 years, but Hideo Shimizu still remembers the 4½ months he spent with Unit 731, the biological and chemical warfare unit of the now-defunct Imperial Japanese Army, like they were yesterday. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/08/

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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

From noon on August 15th until noon the next day people gather at Jōdo-in (浄土院), beside Ginkaku-ji (銀閣寺), to write down their prayers on 'gomaki' (護摩木 wooden prayer tablets).

These are then bundled together and carried up the mountain to be used within the bonfires.

Looking down upon Ginkaku-ji and its grounds.
ALT text detailsLooking down upon Ginkaku-ji and its grounds.
Gate to Jodo-in, a temple deeply linked to Daimonji.
ALT text detailsGate to Jodo-in, a temple deeply linked to Daimonji.
Statue of Kannon in the grounds of Jodo-in.
ALT text detailsStatue of Kannon in the grounds of Jodo-in.
Sunbeams on Ginkaku-ji's famous (raked) silver sands.
ALT text detailsSunbeams on Ginkaku-ji's famous (raked) silver sands.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

According to Yūsen-ji (涌泉寺) lore, in 1307 the monk Nichizō (日像 d.1342) converted the village of Matsugasaki to the Nichiren sect.
In celebration he carved the letter 'Myō' (妙) on Nishiyama (西山 - West Matsugasaki) with his walking stick, close to the village cemetery.

Small worship hall, part of Yusen-ji (the temple is deeply associated with the 'Myo' Gozan-no-Okuribi).
ALT text detailsSmall worship hall, part of Yusen-ji (the temple is deeply associated with the 'Myo' Gozan-no-Okuribi).
Gate to Yusen-ji.
ALT text detailsGate to Yusen-ji.
The grounds of Yusen-ji, now much diminished from its heyday.
ALT text detailsThe grounds of Yusen-ji, now much diminished from its heyday.
Small shrine in the woods close to Yusen-ji.
ALT text detailsSmall shrine in the woods close to Yusen-ji.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

🔥'妙法'🔥

The second of the Gozan-no-Okuribi (五山送り火) to be lit is Myō-hō (妙法), at 8:10pm on August 16th.

These are actually two separate characters. 'Myō' (妙) and 'Hō' (法) are lit on two separate, neighbouring mountain slopes, but are read as one.

The character 'Myo', collectively with the 'Ho', makes up the 2nd of the 5 Gozan-no-Okuribi.
ALT text detailsThe character 'Myo', collectively with the 'Ho', makes up the 2nd of the 5 Gozan-no-Okuribi.
The character 'Ho', collectively with the 'Myo', makes up the 2nd of the 5 Gozan-no-Okuribi.
ALT text detailsThe character 'Ho', collectively with the 'Myo', makes up the 2nd of the 5 Gozan-no-Okuribi.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

From noon on August 15th until noon the next day people gather at Jōdo-in (浄土院), beside Ginkaku-ji (銀閣寺), to write down their prayers on 'gomaki' (護摩木 wooden prayer tablets).

These are then bundled together and carried up the mountain to be used within the bonfires.

Looking down upon Ginkaku-ji and its grounds.
ALT text detailsLooking down upon Ginkaku-ji and its grounds.
Gate to Jodo-in, a temple deeply linked to Daimonji.
ALT text detailsGate to Jodo-in, a temple deeply linked to Daimonji.
Statue of Kannon in the grounds of Jodo-in.
ALT text detailsStatue of Kannon in the grounds of Jodo-in.
Sunbeams on Ginkaku-ji's famous (raked) silver sands.
ALT text detailsSunbeams on Ginkaku-ji's famous (raked) silver sands.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Daimonji (大文字) is also known as 'Josei-gata' (女性型), which means 'feminine'.
Compared with the heavier strokes of Hidari Daimonji (左大文字 lit. 'Left Daimonji') to the north west of the city, Daimonji's slender strokes are considered more womanly and beautiful.

Watching Daimonji's individual bonfires slowly burn bright to create a 'whole' shape in the night.
ALT text detailsWatching Daimonji's individual bonfires slowly burn bright to create a 'whole' shape in the night.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Should McDonald's Japan stop selling Happy Sets to adults? Or should corporations just engage in more responsible marketing? A look at the latest reseller-induced havoc in our latest Unseen Japan Insider newsletter - subscribe today to get it tomorrow:

unseen-japan.com/support/

My wife is a huge Sanrio fan. Specifically, she's a My Melody stan. It's the 50th anniversary of Melo, which means Sanrio is slowrolling all sorts of "limited edition" merch. Just six months ago, buying limited-edition items off the Sanrio site was a nightmare. Japan's reseller plague, which I've documented in detail, is primarily to blame here. However, over time, Sanrio appears to be learning from its mistakes. Its online queuing system has improved. The retailer seems to have addressed issues with website server capacity, meaning your order is more likely to go through once you do get in. All of this means that, as an actual fan, it's now easier to get Sanrio limited edition goods before resellers buy them out. If only McDonald's Japan had learned the same lesson.
ALT text detailsMy wife is a huge Sanrio fan. Specifically, she's a My Melody stan. It's the 50th anniversary of Melo, which means Sanrio is slowrolling all sorts of "limited edition" merch. Just six months ago, buying limited-edition items off the Sanrio site was a nightmare. Japan's reseller plague, which I've documented in detail, is primarily to blame here. However, over time, Sanrio appears to be learning from its mistakes. Its online queuing system has improved. The retailer seems to have addressed issues with website server capacity, meaning your order is more likely to go through once you do get in. All of this means that, as an actual fan, it's now easier to get Sanrio limited edition goods before resellers buy them out. If only McDonald's Japan had learned the same lesson.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A cool Tokyo neighborhood, South Korean men flock to Japan, Japan's foreign population booms, and a murder puts a city on edge - all this and more in our round-up of Japan news in the Unseen Japan Newsletter:

us20.campaign-archive.com/?u=e

Shimokitazawa
ALT text detailsShimokitazawa
Picture of an application for extension of stay in Japan, along with a tablet showing the percentages of visa types granted
ALT text detailsPicture of an application for extension of stay in Japan, along with a tablet showing the percentages of visa types granted
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Weather Mizu

@mizu@mastodon.social

Two digit climbers, most of inexperienced graying people, were rescued from Japan Alps area in Nagano prefecture on 10th, the second day of three-day-weekend. The charts for 700 & 850hPa on the day suggest it was very stormy weather at the elevation. 😥

700hPa on Aug 10th
ALT text details700hPa on Aug 10th
850hPa on Aug 10
ALT text details850hPa on Aug 10
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Beyond providing a sense of purification and relaxation, Japanese onsen (hot springs) offer a unique opportunity to reconnect with nature. However, some “hidden onsen” excel in this regard more profoundly than others. Here's where to find them.

unseen-japan.com/hidden-onsen-

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

A Taiwanese drama centered on a potential Chinese invasion of Taiwan will begin streaming in Japan from Friday. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/08/

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

A Taiwanese drama centered on a potential Chinese invasion of Taiwan will begin streaming in Japan from Friday. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/08/

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atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Evening Rain at a Lakeside Tearoom (1935)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

japannews.yomiuri.co.jp/societ

Evening, and a steady rain falls on a small building hosting a tea room standing next to a lake. The ground outside the tearoom is slick with rainwater; a warm light glows in just one of the building's windows. Beyond, a line of trees screens our view of the lake and the hilly terrain on the other side. Above, the sky is dark and overcast.
ALT text detailsEvening, and a steady rain falls on a small building hosting a tea room standing next to a lake. The ground outside the tearoom is slick with rainwater; a warm light glows in just one of the building's windows. Beyond, a line of trees screens our view of the lake and the hilly terrain on the other side. Above, the sky is dark and overcast.
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atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Evening Rain at a Lakeside Tearoom (1935)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

japannews.yomiuri.co.jp/societ

Evening, and a steady rain falls on a small building hosting a tea room standing next to a lake. The ground outside the tearoom is slick with rainwater; a warm light glows in just one of the building's windows. Beyond, a line of trees screens our view of the lake and the hilly terrain on the other side. Above, the sky is dark and overcast.
ALT text detailsEvening, and a steady rain falls on a small building hosting a tea room standing next to a lake. The ground outside the tearoom is slick with rainwater; a warm light glows in just one of the building's windows. Beyond, a line of trees screens our view of the lake and the hilly terrain on the other side. Above, the sky is dark and overcast.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Does Japan have a "travel imbalance"? Despite record inbound tourism, fewer Japanese citizens hold a passport than ever. The latest numbers put passport possession at 17.3% - a dip from previous low levels & way lower than the 50-80% in some other countries.

dot.asahi.com/articles/-/26254

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Raoh

@hanfastolfe@mastodon.social

Shotei Takahashi

Las estribaciones de la montaña Atagoyama

Grabado ukiyo-e de un paisaje montañoso lluvioso donde se ve un rio corriendo entre rocas por el tercio inferior del cuadro, a la izquierda un barranco ocupa el tercio, con la silueta de unos árboles en la parte superior, en la parte central se ven las estribaciones a distintas distancias con la linea silueteada de arboles que se vam difuminando en la distancia y al fondo la silueta de la montaña apenas visible entre la bruma. En el cieloben el tercio superior se ven las lineas diagonales que dan la sensación de lluvia.
ALT text detailsGrabado ukiyo-e de un paisaje montañoso lluvioso donde se ve un rio corriendo entre rocas por el tercio inferior del cuadro, a la izquierda un barranco ocupa el tercio, con la silueta de unos árboles en la parte superior, en la parte central se ven las estribaciones a distintas distancias con la linea silueteada de arboles que se vam difuminando en la distancia y al fondo la silueta de la montaña apenas visible entre la bruma. En el cieloben el tercio superior se ven las lineas diagonales que dan la sensación de lluvia.
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Raoh

@hanfastolfe@mastodon.social

Shotei Takahashi

Las estribaciones de la montaña Atagoyama

Grabado ukiyo-e de un paisaje montañoso lluvioso donde se ve un rio corriendo entre rocas por el tercio inferior del cuadro, a la izquierda un barranco ocupa el tercio, con la silueta de unos árboles en la parte superior, en la parte central se ven las estribaciones a distintas distancias con la linea silueteada de arboles que se vam difuminando en la distancia y al fondo la silueta de la montaña apenas visible entre la bruma. En el cieloben el tercio superior se ven las lineas diagonales que dan la sensación de lluvia.
ALT text detailsGrabado ukiyo-e de un paisaje montañoso lluvioso donde se ve un rio corriendo entre rocas por el tercio inferior del cuadro, a la izquierda un barranco ocupa el tercio, con la silueta de unos árboles en la parte superior, en la parte central se ven las estribaciones a distintas distancias con la linea silueteada de arboles que se vam difuminando en la distancia y al fondo la silueta de la montaña apenas visible entre la bruma. En el cieloben el tercio superior se ven las lineas diagonales que dan la sensación de lluvia.
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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Michi Saito, 98, of Fukushima, recalls how her brother was killed by a dummy atomic bomb that U.S. forces used as training for the nuclear attacks on Hiroshima and Nagasaki. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/08/

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Michi Saito, 98, of Fukushima, recalls how her brother was killed by a dummy atomic bomb that U.S. forces used as training for the nuclear attacks on Hiroshima and Nagasaki. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/08/

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Raymond Larabie

@typodermic@mastodon.social

A wall trellis lined with empty plastic pots, each one a little monument to horticultural ennui. 🪴😑

整然と並んだ木製の格子と空っぽのプランター。それはまるで園芸的倦怠感を体現しているかのよう。木板と配管は整っているのに、植物がないことで全体が溜め息のような雰囲気に。🌱😶

A black-and-white photograph of a wooden building wall in Nagoya. On the left, a barred window reveals faintly lit bottles inside. To the right, a lattice panel is mounted to the wall, holding several white plastic hanging pots — all empty. The trellis is perfectly aligned, the hanging wires taut, and the background wood panels run vertically with precise joins. The lack of plants or soil gives the scene a quiet, almost comic sense of futility, as though the pots are waiting for something that may never come.
ALT text detailsA black-and-white photograph of a wooden building wall in Nagoya. On the left, a barred window reveals faintly lit bottles inside. To the right, a lattice panel is mounted to the wall, holding several white plastic hanging pots — all empty. The trellis is perfectly aligned, the hanging wires taut, and the background wood panels run vertically with precise joins. The lack of plants or soil gives the scene a quiet, almost comic sense of futility, as though the pots are waiting for something that may never come.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Anyone wanna go play at the Sagamihara 5-Chōme Park?

...hmmmm, no? Just me?

X post from @maruanshoukai 冗談だろ…
ALT text detailsX post from @maruanshoukai 冗談だろ…
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

🌄MOUNTAIN DAY🙌

dawn comes quick
to their crowns...
Higashi Mountains
明安き天窓はづれや東山
-Kobayashi Issa (小林一茶), 1814.
Trans. David Lanoue.

Today is 'Yama-no-hi' (山の日 'Mountain Day')!
The day is intended to provide "opportunities to get familiar with mountains and appreciate their blessings..."

Mt Hiei as seen from Entsu-ji (the mountain is used as part of the garden's borrowed scenery).
ALT text detailsMt Hiei as seen from Entsu-ji (the mountain is used as part of the garden's borrowed scenery).
A rest on the way up Mt Hiei, with the city sprawling below.
ALT text detailsA rest on the way up Mt Hiei, with the city sprawling below.
Atop Mt Daimonji in autumn, with Kyoto spread out beneath.
ALT text detailsAtop Mt Daimonji in autumn, with Kyoto spread out beneath.
A monkey rests by one of the binoculars atop Mt Iwata, Arashiyama Monkey Park.
ALT text detailsA monkey rests by one of the binoculars atop Mt Iwata, Arashiyama Monkey Park.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Otowa-no-taki is also known as the 'spring for the purification of the six roots of perception' (六根清浄の清水), a place where the faithful could cleanse their senses and ready their spirit for prayer.

The six roots of perception: eyes, ears, nose, tongue, body, and mind.

Statue of Fudo Myoo enshrined at the Otowa-no-taki.
ALT text detailsStatue of Fudo Myoo enshrined at the Otowa-no-taki.
Statue of Fudo Myoo's attendant enshrined at the Otowa-no-taki.
ALT text detailsStatue of Fudo Myoo's attendant enshrined at the Otowa-no-taki.
Statue of En-no-Gyoja and attendants enshrined at the Otowa-no-taki.
ALT text detailsStatue of En-no-Gyoja and attendants enshrined at the Otowa-no-taki.
Statue of Fudo Myoo's attendant enshrined at the Otowa-no-taki.
ALT text detailsStatue of Fudo Myoo's attendant enshrined at the Otowa-no-taki.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Tradition tells us that Otowa-no-taki's waters do not actually differ in power, but recently the three streams have been wrongly promoted as offering their own qualities: the right for 'intelligence', the middle for 'health' and the left for 'longevity'.

Visitors collect water from one of the Otowa-no-taki's 3 streams to drink in the hope that their wishes will come true.
ALT text detailsVisitors collect water from one of the Otowa-no-taki's 3 streams to drink in the hope that their wishes will come true.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Nao-san swapped the tearoom for the ridiculously refreshing Otowa-no-taki (音羽の滝) in Kameoka.

far and near
the sound of waterfalls
through the young leaves
おちこちに滝の音聞く若ばかな
Yosa Buson (与謝蕪村 1716-84).
Trans. Ueda Makoto.

Nao-san relaxes beside Otowa-no-taki, the surrounding rocks carpeted in a lush green moss.
ALT text detailsNao-san relaxes beside Otowa-no-taki, the surrounding rocks carpeted in a lush green moss.
Tomato ohagi, waka-ayu and shinsei mame, a trio of seasonal sweets for an outdoor tea ceremony.
ALT text detailsTomato ohagi, waka-ayu and shinsei mame, a trio of seasonal sweets for an outdoor tea ceremony.
Nao-san eats snacks beside the Otowa-no-taki waterfall.
ALT text detailsNao-san eats snacks beside the Otowa-no-taki waterfall.
Nao-san's wicker bag, containing everything she needs for an impromptu outdoor tea ceremony.
ALT text detailsNao-san's wicker bag, containing everything she needs for an impromptu outdoor tea ceremony.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social

🌄🌳FOREST BATHING💦🧖‍♀️

No thoughts, just cooling vibes...

Nao-san enjoys matcha beside Otowa-no-taki in Kameoka.
ALT text detailsNao-san enjoys matcha beside Otowa-no-taki in Kameoka.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Tokyo's Shimokitazawa feels in some ways like a neighborhood that time forgot. And that's a good thing. Here's how "Shimokita" has retained its distinctive character, and why it should be on your list of must-visit spots in the sprawling city.

unseen-japan.com/tokyo-shimoki

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Raymond Larabie

@typodermic@mastodon.social

A wall trellis lined with empty plastic pots, each one a little monument to horticultural ennui. 🪴😑

整然と並んだ木製の格子と空っぽのプランター。それはまるで園芸的倦怠感を体現しているかのよう。木板と配管は整っているのに、植物がないことで全体が溜め息のような雰囲気に。🌱😶

A black-and-white photograph of a wooden building wall in Nagoya. On the left, a barred window reveals faintly lit bottles inside. To the right, a lattice panel is mounted to the wall, holding several white plastic hanging pots — all empty. The trellis is perfectly aligned, the hanging wires taut, and the background wood panels run vertically with precise joins. The lack of plants or soil gives the scene a quiet, almost comic sense of futility, as though the pots are waiting for something that may never come.
ALT text detailsA black-and-white photograph of a wooden building wall in Nagoya. On the left, a barred window reveals faintly lit bottles inside. To the right, a lattice panel is mounted to the wall, holding several white plastic hanging pots — all empty. The trellis is perfectly aligned, the hanging wires taut, and the background wood panels run vertically with precise joins. The lack of plants or soil gives the scene a quiet, almost comic sense of futility, as though the pots are waiting for something that may never come.
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Raymond Larabie

@typodermic@mastodon.social

An upper-floor balcony that’s seen more summers than most of us have socks. 🏚️📜

靴下の枚数より多くの夏を越えてきた二階のバルコニー。🏠📮

A monochrome photograph captures the upper section of an old wooden building in Nagoya, shot from a low angle that emphasizes its age and character. The balcony railings are worn and splintered, the sliding glass windows framed in dark wood. A metal drainpipe runs vertically along the side, patched in places, and electrical wires cut across the top corner of the image.
ALT text detailsA monochrome photograph captures the upper section of an old wooden building in Nagoya, shot from a low angle that emphasizes its age and character. The balcony railings are worn and splintered, the sliding glass windows framed in dark wood. A metal drainpipe runs vertically along the side, patched in places, and electrical wires cut across the top corner of the image.
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Raymond Larabie

@typodermic@mastodon.social

An upper-floor balcony that’s seen more summers than most of us have socks. 🏚️📜

靴下の枚数より多くの夏を越えてきた二階のバルコニー。🏠📮

A monochrome photograph captures the upper section of an old wooden building in Nagoya, shot from a low angle that emphasizes its age and character. The balcony railings are worn and splintered, the sliding glass windows framed in dark wood. A metal drainpipe runs vertically along the side, patched in places, and electrical wires cut across the top corner of the image.
ALT text detailsA monochrome photograph captures the upper section of an old wooden building in Nagoya, shot from a low angle that emphasizes its age and character. The balcony railings are worn and splintered, the sliding glass windows framed in dark wood. A metal drainpipe runs vertically along the side, patched in places, and electrical wires cut across the top corner of the image.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Do you need a tour guide in Japan? Not for your entire trip, but a guide can unlock insights and experiences you might otherwise be hard-pressed to find. Here's why, when, and how to hire one. (Spoiler alert: it's us, hire us).

unseen-japan.com/japan-tour-gu

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Travelers to Japan leaving old suitcases and other junk on the road is becoming an issue, say 80% of 34 lodging operators surveyed in Osaka. Mayor Yokoyama Hideyuki said visitors (foreigners AND Japanese) need to learn better manners.

mbs.jp/news/kansainews/2025080

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Hirozawa Ichirō, the mayor of Nagoya, has apologized for a 2023 meeting in which attendees made discriminatory comments against disabled people who were pressing for accessibility options at Nagoya Castle. He's invited community reps to participate in renovation planning.

buff.ly/oI4HQbn

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Tanuki.no.mori

@tanukinomori_jp@mastodon.social

Tadasunomori Forest adorned with summer green🍃🍃

📍Sakyo Ward, kyoto City

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Tanuki.no.mori

@tanukinomori_jp@mastodon.social

Tadasunomori Forest adorned with summer green🍃🍃

📍Sakyo Ward, kyoto City

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Edward Philips

@EdwardPhilips@toot.community

Morning all. It’s the weekend. Yay! Have yourself a Purple Heron. You’re welcome. xx

Poster depicting stylised Purple Heron against blue green background with Japanese script saying (hopefully) purple heron.
ALT text detailsPoster depicting stylised Purple Heron against blue green background with Japanese script saying (hopefully) purple heron.
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Edward Philips

@EdwardPhilips@toot.community

Morning all. It’s the weekend. Yay! Have yourself a Purple Heron. You’re welcome. xx

Poster depicting stylised Purple Heron against blue green background with Japanese script saying (hopefully) purple heron.
ALT text detailsPoster depicting stylised Purple Heron against blue green background with Japanese script saying (hopefully) purple heron.
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Edward Philips

@EdwardPhilips@toot.community

Morning all. It’s the weekend. Yay! Have yourself a Purple Heron. You’re welcome. xx

Poster depicting stylised Purple Heron against blue green background with Japanese script saying (hopefully) purple heron.
ALT text detailsPoster depicting stylised Purple Heron against blue green background with Japanese script saying (hopefully) purple heron.
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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

On Aug. 9, 1945, 17-year-old Koichi Tagawa survived the Nagasaki bombing and began a diary. His words captured the fire, the loss and the moment he became an orphan. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/08/

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

On Aug. 9, 1945, 17-year-old Koichi Tagawa survived the Nagasaki bombing and began a diary. His words captured the fire, the loss and the moment he became an orphan. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/08/

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

As Japan's population plummets, its foreign population is up 10.5% to its highest levels ever. At the same time, recent polls show large numbers of Japanese agreeing with the "Japanese First" sentiment. What does all this mean for the country's future?

buff.ly/kDgsQSZ

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

One marriage agency in Japan says it has over 8,000 applicants from men. The kicker? They're all from South Korea. It's part of a trend driven by what men in South Korea say is a high cultural barrier to marriage in their home country.

buff.ly/SZvQzJC

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atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Dusk at Tagonoura Bay (1940)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

japannews.yomiuri.co.jp/societ

In the foreground, a figure leads a horse and cart loaded with cargo over hilly terrain covered in short dry grasses and wiry pine trees. In the distance beyond, the early dusk has turned the snowy cap of Mount Fuji a soft coral pink; above, the sky is still a pale blue.
ALT text detailsIn the foreground, a figure leads a horse and cart loaded with cargo over hilly terrain covered in short dry grasses and wiry pine trees. In the distance beyond, the early dusk has turned the snowy cap of Mount Fuji a soft coral pink; above, the sky is still a pale blue.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

What we know as Bon Odori likely began in early Muromachi times as a form of religious entertainment performed at various points in the year.

Gradually the religious elements faded, and it became associated almost solely with the Obon period.

Woodblock print of dancing boys in yukata. Image thanks🙇‍♂️ - https://ukiyo-e.org
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of dancing boys in yukata. Image thanks🙇‍♂️ - https://ukiyo-e.org
Woodblock print of a woman in kimono dancing at Bon Odori. Image thanks🙇‍♂️ - https://ukiyo-e.org
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of a woman in kimono dancing at Bon Odori. Image thanks🙇‍♂️ - https://ukiyo-e.org
Woodblock print of silhouetted dancers in summer kimono. Image thanks🙇‍♂️ - https://ukiyo-e.org
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of silhouetted dancers in summer kimono. Image thanks🙇‍♂️ - https://ukiyo-e.org
Woodblock print of women dancing in kimono. Image thanks🙇‍♂️-https://ukiyo-e.org
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of women dancing in kimono. Image thanks🙇‍♂️-https://ukiyo-e.org
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

What we know as Bon Odori likely began in early Muromachi times as a form of religious entertainment performed at various points in the year.

Gradually the religious elements faded, and it became associated almost solely with the Obon period.

Woodblock print of dancing boys in yukata. Image thanks🙇‍♂️ - https://ukiyo-e.org
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of dancing boys in yukata. Image thanks🙇‍♂️ - https://ukiyo-e.org
Woodblock print of a woman in kimono dancing at Bon Odori. Image thanks🙇‍♂️ - https://ukiyo-e.org
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of a woman in kimono dancing at Bon Odori. Image thanks🙇‍♂️ - https://ukiyo-e.org
Woodblock print of silhouetted dancers in summer kimono. Image thanks🙇‍♂️ - https://ukiyo-e.org
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of silhouetted dancers in summer kimono. Image thanks🙇‍♂️ - https://ukiyo-e.org
Woodblock print of women dancing in kimono. Image thanks🙇‍♂️-https://ukiyo-e.org
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of women dancing in kimono. Image thanks🙇‍♂️-https://ukiyo-e.org
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atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Dusk at Tagonoura Bay (1940)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

japannews.yomiuri.co.jp/societ

In the foreground, a figure leads a horse and cart loaded with cargo over hilly terrain covered in short dry grasses and wiry pine trees. In the distance beyond, the early dusk has turned the snowy cap of Mount Fuji a soft coral pink; above, the sky is still a pale blue.
ALT text detailsIn the foreground, a figure leads a horse and cart loaded with cargo over hilly terrain covered in short dry grasses and wiry pine trees. In the distance beyond, the early dusk has turned the snowy cap of Mount Fuji a soft coral pink; above, the sky is still a pale blue.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Dusk at Tagonoura Bay (1940)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

japannews.yomiuri.co.jp/societ

In the foreground, a figure leads a horse and cart loaded with cargo over hilly terrain covered in short dry grasses and wiry pine trees. In the distance beyond, the early dusk has turned the snowy cap of Mount Fuji a soft coral pink; above, the sky is still a pale blue.
ALT text detailsIn the foreground, a figure leads a horse and cart loaded with cargo over hilly terrain covered in short dry grasses and wiry pine trees. In the distance beyond, the early dusk has turned the snowy cap of Mount Fuji a soft coral pink; above, the sky is still a pale blue.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japan sure picked a bad time to hate on foreigners. The country's population continues to plummet, with the Ministry of Internal Affairs reporting a drop in over 900K people - the largest in 16 years. By contrast, the foreign population exploded over 10% to 3.67M.

Article from Jiji. JP headline: 日本人、過去最大の９０万人減　外国人人口は最多３６７万人―総務省
ALT text detailsArticle from Jiji. JP headline: 日本人、過去最大の９０万人減　外国人人口は最多３６７万人―総務省
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

This 7-11 in Sarusawa, Niigata Prefecture, Japan, has a sign informing people who fear they may be suffering from heat stroke to come in and rest "without buying anything you don't need."

"Please focus on recovering. We'll see you again when you're feeling better."

X post from @kuromi8197 ここのセブンやさしすぎww
ALT text detailsX post from @kuromi8197 ここのセブンやさしすぎww
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

In true Trump-y fashion, hard-right Japanese party Sanseitō has its own branded beer (apparently created by an associate of party head Kamiya Sōhei) that's more expensive than most on the market.

Also in true Trump-y fashion, the number one ingredient - malt - isn't Made in Japan.

X post by user @y_ryukichi. Text: 参政党公式ビール 燦然と輝く「麦芽(外国製造)」の文字
ALT text detailsX post by user @y_ryukichi. Text: 参政党公式ビール 燦然と輝く「麦芽(外国製造)」の文字
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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

People in Fukushima Prefecture and other parts of Japan are working to pass down the stories of "mock atomic bombs" the United States dropped in the country during World War II, which resulted in over 400 deaths. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/08/

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

People in Fukushima Prefecture and other parts of Japan are working to pass down the stories of "mock atomic bombs" the United States dropped in the country during World War II, which resulted in over 400 deaths. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/08/

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Machida Shōten Ramen just opened a store in Zürich, Switzerland. In Japan, the chain's MAX Ramen costs 1,130 yen ($7.76). In Switzerland, this bowl will set you back 27 Swiss Francs, or almost 5,000 yen ($33).

MAX RAMEN in Japan
ALT text detailsMAX RAMEN in Japan
MAX RAMEN in Switzerland
ALT text detailsMAX RAMEN in Switzerland
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social

🙏🔔THE DEAD RETURN🪦👋

For a few days in August, with the simple ringing of a temple bell, our ancestors are once again invited back to the world of the living for a brief vacation.
It is a happy reunion of remembrance, lanterns, dance and (in Kyōto) giant mountain bonfires.

Musicians and dancers perform the frenetic 'Rokusai Nenbutsu' at Mibu-dera. The dancer tosses streamers into the crowd and prances with a fan and baton.
ALT text detailsMusicians and dancers perform the frenetic 'Rokusai Nenbutsu' at Mibu-dera. The dancer tosses streamers into the crowd and prances with a fan and baton.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The murder of a teacher by a foreign resident in the Japanese city of Imari has residents on edge. Some say they fear for their safety. Meanwhile, foreign residents in the accepting and multicultural city fear the incident will stoke the flames of prejudice.

unseen-japan.com/imari-murder-

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Nithin Coca నితిన్

@ncoca@social.coop

I bet I'm the only person in who learned about what is not from anyone here, but from following news about and that symbol being used as a sign of protest against

lowyinstitute.org/the-interpre

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Authorities in Ibaraki Prefecture have made Japan's first-ever arrest of a host for encouraging an indebted customer to take up sex work to pay off her debts. 31yo Miura Atsushi (sic) is the first person arrested under a new law meant to crack down on "malicious hosts."

Article from NHK News. JP headline: 茨城 恋愛感情抱かせ性風俗店で働くこと要求か 元ホスト逮捕
ALT text detailsArticle from NHK News. JP headline: 茨城 恋愛感情抱かせ性風俗店で働くこと要求か 元ホスト逮捕
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Cosplayer Enako made a poster she intends to distribute at Comiket 106, encouraging stinky attendees to "come to Comiket after bathing!" The poster says "take a bath" and "stop looking for reasons not to bathe."

Enako's post on X showwing her in a large public bath with the sentence "Take a bath" and the subtext "Stop looking for reasons not to bathe"
ALT text detailsEnako's post on X showwing her in a large public bath with the sentence "Take a bath" and the subtext "Stop looking for reasons not to bathe"
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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

It seems evident that the two bombs would be dropped to confirm their relative effectiveness before Japan could realistically respond. japantimes.co.jp/commentary/20

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

It seems evident that the two bombs would be dropped to confirm their relative effectiveness before Japan could realistically respond. japantimes.co.jp/commentary/20

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Declassified official U.S. documents showed Tuesday that the U.S. military estimated two days after its Aug. 6, 1945, atomic bombing of the city of Hiroshima that at least 100,000 people died as a result of the bombing. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/08/

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Declassified official U.S. documents showed Tuesday that the U.S. military estimated two days after its Aug. 6, 1945, atomic bombing of the city of Hiroshima that at least 100,000 people died as a result of the bombing. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/08/

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Japan observed the 80th anniversary of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima with silent prayers for the tens of thousands of people who lost their lives and for those who suffered in the decades after. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/08/

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

“The whole city was gone. We knew it was a bomb, but we didn't know what kind of bomb,” Howard Kakita, a Japanese American hibakusha, recalls immediately after Hiroshima was bombed in 1945. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/08/

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japan has a new reason to hate LUUP. The e-scooter company unveiled Unimo, a three-wheeler that's easier for seniors to use. It's raising fears that we'll see a flood of accidents involving the elderly, just as we've seen a slew of driving accidents as Japan's population ages.

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

“The whole city was gone. We knew it was a bomb, but we didn't know what kind of bomb,” Howard Kakita, a Japanese American hibakusha, recalls immediately after Hiroshima was bombed in 1945. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/08/

The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Japan observed the 80th anniversary of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima with silent prayers for the tens of thousands of people who lost their lives and for those who suffered in the decades after. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/08/

Nithin Coca నితిన్'s avatar
Nithin Coca నితిన్

@ncoca@social.coop

I bet I'm the only person in who learned about what is not from anyone here, but from following news about and that symbol being used as a sign of protest against

lowyinstitute.org/the-interpre

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Sebachan

@sebachan@famichiki.jp

Instead of exposing myself to the madness of going to the Expo 25 thing while staying in Osaka, I did the much more relaxed, cheaper and probably more interesting alternative and visited the Expo 70 memorial park. I praised the sun and marvelled at the miniatures. Recommended for everyone liking retrofuture and the time where we still believed technology is here to save the day.

Taro Okamotos Sun Tower from afar standing in a park on a lawn. Basically a sculpture of a long white alien dude, with two pointy arms on each side, one angry looking face on its stomach and a golden round face on the top.
ALT text detailsTaro Okamotos Sun Tower from afar standing in a park on a lawn. Basically a sculpture of a long white alien dude, with two pointy arms on each side, one angry looking face on its stomach and a golden round face on the top.
Costumes from the Mitsubishi pavilion from 1970s Osaka Expo, Spring/Summer and Fall/Winter variants. Dresses with red and white designs with some blue accents.
ALT text detailsCostumes from the Mitsubishi pavilion from 1970s Osaka Expo, Spring/Summer and Fall/Winter variants. Dresses with red and white designs with some blue accents.
Very large Small scale model of the 1970 Osaka Expo.
ALT text detailsVery large Small scale model of the 1970 Osaka Expo.
Inside the sun tower, looking at the tree of life from below. Very colorful lighting, red walls, a green tree, yellow and orange jellyfish and other simple lifeforms hanging from it.
ALT text detailsInside the sun tower, looking at the tree of life from below. Very colorful lighting, red walls, a green tree, yellow and orange jellyfish and other simple lifeforms hanging from it.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A TikToker accused...well, most of Asia and the Asian diaspora of buying into white supremacy. The reason? Sun parasols. In tomorrow's issue of UJ Insider, we review the controversy and why, for Japan, the issue of UV protection isn't so black and white.

Subscribe to UJ Insider today - you'll get the above article tomorrow, a free bonus article plus extended Japan commentary every week, and access to our growing catalog of back issues.

buff.ly/ElM5JI3

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Japan marked its hottest day on record on Tuesday as temperatures rose as high as 41.8 degrees Celsius, beating the previous record of 41.2 C set just last week. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/08/

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Japan marked its hottest day on record on Tuesday as temperatures rose as high as 41.8 degrees Celsius, beating the previous record of 41.2 C set just last week. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/08/

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Prime Minister Shigreu Ishiba, finding himself in a unique position to deliver straightforward remarks as he fends off calls to resign, has offered colorful views of U.S. leader Donald Trump and his negotiating tactics. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/08/

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Prime Minister Shigreu Ishiba, finding himself in a unique position to deliver straightforward remarks as he fends off calls to resign, has offered colorful views of U.S. leader Donald Trump and his negotiating tactics. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/08/

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Tsurugashima (Saitama) City Council member Fukushima Megumi has been an outspoken opponent of discrimination in Japan. Her colleagues don't like that: They've passed a motion that asks Fukushima to stop using her city council title to speak up against hate.

Article from Asahi Shimbun. JP title: SNSで「差別反対」発信、市議に自粛要請決議　埼玉県鶴ケ島市議会
ALT text detailsArticle from Asahi Shimbun. JP title: SNSで「差別反対」発信、市議に自粛要請決議　埼玉県鶴ケ島市議会
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A Vietnamese man murdered a woman during a robbery in Imari, Saga Prefecture. NNN interviews people with two different fears: Citizens who fear for their safety and the safety of their kids, and foreign residents who fear the incident will stoke the fires of discrimination.

Article fron NNN. JP headline: 社会 「子どもたちをどう守ったら」「差別されるのでは」技能実習生が逮捕された強盗殺人事件で不安と動揺
ALT text detailsArticle fron NNN. JP headline: 社会 「子どもたちをどう守ったら」「差別されるのでは」技能実習生が逮捕された強盗殺人事件で不安と動揺
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japan's Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru clings to life while others jockey for his spot. A new poll from JNN says that the public supports Agriculture Minister Koizumi Shinjirō, a moderate, at 20.4%. 16.7% are behind right-wing Diet member Takaichi Sanae.

Article from TBS News Dig. JP headline: 【速報】「ポスト石破」1位は小泉氏　2位は高市氏　3位は石破氏　JNN世論調査
ALT text detailsArticle from TBS News Dig. JP headline: 【速報】「ポスト石破」1位は小泉氏　2位は高市氏　3位は石破氏　JNN世論調査
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Zen in Color

@zencolor@mastodon.art

Three Crows against the Rising Sun, from the series Three Sheets, by Totoya Hokkei, mid- 1810s, .

Three Crows against the Rising Sun, from the series Three Sheets, by Totoya Hokkei, mid- 1810s, #Japan.
ALT text detailsThree Crows against the Rising Sun, from the series Three Sheets, by Totoya Hokkei, mid- 1810s, #Japan.
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Zen in Color

@zencolor@mastodon.art

Three Crows against the Rising Sun, from the series Three Sheets, by Totoya Hokkei, mid- 1810s, .

Three Crows against the Rising Sun, from the series Three Sheets, by Totoya Hokkei, mid- 1810s, #Japan.
ALT text detailsThree Crows against the Rising Sun, from the series Three Sheets, by Totoya Hokkei, mid- 1810s, #Japan.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Nao-san often plans her trips with sweets and snacks in mind, and her visit to Ishiyama-dera was no exception.

A small store beside the temple specializes in fried mitarashi dango (揚げみたらし 'age mitarashi'), available in a variety of different flavours.

Fried mitarashi dango.
ALT text detailsFried mitarashi dango.
The Nio-mon of Ishiyama-dera.
ALT text detailsThe Nio-mon of Ishiyama-dera.
Statue of Murasaki Shikibu at Ishiyama-dera.
ALT text detailsStatue of Murasaki Shikibu at Ishiyama-dera.
Small store specializing in fried mitarashi dango in front of Ishiyama-dera.
ALT text detailsSmall store specializing in fried mitarashi dango in front of Ishiyama-dera.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japanese NPO ReBit found in a recent survey that nearly 90% of middle and high school LGBTQ students experienced issues at school related to their gender & sexuality. Almost 40% reported missing school due to the severity of the issues.

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Want a fun adults-only event in Tokyo this summer? Go to Kabukicho and check out the Shunga (erotic ukiyo-e prints) exhibition running until September 30th. The private collection of around 100 prints featured the works of many esteemed Edo-era erotic artists.

Shunga Exhibition official poster
ALT text detailsShunga Exhibition official poster
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social

🍡MOREISH MITARASHI😋

Today is the beginning of a three-day period celebrating mitarashi dango (みたらし団子)!🎉

Actually, this happens every month from the 3rd-5th　because...
3= 'MI' (み)
4= 'taraSHI' (たらし)
5= 'danGO' (だんご)

Tenuous wordplay? Yes.
Fun? Also, yes.

Mitarashi dango are skewered balls of rice dough covered in a sweet and slightly salty sauce (there are typically between 3 and 5 balls per skewer).
ALT text detailsMitarashi dango are skewered balls of rice dough covered in a sweet and slightly salty sauce (there are typically between 3 and 5 balls per skewer).
Pandango (pando shaped dango) and mitarashi dango.
ALT text detailsPandango (pando shaped dango) and mitarashi dango.
Cold mitarashi dango, here unusually served without a skewer.
ALT text detailsCold mitarashi dango, here unusually served without a skewer.
Mitarashi dango...here you see that there is a variety of ways to finish them (the bottom two are covered in a traditional sauce, whereas the top two are covered in sweet bean jam).
ALT text detailsMitarashi dango...here you see that there is a variety of ways to finish them (the bottom two are covered in a traditional sauce, whereas the top two are covered in sweet bean jam).
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Former Japanese porn actress Mikami Yua thought she was just renting a nice dress for an appearance. Then a bride-to-be found the celebrity's Instagram account. What followed next was a war of words that could potentially end up in court. Read the full story in our latest.

unseen-japan.com/mikami-yua-dr

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Weather Mizu

@mizu@mastodon.social

JMA forecast charts for 6th Wed. Stationary front may be formed over E Japan that brings rain to the region. It may put an end to the ongoing drought, but could be deluge..😟

JMA fcast for 6th Wed.
ALT text detailsJMA fcast for 6th Wed.
JMA fcast for 6th Wed.
ALT text detailsJMA fcast for 6th Wed.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

It's so hot in Japan right now that the plastic fake food is literally melting off the shelves 😬

Post on X from @tomozh. Text reads "Heat wave."
ALT text detailsPost on X from @tomozh. Text reads "Heat wave."
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

It's so hot in Japan right now that the plastic fake food is literally melting off the shelves 😬

Post on X from @tomozh. Text reads "Heat wave."
ALT text detailsPost on X from @tomozh. Text reads "Heat wave."
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

It's so hot in Japan right now that the plastic fake food is literally melting off the shelves 😬

Post on X from @tomozh. Text reads "Heat wave."
ALT text detailsPost on X from @tomozh. Text reads "Heat wave."
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

It's so hot in Japan right now that the plastic fake food is literally melting off the shelves 😬

Post on X from @tomozh. Text reads "Heat wave."
ALT text detailsPost on X from @tomozh. Text reads "Heat wave."
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japan Agricultural Minister Shinjirō Koizumi tried to brag that children's cafeterias, private orgs that feed kids in need, are using government reserve rice. But he got ratio'd by users asking why the *government* isn't the one making sure kids don't starve.

X post from Shinjirō Koizumi. JP text: 「ワンコイン５００円で人気です！」子ども食堂に備蓄米届く【愛媛】(eat愛媛朝日テレビ)
ALT text detailsX post from Shinjirō Koizumi. JP text: 「ワンコイン５００円で人気です！」子ども食堂に備蓄米届く【愛媛】(eat愛媛朝日テレビ)
X post from @utamaru_shin. JP text: 子ども食堂は、飢えている子供を見かねて民間が行っている事業です。 子供が飢えないようにするのが政府の仕事です。 何自慢げに話してるんですか。 仕事してください。 子供が飢えない社会を作ってください。
ALT text detailsX post from @utamaru_shin. JP text: 子ども食堂は、飢えている子供を見かねて民間が行っている事業です。 子供が飢えないようにするのが政府の仕事です。 何自慢げに話してるんですか。 仕事してください。 子供が飢えない社会を作ってください。
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

It's so hot in Japan right now that the plastic fake food is literally melting off the shelves 😬

Post on X from @tomozh. Text reads "Heat wave."
ALT text detailsPost on X from @tomozh. Text reads "Heat wave."
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

It's so hot in Japan right now that the plastic fake food is literally melting off the shelves 😬

Post on X from @tomozh. Text reads "Heat wave."
ALT text detailsPost on X from @tomozh. Text reads "Heat wave."
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

In 2016, a former pirate manga website tried to take a current pirate hentai anime website legit. In a new paper, a researcher explores how it all went wrong - and what the failure says about hentai's place in the larger US adult entertainment industry.

unseen-japan.com/hentai-platfo

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

In terms of tourist destinations, Japan’s Toyama City has remained relatively overlooked in the West. That may be about to change thanks to a recent high-profile endorsement – and some in the prefecture say they’re looking forward to welcoming their new guests.

unseen-japan.com/toyama-new-tr

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The school yearbook may become a thing of the past in Japan. One reason: sickos using kids' pictures to make sexual content using AI. In July, a company reported finding such images and videos of 252 students online.

Article from Sankei Shimbun. JP headline: 「卒業アルバム」がなくなる日　性的加工、情報流出リスク　存続求める声強く、進化模索も
ALT text detailsArticle from Sankei Shimbun. JP headline: 「卒業アルバム」がなくなる日　性的加工、情報流出リスク　存続求める声強く、進化模索も
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

It's so hot in Japan right now that the plastic fake food is literally melting off the shelves 😬

Post on X from @tomozh. Text reads "Heat wave."
ALT text detailsPost on X from @tomozh. Text reads "Heat wave."
Airports Bot's avatar
Airports Bot

@airports_bot@mastodon.world

Kagoshima Airport - Kagoshima, Japan

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kagoshim
openstreetmap.org/#map=13/31.8

Airports Bot's avatar
Airports Bot

@airports_bot@mastodon.world

Kagoshima Airport - Kagoshima, Japan

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kagoshim
openstreetmap.org/#map=13/31.8

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

It's so hot in Japan right now that the plastic fake food is literally melting off the shelves 😬

Post on X from @tomozh. Text reads "Heat wave."
ALT text detailsPost on X from @tomozh. Text reads "Heat wave."
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

It's so hot in Japan right now that the plastic fake food is literally melting off the shelves 😬

Post on X from @tomozh. Text reads "Heat wave."
ALT text detailsPost on X from @tomozh. Text reads "Heat wave."
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

An increasing number of tourist spots in Japan are charging foreign tourists different rates than locals pay. Some online say the practice amounts to discrimination. But what does Japanese law say? One lawyer says it's (probably) okay.

unseen-japan.com/two-tier-pric

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Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

Muro-ji, .

Muro-ji, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsMuro-ji, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
Buddhist Art's avatar
Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

Muro-ji, .

Muro-ji, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsMuro-ji, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
Jim DeLaHunt

@jdlh@mstdn.ca

My quest at is to find services and handles with non-Latin characters. Can you link me to examples?
I hear there are many ese people active in Fediverse, but all the examples I see have only Latin script.

Jim DeLaHunt

@jdlh@mstdn.ca

My quest at is to find services and handles with non-Latin characters. Can you link me to examples?
I hear there are many ese people active in Fediverse, but all the examples I see have only Latin script.

Jim DeLaHunt

@jdlh@mstdn.ca

My quest at is to find services and handles with non-Latin characters. Can you link me to examples?
I hear there are many ese people active in Fediverse, but all the examples I see have only Latin script.

atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Nikko Shinkyo (1953)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

visitnikko.jp/en/spots/shinkyo

A view looking up at Nikko's Shinkyo Bridge on a bright summer's day. The red-lacquered bridge spans the Daiya River in a short, curving arc; tall trees crowd in close on either side. A view of the dramatic, mountainous terrain upstream is framed between the bridge and the river. Above, a few puffy white clouds populate an intense blue sky.
ALT text detailsA view looking up at Nikko's Shinkyo Bridge on a bright summer's day. The red-lacquered bridge spans the Daiya River in a short, curving arc; tall trees crowd in close on either side. A view of the dramatic, mountainous terrain upstream is framed between the bridge and the river. Above, a few puffy white clouds populate an intense blue sky.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Police in Tsu, Mie Prefecture, arrested 49-year-old teacher Takagi Makiyo (not a foreigner) for allegedly sexually assaulting a student at a private school. Which is bad. What's worse is that it's his SEVENTH arrest and, somehow, the man is still being allowed near children.

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atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Nikko Shinkyo (1953)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

visitnikko.jp/en/spots/shinkyo

A view looking up at Nikko's Shinkyo Bridge on a bright summer's day. The red-lacquered bridge spans the Daiya River in a short, curving arc; tall trees crowd in close on either side. A view of the dramatic, mountainous terrain upstream is framed between the bridge and the river. Above, a few puffy white clouds populate an intense blue sky.
ALT text detailsA view looking up at Nikko's Shinkyo Bridge on a bright summer's day. The red-lacquered bridge spans the Daiya River in a short, curving arc; tall trees crowd in close on either side. A view of the dramatic, mountainous terrain upstream is framed between the bridge and the river. Above, a few puffy white clouds populate an intense blue sky.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japanese YouTuber Yurinya, who produces the idol unit Pretty Chuu, apologized when it came out that her partner, Saitō Taichi (not a foreigner), got a member of the group pregnant.

But it's worse than that: The member, Amamiya Shuna, says Saitō raped her.

Story from LiveDoor News. JP headline: ゆりにゃ、騒動を謝罪　プロデュースしているアイドルをパートナーが妊娠させたことは「概ね事実」
ALT text detailsStory from LiveDoor News. JP headline: ゆりにゃ、騒動を謝罪　プロデュースしているアイドルをパートナーが妊娠させたことは「概ね事実」
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Weather Mizu

@mizu@mastodon.social

Tropical storm Krosa developed itself - 975hPa at 11pm, forming nice rain band system🌀

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Weather Mizu

@mizu@mastodon.social

/ Wind, temperature & radar at 2pm with the latest track forecast for the tropical storm. "Cool" afternoon thanks to Northern wind across the region. UPDATE: Notice that the storm is expected to be intensified later, wind and rain can be stronger tonight in Chiba and Ibaraki.

Wind 2pm Kanto
ALT text detailsWind 2pm Kanto
Temperature 2pm Kanto
ALT text detailsTemperature 2pm Kanto
Radar 2pm Kanto
ALT text detailsRadar 2pm Kanto
Track forecast.for the storm 2pm
ALT text detailsTrack forecast.for the storm 2pm
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Right-wingers in Japan have scored a "victory": The SPRING program for PhD students will no longer cover living expenses for non-Japanese students. Of the program's 10,564 recipients, less than half - 4,125 - were foreign PhD candidates, with 3,151 of those from China.

Article from Mainichi Shimbun. JP headline: 博士課程学生の生活費支援、日本人に限定へ　文科省委で了承
ALT text detailsArticle from Mainichi Shimbun. JP headline: 博士課程学生の生活費支援、日本人に限定へ　文科省委で了承
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

In the Kyōto hanamachi (花街) geiko and maiko call upon ochaya and shishōtaku (師匠宅) to deliver gifts to those that have taught and supported them during the year thus far.

Mid-summer, like early winter, is a time of giving thanks and strengthening bonds.

A maiko in Kamishichiken.
ALT text detailsA maiko in Kamishichiken.
Maiko in Gion Shirakawa.
ALT text detailsMaiko in Gion Shirakawa.
Maiko in Gion.
ALT text detailsMaiko in Gion.
Maiko in Gion.
ALT text detailsMaiko in Gion.
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AnnaAnthro

@AnnaAnthro@mastodon.social

A new dropped on Netflix: Glass Heart.

Interesting context: rock bands.

has a long history of hard rock, punk and underground music not often in dramas.

This is about a woman drummer and an eccentric mysterious pianist genius that recruits her.

Yamaha Product placement everywhere: drums, pianos…

AND… God Takeru Satoh is the genius ML! *click at speed of light*

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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social

🌾GIFT TO THE GODS✨

The 1st day of the 8th month in the traditional calendar is known as 'Hachigatsu sakujitsu' (八月朔日), shortened to 'Hassaku' (八朔).

At this time farmers would make offerings of the first ripe rice to the gods, and gradually it became a time of gift giving.

Nao-san enjoys an iced matcha at the Omuro-tei.
ALT text detailsNao-san enjoys an iced matcha at the Omuro-tei.
An adorable mini jelly crafted to look like an iced coffee.
ALT text detailsAn adorable mini jelly crafted to look like an iced coffee.
Resukan, a sweet jelly layered with lemon slices to call to mind lace.
ALT text detailsResukan, a sweet jelly layered with lemon slices to call to mind lace.
On August 1st it is customary for maiko and geiko to give gifts to teachers and those that have supported them over the year.
ALT text detailsOn August 1st it is customary for maiko and geiko to give gifts to teachers and those that have supported them over the year.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

JR Shikoku has apologized to a 67-year-old man after he fell into a 65cm hole while trying to take a piss in a bathroom at Ritsurin Station in Takamatsu, Kagawa Prefecture. It took the man seven days to heal. JR Shikoku admitted that the floor hadn't been renovated in 50 years.

Article from Sankei Shimbun. JP headline: 駅トイレの穴に客転落、50年前の部品腐食が原因か　JR四国「申し訳ない」
ALT text detailsArticle from Sankei Shimbun. JP headline: 駅トイレの穴に客転落、50年前の部品腐食が原因か　JR四国「申し訳ない」
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Kyoto is doing booming business thanks to overseas tourists. But are the crowds pushing out domestic visitors? Here's how a research team plans to find out, plus some of the factors that may be leading to a "Kyoto flight."

unseen-japan.com/kyoto-flight-

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Mera.tabi

@mera.tabi@pixelfed.social

Gliding through spring’s first reflections. The koi welcomes a new season.

#japan #amateurphotography #travel #日本 #traveljapan #visitjapann #koi #鯉　#animalphotography #nature #自然
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The dark side of APA hotels, two-tier pricing for tourists at Buddhist temples, Sanseitō's Imperial Constitution, and Tokyo's prostitution hot spot - this and more in this week's free Unseen Japan Newsletter.

buff.ly/COq8hBX

Top of an APA Hotel pictured against a darkened sky
ALT text detailsTop of an APA Hotel pictured against a darkened sky
The Nehanzō of Nanzōin
ALT text detailsThe Nehanzō of Nanzōin
Picture of Sanseitō's Kamiya Sōhei with Japan against a red circle to his right and lightning in the background
ALT text detailsPicture of Sanseitō's Kamiya Sōhei with Japan against a red circle to his right and lightning in the background
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atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

'Temperatures rise to life-threatening 40 degrees for 2nd day in western Japan'

'Scorching weather continues across Japan on Thursday, with life-threatening temperatures of over 40 degrees Celsius recorded in some places for a second day'

www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/new

A map of Japan showing high temperatures across the country.
ALT text detailsA map of Japan showing high temperatures across the country.
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atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

'Temperatures rise to life-threatening 40 degrees for 2nd day in western Japan'

'Scorching weather continues across Japan on Thursday, with life-threatening temperatures of over 40 degrees Celsius recorded in some places for a second day'

www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/new

A map of Japan showing high temperatures across the country.
ALT text detailsA map of Japan showing high temperatures across the country.
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atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Kenchoji, Kamakura (1933)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

kenchoji.com/sanmon-gate/

The Sanmon Gate at Kenchoji Temple, Kamakura, on a bright summer's day. A line of short green trees borders the path leading to the imposing doorless gate; a small number of visitors to the temple can be seen in the shade under the gate, screened by the trees. More tall green trees stand just beyond, while above, a solitary bird wheels in a bright blue sky. Shadows of trees outside the frame fall across the gate, while bright sunlight splashes across the top third of the gate.
ALT text detailsThe Sanmon Gate at Kenchoji Temple, Kamakura, on a bright summer's day. A line of short green trees borders the path leading to the imposing doorless gate; a small number of visitors to the temple can be seen in the shade under the gate, screened by the trees. More tall green trees stand just beyond, while above, a solitary bird wheels in a bright blue sky. Shadows of trees outside the frame fall across the gate, while bright sunlight splashes across the top third of the gate.
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atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Kenchoji, Kamakura (1933)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

kenchoji.com/sanmon-gate/

The Sanmon Gate at Kenchoji Temple, Kamakura, on a bright summer's day. A line of short green trees borders the path leading to the imposing doorless gate; a small number of visitors to the temple can be seen in the shade under the gate, screened by the trees. More tall green trees stand just beyond, while above, a solitary bird wheels in a bright blue sky. Shadows of trees outside the frame fall across the gate, while bright sunlight splashes across the top third of the gate.
ALT text detailsThe Sanmon Gate at Kenchoji Temple, Kamakura, on a bright summer's day. A line of short green trees borders the path leading to the imposing doorless gate; a small number of visitors to the temple can be seen in the shade under the gate, screened by the trees. More tall green trees stand just beyond, while above, a solitary bird wheels in a bright blue sky. Shadows of trees outside the frame fall across the gate, while bright sunlight splashes across the top third of the gate.
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Zen in Color

@zencolor@mastodon.art

Lions by Yamaguchi Sekkei, 1668, .

Lions by Yamaguchi Sekkei, 1668, #Japan.
ALT text detailsLions by Yamaguchi Sekkei, 1668, #Japan.
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Zen in Color

@zencolor@mastodon.art

Lions by Yamaguchi Sekkei, 1668, .

Lions by Yamaguchi Sekkei, 1668, #Japan.
ALT text detailsLions by Yamaguchi Sekkei, 1668, #Japan.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japan's disability laws are supposed to protect disabled students. So why do some still fall through the cracks? We talked to a Japanese attorney who says there are two key flaws inherent in the current law. Learn more about the law - and the students impacted by it - below.

unseen-japan.com/japan-disabil

Young boy in wheelchair talking to nurse
ALT text detailsYoung boy in wheelchair talking to nurse
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Fukō-sha (夫荒社), in the grounds of Fukuōji-jinja (福王子神社), is dedicated to the spirit of a laborer who died nearby whilst transporting the annual tribute of ice from Tanba Province (丹波国) to the imperial court (an exhausting race in grueling heat).

Fuko-sha in the grounds of Fukuoji-jinja, guardian shrine of Ninna-ji.
ALT text detailsFuko-sha in the grounds of Fukuoji-jinja, guardian shrine of Ninna-ji.
Fuko-sha in the grounds of Fukuoji-jinja, guardian shrine of Ninna-ji.
ALT text detailsFuko-sha in the grounds of Fukuoji-jinja, guardian shrine of Ninna-ji.
Fuko-sha in the grounds of Fukuoji-jinja, guardian shrine of Ninna-ji.
ALT text detailsFuko-sha in the grounds of Fukuoji-jinja, guardian shrine of Ninna-ji.
Fuko-sha in the grounds of Fukuoji-jinja, guardian shrine of Ninna-ji.
ALT text detailsFuko-sha in the grounds of Fukuoji-jinja, guardian shrine of Ninna-ji.
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Weather Mizu

@mizu@mastodon.social

Tropical storm charted the best course - moving slightly faster and track far off the coast. Wind and rain tomorrow afternoon but not so much. Update later.

Storm Krosa track forecast as of 3pm on July 31st.
ALT text detailsStorm Krosa track forecast as of 3pm on July 31st.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Fukō-sha (夫荒社), in the grounds of Fukuōji-jinja (福王子神社), is dedicated to the spirit of a laborer who died nearby whilst transporting the annual tribute of ice from Tanba Province (丹波国) to the imperial court (an exhausting race in grueling heat).

Fuko-sha in the grounds of Fukuoji-jinja, guardian shrine of Ninna-ji.
ALT text detailsFuko-sha in the grounds of Fukuoji-jinja, guardian shrine of Ninna-ji.
Fuko-sha in the grounds of Fukuoji-jinja, guardian shrine of Ninna-ji.
ALT text detailsFuko-sha in the grounds of Fukuoji-jinja, guardian shrine of Ninna-ji.
Fuko-sha in the grounds of Fukuoji-jinja, guardian shrine of Ninna-ji.
ALT text detailsFuko-sha in the grounds of Fukuoji-jinja, guardian shrine of Ninna-ji.
Fuko-sha in the grounds of Fukuoji-jinja, guardian shrine of Ninna-ji.
ALT text detailsFuko-sha in the grounds of Fukuoji-jinja, guardian shrine of Ninna-ji.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social

🧊KAKIGŌRI🍧

One summer treat Kyōtoites cannot do without is 'kakigōri' (かき氷), a shaved-ice dessert covered in all kinds of deliciousness.

The first reference we have to kakigōri in Japan is in Chapter 42 of Sei Shōnagon's (清少納言 966-1017) 'The Pillow Book' (枕草子).

Bear inspired kakigori.
ALT text detailsBear inspired kakigori.
Peach kakigori...shaved ice covered in thick peach syrup and slices of fresh peach.
ALT text detailsPeach kakigori...shaved ice covered in thick peach syrup and slices of fresh peach.
Dark sugar flavoured kakigori, with slices of chestnut buried in the ice.
ALT text detailsDark sugar flavoured kakigori, with slices of chestnut buried in the ice.
Kappa inspired kakigori.
ALT text detailsKappa inspired kakigori.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Ice for centuries was a luxury commodity, prohibitively expensive, and in short supply.

During the Heian period, naturally forming ice was cut in the mountains during the winter and shipped to special storehouses called 'himuro' (氷室). It was for the express use of the palace.

A block of ice containing decorative flowers and leaves, helping guests cool down.
ALT text detailsA block of ice containing decorative flowers and leaves, helping guests cool down.
Woodblock print of travelers passing over a frozen river. Image thanks - https://ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of travelers passing over a frozen river. Image thanks - https://ukiyo-e.org/
Woodblock print of ice blocks being cut. Image thanks - https://ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of ice blocks being cut. Image thanks - https://ukiyo-e.org/
A traditional ice house in the mountains.
ALT text detailsA traditional ice house in the mountains.
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atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Kamezaki, Owari Province (1928)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

shoryudo.go-centraljapan.jp/en

Evening in Kamezaki, in modern day Handa City, Aichi Prefecture. On our left, a narrow curving canal leads to what is probably Mikawa Bay; a tall wiry tree grows out of the space between a nearby building and the solid-looking stone embankment. On our right, a deserted street reaches a dead end in the direction of the water, and makes a 90 degree turn out of frame. An electric outdoor light shines outside the house standing on the end of the street, with another on a utility pole nearby; warm light glows in one of the windows of the house. The shadowy shape of a person stands between the house and the canal, looking out over the bay beyond, where a small wooden boat has been pulled up on the shore. Further on, the calm water stretches out toward the horizon, and a distant line of low hills marks the other side of the bay. Above, puffy clouds populate a starless evening sky. The whole scene is illuminated by the unseen moon.
ALT text detailsEvening in Kamezaki, in modern day Handa City, Aichi Prefecture. On our left, a narrow curving canal leads to what is probably Mikawa Bay; a tall wiry tree grows out of the space between a nearby building and the solid-looking stone embankment. On our right, a deserted street reaches a dead end in the direction of the water, and makes a 90 degree turn out of frame. An electric outdoor light shines outside the house standing on the end of the street, with another on a utility pole nearby; warm light glows in one of the windows of the house. The shadowy shape of a person stands between the house and the canal, looking out over the bay beyond, where a small wooden boat has been pulled up on the shore. Further on, the calm water stretches out toward the horizon, and a distant line of low hills marks the other side of the bay. Above, puffy clouds populate a starless evening sky. The whole scene is illuminated by the unseen moon.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

There is one other reason the date is important.

On June 25th 1933 Yamagata City recorded a high of 40.8 degrees (thanks to the Foehn Effect), astonishing the country at the time.

Nowadays this type of temperature is becoming all too common during the summer🥹

Coconut, banana and pecan kakigori.
ALT text detailsCoconut, banana and pecan kakigori.
Lemon kakigori.
ALT text detailsLemon kakigori.
Kakigori covered with slices of fruit and balls of mochi.
ALT text detailsKakigori covered with slices of fruit and balls of mochi.
Kinako and anko kakigori.
ALT text detailsKinako and anko kakigori.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

July 25th is 'Kakigōri-no-hi' (かき氷の日 'Shaved Ice Day') in Japan🥵🍧🎉

The Kakigōri Association selected this date as it's a neat play on words...

7/25🟰'na' (7) 'tsu' (2) 'go' (5) ri
🤔
natsu gōri (夏氷 'summer kakigōri')
😐

Matcha kakigori, topped with mochi, mikan and ice cream.
ALT text detailsMatcha kakigori, topped with mochi, mikan and ice cream.
Kakigori topped with a purple syrup of sweet potato.
ALT text detailsKakigori topped with a purple syrup of sweet potato.
Ume syrup flavoured kakigori.
ALT text detailsUme syrup flavoured kakigori.
Strawberry kakigori with mikan slics and mochi balls.
ALT text detailsStrawberry kakigori with mikan slics and mochi balls.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Sei Shōnagon (清少納言) describes a dessert created by scraping ice shavings with a metal knife into a metal bowl. It was flavoured with the sweet sap of arrowroot (葛 'kuzu vine')...not so different from today's kakigōri!

Vivid red kakigori.
ALT text detailsVivid red kakigori.
Flowering arrowroot.
ALT text detailsFlowering arrowroot.
Kudzu root.
ALT text detailsKudzu root.
Matcha flavoured kakigori topped with sweet red bean paste.
ALT text detailsMatcha flavoured kakigori topped with sweet red bean paste.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social

🧊KAKIGŌRI🍧

One summer treat Kyōtoites cannot do without is 'kakigōri' (かき氷), a shaved-ice dessert covered in all kinds of deliciousness.

The first reference we have to kakigōri in Japan is in Chapter 42 of Sei Shōnagon's (清少納言 966-1017) 'The Pillow Book' (枕草子).

Bear inspired kakigori.
ALT text detailsBear inspired kakigori.
Peach kakigori...shaved ice covered in thick peach syrup and slices of fresh peach.
ALT text detailsPeach kakigori...shaved ice covered in thick peach syrup and slices of fresh peach.
Dark sugar flavoured kakigori, with slices of chestnut buried in the ice.
ALT text detailsDark sugar flavoured kakigori, with slices of chestnut buried in the ice.
Kappa inspired kakigori.
ALT text detailsKappa inspired kakigori.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Kamezaki, Owari Province (1928)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

shoryudo.go-centraljapan.jp/en

Evening in Kamezaki, in modern day Handa City, Aichi Prefecture. On our left, a narrow curving canal leads to what is probably Mikawa Bay; a tall wiry tree grows out of the space between a nearby building and the solid-looking stone embankment. On our right, a deserted street reaches a dead end in the direction of the water, and makes a 90 degree turn out of frame. An electric outdoor light shines outside the house standing on the end of the street, with another on a utility pole nearby; warm light glows in one of the windows of the house. The shadowy shape of a person stands between the house and the canal, looking out over the bay beyond, where a small wooden boat has been pulled up on the shore. Further on, the calm water stretches out toward the horizon, and a distant line of low hills marks the other side of the bay. Above, puffy clouds populate a starless evening sky. The whole scene is illuminated by the unseen moon.
ALT text detailsEvening in Kamezaki, in modern day Handa City, Aichi Prefecture. On our left, a narrow curving canal leads to what is probably Mikawa Bay; a tall wiry tree grows out of the space between a nearby building and the solid-looking stone embankment. On our right, a deserted street reaches a dead end in the direction of the water, and makes a 90 degree turn out of frame. An electric outdoor light shines outside the house standing on the end of the street, with another on a utility pole nearby; warm light glows in one of the windows of the house. The shadowy shape of a person stands between the house and the canal, looking out over the bay beyond, where a small wooden boat has been pulled up on the shore. Further on, the calm water stretches out toward the horizon, and a distant line of low hills marks the other side of the bay. Above, puffy clouds populate a starless evening sky. The whole scene is illuminated by the unseen moon.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

How did the names of colors evolve in Japanese? Turns out there are no black and white answers to that question. Here's a look at the interesting evolution of color vocabulary in the Japanese language.

unseen-japan.com/japanese-colo

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

In 2017, a video uploaded by an American traveler on the Chinese social media platform Weibo brought APA Hotels into the spotlight. The clip alleged that some rooms featured a book denying the Nanjing Massacre, one of the most brutal episodes of Japan’s wartime past.

The book in question, which APA Group continues to sell using the controversy as advertising fodder
ALT text detailsThe book in question, which APA Group continues to sell using the controversy as advertising fodder
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

In Iwata, Shizuoka Prefecture, the family of a man in his 50s called emergency services - but for reasons unknown, asked that they "not blare the siren" on arrival. When an operator said they couldn't do that, the caller said they'd "wait and see" how he did. He died hours later.

Article from Shizuoka TV. JP headline: 「サイレンは鳴らさずに来てほしい」との１１９番通報で消防が要望に応じられないと伝えると数時間後に男性患者は死亡　静岡・磐田市
ALT text detailsArticle from Shizuoka TV. JP headline: 「サイレンは鳴らさずに来てほしい」との１１９番通報で消防が要望に応じられないと伝えると数時間後に男性患者は死亡　静岡・磐田市
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Mera.tabi

@mera.tabi@pixelfed.social

Between this world and the world of the kami stands the torii—quiet, enduring, sacred.

#japan #fushimiinaritaisha #fushimiinari #kyoto #amateurphotography #travel #日本　#京都　#伏見稲荷大社　#tokyocameraclub #traveljapan #visitjapan
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

On X, Masaki Nobushiro posts a recurring (and useful) drawing about how people wrongly think a 1m tsunami is a cresting wave when it's actually a wall of water filled with dangerous and deadly debris that's strong enough to sweep up a car.

X post by @nobushiromasaki. JP text: カムチャッカ半島付近の大地震（M8.0）による津波、日本各地にも1m程度の津波が来るという注意報が出てる。侮らないで。1mは、ふつうに自動車が流されるレベルです。画像は拾い物だけど、これが本当だから。沿岸地域の方、特に気をつけて！
ALT text detailsX post by @nobushiromasaki. JP text: カムチャッカ半島付近の大地震（M8.0）による津波、日本各地にも1m程度の津波が来るという注意報が出てる。侮らないで。1mは、ふつうに自動車が流されるレベルです。画像は拾い物だけど、これが本当だから。沿岸地域の方、特に気をつけて！
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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Okunoshima, an island in the Seto Inland Sea known for being inhabited by around 500 to 600 wild rabbits, has a dark past as the home to a poison gas plant during World War II. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/07/

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Okunoshima, an island in the Seto Inland Sea known for being inhabited by around 500 to 600 wild rabbits, has a dark past as the home to a poison gas plant during World War II. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/07/

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

A tsunami advisory was issued for the coasts of Hokkaido, Honshu and Kyushu on Wednesday morning after a strong earthquake struck off Russia's Kamchatka Peninsula. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/07/

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Weather Mizu

@mizu@mastodon.social

Record-breaking 41.2C/106.2F observed at 2.30pm in Tanba, Hyogo, though it is the instantaneous value or spike i.e. mid to late 39 before and after the moment.

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Are people too worried about the rise of the far-right Sanseitō in Japan? We examine the changes the party could have an outsized influence by analyzing the latest public opinion polls and political dynamics in the latest issue of Unseen Japan Insider, available now.

buff.ly/5Z3hPGo

We've covered a lot about the rise of Sanseitō in Japan. A lot of people have asked us: What does this mean? Does this extreme right-wing party have a chance of taking over Japan? Will its bizarre "revere the Emperor and expel the barbarians" Constitution somehow become law? On the one hand, Sanseitō, qua party, is nowhere near hijacking Japan's legislative process. The party shocked Japan and the world this month when it grabbed 13 seats in the Upper House of Japan's National Diet, its highest legislative body. It had previously had one, giving them a total of 14. The Upper House (House of Councillors) has 248 seats. The Lower House (House of Representatives), which holds significant power in the legislative process, has 465. Sanseitō only has three seats. That's a grand total of 17 seats out of 713.
ALT text detailsWe've covered a lot about the rise of Sanseitō in Japan. A lot of people have asked us: What does this mean? Does this extreme right-wing party have a chance of taking over Japan? Will its bizarre "revere the Emperor and expel the barbarians" Constitution somehow become law? On the one hand, Sanseitō, qua party, is nowhere near hijacking Japan's legislative process. The party shocked Japan and the world this month when it grabbed 13 seats in the Upper House of Japan's National Diet, its highest legislative body. It had previously had one, giving them a total of 14. The Upper House (House of Councillors) has 248 seats. The Lower House (House of Representatives), which holds significant power in the legislative process, has 465. Sanseitō only has three seats. That's a grand total of 17 seats out of 713.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

On X, Masaki Nobushiro posts a recurring (and useful) drawing about how people wrongly think a 1m tsunami is a cresting wave when it's actually a wall of water filled with dangerous and deadly debris that's strong enough to sweep up a car.

X post by @nobushiromasaki. JP text: カムチャッカ半島付近の大地震（M8.0）による津波、日本各地にも1m程度の津波が来るという注意報が出てる。侮らないで。1mは、ふつうに自動車が流されるレベルです。画像は拾い物だけど、これが本当だから。沿岸地域の方、特に気をつけて！
ALT text detailsX post by @nobushiromasaki. JP text: カムチャッカ半島付近の大地震（M8.0）による津波、日本各地にも1m程度の津波が来るという注意報が出てる。侮らないで。1mは、ふつうに自動車が流されるレベルです。画像は拾い物だけど、これが本当だから。沿岸地域の方、特に気をつけて！
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

On X, Masaki Nobushiro posts a recurring (and useful) drawing about how people wrongly think a 1m tsunami is a cresting wave when it's actually a wall of water filled with dangerous and deadly debris that's strong enough to sweep up a car.

X post by @nobushiromasaki. JP text: カムチャッカ半島付近の大地震（M8.0）による津波、日本各地にも1m程度の津波が来るという注意報が出てる。侮らないで。1mは、ふつうに自動車が流されるレベルです。画像は拾い物だけど、これが本当だから。沿岸地域の方、特に気をつけて！
ALT text detailsX post by @nobushiromasaki. JP text: カムチャッカ半島付近の大地震（M8.0）による津波、日本各地にも1m程度の津波が来るという注意報が出てる。侮らないで。1mは、ふつうに自動車が流されるレベルです。画像は拾い物だけど、これが本当だから。沿岸地域の方、特に気をつけて！
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

On X, Masaki Nobushiro posts a recurring (and useful) drawing about how people wrongly think a 1m tsunami is a cresting wave when it's actually a wall of water filled with dangerous and deadly debris that's strong enough to sweep up a car.

X post by @nobushiromasaki. JP text: カムチャッカ半島付近の大地震（M8.0）による津波、日本各地にも1m程度の津波が来るという注意報が出てる。侮らないで。1mは、ふつうに自動車が流されるレベルです。画像は拾い物だけど、これが本当だから。沿岸地域の方、特に気をつけて！
ALT text detailsX post by @nobushiromasaki. JP text: カムチャッカ半島付近の大地震（M8.0）による津波、日本各地にも1m程度の津波が来るという注意報が出てる。侮らないで。1mは、ふつうに自動車が流されるレベルです。画像は拾い物だけど、これが本当だから。沿岸地域の方、特に気をつけて！
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Nonilex

@Nonilex@masto.ai

8.7-magnitude in Russia's Far East sets off warnings in , &

The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center said waves of 1 to 3 meters (yards) above tide level were possible along some coastal areas of Hawaii, , Japan & the . Waves of more than 3 meters (yards) were possible along some coastal areas of & .

apnews.com/article/japan-russi

Nithin Coca నితిన్'s avatar
Nithin Coca నితిన్

@ncoca@social.coop

One thing that's great about living in is that it's one of the few countries where the main hard-left party both has some power, and is critical of the pseudo-, ethno- party that controls , which somehow still get adoration from other leftists around the world, especially in .

Via @newbloommag
newbloommag.net/2021/10/22/jcp

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

IMMEDIATE WARNING: A tsunami warning for waves up to 3m is in effect for Hokkaido and Honshu, with advisories for other areas of Japan due to an earthquake near Russia. If you are near the coasts, PLEASE LEAVE and seek higher ground inland.

japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/07/

Alert from Asahi Shimbun
ALT text detailsAlert from Asahi Shimbun
Alerts on Japanese TV as of 10:29am. The red text in the upper right corner says "Flee the Tsunami!" and is printing "EVACUATE!" in English
ALT text detailsAlerts on Japanese TV as of 10:29am. The red text in the upper right corner says "Flee the Tsunami!" and is printing "EVACUATE!" in English
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Nonilex

@Nonilex@masto.ai

8.7-magnitude in Russia's Far East sets off warnings in , &

The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center said waves of 1 to 3 meters (yards) above tide level were possible along some coastal areas of Hawaii, , Japan & the . Waves of more than 3 meters (yards) were possible along some coastal areas of & .

apnews.com/article/japan-russi

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

A tsunami advisory was issued for the coasts of Hokkaido, Honshu and Kyushu on Wednesday morning after a strong earthquake struck off Russia's Kamchatka Peninsula. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/07/

Nithin Coca నితిన్'s avatar
Nithin Coca నితిన్

@ncoca@social.coop

One thing that's great about living in is that it's one of the few countries where the main hard-left party both has some power, and is critical of the pseudo-, ethno- party that controls , which somehow still get adoration from other leftists around the world, especially in .

Via @newbloommag
newbloommag.net/2021/10/22/jcp

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

IMMEDIATE WARNING: A tsunami warning for waves up to 3m is in effect for Hokkaido and Honshu, with advisories for other areas of Japan due to an earthquake near Russia. If you are near the coasts, PLEASE LEAVE and seek higher ground inland.

japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/07/

Alert from Asahi Shimbun
ALT text detailsAlert from Asahi Shimbun
Alerts on Japanese TV as of 10:29am. The red text in the upper right corner says "Flee the Tsunami!" and is printing "EVACUATE!" in English
ALT text detailsAlerts on Japanese TV as of 10:29am. The red text in the upper right corner says "Flee the Tsunami!" and is printing "EVACUATE!" in English
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

For the first time, Japan's National Police Agency released stats on serious car accidents (resulting in fatalities or serious injury) involving foreigners.

The bad news? Such accidents are increasing. However, it's important to put the numbers in context.

Article from Sankei Shimbun. JP headline: 警察庁、外国人の交通事故統計初公表　上半期で200件超と増加傾向、日本の免許「8割」
ALT text detailsArticle from Sankei Shimbun. JP headline: 警察庁、外国人の交通事故統計初公表　上半期で200件超と増加傾向、日本の免許「8割」
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Weather Mizu

@mizu@mastodon.social

JMA has corrected the magnitude to M8.7 from 8.0, also the tsunami advisory to warning. Maximum height 3.0 meters in red.

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Idol Tōjō Momoka, a member of the group KATACOTO*BANK, got in trouble with her management a year ago for the crime of posting a pic of her with her (gasp!) boyfriend. The company forced her to perform "purification" by posting "good night" photos to social media daily for a year.

Article from LiveDoor News. JP headline: 元アイドル、365日欠かさず続けた「禊」終了　彼氏バレ→グループ脱退も「おやすみ」継続　ファンも許した
ALT text detailsArticle from LiveDoor News. JP headline: 元アイドル、365日欠かさず続けた「禊」終了　彼氏バレ→グループ脱退も「おやすみ」継続　ファンも許した
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

INTERVIEW: Japanese schools are supposed to make "all reasonable accommodations" for disabled students. We talked at length with one student, however, who said her request for exam accommodations was met with disdain, resulting in a protracted battle.

buff.ly/yB3C9hy

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The statute of limitations on murder in Japan used to be 15 years. One woman - dubbed the Woman of Many Faces - almost managed to beat the clock. Learn how former hostess Fukuda Kazuko nearly got away with it in UJ's first-ever article from 2018.

buff.ly/o8PFEFb

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Japan and NATO plan to launch a defense equipment and industrial dialogue, Tokyo's ambassador to the alliance has said, as the partners seek to boost interoperability and develop “more robust” supply chains. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/07/

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Police arrested an 18-year-old in Shibuya's Sendagaya neighborhood for spray-painting on a beauty parlor shutter. He admits the offense - but says, "I fell in love with art in middle school" and claims, "It's not 落書き [rakugaki; graffiti]. It's グラフェィティ [graffiti]."

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

You know we know Japan. So let us show you around. Contact Unseen Japan Tours for a custom itinerary and guided experiences that non-Japanese-speaking tourists typically can't access.

unseen-japan.com/unseen-japan-

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Japan and NATO plan to launch a defense equipment and industrial dialogue, Tokyo's ambassador to the alliance has said, as the partners seek to boost interoperability and develop “more robust” supply chains. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/07/

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

In Japan, cash-on-delivery is a popular purchasing option. However, some retailers say they're axing it due to a spike in non-payments. Somen maker Shirataki Seimen in Tokushima says it'll stop accepting COD orders in August due to losing 1M yen ($6,450) this year.

Article from LiveDoor News. JP headline: 「もう限界です」通販の後払い決済で未払いが増加→人気製麺所が苦渋の決断　被害額は年間で100万円近くにも
ALT text detailsArticle from LiveDoor News. JP headline: 「もう限界です」通販の後払い決済で未払いが増加→人気製麺所が苦渋の決断　被害額は年間で100万円近くにも
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Oze National Park, designated in 2007, spans 37,222 hectares across Fukushima, Tochigi, Gunma, and Niigata prefectures. The park is home to the country’s largest high-altitude wetland, framed by a ring of majestic mountains.

Mt. Shibutsu - Japan National Parks stamp rally. Picture of a large mountain in the background with a stream flowing towards the reader, the stream surrounded by verdant grasses
ALT text detailsMt. Shibutsu - Japan National Parks stamp rally. Picture of a large mountain in the background with a stream flowing towards the reader, the stream surrounded by verdant grasses
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Article 1 of Sanseitō′s proposed Constitution describes Japan's Emperor as “a sacred figure who prays for the happiness of the people and must not be violated.” This wording evokes the image of a living deity, reminiscent of prewar ideology rejected after World War II.

Article 1 of Sanseitō's replacement Constitution for Japan
ALT text detailsArticle 1 of Sanseitō's replacement Constitution for Japan
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Wanna dive deeper into the week's Japan news? We round up our best content across platforms and provide additional context for stories in the free Unseen Japan Newsletter. Our new issue comes out tomorrow - sign up today to receive it in your inbox (link below).

buff.ly/4SGYJDA

atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Rhinoceros (1987)

Artist: Toshi Yoshida

worldwildlife.org/species/rhino

Somewhere in the African savannah, a small baby white rhino looks up at an adult rhino, presumably a parent. Oxpeckers gather on the back of the adult rhino, going about their business. Beyond, grasslands stretch out toward the horizon, dotted with sparse clusters of trees and shrubs. The sky above is murky and overcast.
ALT text detailsSomewhere in the African savannah, a small baby white rhino looks up at an adult rhino, presumably a parent. Oxpeckers gather on the back of the adult rhino, going about their business. Beyond, grasslands stretch out toward the horizon, dotted with sparse clusters of trees and shrubs. The sky above is murky and overcast.
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atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Elephants (1987)

Artist: Toshi Yoshida

worldwildlife.org/species/elep

Somewhere in the African savannah, a small baby elephant nuzzles up against an adult elephant, presumably a parent. The grass below their feet is yellow and dry, while the view beyond is screened by tall green trees.
ALT text detailsSomewhere in the African savannah, a small baby elephant nuzzles up against an adult elephant, presumably a parent. The grass below their feet is yellow and dry, while the view beyond is screened by tall green trees.
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atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Unknown (1968)

Artist: Toshi Yoshida

mainichi.jp/english/articles/2 #

An abstract image suggesting a landscape crossed by horizontal lines and touches of flat colour, stretching out toward a strange, gigantic, dark mesa-like feature.
ALT text detailsAn abstract image suggesting a landscape crossed by horizontal lines and touches of flat colour, stretching out toward a strange, gigantic, dark mesa-like feature.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Elephants (1987)

Artist: Toshi Yoshida

worldwildlife.org/species/elep

Somewhere in the African savannah, a small baby elephant nuzzles up against an adult elephant, presumably a parent. The grass below their feet is yellow and dry, while the view beyond is screened by tall green trees.
ALT text detailsSomewhere in the African savannah, a small baby elephant nuzzles up against an adult elephant, presumably a parent. The grass below their feet is yellow and dry, while the view beyond is screened by tall green trees.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Rhinoceros (1987)

Artist: Toshi Yoshida

worldwildlife.org/species/rhino

Somewhere in the African savannah, a small baby white rhino looks up at an adult rhino, presumably a parent. Oxpeckers gather on the back of the adult rhino, going about their business. Beyond, grasslands stretch out toward the horizon, dotted with sparse clusters of trees and shrubs. The sky above is murky and overcast.
ALT text detailsSomewhere in the African savannah, a small baby white rhino looks up at an adult rhino, presumably a parent. Oxpeckers gather on the back of the adult rhino, going about their business. Beyond, grasslands stretch out toward the horizon, dotted with sparse clusters of trees and shrubs. The sky above is murky and overcast.
Terence Eden's avatar
Terence Eden

@Edent@mastodon.social

Hello friends in

We're going to be visiting Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka in November / December.

Let me know if you'd like to meet for a beer / dinner. Also happy to take tourist recommendations 😃

🗾🇯🇵🏯⛩️🗻

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A Japanese bride was LIVID to see the rental dress she wanted to wear for pictures on former adult video star Mikami Yua, who wore it to an event. “I never would’ve signed a rental contract if I knew they’d lend it to an AV actress.”

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Police in Saitama Prefecture arrested 25-year-old Aoki Takanori (not a foreigner!) for pulling down the bottom half of an elementary schoolgirl's swimsuit while both were in a pool in Kawagoe. Aoki said he "couldn't control" his "impulses."

Article from FNN Prime Online. JP headline: プールの中で女児の水着脱がせた疑い「衝動が抑えられなかった」25歳男を逮捕　女児が家族に被害訴え、警備員が犯行特定し確保　埼玉・川越市
ALT text detailsArticle from FNN Prime Online. JP headline: プールの中で女児の水着脱がせた疑い「衝動が抑えられなかった」25歳男を逮捕　女児が家族に被害訴え、警備員が犯行特定し確保　埼玉・川越市
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

”Suddenly, Takanawa Gateway [on the JR Yamanote Line in Tokyo] has gotten this Final Fantasy feeling to it."

X post from @hatolier_camera. JP text: 高輪ゲートウェイ、気が付けばもはやファイナルファンタジーの世界観になっていた。
ALT text detailsX post from @hatolier_camera. JP text: 高輪ゲートウェイ、気が付けばもはやファイナルファンタジーの世界観になっていた。
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

There are some...interesting things about Junglia Okinawa, the new nature theme park on Okinawa Island. One is the park's use of AI slop to showcase its attractions when it could have just...photographed the actual attractions?!

The other is the ticket pricing.

Actual entrance from Junglia and not AI generated slop
ALT text detailsActual entrance from Junglia and not AI generated slop
AI imagery from Junglia website
ALT text detailsAI imagery from Junglia website
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A new Asahi Shimbun poll of 1,250 people shows strong support for right-wing party Sanseitō. 52% think it's good that the party increased its membership in Japan's national Diet. Additionally, 48% approve of the phrase "Japanese First," with only 41% opposed.

Article from Asahi Shimbun. JP headline: 「日本人ファースト」を評価する48%、評価しない41%　朝日世論
ALT text detailsArticle from Asahi Shimbun. JP headline: 「日本人ファースト」を評価する48%、評価しない41%　朝日世論
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Famed Buddhist temple Nanzōin in Sasaguri, Fukuoka Prefecture, has started charging overseas tourists a nominal fee to enter the grounds. While many citizens think it's a good idea, some inbound travelers say it isn't fair to single them out.

unseen-japan.com/nanzoin-templ

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japan's government has issued an "emergency alert" to event organizers to ensure there are enough women's toilets at events like fireworks displays to prevent disparities in wait times between men & women. The alert comes after years of complaints about the obvious gap.

Article from Yomiuri Shimbun. JP headline: 女性トイレの長い行列、大規模イベントの改善求め政府が緊急通知…男性用の一時転用も
ALT text detailsArticle from Yomiuri Shimbun. JP headline: 女性トイレの長い行列、大規模イベントの改善求め政府が緊急通知…男性用の一時転用も
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Discord users informed us that Seki Hei (63), the Chinese-born right-wing pundit who's a naturalized Japanese citizen, rescinded his decision to drop out of running for Japan's Diet after threats from the far right. Turns out he won a seat in the Upper House with the Innovation Party.

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Tanuki.no.mori

@tanukinomori_jp@pixelfed.social

Kamogawa Delta in summer🏊‍♂️
People are cooling off in the river during the heat wave.

📍Kyoto City

#summer #river #sky #landscape #japan #kyoto #summervibes
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Sorry, right-wing foreign weebs with a Japan fetish: Under Sanseitō's proposed "New Constitution," you can't join the club. Article 5 would define 国民 (kokumin), or citizens, as "someone with a Japanese mother or father for whom Japanese is their native language and who holds Japan dear to their heart."

Article 5 of Sanseitō's proposed Constitution, which would strip Japanese citizens of many of their existing rights
ALT text detailsArticle 5 of Sanseitō's proposed Constitution, which would strip Japanese citizens of many of their existing rights
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Karl Baron

@kalleboo@bitbang.social · Reply to Karl Baron's post

I recalled a few more fantastically handy Japanese power strips

A power strip with all the US-style pins but they are all the same spacing from each other so you don't know if you're connecting to live or neutral
ALT text detailsA power strip with all the US-style pins but they are all the same spacing from each other so you don't know if you're connecting to live or neutral
A power strip with just two long slots
ALT text detailsA power strip with just two long slots
🌸 𝕊𝕦𝕞𝕞𝕖𝕣 𝕆𝕣𝕔𝕙𝕒𝕣𝕕 🍒's avatar
🌸 𝕊𝕦𝕞𝕞𝕖𝕣 𝕆𝕣𝕔𝕙𝕒𝕣𝕕 🍒

@mangotable@famichiki.jp

In 35 years of living in or visiting Japan I’ve never seen sake offered at a hotel for breakfast, ever. Since I’m on vacation and haven’t had a proper drink yet, yes, yes I did try all 3. 😋
My verdict was the Sugidama from Momokawa is the perfect balance for Japanese breakfast pairing. 👍

Note the sign says “Sake in the morning.”

A table displays three bottles of sake in an ice bucket, accompanied by a small glass and a basket with towels. Framed menus about sake are also present, with a view of an outdoor space through a window.
ALT text detailsA table displays three bottles of sake in an ice bucket, accompanied by a small glass and a basket with towels. Framed menus about sake are also present, with a view of an outdoor space through a window.
🌸 𝕊𝕦𝕞𝕞𝕖𝕣 𝕆𝕣𝕔𝕙𝕒𝕣𝕕 🍒's avatar
🌸 𝕊𝕦𝕞𝕞𝕖𝕣 𝕆𝕣𝕔𝕙𝕒𝕣𝕕 🍒

@mangotable@famichiki.jp

In 35 years of living in or visiting Japan I’ve never seen sake offered at a hotel for breakfast, ever. Since I’m on vacation and haven’t had a proper drink yet, yes, yes I did try all 3. 😋
My verdict was the Sugidama from Momokawa is the perfect balance for Japanese breakfast pairing. 👍

Note the sign says “Sake in the morning.”

A table displays three bottles of sake in an ice bucket, accompanied by a small glass and a basket with towels. Framed menus about sake are also present, with a view of an outdoor space through a window.
ALT text detailsA table displays three bottles of sake in an ice bucket, accompanied by a small glass and a basket with towels. Framed menus about sake are also present, with a view of an outdoor space through a window.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Looking for a cafe in Tokyo that offers something a little different? From Wonderland to a crime scene to a cafe that's oh so blue, we highlight some of the city's more inventive places to grab a drink and a treat.

unseen-japan.com/uniquely-them

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Tanuki.no.mori

@tanukinomori_jp@pixelfed.social

Kamogawa Delta in summer🏊‍♂️
People are cooling off in the river during the heat wave.

📍Kyoto City

#summer #river #sky #landscape #japan #kyoto #summervibes
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

APA Hotels in Japan are ubiquitous and affordable. Behind the cheap prices, however, lies an aggressive real estate strategy - and a founder who makes sure his denial of Japan's war crimes is featured in every guest's room.

unseen-japan.com/apa-hotels-co

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Tokyo

@Tokyo@channels.im

Tokyo police dismiss cop suspected in thefts after fires

TOKYO (TR) – Tokyo Metropolitan Police have dismissed an inspector who specializes in fire investigations after he was accused of stealing cash following several fires in the capital, reports NHK (July 25). In the latest case, Ryoji Masano, 51, was indicted for stealing approximately 2.9 million yen in ca…

alojapan.com/1331019/tokyo-pol

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A city examiner in the road engineering department of Kawanishi, Hyogo Prefecture, has been suspended for a month. His misdeed? He spent 737 hours reading a self-published novel website on company computers. 364 of those hours were while he was on the clock.

Article from LiveDoor News. JP headline: 兵庫・川西市職員、勤務中に小説投稿サイトなど３６４時間閲覧…停職１か月
ALT text detailsArticle from LiveDoor News. JP headline: 兵庫・川西市職員、勤務中に小説投稿サイトなど３６４時間閲覧…停職１か月
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

”A monster whose top half is teeth and whose bottom half is teeth - it's DENTAUROS!!"

X post from user @403_tshr. JP text: 上半身が歯、下半身が歯の怪物、 デンタウロス！！
ALT text detailsX post from user @403_tshr. JP text: 上半身が歯、下半身が歯の怪物、 デンタウロス！！
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KOKU BUNJI

@kokubunji@metalhead.club

'Am Fluss'

(/ ) mit einem Ableger des .

Frühlingshafte Szene mit teilweiser rosa Blüte von einer Brücke über dem Fluß fotografiert. Ein kleines Holzschiff mit drei Personen treibt dort im Vordergrund. Im Hintergrund weitere Boote und eine Hügelkette.
ALT text detailsFrühlingshafte Szene mit teilweiser rosa Blüte von einer Brücke über dem Fluß fotografiert. Ein kleines Holzschiff mit drei Personen treibt dort im Vordergrund. Im Hintergrund weitere Boote und eine Hügelkette.
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KOKU BUNJI

@kokubunji@metalhead.club

'Am Fluss'

(/ ) mit einem Ableger des .

Frühlingshafte Szene mit teilweiser rosa Blüte von einer Brücke über dem Fluß fotografiert. Ein kleines Holzschiff mit drei Personen treibt dort im Vordergrund. Im Hintergrund weitere Boote und eine Hügelkette.
ALT text detailsFrühlingshafte Szene mit teilweiser rosa Blüte von einer Brücke über dem Fluß fotografiert. Ein kleines Holzschiff mit drei Personen treibt dort im Vordergrund. Im Hintergrund weitere Boote und eine Hügelkette.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Sanseitō, the surging far-right party in Japan, promotes a "New Constitution" for the country on its website. If enacted, say some experts, it would restore the Imperial Japan of World War II, quash individual liberties, and turn Japan into a new North Korea.

unseen-japan.com/sanseito-new-

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Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

A wood figure of the Bosatsu (Bodhisattava Jizō), 14th century, .

A wood figure of the #Jizo Bosatsu (Bodhisattava Jizō), 14th century, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsA wood figure of the #Jizo Bosatsu (Bodhisattava Jizō), 14th century, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
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Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

A wood figure of the Bosatsu (Bodhisattava Jizō), 14th century, .

A wood figure of the #Jizo Bosatsu (Bodhisattava Jizō), 14th century, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsA wood figure of the #Jizo Bosatsu (Bodhisattava Jizō), 14th century, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

As Tokyo swelters under the heat, Tokyo Metro says the air conditioning isn't working at Kasumigaseki Station (Kasumigaseki is home to most Japanese government ministries). The company says it won't be fixed until sometime in...late August 😬

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

"Wii Fit remembers me even after my first play in almost eight years"

Text on screen: "Oh...[NAME]! Welcome back, bro! Haven't seen you for 2,964 days."

X post from @arinaariri. JP text: 約8年ぶりにもかかわらず覚えてくれているWii Fit
ALT text detailsX post from @arinaariri. JP text: 約8年ぶりにもかかわらず覚えてくれているWii Fit
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Continuing the "it's REALLY hot in Hokkaido" news, JR Hokkaido had to take eight cars out of service yesterday on the Nemuro Line. The rail was getting so hot that engineers feared it might warp. The line also reduced speed between 10am and 4pm to avoid warping.

Article from Mainich Shimbun. JP headline: 暑すぎて列車8本運休　レール温度上昇、ゆがみ防ぐため　JR北海道
ALT text detailsArticle from Mainich Shimbun. JP headline: 暑すぎて列車8本運休　レール温度上昇、ゆがみ防ぐため　JR北海道
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

How hot is it in Japan right now? Japan is on FIRE, folks. Hokkaido - Hokkaido!! - is seeing rising temps, with multiple locations approaching 39C (102F), and the cities of Kitami and Obihiro setting new records.

Map of temperatures across Japan, with Kitami hitting 39C
ALT text detailsMap of temperatures across Japan, with Kitami hitting 39C
Map of temps across Hokkaido, with the coolest being 32C
ALT text detailsMap of temps across Hokkaido, with the coolest being 32C
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japanese light novel titles have become infamous for their length. But how did this tradition develop? We look into the history as well as some of the past few decades' worst (best?) offenders.

unseen-japan.com/light-novels-

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Police recently arrested four women for allegedly running a prostitution ring near Tokyo's Okubo Park. The group specifically targeted foreigners, highlighting how the notorious spot for street prostitution is becoming not just a local haunt, but a tourist attraction.

unseen-japan.com/okubo-prostit

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Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

Standing wooden statue of the eleven-headed , Hokke-ji, Prefecture, .

Standing wooden statue of the eleven-headed #Kannon, Hokke-ji, #Nara Prefecture, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsStanding wooden statue of the eleven-headed #Kannon, Hokke-ji, #Nara Prefecture, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
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Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

Standing wooden statue of the eleven-headed , Hokke-ji, Prefecture, .

Standing wooden statue of the eleven-headed #Kannon, Hokke-ji, #Nara Prefecture, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsStanding wooden statue of the eleven-headed #Kannon, Hokke-ji, #Nara Prefecture, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Bunshun Online reports that Sanseitō's Saya only goes by her first name for a reason: She's married to a pianist and wanted to hide her family's existence. The news is ironic, given that the hard-right Sanseitō opposes married women having separate last names.

Article from Bunshun. Headline: 参政党・さや、結婚していた　“秘密の夫”はスター音楽家「家族に迷惑がかかるかもという理由で本名を伏せていた」《参院選東京で2位当選》
ALT text detailsArticle from Bunshun. Headline: 参政党・さや、結婚していた　“秘密の夫”はスター音楽家「家族に迷惑がかかるかもという理由で本名を伏せていた」《参院選東京で2位当選》
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Typhoons 7, 8, AND 9 have formed simultaneously to the south of Japan, giving us a rare triple typhoon. 9 could hit Tokyo's Ogasawara Islands by the 27th. 7 could impact Okinawa and Amami, with 8 also hitting Okinawa by the 27th.

Article from TBS News Dig. JP headline: 【トリプル台風に】台風7号、8号、そして9号発生「予想図が台風だらけ」気象庁の進路予想【雨・風シミュレーション～8月3日（日）】台風のたまご＝熱帯低気圧が発達【台風情報2025】
ALT text detailsArticle from TBS News Dig. JP headline: 【トリプル台風に】台風7号、8号、そして9号発生「予想図が台風だらけ」気象庁の進路予想【雨・風シミュレーション～8月3日（日）】台風のたまご＝熱帯低気圧が発達【台風情報2025】
Typhoon numbe r9 heading toward the Ogasawara Islands
ALT text detailsTyphoon numbe r9 heading toward the Ogasawara Islands
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Nara (1953)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

visitnara.jp/

A view looking down a straight, tidy little lane somewhere in Nara, on a bright summer day. The lane runs between walled properties. On our right, a tall tree grows in a strip of greenery on our side of the wall, and more trees stand on the other side. Further along the lane, a female figure in a blue kimono walks alongside a child in a striped dress; the woman holds an umbrella over her head as protection from the sun. In the distance beyond, a forested mountain topped with puffy white clouds rises into an intense blue sky.
ALT text detailsA view looking down a straight, tidy little lane somewhere in Nara, on a bright summer day. The lane runs between walled properties. On our right, a tall tree grows in a strip of greenery on our side of the wall, and more trees stand on the other side. Further along the lane, a female figure in a blue kimono walks alongside a child in a striped dress; the woman holds an umbrella over her head as protection from the sun. In the distance beyond, a forested mountain topped with puffy white clouds rises into an intense blue sky.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

New fear for women in Japan unlocked. 51yo Shirai Takakazu became interested in a female college student at his work. So, naturally, he took pics of her house key on his smartphone, ordered a replica via the Internet, and invaded her home 13 times while she was working.

Photo of Shirai saying he stole two photo booth stickers from his victim's home
ALT text detailsPhoto of Shirai saying he stole two photo booth stickers from his victim's home
Photo of Shirai with text saying he photographed her key afetr taking it from her bag
ALT text detailsPhoto of Shirai with text saying he photographed her key afetr taking it from her bag
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

From the Edo period many people consumed 'doyō-shijimi' (土用しじみ 'fresh water mussles') and 'doyō-tamago' (土用卵 'eggs') for the summer doyō. Mussels came into season just before doyō ushi-no-hi, and like eggs, were bursting with nutrition.

a cartoon drawing of a egg on a plate next to a bowl of salad .
ALT text detailsa cartoon drawing of a egg on a plate next to a bowl of salad .
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

The tradition of eating foods containing certain letters on certain days is not unusual in Japan.

On the winter solstice it was tradition to consume foods with 'n' (ん) in their name because 'ん' comes last in the kana syllabary. Daikon (大根) is still commonly eaten.

Blessed daikon for sale at Daihoon-ji during the 'Radish Boiling Festival' (大根焚) in December.
ALT text detailsBlessed daikon for sale at Daihoon-ji during the 'Radish Boiling Festival' (大根焚) in December.
Blessed daikon for sale at Daihoon-ji during the 'Radish Boiling Festival' (大根焚) in December.
ALT text detailsBlessed daikon for sale at Daihoon-ji during the 'Radish Boiling Festival' (大根焚) in December.
Bowls of boiled daikon and slivers of fried tofu are served during the 'Radish Boiling Festival' (大根焚) at Daihoon-ji.
ALT text detailsBowls of boiled daikon and slivers of fried tofu are served during the 'Radish Boiling Festival' (大根焚) at Daihoon-ji.
Blessed daikon for sale at Daihoon-ji during the 'Radish Boiling Festival' (大根焚) in December.
ALT text detailsBlessed daikon for sale at Daihoon-ji during the 'Radish Boiling Festival' (大根焚) in December.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

At 'doyō ushi-no-hi' (土用丑の日) food with 'u' in the name (especially starting with this letter) was eaten to fortify the body and mind.
Umeboshi (梅干 'dried plums'), unagi (うなぎ 'eels'), udon (うどん 'noodles') and uri (瓜 'melon') are readily available at this time of year.

a drawing of a purple and white eel holding a fan
ALT text detailsa drawing of a purple and white eel holding a fan
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Watching the watchers: 13 prefectures across Japan, including Tokyo and Osaka, will roll out body cameras for cops. It's a bid to resolve complaints and lawsuits over police abuse and a response to the rise in people posting footage of questionable stops on social media.

Article from NHK News. JP headline: 警察官の胸や頭に小型のカメラ 取締りの際のトラブル防止
ALT text detailsArticle from NHK News. JP headline: 警察官の胸や頭に小型のカメラ 取締りの際のトラブル防止
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

'Unagi-manju' (うなぎ万寿) is only sold for a very limited time around 'doyō ushi-no-hi', so you have to hurry to catch this unusual sweet😋

🙇narumi-mochi.jp/

Narumi-Mochi Honten's adorable eel-shaped sweet 'unagi-manju'.
ALT text detailsNarumi-Mochi Honten's adorable eel-shaped sweet 'unagi-manju'.
Woodblock print of men wrestling eels. Image thanks🙇‍♂️ - https://ukiyo-e.org
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of men wrestling eels. Image thanks🙇‍♂️ - https://ukiyo-e.org
Woodblock print of freshly caught eels escaping their baskets causing chaos in the street. Image thanks🙇‍♂️ - https://ukiyo-e.org
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of freshly caught eels escaping their baskets causing chaos in the street. Image thanks🙇‍♂️ - https://ukiyo-e.org
Narumi-Mochi Honten's adorable eel-shaped sweet 'unagi-manju'.
ALT text detailsNarumi-Mochi Honten's adorable eel-shaped sweet 'unagi-manju'.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

In the wake of an anti-immigrant backlash in Japan, the National Governors' Association has called for...increased immigration. Miyagi Prefecture Governor Murai Yoshihiro declared that "Xenophobia cannot be tolerated."

Article from Nikkei. JP headline: 外国人受け入れ拡大、全国知事会が国に要請　過剰規制に地方は危機感
ALT text detailsArticle from Nikkei. JP headline: 外国人受け入れ拡大、全国知事会が国に要請　過剰規制に地方は危機感
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Nara (1953)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

visitnara.jp/

A view looking down a straight, tidy little lane somewhere in Nara, on a bright summer day. The lane runs between walled properties. On our right, a tall tree grows in a strip of greenery on our side of the wall, and more trees stand on the other side. Further along the lane, a female figure in a blue kimono walks alongside a child in a striped dress; the woman holds an umbrella over her head as protection from the sun. In the distance beyond, a forested mountain topped with puffy white clouds rises into an intense blue sky.
ALT text detailsA view looking down a straight, tidy little lane somewhere in Nara, on a bright summer day. The lane runs between walled properties. On our right, a tall tree grows in a strip of greenery on our side of the wall, and more trees stand on the other side. Further along the lane, a female figure in a blue kimono walks alongside a child in a striped dress; the woman holds an umbrella over her head as protection from the sun. In the distance beyond, a forested mountain topped with puffy white clouds rises into an intense blue sky.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

I have no idea how one "masters" a Japanese tea ceremony after one visit, and frankly, I don't think this company does either

Train ad that reads, "Think your oat flat white is fancy? Wait til you've mastered a tea ceremony in KYOTO."
ALT text detailsTrain ad that reads, "Think your oat flat white is fancy? Wait til you've mastered a tea ceremony in KYOTO."
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

"Can we stop saying 'Japanese First' on TV and whatnot? Elementary schoolkids are saying it. It's summer vacation now, but it'll be awful once school starts. There are any number of non-Japanese students in classrooms."

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

LOL - Japan PM Ishiba Shigeru DENIES that he's resigning and plans to fight to keep his position. The announcement, which contradicts news reports, wasn't fast enough for some newspapers, which carried the resignation news in their evening editions.

Picture of post on X showing Yomiuri Shimbun with a headline about Ishiba resigning
ALT text detailsPicture of post on X showing Yomiuri Shimbun with a headline about Ishiba resigning
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jasohill

@jasohill@pix.famichiki.jp

Eruption!

#naturephotos #japan #sunset
Powerful sunset over Mt.Iwate. Twisting cloud formations.
ALT text detailsPowerful sunset over Mt.Iwate. Twisting cloud formations.
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Working Class History

@workingclasshistory@mastodon.social

📣 New Podcast! "23 July 1918: Japan rice riots" on @Spreaker
spreaker.com/episode/23-july-1

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

We've gotten lots of positive comments on our coverage of Sanseitō. We're a small outfit - donations and memberships are a big part of what makes that possible. If you love what we do covering news and social justice in Japan, consider supporting us at the link below.

unseen-japan.com/support/

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Make The Japanese Empire Great Again: Far-right party Sanseitō's website lauds the Imperial Rescript on Education, which venerates Japan's Emperor, demands loyalty and filial piety, and exhorts citizens to "offer yourselves courageously to the State."

Article from Mainichi Shimbun. Headline: 参政党の教育勅語尊重　文科相「憲法に反して用いるのは許されない」
ALT text detailsArticle from Mainichi Shimbun. Headline: 参政党の教育勅語尊重　文科相「憲法に反して用いるのは許されない」
Know ye, Our subjects: Our Imperial Ancestors have founded Our Empire on a basis broad and everlasting and have deeply and firmly implanted virtue; Our subjects ever united in loyalty and filial piety have from generation to generation illustrated the beauty thereof. This is the glory of the fundamental character of Our Empire, and herein lies the source of Our education. Ye, Our subjects, be filial to your parents, affectionate to your brothers and sisters; as husbands and wives be harmonious; as friends true; bear yourselves in modesty and moderation; extend your benevolence to all; pursue learning and cultivate arts, and thereby develop intellectual faculties and perfect moral powers; furthermore advance public good and promote common interests; always respect the Constitution and observe the laws; should emergency arise, offer yourselves courageously to the State; and thus guard and maintain the prosperity of Our Imperial Throne coeval with heaven and earth. So shall ye not only be Our good and faithful subjects, but render illustrious the best traditions of your forefathers. The Way here set forth is indeed the teaching bequeathed by Our Imperial Ancestors, to be observed alike by Their Descendants and the subjects, infallible for all ages and true in all places. It is Our wish to lay it to heart in all reverence, in common with you, Our subjects, that we may thus attain to the same virtue. The 30th day of the 10th month of the 23rd year of Meiji.
ALT text detailsKnow ye, Our subjects: Our Imperial Ancestors have founded Our Empire on a basis broad and everlasting and have deeply and firmly implanted virtue; Our subjects ever united in loyalty and filial piety have from generation to generation illustrated the beauty thereof. This is the glory of the fundamental character of Our Empire, and herein lies the source of Our education. Ye, Our subjects, be filial to your parents, affectionate to your brothers and sisters; as husbands and wives be harmonious; as friends true; bear yourselves in modesty and moderation; extend your benevolence to all; pursue learning and cultivate arts, and thereby develop intellectual faculties and perfect moral powers; furthermore advance public good and promote common interests; always respect the Constitution and observe the laws; should emergency arise, offer yourselves courageously to the State; and thus guard and maintain the prosperity of Our Imperial Throne coeval with heaven and earth. So shall ye not only be Our good and faithful subjects, but render illustrious the best traditions of your forefathers. The Way here set forth is indeed the teaching bequeathed by Our Imperial Ancestors, to be observed alike by Their Descendants and the subjects, infallible for all ages and true in all places. It is Our wish to lay it to heart in all reverence, in common with you, Our subjects, that we may thus attain to the same virtue. The 30th day of the 10th month of the 23rd year of Meiji.
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Weather Mizu

@mizu@mastodon.social

Weather in , N Japan - It may hit even 40C/104F in some locations this afternoon thanks to Foehn effect.🥵🔥🔥

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Make The Japanese Empire Great Again: Far-right party Sanseitō's website lauds the Imperial Rescript on Education, which venerates Japan's Emperor, demands loyalty and filial piety, and exhorts citizens to "offer yourselves courageously to the State."

Article from Mainichi Shimbun. Headline: 参政党の教育勅語尊重　文科相「憲法に反して用いるのは許されない」
ALT text detailsArticle from Mainichi Shimbun. Headline: 参政党の教育勅語尊重　文科相「憲法に反して用いるのは許されない」
Know ye, Our subjects: Our Imperial Ancestors have founded Our Empire on a basis broad and everlasting and have deeply and firmly implanted virtue; Our subjects ever united in loyalty and filial piety have from generation to generation illustrated the beauty thereof. This is the glory of the fundamental character of Our Empire, and herein lies the source of Our education. Ye, Our subjects, be filial to your parents, affectionate to your brothers and sisters; as husbands and wives be harmonious; as friends true; bear yourselves in modesty and moderation; extend your benevolence to all; pursue learning and cultivate arts, and thereby develop intellectual faculties and perfect moral powers; furthermore advance public good and promote common interests; always respect the Constitution and observe the laws; should emergency arise, offer yourselves courageously to the State; and thus guard and maintain the prosperity of Our Imperial Throne coeval with heaven and earth. So shall ye not only be Our good and faithful subjects, but render illustrious the best traditions of your forefathers. The Way here set forth is indeed the teaching bequeathed by Our Imperial Ancestors, to be observed alike by Their Descendants and the subjects, infallible for all ages and true in all places. It is Our wish to lay it to heart in all reverence, in common with you, Our subjects, that we may thus attain to the same virtue. The 30th day of the 10th month of the 23rd year of Meiji.
ALT text detailsKnow ye, Our subjects: Our Imperial Ancestors have founded Our Empire on a basis broad and everlasting and have deeply and firmly implanted virtue; Our subjects ever united in loyalty and filial piety have from generation to generation illustrated the beauty thereof. This is the glory of the fundamental character of Our Empire, and herein lies the source of Our education. Ye, Our subjects, be filial to your parents, affectionate to your brothers and sisters; as husbands and wives be harmonious; as friends true; bear yourselves in modesty and moderation; extend your benevolence to all; pursue learning and cultivate arts, and thereby develop intellectual faculties and perfect moral powers; furthermore advance public good and promote common interests; always respect the Constitution and observe the laws; should emergency arise, offer yourselves courageously to the State; and thus guard and maintain the prosperity of Our Imperial Throne coeval with heaven and earth. So shall ye not only be Our good and faithful subjects, but render illustrious the best traditions of your forefathers. The Way here set forth is indeed the teaching bequeathed by Our Imperial Ancestors, to be observed alike by Their Descendants and the subjects, infallible for all ages and true in all places. It is Our wish to lay it to heart in all reverence, in common with you, Our subjects, that we may thus attain to the same virtue. The 30th day of the 10th month of the 23rd year of Meiji.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

We look at Japan's hard swing to the right along with some good news from the Upper House election (yes, there was some!), the precariousness of daycares in Japan, and a new option for overnight lodging in this week's edition of the free Unseen Japan Newsletter.

us20.campaign-archive.com/?u=e

Sanseito slogan
ALT text detailsSanseito slogan
Election poster boards in Osaka
ALT text detailsElection poster boards in Osaka
A playground with a "CLOSED" stamp over it
ALT text detailsA playground with a "CLOSED" stamp over it
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Why do Maye Musk and Michael Bolton (the singer, not the programmer) heap praise upon Fukami Tōshū? We take a look at Fukami, the religion known as Worldmate, and the mysterious female prophet behind its teachings in this week's Unseen Japan Insider.

unseen-japan.com/worldmate-fuk

atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Sphinx (1925)

Artist: Hiroshi Yoshida

www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/new

The stone head of the Sphinx rises up out of the desert sands, as a group of people - some on camels, some on mules, some on foot - pass by. Beyond, the desert rolls out toward the horizon, baking hot; above, the sky is clear and cloudless, an intense blue.
ALT text detailsThe stone head of the Sphinx rises up out of the desert sands, as a group of people - some on camels, some on mules, some on foot - pass by. Beyond, the desert rolls out toward the horizon, baking hot; above, the sky is clear and cloudless, an intense blue.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Sphinx (1925)

Artist: Hiroshi Yoshida

www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/new

The stone head of the Sphinx rises up out of the desert sands, as a group of people - some on camels, some on mules, some on foot - pass by. Beyond, the desert rolls out toward the horizon, baking hot; above, the sky is clear and cloudless, an intense blue.
ALT text detailsThe stone head of the Sphinx rises up out of the desert sands, as a group of people - some on camels, some on mules, some on foot - pass by. Beyond, the desert rolls out toward the horizon, baking hot; above, the sky is clear and cloudless, an intense blue.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Nara Park (c.1930s)

Artist: Kasamatsu Shiro

asahi.com/ajw/articles/15897894

Early morning in Nara Park. Three deer forage in the foreground; beyond them, another pair of deer pass under tall trees. Further on, the shape of the five-story pagoda at Kofuku-ji rises above the treetops; above, the early morning sky is tinted a soft rose with the approaching dawn. The deer, the trees and the temple are all rendered in shadowy blue silhouettes.
ALT text detailsEarly morning in Nara Park. Three deer forage in the foreground; beyond them, another pair of deer pass under tall trees. Further on, the shape of the five-story pagoda at Kofuku-ji rises above the treetops; above, the early morning sky is tinted a soft rose with the approaching dawn. The deer, the trees and the temple are all rendered in shadowy blue silhouettes.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

As you leave the main shrine the strings of red lanterns come to an end, and you pass through the start of the 'Senbon Torii' (千本鳥居 'The Thousand Torii') in mostly darkness.
What feels otherworldly during the day is overwhelmingly mysterious at night.

A night time walk through Fushimi Inari.
ALT text detailsA night time walk through Fushimi Inari.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

In 1194 Emperor Go-Toba (後鳥羽天皇) decreed that Fushimi Inari had the right to 'divide' and re-enshrine the spirit of Inari Ōkami, allowing for new shrines to be created and a hierarchy established.

The god, held in a sacred object, is moved to a new home via paulownia box.

Kitsune (fox) votive tablets under red lantern light.
ALT text detailsKitsune (fox) votive tablets under red lantern light.
Red lanterns, red gate.
ALT text detailsRed lanterns, red gate.
In a rare event, Nao-san in casual clothes!
ALT text detailsIn a rare event, Nao-san in casual clothes!
A kitsune statue looks down upon the Motomiya-sai celebrations.
ALT text detailsA kitsune statue looks down upon the Motomiya-sai celebrations.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Nara Park (c.1930s)

Artist: Kasamatsu Shiro

asahi.com/ajw/articles/15897894

Early morning in Nara Park. Three deer forage in the foreground; beyond them, another pair of deer pass under tall trees. Further on, the shape of the five-story pagoda at Kofuku-ji rises above the treetops; above, the early morning sky is tinted a soft rose with the approaching dawn. The deer, the trees and the temple are all rendered in shadowy blue silhouettes.
ALT text detailsEarly morning in Nara Park. Three deer forage in the foreground; beyond them, another pair of deer pass under tall trees. Further on, the shape of the five-story pagoda at Kofuku-ji rises above the treetops; above, the early morning sky is tinted a soft rose with the approaching dawn. The deer, the trees and the temple are all rendered in shadowy blue silhouettes.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

What's the best Studio Ghibli film? That is, of course, a matter of personal preference. UJ Editor-in-Chief Noah Oskow gives his own favorites - and reasons - in his exhaustive ranking of every Ghibli film ever made to date. Check it out below.

unseen-japan.com/the-ultimate-

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

When Japan passed its LGBT Understanding Promotion Act in 2023, five hard-right members of the ruling LDP opposed it. Sankei notes that four of those five have since lost their seats in Japan's Diet. (The remaining member's seat wasn't up for election.)

Article in Sankei Shimbun. JP headline: LGBT法採決で退席などの衆参自民議員5人中4人姿消す　残るは非改選の青山繁晴氏のみ
ALT text detailsArticle in Sankei Shimbun. JP headline: LGBT法採決で退席などの衆参自民議員5人中4人姿消す　残るは非改選の青山繁晴氏のみ
Adam Hartzell's avatar
Adam Hartzell

@ModernDayBartleby@mstdn.plus · Reply to Adam Hartzell's post

THE CAMBRIDGE COMPANION TO MODERN JAPANESE CULTURE Edited by Yoshio Sugimoto via
@universitypress.cambridge.org
imbibed at Cafe Colorado
@bookstodon

Photo is of a wooden counter. On it is the paperback library book with an illustration from manga with a Japanese girl floating amongst Japanese dolls. To the right is a mug of black coffee. The white mug and saucer have a gold and blue ring. Behind it is thick cinnamon toast with white butter and a small salad in a clear small bowl. Above you can see a glass partition with a thick black rectangle with "COLOR" OF "Colorado" and siphon coffee makers behind it along with the elderly Japanese barista whose face cannot be seen
ALT text detailsPhoto is of a wooden counter. On it is the paperback library book with an illustration from manga with a Japanese girl floating amongst Japanese dolls. To the right is a mug of black coffee. The white mug and saucer have a gold and blue ring. Behind it is thick cinnamon toast with white butter and a small salad in a clear small bowl. Above you can see a glass partition with a thick black rectangle with "COLOR" OF "Colorado" and siphon coffee makers behind it along with the elderly Japanese barista whose face cannot be seen
Bot in Japan's avatar
Bot in Japan

@botinjapan@mastodon.social

Random street view taken in September 2021, near Kitakyushu in Fukuoka prefecture. maps.google.com/?q=33.8217151,

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

This screencap shows what happened in Japan's Upper House election. The majority of the Liberal Democrat Party's support (far left) came from people aged 50 and above. Meanwhile, support for right-wing Sanseito (orange) and the DPFP (blue) among the young was strong.

X post from @Hellomitz3. Text: 老害と言わざるを得ない
ALT text detailsX post from @Hellomitz3. Text: 老害と言わざるを得ない
The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

The small right-wing populist party Sanseito, which has espoused a “Japanese First” slogan, won big in Sunday’s Upper House election, taking 14 seats to become the chamber’s third-largest opposition force. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/07/

Pascal Leinert's avatar
Pascal Leinert

@pasci_lei@social.pascal-leinert.de

hat mit also seine eigene , die nicht nur dieselben Lügen nachplappert, sondern auch noch von jungen Menschen gewählt wird. Ich kann das alles nicht mehr.

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c8xvn90yr8go

Bytes Europe's avatar
Bytes Europe

@byteseu@pubeurope.com

Sanseito certain to win at least 10 seats up for election, and will be able to submit bills independently. byteseu.com/1212765/

Sanseito certain to win at least 10 seats up for election, and will be able to submit bills independently.
ALT text detailsSanseito certain to win at least 10 seats up for election, and will be able to submit bills independently.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Some good Japan election news: Bigot Sugita Mio, who's called LGBTQ people "unproductive" and referred to Ainu people as "cosplayers," has lost her bid for a seat in Japan's Upper House. Seems voters have had enough of her hateful theatrics.

Buddhist Art's avatar
Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

Wodden statue, principal image of Hokai-ji in , .

Wodden #Jizo statue, principal image of Hokai-ji in #Kamakura, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsWodden #Jizo statue, principal image of Hokai-ji in #Kamakura, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
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Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

Wodden statue, principal image of Hokai-ji in , .

Wodden #Jizo statue, principal image of Hokai-ji in #Kamakura, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsWodden #Jizo statue, principal image of Hokai-ji in #Kamakura, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A 19yo French man who attempted to "bullet climb" Mt. Fuji (climbing overnight w/o resting) had to be rescued. Shizuoka Prefecture requires overnight Fuji climbers to rent huts; the man & his brother booked one, but broke the rules with a 10pm night climb.

Article from SUT TV. Headline in Japanese: 富士山で“弾丸登山”のフランス人男性を救助　登山規制を“くぐり抜けるためだけ”に宿泊予約した可能性も
ALT text detailsArticle from SUT TV. Headline in Japanese: 富士山で“弾丸登山”のフランス人男性を救助　登山規制を“くぐり抜けるためだけ”に宿泊予約した可能性も
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

NHK reports that the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and Kōmeitō won't win the 50 Upper House seats they need to form a government in Japan. With the right-wing Sanseito and conservative DPFP picking up seats, it's unclear right now who can form a government.

Headline from NHK on the election results
ALT text detailsHeadline from NHK on the election results
The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

After more than three months since the start of the Osaka Expo in April, the Nepal pavilion finally opened on Saturday. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/07/

The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

After more than three months since the start of the Osaka Expo in April, the Nepal pavilion finally opened on Saturday. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/07/

Will 🇯🇵's avatar
Will 🇯🇵

@wilpercy@beige.party

A single pink lotus blooms in front of a large green leaf. The flower is vibrant against deep shadows in the leaf. Side light catches the ribs in the surface of the leaf.
ALT text detailsA single pink lotus blooms in front of a large green leaf. The flower is vibrant against deep shadows in the leaf. Side light catches the ribs in the surface of the leaf.
The subject is the centre of a lotus leaf. The tones are muted green. A lighter disc marks the centre of the leaf from which ribbed veins emanate to the edge of the frame like bicycle spokes. Caught in four of the lower veins are rows of dew drops. Their sparkling highlights contrast with the sombre background. Some of the dew drops are pin sharp, others blurry and only suggestive of their near neighbors.
ALT text detailsThe subject is the centre of a lotus leaf. The tones are muted green. A lighter disc marks the centre of the leaf from which ribbed veins emanate to the edge of the frame like bicycle spokes. Caught in four of the lower veins are rows of dew drops. Their sparkling highlights contrast with the sombre background. Some of the dew drops are pin sharp, others blurry and only suggestive of their near neighbors.
The photo is split between a large lotus leaf and blue sky with long streaks of early morning whispy cloud. Parts of the leaf are in shadow, parts backlight by sunlight. The veins of the leaf are highlighted by light and shadow. The entire circumference of the leaf is visible and on the lower reaches a row of dew drops forms a glinting necklace.
ALT text detailsThe photo is split between a large lotus leaf and blue sky with long streaks of early morning whispy cloud. Parts of the leaf are in shadow, parts backlight by sunlight. The veins of the leaf are highlighted by light and shadow. The entire circumference of the leaf is visible and on the lower reaches a row of dew drops forms a glinting necklace.
A vibrant pink lotus flower stands prominently among large green leaves. The flower's petals are delicately arranged, revealing a yellow center, set against a lush, leafy backdrop.
ALT text detailsA vibrant pink lotus flower stands prominently among large green leaves. The flower's petals are delicately arranged, revealing a yellow center, set against a lush, leafy backdrop.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The surge in anti-immigrant sentiment in Japan has led to increasing online attacks against award-winning author Yu Miri (TOKYO UENO STATION). Attackers tell her not to write in Japanese and "go home."

Yu is Zainichi Korean, born in Japan. Japanese is her native language.

X post by Yu Miri. JP: 日本語は、私の母語です。 日本で生まれ育ちましたから。 あなたが、日本語の使用権をお持ちなのでしょうか？ あなたに、日本語を使う許諾をとらなければならないのでしょうか？
ALT text detailsX post by Yu Miri. JP: 日本語は、私の母語です。 日本で生まれ育ちましたから。 あなたが、日本語の使用権をお持ちなのでしょうか？ あなたに、日本語を使う許諾をとらなければならないのでしょうか？
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The surge in anti-immigrant sentiment in Japan has led to increasing online attacks against award-winning author Yu Miri (TOKYO UENO STATION). Attackers tell her not to write in Japanese and "go home."

Yu is Zainichi Korean, born in Japan. Japanese is her native language.

X post by Yu Miri. JP: 日本語は、私の母語です。 日本で生まれ育ちましたから。 あなたが、日本語の使用権をお持ちなのでしょうか？ あなたに、日本語を使う許諾をとらなければならないのでしょうか？
ALT text detailsX post by Yu Miri. JP: 日本語は、私の母語です。 日本で生まれ育ちましたから。 あなたが、日本語の使用権をお持ちなのでしょうか？ あなたに、日本語を使う許諾をとらなければならないのでしょうか？
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

If your train plans in Tokyo involve the Yamanote Line right now...bad news. Both the outer and inner loops are currently stopped due to a fire (possibly from a smartphone) between Shinjuku and Shin-Okubo Stations. The Chuo and Saikyo Lines are also stopped.

Will 🇯🇵's avatar
Will 🇯🇵

@wilpercy@beige.party

A single pink lotus blooms in front of a large green leaf. The flower is vibrant against deep shadows in the leaf. Side light catches the ribs in the surface of the leaf.
ALT text detailsA single pink lotus blooms in front of a large green leaf. The flower is vibrant against deep shadows in the leaf. Side light catches the ribs in the surface of the leaf.
The subject is the centre of a lotus leaf. The tones are muted green. A lighter disc marks the centre of the leaf from which ribbed veins emanate to the edge of the frame like bicycle spokes. Caught in four of the lower veins are rows of dew drops. Their sparkling highlights contrast with the sombre background. Some of the dew drops are pin sharp, others blurry and only suggestive of their near neighbors.
ALT text detailsThe subject is the centre of a lotus leaf. The tones are muted green. A lighter disc marks the centre of the leaf from which ribbed veins emanate to the edge of the frame like bicycle spokes. Caught in four of the lower veins are rows of dew drops. Their sparkling highlights contrast with the sombre background. Some of the dew drops are pin sharp, others blurry and only suggestive of their near neighbors.
The photo is split between a large lotus leaf and blue sky with long streaks of early morning whispy cloud. Parts of the leaf are in shadow, parts backlight by sunlight. The veins of the leaf are highlighted by light and shadow. The entire circumference of the leaf is visible and on the lower reaches a row of dew drops forms a glinting necklace.
ALT text detailsThe photo is split between a large lotus leaf and blue sky with long streaks of early morning whispy cloud. Parts of the leaf are in shadow, parts backlight by sunlight. The veins of the leaf are highlighted by light and shadow. The entire circumference of the leaf is visible and on the lower reaches a row of dew drops forms a glinting necklace.
A vibrant pink lotus flower stands prominently among large green leaves. The flower's petals are delicately arranged, revealing a yellow center, set against a lush, leafy backdrop.
ALT text detailsA vibrant pink lotus flower stands prominently among large green leaves. The flower's petals are delicately arranged, revealing a yellow center, set against a lush, leafy backdrop.
Nithin Coca నితిన్'s avatar
Nithin Coca నితిన్

@ncoca@social.coop

Went back for another assignment at and saw no line at the mediocre (sorry, "Bharat") pavilion but a decent line at the far-superior pavilion.

Word has gotten around, it seems.

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Tokyo is home to many great cafes, kissa, and junkissa where you can kick up your feet, enjoy a beverage, and even sometimes grab a full meal. Here are a few of our favorites, as well as a rundown on which type of shop sells what.

unseen-japan.com/cafes-kissa-j

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Ever been nervous about quitting your job? Ever been so nervous that you wish someone could do it for you? In Japan, resignation proxy companies will quit so you don't have to. Here's how they work and why they're increasingly popular among Japan's young.

unseen-japan.com/resignation-p

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A woman in Japan won a lawsuit against a former lover. The reason? He failed to divulge a teensy tiny detail: his marriage. The case marks a rising trend in the country, as more people use dating apps, not to find the love of their life, but to cheat on their spouses.

unseen-japan.com/dating-apps-c

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Jiko Desu

@jikomayo@mastodon.world

Japan's far-right party Sanseitō is expected to overperform in the upcoming Upper House elections by lying about immigrants. Sanseitō has claimed that immigrants commit more crimes than citizens, take their unfair share of welfare, and take advantage of the country's high-cost healthcare benefits -- all false.

unseen-japan.com/sanseito-far-

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Sanseitō, one of Japan's far-right parties, is expected to overperform in the upcoming Upper House elections. How has it built up its base? Mainly by taking a page out of US President Donald Trump’s fascist playbook - i.e., by lying about immigrants.

unseen-japan.com/sanseito-far-

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Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

A (a Yakushi-dō (薬師堂) at Tsurugaoka Hachimangū-ji in , , before the .

A #Buddhist #pagoda (a Yakushi-dō (薬師堂) at Tsurugaoka Hachimangū-ji in #Kamakura, #Japan, before the #shinbutsubunri. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsA #Buddhist #pagoda (a Yakushi-dō (薬師堂) at Tsurugaoka Hachimangū-ji in #Kamakura, #Japan, before the #shinbutsubunri. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
Buddhist Art's avatar
Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

A (a Yakushi-dō (薬師堂) at Tsurugaoka Hachimangū-ji in , , before the .

A #Buddhist #pagoda (a Yakushi-dō (薬師堂) at Tsurugaoka Hachimangū-ji in #Kamakura, #Japan, before the #shinbutsubunri. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsA #Buddhist #pagoda (a Yakushi-dō (薬師堂) at Tsurugaoka Hachimangū-ji in #Kamakura, #Japan, before the #shinbutsubunri. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

In other Sanseitō news, Tokyo Upper House candidate Saya is garnering criticism for a 2023 YouTube video in which she proposed that Japan institute mandatory military service, saying, "They can teach things in the military they can't teach you in schools."

Article from JCast News. JP headline: https://news.yahoo.co.jp/articles/6c4796c4d5945859aa2903168809f4a9492ca8c4
ALT text detailsArticle from JCast News. JP headline: https://news.yahoo.co.jp/articles/6c4796c4d5945859aa2903168809f4a9492ca8c4
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Kamiya Sōhei, head of right-wing Japanese political party Sanseitō, used and then immediately walked back his use of "chon" (チョン), a Japanese slur against Koreans, which he used as a synonym for "moron": "I apologize for my discriminatory language earlier."

Article from Tokyo Shimbun. JP headline: 参政党神谷代表が差別発言　直後に訂正も攻撃的表現繰り返す
ALT text detailsArticle from Tokyo Shimbun. JP headline: 参政党神谷代表が差別発言　直後に訂正も攻撃的表現繰り返す
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Confused about who's who in Japanese politics and what they advocate? With next week's Upper House election almost here, it helps to have a roadmap. Here's a complete guide to all the major parties, how they came to be, and what's at stake in the upcoming vote.

unseen-japan.com/japanese-poli

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Confused about who's who in Japanese politics and what they advocate? With next week's Upper House election almost here, it helps to have a roadmap. Here's a complete guide to all the major parties, how they came to be, and what's at stake in the upcoming vote.

unseen-japan.com/japanese-poli

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A men's concept cafe employee in Japan, 23yo Maruyama Ayumu, is under arrest after he cajoled a 17yo minor to come to his store. However, what's really causing a buzz is the drastic difference between Maruyama's appearance on social media versus real life.

Article from TBS News Dig. JP headline: 「お店の中で高校の話はダメだよ」女子高校生を歌舞伎町のメンズコンセプトカフェに入店させたか 従業員の男（23）を逮捕　警視庁
ALT text detailsArticle from TBS News Dig. JP headline: 「お店の中で高校の話はダメだよ」女子高校生を歌舞伎町のメンズコンセプトカフェに入店させたか 従業員の男（23）を逮捕　警視庁
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: The Shinagawa Offing (1920)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

en.japantravel.com/guide/shina

A view looking out over Tokyo Bay on a gloomy, overcast day. A small sailboat, single sail up and filled with wind, glides past a rickety-looking pier and heads out into the bay. Beyond, the blocky shape of Odaiba Fort sits low in the bay; further on, the white sails of a pair of other sailboats punctuate the horizon. Above, the patchy clouds are a mix of light and dark, promising rain.
ALT text detailsA view looking out over Tokyo Bay on a gloomy, overcast day. A small sailboat, single sail up and filled with wind, glides past a rickety-looking pier and heads out into the bay. Beyond, the blocky shape of Odaiba Fort sits low in the bay; further on, the white sails of a pair of other sailboats punctuate the horizon. Above, the patchy clouds are a mix of light and dark, promising rain.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: The Shinagawa Offing (1920)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

en.japantravel.com/guide/shina

A view looking out over Tokyo Bay on a gloomy, overcast day. A small sailboat, single sail up and filled with wind, glides past a rickety-looking pier and heads out into the bay. Beyond, the blocky shape of Odaiba Fort sits low in the bay; further on, the white sails of a pair of other sailboats punctuate the horizon. Above, the patchy clouds are a mix of light and dark, promising rain.
ALT text detailsA view looking out over Tokyo Bay on a gloomy, overcast day. A small sailboat, single sail up and filled with wind, glides past a rickety-looking pier and heads out into the bay. Beyond, the blocky shape of Odaiba Fort sits low in the bay; further on, the white sails of a pair of other sailboats punctuate the horizon. Above, the patchy clouds are a mix of light and dark, promising rain.
Project Gutenberg's avatar
Project Gutenberg

@gutenberg_org@mastodon.social

College students digitized 795 poems from the world’s oldest novel

‘The Tale of Genji’ is a cornerstone of classical Japanese literature.

By Andrew Paul

popsci.com/technology/genji-po

The tale of Genji at PG:
gutenberg.org/ebooks/66057

A 12th century illustrated scroll depicting a scene from 'The Tale of Genji,' considered one of history's longest novels. Chapter 48 – Sawarabi (早蕨, "Bracken Shoots"). Tokugawa Art Museum's illustrated handscroll. Imperial court in Kyoto - GENJI-MONOGATARI-EMAKI published by TOKUGAWA MUSEUM, NAGOYA, Japan, 1937. A scene of the Chapter "SAWARABI "(SPROUT) of Illustrated handscroll of Tale of Genji (written by MURASAKI SHIKIBU(11th cent.). The handscroll was made in about ACE1130 and stored in TOKUGAWA Museum, Japan. The handscroll were separated to each sections and mounted to frame for conservation. Height about 21.5 cm. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Tale_of_Genji#/media/File:Genji_emaki_SAWARABI.jpg
ALT text detailsA 12th century illustrated scroll depicting a scene from 'The Tale of Genji,' considered one of history's longest novels. Chapter 48 – Sawarabi (早蕨, "Bracken Shoots"). Tokugawa Art Museum's illustrated handscroll. Imperial court in Kyoto - GENJI-MONOGATARI-EMAKI published by TOKUGAWA MUSEUM, NAGOYA, Japan, 1937. A scene of the Chapter "SAWARABI "(SPROUT) of Illustrated handscroll of Tale of Genji (written by MURASAKI SHIKIBU(11th cent.). The handscroll was made in about ACE1130 and stored in TOKUGAWA Museum, Japan. The handscroll were separated to each sections and mounted to frame for conservation. Height about 21.5 cm. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Tale_of_Genji#/media/File:Genji_emaki_SAWARABI.jpg
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

After weeks, it is finally (sadly) official: Japanese actress Tôno Nagiko, who starred in the NHK morning drama SUZURAN, is dead at age 45. In a post on her blog, her family says that police determined her death was an "accident" and not suicide.

Tôno Nagiko
ALT text detailsTôno Nagiko
訃報のお知らせ 関係各位 平素より格別のご高配を賜り、厚く御礼申し上げます。 このたび、遠野なぎこ（享年45歳）が永眠いたしましたことをご報告申し上げます。 故人の名誉のため、死因についてもご説明申し上げます。 現在、警察の見解によりますと、事故によるものであり、自死ではございません。
ALT text details訃報のお知らせ 関係各位 平素より格別のご高配を賜り、厚く御礼申し上げます。 このたび、遠野なぎこ（享年45歳）が永眠いたしましたことをご報告申し上げます。 故人の名誉のため、死因についてもご説明申し上げます。 現在、警察の見解によりますと、事故によるものであり、自死ではございません。
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

The sweet's origins begin with an epidemic breaking out in Kyōto in 1806.
At this time a shugendō monk on retreat at sacred Mount Ōmine (大峰山) received a revelatory dream. If he made an offering of sweets to the deity of the Gion Matsuri's En-no-Gyōja-yama float (役行者山) then the disease would abate.

Sacred Mt Omine. Ominesan-ji temple is located at the top of the mountain, headquarters of the Shugendo sect of Japanese Buddhism. The entire mountain is part of a training ground for the yamabushi monks.
ALT text detailsSacred Mt Omine. Ominesan-ji temple is located at the top of the mountain, headquarters of the Shugendo sect of Japanese Buddhism. The entire mountain is part of a training ground for the yamabushi monks.
Sacred Mt Omine.
ALT text detailsSacred Mt Omine.
Yamabushi monks.
ALT text detailsYamabushi monks.
Sacred Mt Omine.
ALT text detailsSacred Mt Omine.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

The sweet's origins begin with an epidemic breaking out in Kyōto in 1806.
At this time a shugendō monk on retreat at sacred Mount Ōmine (大峰山) received a revelatory dream. If he made an offering of sweets to the deity of the Gion Matsuri's En-no-Gyōja-yama float (役行者山) then the disease would abate.

Sacred Mt Omine. Ominesan-ji temple is located at the top of the mountain, headquarters of the Shugendo sect of Japanese Buddhism. The entire mountain is part of a training ground for the yamabushi monks.
ALT text detailsSacred Mt Omine. Ominesan-ji temple is located at the top of the mountain, headquarters of the Shugendo sect of Japanese Buddhism. The entire mountain is part of a training ground for the yamabushi monks.
Sacred Mt Omine.
ALT text detailsSacred Mt Omine.
Yamabushi monks.
ALT text detailsYamabushi monks.
Sacred Mt Omine.
ALT text detailsSacred Mt Omine.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Shinagawa (1931)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

shinagawa-hyakkei.about-tokyo.

A rainy day in Shinagawa, Tokyo. In the foreground, small wooden boats are moored on either side of a narrow canal; on the left, a pair of figures pause by the water, holding bamboo umbrellas over their heads as they converse. Up ahead, a third figure carries an umbrella of their own as they cross a wooden bridge. Above, the sky is cloudy and overcast, and light rain continues to fall across the scene.
ALT text detailsA rainy day in Shinagawa, Tokyo. In the foreground, small wooden boats are moored on either side of a narrow canal; on the left, a pair of figures pause by the water, holding bamboo umbrellas over their heads as they converse. Up ahead, a third figure carries an umbrella of their own as they cross a wooden bridge. Above, the sky is cloudy and overcast, and light rain continues to fall across the scene.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Shinagawa (1931)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

shinagawa-hyakkei.about-tokyo.

A rainy day in Shinagawa, Tokyo. In the foreground, small wooden boats are moored on either side of a narrow canal; on the left, a pair of figures pause by the water, holding bamboo umbrellas over their heads as they converse. Up ahead, a third figure carries an umbrella of their own as they cross a wooden bridge. Above, the sky is cloudy and overcast, and light rain continues to fall across the scene.
ALT text detailsA rainy day in Shinagawa, Tokyo. In the foreground, small wooden boats are moored on either side of a narrow canal; on the left, a pair of figures pause by the water, holding bamboo umbrellas over their heads as they converse. Up ahead, a third figure carries an umbrella of their own as they cross a wooden bridge. Above, the sky is cloudy and overcast, and light rain continues to fall across the scene.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

In the Interesting Crimes Department: Police arrested 28yo Sanuki Junki, a former lab assistant, for booking and bailing on over 580 separate hotel reservations, shorting hotels of 17.5M yen ($118K). In December, he booked 31 hotels near Haneda Airport within four days.

Picture of Sanuki about him booking 258 rooms
ALT text detailsPicture of Sanuki about him booking 258 rooms
Picture of Sanuki with text about him canceling 258 rooms
ALT text detailsPicture of Sanuki with text about him canceling 258 rooms
Picture of Sanuki being arrested
ALT text detailsPicture of Sanuki being arrested
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japan wasn't destroyed by a gigantic earthquake/tsunami in July as a manga from the 1990s predicted. The manga, however, successfully destroyed tourism from Hong Kong: visits from the country fell by 33.3% in June.

Sankei Shimbun article on Hong Kong travel with a photo featuring a bunch of white people, for some reason. JP headline: 「7月に日本で大地震」風評被害の影響続く　6月、香港の訪日客は33・4％減少
ALT text detailsSankei Shimbun article on Hong Kong travel with a photo featuring a bunch of white people, for some reason. JP headline: 「7月に日本で大地震」風評被害の影響続く　6月、香港の訪日客は33・4％減少
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Do you hate the "Mario Kart" street kart tours in Japan? So does 28yo Matsuoka Yuga, who's been arrested for trying to set three of them on fire at one tour company's lot in Tokyo. He says he works nearby and the kart's noise was stressing him out.

Picture of the suspect
ALT text detailsPicture of the suspect
The karts in question
ALT text detailsThe karts in question
A screenshot about how someone had sent a threatening letter to the company
ALT text detailsA screenshot about how someone had sent a threatening letter to the company
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

We'll be writing about the rise of anti-foreigner sentiment in Japan in the coming weeks, particularly after next week's Upper House election. Until then, a reminder that one common right-wing trope - "foreigners in Japan commit more crimes than citizens" - is BS.

buff.ly/aTxQueT

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

From cursive characters to the seemingly endless kanji for fish, cracking open a Japanese menu can be daunting even for an intermediate Japanese learner. Here's a cheat sheet to help you out.

unseen-japan.com/tackling-food

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dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

After rain in Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
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dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

After rain in Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

With hotel prices rising and availability plummeting, more people in Japan are seeking more affordable options for overnight stays. Combini chain Lawson just launched its own "stay in your car" service. How does it compare with other overnighting options in Japan?

unseen-japan.com/lawson-combin

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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

🔥THE FATE OF THE FLOATS😱

In the early 15thC it is recorded that 66 local neighbourhoods called 'machigumi' (町組) stored and cared for the floats.

The number 66 symbolically represented the 66 provinces of Japan when the Gion Matsuri first began...1 float for each province.

Lanterns adorn the floats in the evenings before the parades. The festival crests (of Yasaka-jinja) and float motifs are commonly used to decorate the lanterns.
ALT text detailsLanterns adorn the floats in the evenings before the parades. The festival crests (of Yasaka-jinja) and float motifs are commonly used to decorate the lanterns.
Lanterns adorn the floats in the evenings before the parades. The festival crests (of Yasaka-jinja) and float motifs are commonly used to decorate the lanterns.
ALT text detailsLanterns adorn the floats in the evenings before the parades. The festival crests (of Yasaka-jinja) and float motifs are commonly used to decorate the lanterns.
Lanterns adorn the floats in the evenings before the parades. The festival crests (of Yasaka-jinja) and float motifs are commonly used to decorate the lanterns.
ALT text detailsLanterns adorn the floats in the evenings before the parades. The festival crests (of Yasaka-jinja) and float motifs are commonly used to decorate the lanterns.
Lanterns adorn the floats in the evenings before the parades. The festival crests (of Yasaka-jinja) and float motifs are commonly used to decorate the lanterns.
ALT text detailsLanterns adorn the floats in the evenings before the parades. The festival crests (of Yasaka-jinja) and float motifs are commonly used to decorate the lanterns.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

🔥THE FATE OF THE FLOATS😱

In the early 15thC it is recorded that 66 local neighbourhoods called 'machigumi' (町組) stored and cared for the floats.

The number 66 symbolically represented the 66 provinces of Japan when the Gion Matsuri first began...1 float for each province.

Lanterns adorn the floats in the evenings before the parades. The festival crests (of Yasaka-jinja) and float motifs are commonly used to decorate the lanterns.
ALT text detailsLanterns adorn the floats in the evenings before the parades. The festival crests (of Yasaka-jinja) and float motifs are commonly used to decorate the lanterns.
Lanterns adorn the floats in the evenings before the parades. The festival crests (of Yasaka-jinja) and float motifs are commonly used to decorate the lanterns.
ALT text detailsLanterns adorn the floats in the evenings before the parades. The festival crests (of Yasaka-jinja) and float motifs are commonly used to decorate the lanterns.
Lanterns adorn the floats in the evenings before the parades. The festival crests (of Yasaka-jinja) and float motifs are commonly used to decorate the lanterns.
ALT text detailsLanterns adorn the floats in the evenings before the parades. The festival crests (of Yasaka-jinja) and float motifs are commonly used to decorate the lanterns.
Lanterns adorn the floats in the evenings before the parades. The festival crests (of Yasaka-jinja) and float motifs are commonly used to decorate the lanterns.
ALT text detailsLanterns adorn the floats in the evenings before the parades. The festival crests (of Yasaka-jinja) and float motifs are commonly used to decorate the lanterns.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Shijō was inspired by a famous saying in China that despite its size, a praying mantis will raise its arms (hatchets) high in the air against an army.

Shijō was loyal to the Southern Court (南朝), but was defeated in battle by Ashikaga Yoshiakira (足利義詮 1330-67).

Praying mantis doll atop the Toro-yama float.
ALT text detailsPraying mantis doll atop the Toro-yama float.
An old illustration showing the Toro-yama float. Image thanks - https://www.arc.ritsumei.ac.jp/e/ijac/
ALT text detailsAn old illustration showing the Toro-yama float. Image thanks - https://www.arc.ritsumei.ac.jp/e/ijac/
Visitors watch a model of the float's praying mantis being put together.
ALT text detailsVisitors watch a model of the float's praying mantis being put together.
The Toro-yama float.
ALT text detailsThe Toro-yama float.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Float treasures include a doll (now retired) sculpted by Kōun (康運) in 1537, and textiles made from a haori jacket (羽織) worn by Toyotomi Hideyoshi (豊臣秀吉).
The original doll's clothes (1589) are preserved and are the oldest in the entire festival.

The Ashikari-yama float decked in lanterns for the pre-parade evenings.
ALT text detailsThe Ashikari-yama float decked in lanterns for the pre-parade evenings.
The reed-cutter doll on the Ashikari-yama float. Photo thanks - http://kyotomoyou.jp/
ALT text detailsThe reed-cutter doll on the Ashikari-yama float. Photo thanks - http://kyotomoyou.jp/
Crane textile on the Ashikari-yama float. Photo thanks - http://kyotomoyou.jp/
ALT text detailsCrane textile on the Ashikari-yama float. Photo thanks - http://kyotomoyou.jp/
Textile on the Ashikari-yama float.
ALT text detailsTextile on the Ashikari-yama float.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Police found a body at Japanese actress Tôno Nagiko's home. So why, over a week later, have they still not confirmed it's hers? We look at Tôno's rough childhood, her career, and why even her friends are still in the dark in the latest issue of Unseen Japan Insider.

unseen-japan.com/tono-nagiko-w

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atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Daibutsu-den, Nara (1950)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

todaiji.or.jp/en/information/d

A rainy day at Todai-ji, Nara. Two female figures in kimono carry umbrellas as they walk past the Kagame-ike (Mirror Pond) just behind the Daibutsu-den (Hall of the Great Buddha). A string of tall wiry pine trees line up along the edge of the pond; beyond, details of the tall multi-layered Daibutsu-den are indistinct in the gloom. The sky above is overcast, and light rain falls on the scene; in the foreground, the still surface of the pond reflects the scene
ALT text detailsA rainy day at Todai-ji, Nara. Two female figures in kimono carry umbrellas as they walk past the Kagame-ike (Mirror Pond) just behind the Daibutsu-den (Hall of the Great Buddha). A string of tall wiry pine trees line up along the edge of the pond; beyond, details of the tall multi-layered Daibutsu-den are indistinct in the gloom. The sky above is overcast, and light rain falls on the scene; in the foreground, the still surface of the pond reflects the scene
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Daibutsu-den, Nara (1950)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

todaiji.or.jp/en/information/d

A rainy day at Todai-ji, Nara. Two female figures in kimono carry umbrellas as they walk past the Kagame-ike (Mirror Pond) just behind the Daibutsu-den (Hall of the Great Buddha). A string of tall wiry pine trees line up along the edge of the pond; beyond, details of the tall multi-layered Daibutsu-den are indistinct in the gloom. The sky above is overcast, and light rain falls on the scene; in the foreground, the still surface of the pond reflects the scene
ALT text detailsA rainy day at Todai-ji, Nara. Two female figures in kimono carry umbrellas as they walk past the Kagame-ike (Mirror Pond) just behind the Daibutsu-den (Hall of the Great Buddha). A string of tall wiry pine trees line up along the edge of the pond; beyond, details of the tall multi-layered Daibutsu-den are indistinct in the gloom. The sky above is overcast, and light rain falls on the scene; in the foreground, the still surface of the pond reflects the scene
Will 🇯🇵's avatar
Will 🇯🇵

@wilpercy@beige.party · Reply to millennial falcon's post

@falcennial Spotted this ancient weather battered sign for a local chiropractic clinic yesterday.

Part of a business sign advertising a chiropractic clinic. Two red and two white squares form the background. In the upper white one are three red concentric crescents with the legend, ‘Know your body’ in black type. In the upper red square is a partially hidden Chinese character and the start of a word, ‘Kei’. The paint work on the design is blistered and cracked from age and weathering.
ALT text detailsPart of a business sign advertising a chiropractic clinic. Two red and two white squares form the background. In the upper white one are three red concentric crescents with the legend, ‘Know your body’ in black type. In the upper red square is a partially hidden Chinese character and the start of a word, ‘Kei’. The paint work on the design is blistered and cracked from age and weathering.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

A few of the floats incorporate stylised characters from their names into the yukata patterns...

✍️Naginata-hoko (長刀鉾) uses the '長'...

✍️Shijō-Kasa-boko (四条傘鉾) includes the '傘'...

Stylised kanji on the yukata of the Naginata-boko float.
ALT text detailsStylised kanji on the yukata of the Naginata-boko float.
Fan gifted from the Naginata-boko float.
ALT text detailsFan gifted from the Naginata-boko float.
Umbrella kanji on the yukata of the Shijo Kasa-boko float.
ALT text detailsUmbrella kanji on the yukata of the Shijo Kasa-boko float.
The Shijo Kasa-boko float.
ALT text detailsThe Shijo Kasa-boko float.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

A few of the floats incorporate stylised characters from their names into the yukata patterns...

✍️Naginata-hoko (長刀鉾) uses the '長'...

✍️Shijō-Kasa-boko (四条傘鉾) includes the '傘'...

Stylised kanji on the yukata of the Naginata-boko float.
ALT text detailsStylised kanji on the yukata of the Naginata-boko float.
Fan gifted from the Naginata-boko float.
ALT text detailsFan gifted from the Naginata-boko float.
Umbrella kanji on the yukata of the Shijo Kasa-boko float.
ALT text detailsUmbrella kanji on the yukata of the Shijo Kasa-boko float.
The Shijo Kasa-boko float.
ALT text detailsThe Shijo Kasa-boko float.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

A few of the floats incorporate stylised characters from their names into the yukata patterns...

✍️Naginata-hoko (長刀鉾) uses the '長'...

✍️Shijō-Kasa-boko (四条傘鉾) includes the '傘'...

Stylised kanji on the yukata of the Naginata-boko float.
ALT text detailsStylised kanji on the yukata of the Naginata-boko float.
Fan gifted from the Naginata-boko float.
ALT text detailsFan gifted from the Naginata-boko float.
Umbrella kanji on the yukata of the Shijo Kasa-boko float.
ALT text detailsUmbrella kanji on the yukata of the Shijo Kasa-boko float.
The Shijo Kasa-boko float.
ALT text detailsThe Shijo Kasa-boko float.
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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Finland’s beloved Moomins — the fictional roundish trolls — continue to enjoy enduring popularity in Japan as the world celebrates the 80th anniversary of the first novel’s publication. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/07/

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September_UA 🇺🇦

@September_UA@social.kyiv.dcomm.net.ua

Whoever at 
 thought it was smart to report alongside Russian war criminals made the dumbest decision

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Finland’s beloved Moomins — the fictional roundish trolls — continue to enjoy enduring popularity in Japan as the world celebrates the 80th anniversary of the first novel’s publication. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/07/

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Bot in Japan

@botinjapan@mastodon.social

Random street view taken in July 2024, near Minamisaku District in Nagano prefecture. maps.google.com/?q=36.0826165,

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atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Lake Hachirogata, Akita (1927)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

ndl.go.jp/scenery/e/column/toh

A moonlit view of the lakeside on a clear evening. In the foreground, a tall tree stands next to a darkened wooden building; beyond, the calm surface of Hachirogata Lake stretches out toward a shadowy, mountainous horizon. Above, stars shine in a clear sky. The scene is illuminated by the cold light of an unseen moon, shining somewhere above and behind the observer's viewpoint.
ALT text detailsA moonlit view of the lakeside on a clear evening. In the foreground, a tall tree stands next to a darkened wooden building; beyond, the calm surface of Hachirogata Lake stretches out toward a shadowy, mountainous horizon. Above, stars shine in a clear sky. The scene is illuminated by the cold light of an unseen moon, shining somewhere above and behind the observer's viewpoint.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Lake Hachirogata, Akita (1927)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

ndl.go.jp/scenery/e/column/toh

A moonlit view of the lakeside on a clear evening. In the foreground, a tall tree stands next to a darkened wooden building; beyond, the calm surface of Hachirogata Lake stretches out toward a shadowy, mountainous horizon. Above, stars shine in a clear sky. The scene is illuminated by the cold light of an unseen moon, shining somewhere above and behind the observer's viewpoint.
ALT text detailsA moonlit view of the lakeside on a clear evening. In the foreground, a tall tree stands next to a darkened wooden building; beyond, the calm surface of Hachirogata Lake stretches out toward a shadowy, mountainous horizon. Above, stars shine in a clear sky. The scene is illuminated by the cold light of an unseen moon, shining somewhere above and behind the observer's viewpoint.
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atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Moon Over Akebi Bridge (1935)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/sho

A bright full moon rises over a rustic-looking wooden bridge spanning a ravine. The bridge seems straightforward in construction, the natural shapes of twigs and treestumps visible in its component parts. Below, trees and shrubs line the sides of the ravine; tall trees cluster together just beyond. A few tattered clouds cross a starless night sky dominated by the full moon.
ALT text detailsA bright full moon rises over a rustic-looking wooden bridge spanning a ravine. The bridge seems straightforward in construction, the natural shapes of twigs and treestumps visible in its component parts. Below, trees and shrubs line the sides of the ravine; tall trees cluster together just beyond. A few tattered clouds cross a starless night sky dominated by the full moon.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Moon Over Akebi Bridge (1935)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/sho

A bright full moon rises over a rustic-looking wooden bridge spanning a ravine. The bridge seems straightforward in construction, the natural shapes of twigs and treestumps visible in its component parts. Below, trees and shrubs line the sides of the ravine; tall trees cluster together just beyond. A few tattered clouds cross a starless night sky dominated by the full moon.
ALT text detailsA bright full moon rises over a rustic-looking wooden bridge spanning a ravine. The bridge seems straightforward in construction, the natural shapes of twigs and treestumps visible in its component parts. Below, trees and shrubs line the sides of the ravine; tall trees cluster together just beyond. A few tattered clouds cross a starless night sky dominated by the full moon.
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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

An independent panel investigating the British post office scandal has urged Fujitsu, the British government and others to take relief measures for wrongly convicted post office workers. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/07/

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

An independent panel investigating the British post office scandal has urged Fujitsu, the British government and others to take relief measures for wrongly convicted post office workers. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/07/

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atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: The Yama Temple (1941)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

japan.travel/en/us/yamadera/

A full moon rises over a corner of Yama-dera, or Risshaku-ji, high in the mountains of Yamagata Prefecture, Japan. The surrounding terrain is steep and dramatic; above, the sky is starless, and occupied solely by the pale yellow moon.
ALT text detailsA full moon rises over a corner of Yama-dera, or Risshaku-ji, high in the mountains of Yamagata Prefecture, Japan. The surrounding terrain is steep and dramatic; above, the sky is starless, and occupied solely by the pale yellow moon.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: The Yama Temple (1941)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

japan.travel/en/us/yamadera/

A full moon rises over a corner of Yama-dera, or Risshaku-ji, high in the mountains of Yamagata Prefecture, Japan. The surrounding terrain is steep and dramatic; above, the sky is starless, and occupied solely by the pale yellow moon.
ALT text detailsA full moon rises over a corner of Yama-dera, or Risshaku-ji, high in the mountains of Yamagata Prefecture, Japan. The surrounding terrain is steep and dramatic; above, the sky is starless, and occupied solely by the pale yellow moon.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Summer Moon at Miyajima (1936)

Artist: Koitsu Tsuchiya

dive-hiroshima.com/en/feature/

A full moon rises over Itsukushima Shrine, at Miyajima, Hiroshima. A solitary pilot steers a small open boat toward a waterside temple lit with hanging lanterns. Beyond, the famous 'floating' torii gate stands in Matsushima Bay, surrounded by water silvered by moonlight. Further on, low shadowy mountains cross the horizon. Above, the bright full moon shines through a break in the clouds, dominating a starless night sky.
ALT text detailsA full moon rises over Itsukushima Shrine, at Miyajima, Hiroshima. A solitary pilot steers a small open boat toward a waterside temple lit with hanging lanterns. Beyond, the famous 'floating' torii gate stands in Matsushima Bay, surrounded by water silvered by moonlight. Further on, low shadowy mountains cross the horizon. Above, the bright full moon shines through a break in the clouds, dominating a starless night sky.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Summer Moon at Miyajima (1936)

Artist: Koitsu Tsuchiya

dive-hiroshima.com/en/feature/

A full moon rises over Itsukushima Shrine, at Miyajima, Hiroshima. A solitary pilot steers a small open boat toward a waterside temple lit with hanging lanterns. Beyond, the famous 'floating' torii gate stands in Matsushima Bay, surrounded by water silvered by moonlight. Further on, low shadowy mountains cross the horizon. Above, the bright full moon shines through a break in the clouds, dominating a starless night sky.
ALT text detailsA full moon rises over Itsukushima Shrine, at Miyajima, Hiroshima. A solitary pilot steers a small open boat toward a waterside temple lit with hanging lanterns. Beyond, the famous 'floating' torii gate stands in Matsushima Bay, surrounded by water silvered by moonlight. Further on, low shadowy mountains cross the horizon. Above, the bright full moon shines through a break in the clouds, dominating a starless night sky.
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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Taiwan's government said it is happy Nagasaki will let it send attendees for the first time to the peace ceremony on Aug. 9, the anniversary of the 1945 atomic bombing of the city. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/07/

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Taiwan's government said it is happy Nagasaki will let it send attendees for the first time to the peace ceremony on Aug. 9, the anniversary of the 1945 atomic bombing of the city. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/07/

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atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Moonlight at Matsushima, Futago Island (1933)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

space.com/stargazing/july-full

A bright full moon shines though a break in the clouds, casting silvery moonlight over the calm water and little islands scattered across Matsushima Bay. On our right, two shadowy figures pilot a small wooden boat away from one of the islands. Beyond the calm bay, low mountains cross the horizon, hazy and indisctinct in the evening light.
ALT text detailsA bright full moon shines though a break in the clouds, casting silvery moonlight over the calm water and little islands scattered across Matsushima Bay. On our right, two shadowy figures pilot a small wooden boat away from one of the islands. Beyond the calm bay, low mountains cross the horizon, hazy and indisctinct in the evening light.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Moonlight at Matsushima, Futago Island (1933)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

space.com/stargazing/july-full

A bright full moon shines though a break in the clouds, casting silvery moonlight over the calm water and little islands scattered across Matsushima Bay. On our right, two shadowy figures pilot a small wooden boat away from one of the islands. Beyond the calm bay, low mountains cross the horizon, hazy and indisctinct in the evening light.
ALT text detailsA bright full moon shines though a break in the clouds, casting silvery moonlight over the calm water and little islands scattered across Matsushima Bay. On our right, two shadowy figures pilot a small wooden boat away from one of the islands. Beyond the calm bay, low mountains cross the horizon, hazy and indisctinct in the evening light.
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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako on Tuesday attended a welcome ceremony in Ulaanbaatar, part of a weeklong visit to the country that comes on the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/07/

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako on Tuesday attended a welcome ceremony in Ulaanbaatar, part of a weeklong visit to the country that comes on the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/07/

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Japan, Britain and Italy are in agreement that Saudi Arabia could be allowed to join their next-generation fighter aircraft program — but only once the project is underway and all outstanding points have been cleared. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/07/

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Japan, Britain and Italy are in agreement that Saudi Arabia could be allowed to join their next-generation fighter aircraft program — but only once the project is underway and all outstanding points have been cleared. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/07/

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Scams involving police impersonation are on the rise in Japan, with losses attributed to such cases exceeding ¥30 billion in just the first five months of this year. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/07/

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Scams involving police impersonation are on the rise in Japan, with losses attributed to such cases exceeding ¥30 billion in just the first five months of this year. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/07/

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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Celebrating Tanabata in the best way possible, with Matsuya-Tōbee's (松屋藤兵衛) moreish 'Tamaori-hime' (珠玉織姫)...balls of sugar and chewy rice dough.

Flavours😋...
⚪️White- sesame
🟤Brown- cinnamon
🟡Yellow- ginger
🔴Pink- ume
🔵Blue- yuzu (from Mizuo 水尾, 'birthplace of yuzu cultivation in Japan')

Matsuya-Tōbee's 'Tamaori-hime'...flavoured balls of sugar and chewy rice dough.
ALT text detailsMatsuya-Tōbee's 'Tamaori-hime'...flavoured balls of sugar and chewy rice dough.
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Weather Mizu

@mizu@mastodon.social

10-day total rainfall anomalies. It's now mid-Baiu rainy season originally, but less than 10% of normal across west & part of east Japan. Intense heat and sun with lack of water hurts rice, vegetables and fruits.😟

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

I choose this room! Looking for a comfortable yet fun place for a medium- to long-term stay in Japan? We were invited to check out the newly remodeled Pokémon rooms at MIMARU Apartment Hotels - read our thoughts and take a look at the room below.

unseen-japan.com/mimaru-pokemo

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atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Full Moon at Kankai-kaku, Wakanoura (1950)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

travel.ava-intel.com/en/jp/kan

A full moon rises in a starless night sky, casting bright cold light over the Kankai-kaku pavilion, standing on the beach in Wakayama. Out in Wakanoura Bay, a pilot guides a small wooden boat with a single passenger across the calm water. Beyond, the shadowy shapes of low mountains cross the horizon.
ALT text detailsA full moon rises in a starless night sky, casting bright cold light over the Kankai-kaku pavilion, standing on the beach in Wakayama. Out in Wakanoura Bay, a pilot guides a small wooden boat with a single passenger across the calm water. Beyond, the shadowy shapes of low mountains cross the horizon.
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atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Full Moon at Kankai-kaku, Wakanoura (1950)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

travel.ava-intel.com/en/jp/kan

A full moon rises in a starless night sky, casting bright cold light over the Kankai-kaku pavilion, standing on the beach in Wakayama. Out in Wakanoura Bay, a pilot guides a small wooden boat with a single passenger across the calm water. Beyond, the shadowy shapes of low mountains cross the horizon.
ALT text detailsA full moon rises in a starless night sky, casting bright cold light over the Kankai-kaku pavilion, standing on the beach in Wakayama. Out in Wakanoura Bay, a pilot guides a small wooden boat with a single passenger across the calm water. Beyond, the shadowy shapes of low mountains cross the horizon.
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Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:

@norbertwoehnl@famichiki.jp

Happy Monday from Japan!

On a backstreet in Koenji, Tokyo, even the narrowest of spaces is put to good use in order to hang the day's laundry out to dry.


📷 Mamiya 6, 50mm f/4
🎞️ Kodak Portra 400

Square-format medium-format film photo of a backstreet in Koenji, Tokyo, Japan. Pedestrians are walking on a cobblestone type of pavement. A tight line-up of residential and commercial buildings provides a perspective along the street. In a narrow gap outside an upper-floor window of a building in the foreground, a tight line of laundry is hung out to dry.
ALT text detailsSquare-format medium-format film photo of a backstreet in Koenji, Tokyo, Japan. Pedestrians are walking on a cobblestone type of pavement. A tight line-up of residential and commercial buildings provides a perspective along the street. In a narrow gap outside an upper-floor window of a building in the foreground, a tight line of laundry is hung out to dry.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Well, that was fast. After causing controversy with an X post setting a 20-minute rule for eating its humongous ramen - and trolling users in the replies - Ramen Jirō in Fuchū has apologized and said it's rescinding the policy. We've updated our post:

unseen-japan.com/ramen-jiro-ea

Post from @jiro_fuchu ラーメン二郎 府中店 SNS担当者です。 今回のお騒がせした件についてお詫び報告させて頂きます。 大変申し訳ありませんでした。
ALT text detailsPost from @jiro_fuchu ラーメン二郎 府中店 SNS担当者です。 今回のお騒がせした件についてお詫び報告させて頂きます。 大変申し訳ありませんでした。
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:'s avatar
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:

@norbertwoehnl@famichiki.jp

Happy Monday from Japan!

On a backstreet in Koenji, Tokyo, even the narrowest of spaces is put to good use in order to hang the day's laundry out to dry.


📷 Mamiya 6, 50mm f/4
🎞️ Kodak Portra 400

Square-format medium-format film photo of a backstreet in Koenji, Tokyo, Japan. Pedestrians are walking on a cobblestone type of pavement. A tight line-up of residential and commercial buildings provides a perspective along the street. In a narrow gap outside an upper-floor window of a building in the foreground, a tight line of laundry is hung out to dry.
ALT text detailsSquare-format medium-format film photo of a backstreet in Koenji, Tokyo, Japan. Pedestrians are walking on a cobblestone type of pavement. A tight line-up of residential and commercial buildings provides a perspective along the street. In a narrow gap outside an upper-floor window of a building in the foreground, a tight line of laundry is hung out to dry.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Hotel Lawson? The combini chain is launching a new service where people can stay parked overnight in a store's parking lot for between 2,500 and 3,000 yen ($17 to $20). It's aimed at people visiting localities & coming to events to help them avoid increasingly expensive hotels.

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The latest accusation against foreigners in Japan is that Chinese foreign exchange students get up to 10 million yen ($69K) in college educational benefits that they don’t have to repay. This, accusers say, isn’t available to citizens, who have to repay student loans.

Two women in lab coats looking at a test tube vial
ALT text detailsTwo women in lab coats looking at a test tube vial
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The Fuchū store of Ramen Jirō, which has been busting guts in Japan since 1970, announced a strict new rule for customers. Find out why some say it's no problem - while others say they'll pass on going to Jirō entirely.

unseen-japan.com/ramen-jiro-ea

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Another murder in Japan's nightlife industry. A 41-year-old man stabbed two women - 27yo manager Takeuchi Tomoka and 26yo employee Ito Rin - to death with a kukri knife at a girl's bar in Hamamatsu, Shizuoka Prefecture. Takeuchi knew her attacker, but motive remains unclear.

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Tokyo

@Tokyo@channels.im

Ancient lotus flowers in full bloom at park northwest of Tokyo

Ancient lotus flowers are in full bloom in the city of Gyoda, northwest of Tokyo. The ancient lotus of Gyoda was grown from seeds that were excava…

alojapan.com/1314965/ancient-l

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A 67yo American had to be rescued from Mt. Fuji's 7th station, which he attempted hiking alone - in SANDALS! - six days before the hiking season officially starts. The incident will likely fuel recent calls for stranded hikers to pay for their own rescue expenses.

Article from SBS. Japanese headline: 「富士登山は3回目」サンダル履きのアメリカ人男性を救助 新七合目付近でテント宿泊して体調不良に…重機で搬送され五合目へ 静岡・富士宮口は山開き前
ALT text detailsArticle from SBS. Japanese headline: 「富士登山は3回目」サンダル履きのアメリカ人男性を救助 新七合目付近でテント宿泊して体調不良に…重機で搬送され五合目へ 静岡・富士宮口は山開き前
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Chichibu-Tama-Kai National Park, designated in 1950, stands as the closest mountainous national park to the Tokyo metropolitan area. It spans four prefectures—Saitama, Tokyo, Yamanashi, and Nagano—and covers 126,259 hectares of mountains, valleys, and rivers.

Five Steps and Seven Pools Falls in Chichibu-Tama-Kai National Park.
ALT text detailsFive Steps and Seven Pools Falls in Chichibu-Tama-Kai National Park.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A popular meme claims that Abie Akie, wife of former Japanese Prime Minister Abe Shinzō, disliked Trump so much that she pretended not to know English to avoid speaking to him. Is it true? We looked at the facts - here's what we concluded.

unseen-japan.com/abe-akie-trum

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Zen in Color

@zencolor@mastodon.art

Zojo-ji in , 1933, Tsuchiya Kōitsu (1870-1949), Hamamatsu, Shizuoka, .

Zojo-ji in #Snow, 1933, Tsuchiya Kōitsu (1870-1949), Hamamatsu, Shizuoka, #Japan.
ALT text detailsZojo-ji in #Snow, 1933, Tsuchiya Kōitsu (1870-1949), Hamamatsu, Shizuoka, #Japan.
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Zen in Color

@zencolor@mastodon.art

Zojo-ji in , 1933, Tsuchiya Kōitsu (1870-1949), Hamamatsu, Shizuoka, .

Zojo-ji in #Snow, 1933, Tsuchiya Kōitsu (1870-1949), Hamamatsu, Shizuoka, #Japan.
ALT text detailsZojo-ji in #Snow, 1933, Tsuchiya Kōitsu (1870-1949), Hamamatsu, Shizuoka, #Japan.
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Rapid Eye Electronics Ltd

@REEL@ravenation.club

Off to ( , & probably ) at the end of the month. Any recommendations for weird record shops, band merch, literary locations and Art I should know?

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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

The float takes its name from the story of Zenzai-dōji (善財童子), a boy who sought enlightenment.

He discovered 53 spiritual teachers on his travels. The 28th (South Sea) Kannon showed him how to save humans from suffering! In the end Zenzai-dōji became a Bodhisattva.

Statue of Zenzai-doji at Kozan-ji.
ALT text detailsStatue of Zenzai-doji at Kozan-ji.
Illustration from the story of Zenzai-doji. Image thanks - https://ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsIllustration from the story of Zenzai-doji. Image thanks - https://ukiyo-e.org/
Illustration from the story of Zenzai-doji. Image thanks - https://ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsIllustration from the story of Zenzai-doji. Image thanks - https://ukiyo-e.org/
Statue of Zenzai-doji.
ALT text detailsStatue of Zenzai-doji.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

The float takes its name from the story of Zenzai-dōji (善財童子), a boy who sought enlightenment.

He discovered 53 spiritual teachers on his travels. The 28th (South Sea) Kannon showed him how to save humans from suffering! In the end Zenzai-dōji became a Bodhisattva.

Statue of Zenzai-doji at Kozan-ji.
ALT text detailsStatue of Zenzai-doji at Kozan-ji.
Illustration from the story of Zenzai-doji. Image thanks - https://ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsIllustration from the story of Zenzai-doji. Image thanks - https://ukiyo-e.org/
Illustration from the story of Zenzai-doji. Image thanks - https://ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsIllustration from the story of Zenzai-doji. Image thanks - https://ukiyo-e.org/
Statue of Zenzai-doji.
ALT text detailsStatue of Zenzai-doji.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Is Japan going to sink to the bottom of the ocean on July 5th? Likely not. But what does a manga author's prediction tell us about modern society? Journalist Jake Adelstein gives us his thoughts - and invites us to an end of the world party.

unseen-japan.com/tatsuki-ryo-e

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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

The float's name comes from the long halberd (鉾 'hoko') that rises from its roof to drive away evil.
It is said the original was made by famed swordsmith Sanjō Munechika (三條宗近) in the 10thC to thank the gods after his daughter was spared from a terrible plague.

Woodblock print of the famed swordsmith Sanjo Munechika getting help from the gods in his work. Image thanks - https://ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of the famed swordsmith Sanjo Munechika getting help from the gods in his work. Image thanks - https://ukiyo-e.org/
A fan gifted from the Naginata-hoko, a prized possession indeed!
ALT text detailsA fan gifted from the Naginata-hoko, a prized possession indeed!
Close up of the tip of a halberd. These vicious weapons were used in warfare, but also symbolically in rituals to 'cut through' misfortune and evil.
ALT text detailsClose up of the tip of a halberd. These vicious weapons were used in warfare, but also symbolically in rituals to 'cut through' misfortune and evil.
Chimaki from the Naginata-hoko float. Each float sells its own chimaki.
ALT text detailsChimaki from the Naginata-hoko float. Each float sells its own chimaki.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japan has 35 stunning national parks scattered throughout the country. Now, the nation is challenging visitors to visit all of them in turn with its new stamp rally, available in four languages. Here's an overview of the campaign, along with some park highlights.

unseen-japan.com/japan-nationa

Picture of a stream flowing through a grass-covered forest with light shining down through the canopy
ALT text detailsPicture of a stream flowing through a grass-covered forest with light shining down through the canopy
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Tomorrow's the day manga author Tatsuki Ryō predicted a tsunami would destroy Japan. While that's up in the air, enough people in Hong Kong believe it that airline operators have suspended operations to two small cities in Japan, Yonago and Tokushima.

Headline from Chuo Nippo. JP text: 香港の航空会社、日本の小都市２カ所に運航停止…「大地震説の影響」
ALT text detailsHeadline from Chuo Nippo. JP text: 香港の航空会社、日本の小都市２カ所に運航停止…「大地震説の影響」
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Kamiya Sōhei, head of far-right political party Sanseitō, said that Japan needs to be a society where young women can easily give birth & that "old women can't have kids." Funny enough, you can't hear this statement on the recording, leading to accusations the party scrubbed it.

Headline from Mainichi Shimbun. JP text: 参政党の神谷代表「高齢の女性は子ども産めない」　公示第一声で言及
ALT text detailsHeadline from Mainichi Shimbun. JP text: 参政党の神谷代表「高齢の女性は子ども産めない」　公示第一声で言及
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Airports Bot

@airports_bot@mastodon.world

Tokyo Haneda International Airport - Tokyo, Japan

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tokyo_In
openstreetmap.org/#map=13/35.5

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Airports Bot

@airports_bot@mastodon.world

Tokyo Haneda International Airport - Tokyo, Japan

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tokyo_In
openstreetmap.org/#map=13/35.5

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

The success of China’s DeepSeek-R1 has shocked the U.S. and reinforced the idea that human talent is the true driver of AI competitiveness. japantimes.co.jp/commentary/20

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

The success of China’s DeepSeek-R1 has shocked the U.S. and reinforced the idea that human talent is the true driver of AI competitiveness. japantimes.co.jp/commentary/20

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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Ato Matsuri (後祭り July 24th):
🌿Hashibenkei-yama 橋弁慶山 = 24
🌿Kitakannon-yama 北観音山 = 25
🌿Minamikannon-yama 南観音山 = 29
🌿Taka-yama (鷹山) = 33
⚔️Ōfune-boko 大船鉾 = LAST

A mechanical praying mantis picks up and delivers fortunes at the Toro-yama float.
ALT text detailsA mechanical praying mantis picks up and delivers fortunes at the Toro-yama float.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Ato Matsuri (後祭り July 24th):
🌿Hashibenkei-yama 橋弁慶山 = 24
🌿Kitakannon-yama 北観音山 = 25
🌿Minamikannon-yama 南観音山 = 29
🌿Taka-yama (鷹山) = 33
⚔️Ōfune-boko 大船鉾 = LAST

A mechanical praying mantis picks up and delivers fortunes at the Toro-yama float.
ALT text detailsA mechanical praying mantis picks up and delivers fortunes at the Toro-yama float.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

The festival has 2 main elements: the ritual 'Mikoshi Togyo' (神輿渡御 - the touring of the shrine gods in divine palanquins) and the more celebratory 'Yamaboko Junkō' (山鉾巡行 - a parade of highly decorated floats, which emerged in their current form from Muromachi times).

The gods of Gion are transported by divine palanquin into the heart of the city for Gion Matsuri's parades (which mark the start and finish of the gods' holiday). Photo thanks - kyotomoyou.jp and https://kyoto-tabiya.com
ALT text detailsThe gods of Gion are transported by divine palanquin into the heart of the city for Gion Matsuri's parades (which mark the start and finish of the gods' holiday). Photo thanks - kyotomoyou.jp and https://kyoto-tabiya.com
The gods of Gion are transported by divine palanquin into the heart of the city for Gion Matsuri's parades (which mark the start and finish of the gods' holiday). Photo thanks - kyotomoyou.jp and https://kyoto-tabiya.com
ALT text detailsThe gods of Gion are transported by divine palanquin into the heart of the city for Gion Matsuri's parades (which mark the start and finish of the gods' holiday). Photo thanks - kyotomoyou.jp and https://kyoto-tabiya.com
The gods of Gion are transported by divine palanquin into the heart of the city for Gion Matsuri's parades (which mark the start and finish of the gods' holiday). Photo thanks - kyotomoyou.jp and https://kyoto-tabiya.com
ALT text detailsThe gods of Gion are transported by divine palanquin into the heart of the city for Gion Matsuri's parades (which mark the start and finish of the gods' holiday). Photo thanks - kyotomoyou.jp and https://kyoto-tabiya.com
The gods of Gion are transported by divine palanquin into the heart of the city for Gion Matsuri's parades (which mark the start and finish of the gods' holiday). Photo thanks - kyotomoyou.jp and https://kyoto-tabiya.com
ALT text detailsThe gods of Gion are transported by divine palanquin into the heart of the city for Gion Matsuri's parades (which mark the start and finish of the gods' holiday). Photo thanks - kyotomoyou.jp and https://kyoto-tabiya.com
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

In order to be entertained by the 2 parades, the 3 deities of Yasaka-jinja are brought to the 'Otabisho' (御旅所), a temporary home on Shijō Teramachi.

When the second parade is finished, they tour the city and return home for another year.

The Otabisho, resting place of the gods during the Gion Matsuri. Photo thanks🙇‍♂️-http://kyotomoyou.jp
ALT text detailsThe Otabisho, resting place of the gods during the Gion Matsuri. Photo thanks🙇‍♂️-http://kyotomoyou.jp
One of the divine palanquins used to transport the gods into the city for Gion Matsuri.
ALT text detailsOne of the divine palanquins used to transport the gods into the city for Gion Matsuri.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

On July 2nd lots are drawn at the Kyōto Municipal Assembly Hall to determine the order of the floats for the 2 parades.
This ritual is known as 'Kujitori-shiki' (くじ取り式 'Lot-Drawing Ceremony'), and was intended to prevent fighting over prized positions in the parade.

Woodblock print depicting the Gion Matsuri parade. Image thanks - https://ukiyo-e.org
ALT text detailsWoodblock print depicting the Gion Matsuri parade. Image thanks - https://ukiyo-e.org
Photo showing the lot drawing ceremony that determines the order the floats parade in. Photo thanks - dh-jac.net
ALT text detailsPhoto showing the lot drawing ceremony that determines the order the floats parade in. Photo thanks - dh-jac.net
Woodblock print of Yasaka-jinja's main hall. Image thanks - https://ukiyo-e.org
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of Yasaka-jinja's main hall. Image thanks - https://ukiyo-e.org
Woodblock print of the festival floats lit up on the evening before the parade. Image thanks - https://ukiyo-e.org
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of the festival floats lit up on the evening before the parade. Image thanks - https://ukiyo-e.org
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

On July 2nd lots are drawn at the Kyōto Municipal Assembly Hall to determine the order of the floats for the 2 parades.
This ritual is known as 'Kujitori-shiki' (くじ取り式 'Lot-Drawing Ceremony'), and was intended to prevent fighting over prized positions in the parade.

Woodblock print depicting the Gion Matsuri parade. Image thanks - https://ukiyo-e.org
ALT text detailsWoodblock print depicting the Gion Matsuri parade. Image thanks - https://ukiyo-e.org
Photo showing the lot drawing ceremony that determines the order the floats parade in. Photo thanks - dh-jac.net
ALT text detailsPhoto showing the lot drawing ceremony that determines the order the floats parade in. Photo thanks - dh-jac.net
Woodblock print of Yasaka-jinja's main hall. Image thanks - https://ukiyo-e.org
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of Yasaka-jinja's main hall. Image thanks - https://ukiyo-e.org
Woodblock print of the festival floats lit up on the evening before the parade. Image thanks - https://ukiyo-e.org
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of the festival floats lit up on the evening before the parade. Image thanks - https://ukiyo-e.org
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

In order to be entertained by the 2 parades, the 3 deities of Yasaka-jinja are brought to the 'Otabisho' (御旅所), a temporary home on Shijō Teramachi.

When the second parade is finished, they tour the city and return home for another year.

The Otabisho, resting place of the gods during the Gion Matsuri. Photo thanks🙇‍♂️-http://kyotomoyou.jp
ALT text detailsThe Otabisho, resting place of the gods during the Gion Matsuri. Photo thanks🙇‍♂️-http://kyotomoyou.jp
One of the divine palanquins used to transport the gods into the city for Gion Matsuri.
ALT text detailsOne of the divine palanquins used to transport the gods into the city for Gion Matsuri.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

The festival has 2 main elements: the ritual 'Mikoshi Togyo' (神輿渡御 - the touring of the shrine gods in divine palanquins) and the more celebratory 'Yamaboko Junkō' (山鉾巡行 - a parade of highly decorated floats, which emerged in their current form from Muromachi times).

The gods of Gion are transported by divine palanquin into the heart of the city for Gion Matsuri's parades (which mark the start and finish of the gods' holiday). Photo thanks - kyotomoyou.jp and https://kyoto-tabiya.com
ALT text detailsThe gods of Gion are transported by divine palanquin into the heart of the city for Gion Matsuri's parades (which mark the start and finish of the gods' holiday). Photo thanks - kyotomoyou.jp and https://kyoto-tabiya.com
The gods of Gion are transported by divine palanquin into the heart of the city for Gion Matsuri's parades (which mark the start and finish of the gods' holiday). Photo thanks - kyotomoyou.jp and https://kyoto-tabiya.com
ALT text detailsThe gods of Gion are transported by divine palanquin into the heart of the city for Gion Matsuri's parades (which mark the start and finish of the gods' holiday). Photo thanks - kyotomoyou.jp and https://kyoto-tabiya.com
The gods of Gion are transported by divine palanquin into the heart of the city for Gion Matsuri's parades (which mark the start and finish of the gods' holiday). Photo thanks - kyotomoyou.jp and https://kyoto-tabiya.com
ALT text detailsThe gods of Gion are transported by divine palanquin into the heart of the city for Gion Matsuri's parades (which mark the start and finish of the gods' holiday). Photo thanks - kyotomoyou.jp and https://kyoto-tabiya.com
The gods of Gion are transported by divine palanquin into the heart of the city for Gion Matsuri's parades (which mark the start and finish of the gods' holiday). Photo thanks - kyotomoyou.jp and https://kyoto-tabiya.com
ALT text detailsThe gods of Gion are transported by divine palanquin into the heart of the city for Gion Matsuri's parades (which mark the start and finish of the gods' holiday). Photo thanks - kyotomoyou.jp and https://kyoto-tabiya.com
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social

👹KYŌTO'S GRANDEST FESTIVAL😇

Summer in Kyōto is said to begin with the Gion Matsuri (祇園祭) and end with the Gozan-no-Okuribi.

The festival is one of Japan's most important, lasting for the whole of July. Born out of prayers to end a plague in 869, the Gion Matsuri has been an annual event since 970.

Gorgeous tapestries and brocade hanging from one of the Gion Matsuri festival floats.
ALT text detailsGorgeous tapestries and brocade hanging from one of the Gion Matsuri festival floats.
Nao-san braves the crowds and fierce heat on one of the festival's raucous evenings.
ALT text detailsNao-san braves the crowds and fierce heat on one of the festival's raucous evenings.
The festival ends in quiet fashion with visitors praying at a small shrine to the god of disease within Yasaka-jinja.
ALT text detailsThe festival ends in quiet fashion with visitors praying at a small shrine to the god of disease within Yasaka-jinja.
The Gozan-no-Okuribi (great 'Send off Fires') on August 16th marks the end of the summer festival season in Kyoto.
ALT text detailsThe Gozan-no-Okuribi (great 'Send off Fires') on August 16th marks the end of the summer festival season in Kyoto.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

June 2025 officially Japan's hottest 'since record-keeping began in 1898', 2.34 degrees higher than usual, breaking the previous record 'by a significant margin'

asahi.com/ajw/articles/15879017

Headline from the Asahi Shimbun, reading: 'Turn up the AC: Japan records hottest June in almost 130 years'. Below is an image of people carrying umbrellas to shield themselves from the sun
ALT text detailsHeadline from the Asahi Shimbun, reading: 'Turn up the AC: Japan records hottest June in almost 130 years'. Below is an image of people carrying umbrellas to shield themselves from the sun
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

June 2025 officially Japan's hottest 'since record-keeping began in 1898', 2.34 degrees higher than usual, breaking the previous record 'by a significant margin'

asahi.com/ajw/articles/15879017

Headline from the Asahi Shimbun, reading: 'Turn up the AC: Japan records hottest June in almost 130 years'. Below is an image of people carrying umbrellas to shield themselves from the sun
ALT text detailsHeadline from the Asahi Shimbun, reading: 'Turn up the AC: Japan records hottest June in almost 130 years'. Below is an image of people carrying umbrellas to shield themselves from the sun
The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

A viral manga prediction of a July 5 disaster has gripped Japan with anxiety and triggered an economic impact, but experts warn that while such dates are unreliable, the threat of a massive earthquake remains real. japantimes.co.jp/commentary/20 #311

The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

A viral manga prediction of a July 5 disaster has gripped Japan with anxiety and triggered an economic impact, but experts warn that while such dates are unreliable, the threat of a massive earthquake remains real. japantimes.co.jp/commentary/20 #311

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Want to ruin your diet in Japan even worse than you expected? Burger King Japan has unveiled its "Baby Body Burger" in conjunction with the Japan Sumo Association. Advertised as a "Clash of the Beef," it has five beef patties and clocks in at a rikishi-sized 1,900 calories.

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

How AI is changing people's perceptions of Japan, every Beat Takeshi film ranked, anger at foreigners over lies, Western food in Japan, and more in this week's issue of the Unseen Japan Newsletter:

us20.campaign-archive.com/?u=e

AI depictions of Japan and a cartoon woman who doesn't know shit going "wow"
ALT text detailsAI depictions of Japan and a cartoon woman who doesn't know shit going "wow"
Kitano Takeshi banner - depiction of him from several of his films
ALT text detailsKitano Takeshi banner - depiction of him from several of his films
Man taking money from Japanese people and giving it to foreigners
ALT text detailsMan taking money from Japanese people and giving it to foreigners
Hamburg steak on a hot plate
ALT text detailsHamburg steak on a hot plate
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Starlit Night, Miyajima (1928)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

miyajima.or.jp/english/history

Evening at Itsukushima Shrine, Miyajima, in Hiroshima Prefecture. In the foreground, a stone lantern stands on the shore, lit and glowing; beyond, the calm waters of Matsushima Bay stretch out to where the famous 'floating' torii gate stands. Further on, forested mountains cross the horizon under a clear starlit sky.
ALT text detailsEvening at Itsukushima Shrine, Miyajima, in Hiroshima Prefecture. In the foreground, a stone lantern stands on the shore, lit and glowing; beyond, the calm waters of Matsushima Bay stretch out to where the famous 'floating' torii gate stands. Further on, forested mountains cross the horizon under a clear starlit sky.
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:'s avatar
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:

@norbertwoehnl@famichiki.jp

Good morning from Tokyo, where we're headed for a very hot Tuesday!
Today, I have a collection of four unrelated observations from my recent trip to Hakodate in Hokkaido which I'll just call "Hakodate Moments".

A backstreet alley in the Horaicho district of Hakodate, Japan. Some dated buildings and shop signs in the foreground, and low-hanging clouds over Mount Hakodate in the back.
ALT text detailsA backstreet alley in the Horaicho district of Hakodate, Japan. Some dated buildings and shop signs in the foreground, and low-hanging clouds over Mount Hakodate in the back.
Shot into the window of a used-goods store in Hakodate, Japan, with a rather eclectic inventory of vintage household electrics and a white statue.
ALT text detailsShot into the window of a used-goods store in Hakodate, Japan, with a rather eclectic inventory of vintage household electrics and a white statue.
Side street angle in the Horaicho district of Hakodate, Japan. A rusty building with a dated "Sapporo Beer" sign in the foreground, an a restaurant named "The Very Very Beast" in the back.
ALT text detailsSide street angle in the Horaicho district of Hakodate, Japan. A rusty building with a dated "Sapporo Beer" sign in the foreground, an a restaurant named "The Very Very Beast" in the back.
Statue of a girl kneeling on the beach with seashells in the Red Brick Warehouse area of Hakodate in Hokkaido, Japan. In the background, out of focus, a black taxi is waiting outside one of the warehouses.
ALT text detailsStatue of a girl kneeling on the beach with seashells in the Red Brick Warehouse area of Hakodate in Hokkaido, Japan. In the background, out of focus, a black taxi is waiting outside one of the warehouses.
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:'s avatar
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:

@norbertwoehnl@famichiki.jp

Good morning from Tokyo, where we're headed for a very hot Tuesday!
Today, I have a collection of four unrelated observations from my recent trip to Hakodate in Hokkaido which I'll just call "Hakodate Moments".

A backstreet alley in the Horaicho district of Hakodate, Japan. Some dated buildings and shop signs in the foreground, and low-hanging clouds over Mount Hakodate in the back.
ALT text detailsA backstreet alley in the Horaicho district of Hakodate, Japan. Some dated buildings and shop signs in the foreground, and low-hanging clouds over Mount Hakodate in the back.
Shot into the window of a used-goods store in Hakodate, Japan, with a rather eclectic inventory of vintage household electrics and a white statue.
ALT text detailsShot into the window of a used-goods store in Hakodate, Japan, with a rather eclectic inventory of vintage household electrics and a white statue.
Side street angle in the Horaicho district of Hakodate, Japan. A rusty building with a dated "Sapporo Beer" sign in the foreground, an a restaurant named "The Very Very Beast" in the back.
ALT text detailsSide street angle in the Horaicho district of Hakodate, Japan. A rusty building with a dated "Sapporo Beer" sign in the foreground, an a restaurant named "The Very Very Beast" in the back.
Statue of a girl kneeling on the beach with seashells in the Red Brick Warehouse area of Hakodate in Hokkaido, Japan. In the background, out of focus, a black taxi is waiting outside one of the warehouses.
ALT text detailsStatue of a girl kneeling on the beach with seashells in the Red Brick Warehouse area of Hakodate in Hokkaido, Japan. In the background, out of focus, a black taxi is waiting outside one of the warehouses.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Starlit Night, Miyajima (1928)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

miyajima.or.jp/english/history

Evening at Itsukushima Shrine, Miyajima, in Hiroshima Prefecture. In the foreground, a stone lantern stands on the shore, lit and glowing; beyond, the calm waters of Matsushima Bay stretch out to where the famous 'floating' torii gate stands. Further on, forested mountains cross the horizon under a clear starlit sky.
ALT text detailsEvening at Itsukushima Shrine, Miyajima, in Hiroshima Prefecture. In the foreground, a stone lantern stands on the shore, lit and glowing; beyond, the calm waters of Matsushima Bay stretch out to where the famous 'floating' torii gate stands. Further on, forested mountains cross the horizon under a clear starlit sky.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Fact check: American-made Calrose rice is, in fact, already widely available in Japan as part of the country's rice shortage strategy! I've seen it at local supermarkets (I took the pic below at a local Hanamasa two days ago, b/c 2680 for 4kg is a good price).

Donald Trump truthing that Japan won't buy US rice
ALT text detailsDonald Trump truthing that Japan won't buy US rice
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

From the Not Setting a Good Example Department: Nagoya Mayor Hirosawa Ichirō collapsed at a podium during a press conference as reporters looked on in concern. He reportedly only took a single day off during the entire month of June.

Nagoya mayor Hirosawa Ichirō collapses at the podium
ALT text detailsNagoya mayor Hirosawa Ichirō collapses at the podium
Reporter realizes the mayor is collapsing mid-question
ALT text detailsReporter realizes the mayor is collapsing mid-question
Mayor Hirosawa being carried out on a stretcher
ALT text detailsMayor Hirosawa being carried out on a stretcher
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The ex-husband of snack bar owner Tokuyama Tomomi murdered her right after being released from jail. A new report says he told people he was gonna kill her & himself before the crime. Tokugawa filed a police report the day she was killed. The cops did nothing.

Article from Jiji.com. JP headline: 迫る影、届かなかったSOS　殺害ほのめかすも、事件防げず　識者「逃げざるを得ない」・西東京市元妻殺人
ALT text detailsArticle from Jiji.com. JP headline: 迫る影、届かなかったSOS　殺害ほのめかすも、事件防げず　識者「逃げざるを得ない」・西東京市元妻殺人
Will 🇯🇵's avatar
Will 🇯🇵

@wilpercy@beige.party

A silhouetted, leafless tree stands prominently against a bright sky, with intricate branches highlighted in a black and white setting. Soft clouds are visible behind the tree, creating a serene landscape.
ALT text detailsA silhouetted, leafless tree stands prominently against a bright sky, with intricate branches highlighted in a black and white setting. Soft clouds are visible behind the tree, creating a serene landscape.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japan will start fining bicyclists for riding on pedestrian sidewalks next year. However, even major cities have few dedicated bike lanes. The post below says the entire country needs dedicated bike lanes - like this one in Tokyo's Minato - before fining riders.

X post from @Mid_observatory. JP text: 港区で見かけた自転車専用レーン。青キップをはじめる前に、せめてこれぐらいは日本でも道を整備して欲しいです。
ALT text detailsX post from @Mid_observatory. JP text: 港区で見かけた自転車専用レーン。青キップをはじめる前に、せめてこれぐらいは日本でも道を整備して欲しいです。
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

As the summer beats down on Japan, more kids are using sun umbrellas to protect themselves. However, some schools are banning them on the grounds they block one's sight & use of one's hands and thus are "dangerous." A few parents also oppose the trend.

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Is Japan's birth rate dropping because the country is...too much fun? That's what industrialist/YouTuber Horie Takafumi believes. He said in a post on X that "Japan's become abundant & there's too much to enjoy besides childrearing" & not b/c people don't have enough money.

Horie Takafumi
ALT text detailsHorie Takafumi
X post from @takapon_jp. JP text: 少子化の原因は国が豊かになって子育て以外の楽しみが山のようにあるからですよ。。そして、給料が上がりにくいのは企業が借金しにくい雰囲気があるからですね。バブルの呪いみたいなもんです。
ALT text detailsX post from @takapon_jp. JP text: 少子化の原因は国が豊かになって子育て以外の楽しみが山のようにあるからですよ。。そして、給料が上がりにくいのは企業が借金しにくい雰囲気があるからですね。バブルの呪いみたいなもんです。
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Is Japan's birth rate dropping because the country is...too much fun? That's what industrialist/YouTuber Horie Takafumi believes. He said in a post on X that "Japan's become abundant & there's too much to enjoy besides childrearing" & not b/c people don't have enough money.

Horie Takafumi
ALT text detailsHorie Takafumi
X post from @takapon_jp. JP text: 少子化の原因は国が豊かになって子育て以外の楽しみが山のようにあるからですよ。。そして、給料が上がりにくいのは企業が借金しにくい雰囲気があるからですね。バブルの呪いみたいなもんです。
ALT text detailsX post from @takapon_jp. JP text: 少子化の原因は国が豊かになって子育て以外の楽しみが山のようにあるからですよ。。そして、給料が上がりにくいのは企業が借金しにくい雰囲気があるからですね。バブルの呪いみたいなもんです。
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Populist politicians and right-wingers online in Japan claim that foreigners get financial incentives while Japanese citizens are forced to pay their own way. It isn't true. However, a new survey finds that many here believe the propaganda.

unseen-japan.com/japan-foreign

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

With mid-to-high-end shopping, dining options, cultural facilities, and floor upon floor of space, Azabudai Hills presents a somewhat appealing facade to the average Tokyoite. What can you do there? And what does it signal for Tokyo’s changing urban landscape?

unseen-japan.com/on-azabudai-h

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japan is no stranger to protests and uprisings. They were a common feature of the Edo period, the late 20th century, and even the 21st. And yet, despite protests in Europe, no one in Japan is rioting about overtourism. Why?

unseen-japan.com/japan-no-anti

Buddhist Art's avatar
Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

Standing Kigeiten statue, Akishino-dera, , Prefecture, .

Standing Kigeiten statue, Akishino-dera, #Nara, #Nara Prefecture, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsStanding Kigeiten statue, Akishino-dera, #Nara, #Nara Prefecture, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
Buddhist Art's avatar
Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

Standing Kigeiten statue, Akishino-dera, , Prefecture, .

Standing Kigeiten statue, Akishino-dera, #Nara, #Nara Prefecture, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsStanding Kigeiten statue, Akishino-dera, #Nara, #Nara Prefecture, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Conveyor belt sushi chain Kura Sushi is admitting defeat in China, closing up its three stores in Shanghai. The chain struggled to attract customers post-COVID, and the rising cost of seafood in China has eroded the stores' profits.

Article from Nikkei. JP headline: くら寿司が中国本土から撤退　顧客つかめず、海外は米国・台湾に注力
ALT text detailsArticle from Nikkei. JP headline: くら寿司が中国本土から撤退　顧客つかめず、海外は米国・台湾に注力
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

"Listen up, everyone. This is what the world is calling 'retro games.'"

X post from @machidamegane. JP text: いいですか、みなさん。 これが世間で言うところの『レトロゲーム』です……
ALT text detailsX post from @machidamegane. JP text: いいですか、みなさん。 これが世間で言うところの『レトロゲーム』です……
Raymond Larabie's avatar
Raymond Larabie

@typodermic@mastodon.social

A weathered workshop bathes in late afternoon light, its rusted beams and peeling turquoise paint quietly soaking in the sun.🔨☀️

錆びた梁と剥がれたターコイズの塗装が、午後の陽光に優しく照らされる古びた作業場。🔧🌞

This industrial scene captures the front of an old workshop, its facade a patchwork of rust, faded paint, and sunlight. The dark interior contrasts sharply with the vibrant hues outside, revealing piles of metal and scraps in a state of suspended chaos.
ALT text detailsThis industrial scene captures the front of an old workshop, its facade a patchwork of rust, faded paint, and sunlight. The dark interior contrasts sharply with the vibrant hues outside, revealing piles of metal and scraps in a state of suspended chaos.
Raymond Larabie's avatar
Raymond Larabie

@typodermic@mastodon.social

Reflections in the glass panels above add fleeting brushstrokes of the surrounding neighborhood, completing this accidental masterpiece. 🚪🎨

上部のガラス窓には周囲の景色が映り込み、一瞬の即興アートを完成させている。🛠️🖌️

This industrial scene captures a factory's weathered steel door, streaked with rich layers of rust that mimic a painter’s bold strokes. Above, rectangular glass panes reflect the distorted outlines of nearby buildings and utility poles, creating an interplay of texture and light. The corrugated metal walls on either side provide a minimalist frame for the door's rugged, expressive beauty, blending decay and artistry in the heart of the city.
ALT text detailsThis industrial scene captures a factory's weathered steel door, streaked with rich layers of rust that mimic a painter’s bold strokes. Above, rectangular glass panes reflect the distorted outlines of nearby buildings and utility poles, creating an interplay of texture and light. The corrugated metal walls on either side provide a minimalist frame for the door's rugged, expressive beauty, blending decay and artistry in the heart of the city.
Raymond Larabie's avatar
Raymond Larabie

@typodermic@mastodon.social

Sometimes, it's the quiet geometry of a place that demands attention. The layers of old wood, fogged glass, and makeshift repairs form an abstract patchwork of rectangles, each telling its own slow story of weather and time. 🏚️📏

時々、静かな幾何学が目を奪う。古びた木材、曇ったガラス、即席の修繕が織りなす長方形のパッチワーク。それぞれが、時間と風雨に晒された物語を語っている。📐🪵

A close-up of an old window and wooden fence, weathered and patched together over the years. The frosted glass softens whatever lies beyond, while the slats of wood below show signs of countless repairs.
ALT text detailsA close-up of an old window and wooden fence, weathered and patched together over the years. The frosted glass softens whatever lies beyond, while the slats of wood below show signs of countless repairs.
Raymond Larabie's avatar
Raymond Larabie

@typodermic@mastodon.social

A garage packed with tools, gloves, and enough wires to make you question if this is car maintenance or a mad scientist’s side project. 🧤🔧

工具や手袋、謎の配線が所狭しと並ぶガレージ。軽バンの整備場か、それとも科学者の秘密基地か？ 🧤🚐

On one side, shelves and hooks hold an eclectic mix of wrenches, pliers, gloves, and cables—all organized with a method only the owner understands. A patterned cloth with a retro floral design hangs like a decorative afterthought.
ALT text detailsOn one side, shelves and hooks hold an eclectic mix of wrenches, pliers, gloves, and cables—all organized with a method only the owner understands. A patterned cloth with a retro floral design hangs like a decorative afterthought.
Raymond Larabie's avatar
Raymond Larabie

@typodermic@mastodon.social

The cold sun pierces through the machinery, as if trying to thaw the steel. ☀️🔩

冷たい太陽が建設機械の隙間から差し込み、鉄を温めようとしているかのよう。 🌞🛠️

A rugged piece of construction equipment sits atop a battered truck bed, its hydraulic arm standing tall against the morning light. The sun bursts through the gaps, casting sharp flares across the frame, but the metal remains unmoved—thick with grime, hardened by labor.
ALT text detailsA rugged piece of construction equipment sits atop a battered truck bed, its hydraulic arm standing tall against the morning light. The sun bursts through the gaps, casting sharp flares across the frame, but the metal remains unmoved—thick with grime, hardened by labor.
Raymond Larabie's avatar
Raymond Larabie

@typodermic@mastodon.social

A van, perfectly slotted into its designated van-shaped void, contemplating its next mission. 🚐⬛

バンがバン用の穴にぴったり収まり、次の出動を静かに待つ。 🏢🚗

A boxy white van sits snugly inside a corrugated metal garage, half in shadow, half illuminated by the afternoon sun. To its right, an unassuming side door, perhaps leading to an office or workshop, stands quietly, bearing a single sheet of paper—its message unreadable from this distance. Above, shadows from unseen cables and poles crisscross the rippling façade, adding texture to the scene.
ALT text detailsA boxy white van sits snugly inside a corrugated metal garage, half in shadow, half illuminated by the afternoon sun. To its right, an unassuming side door, perhaps leading to an office or workshop, stands quietly, bearing a single sheet of paper—its message unreadable from this distance. Above, shadows from unseen cables and poles crisscross the rippling façade, adding texture to the scene.
Raymond Larabie's avatar
Raymond Larabie

@typodermic@mastodon.social

No sleek lines, no minimalist branding. Just a structure too stubborn to care what the algorithm thinks. 😎📡

それでもそこにある。それこそが、いちばんクール。 🧊🏮

A crooked yield sign leans into frame beside an aging Japanese home. The house, with its layered tile roof and makeshift supports, wears its years unapologetically. A satellite dish sits like a forgotten accessory on a too-old outfit, trying its best to pull the look together. Shadows cut the composition into bold contrasts, emphasizing texture over polish.
ALT text detailsA crooked yield sign leans into frame beside an aging Japanese home. The house, with its layered tile roof and makeshift supports, wears its years unapologetically. A satellite dish sits like a forgotten accessory on a too-old outfit, trying its best to pull the look together. Shadows cut the composition into bold contrasts, emphasizing texture over polish.
Raymond Larabie's avatar
Raymond Larabie

@typodermic@mastodon.social

It's not just abandoned—it’s unsubscribed from life. 📬🕸️

誰も開けないポスト、それはもう生活からログアウト済み。 📪🥀

A weathered mailbox juts from a traditional exterior wall, its overstuffed contents creating a dramatic, exaggerated shadow in the harsh afternoon light. The surrounding textures—wood paneling, rough plaster, and frosted glass—form a collage of surfaces slowly surrendering to time.
ALT text detailsA weathered mailbox juts from a traditional exterior wall, its overstuffed contents creating a dramatic, exaggerated shadow in the harsh afternoon light. The surrounding textures—wood paneling, rough plaster, and frosted glass—form a collage of surfaces slowly surrendering to time.
Raymond Larabie's avatar
Raymond Larabie

@typodermic@mastodon.social

A bike path boldly announces its purpose in the blockiest kanji imaginable. 🚲🧱

ドット絵かと思いきや、まさかの漢字「自転車」。このピクセル感、懐かしのファミコンか、令和の歩道か。いずれにせよ、自転車通行はOK。 🚲🉐

A textured sidewalk in monochrome features the kanji characters for “bicycle” (自転車) embedded into the brickwork in a charmingly pixelated style. The chunky, blocky font recalls retro gaming graphics, a lo-fi declaration of cycling territory. A rider approaches in the background, front wheel perfectly aligned with the path's utilitarian intent.
ALT text detailsA textured sidewalk in monochrome features the kanji characters for “bicycle” (自転車) embedded into the brickwork in a charmingly pixelated style. The chunky, blocky font recalls retro gaming graphics, a lo-fi declaration of cycling territory. A rider approaches in the background, front wheel perfectly aligned with the path's utilitarian intent.
Raymond Larabie's avatar
Raymond Larabie

@typodermic@mastodon.social

The façade is a masterclass in “lived-in.” Peeling paint, scuffed metal, weather-stained siding, and enough grime to fill a restoration YouTube channel. 🛠️🧱

質感だけで人生を語ってきたような玄関。錆び、染み、剥げたペンキ…いずれも立派な住人。🏚️📦

A gritty exterior of what appears to be a back entrance or side façade of a building in Nagoya. The image is rendered in high-contrast black and white, drawing attention to the weathered siding, a rust-streaked window, and a dented metal door with a screen panel. To the right, stacks of wooden boards are topped with a couple of plastic buckets, hinting at some kind of industrious activity—past or present. Pipes, meters, and wires trace their way across the surfaces like urban veins, adding a quiet complexity to the otherwise utilitarian composition.
ALT text detailsA gritty exterior of what appears to be a back entrance or side façade of a building in Nagoya. The image is rendered in high-contrast black and white, drawing attention to the weathered siding, a rust-streaked window, and a dented metal door with a screen panel. To the right, stacks of wooden boards are topped with a couple of plastic buckets, hinting at some kind of industrious activity—past or present. Pipes, meters, and wires trace their way across the surfaces like urban veins, adding a quiet complexity to the otherwise utilitarian composition.
📷Sayuri.H📱's avatar
📷Sayuri.H📱

@sayuri_t_h@photog.social

in ,


 


A cat lying on the ground in front of stone statue
ALT text detailsA cat lying on the ground in front of stone statue
📷Sayuri.H📱's avatar
📷Sayuri.H📱

@sayuri_t_h@photog.social

in ,


 


A close up photo of the cat lying on the ground
ALT text detailsA close up photo of the cat lying on the ground
📷Sayuri.H📱's avatar
📷Sayuri.H📱

@sayuri_t_h@photog.social

in ,


 


A close up photo of the cat lying on the ground
ALT text detailsA close up photo of the cat lying on the ground
📷Sayuri.H📱's avatar
📷Sayuri.H📱

@sayuri_t_h@photog.social

in ,


 


A cat lying on the ground in front of stone statue
ALT text detailsA cat lying on the ground in front of stone statue
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Are you sure that "great spot" you found to visit in Japan...actually exists? In an age of AI slop, fantasy and reality are blurring. Let Unseen Japan Tours show you the real Japan with customized itineraries and expert guiding from a knowledgeable human, not a machine.

unseen-japan.com/unseen-japan-

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Weather Mizu

@mizu@mastodon.social

JMA' announced Baiu rain season has gone from Kyushu, Chugoku, Shikoku and Kinki region.

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Until now, host club billboards in Japan have shown how much their top hosts earned. That practice is about to be banned - and clubs have responded by blotting out the figures on their billboards. Below is the same location in Tokyo's Kabukicho a few months ago vs. yesterday.

Host club ads in Tokyo's Kabukicho before the new law
ALT text detailsHost club ads in Tokyo's Kabukicho before the new law
The same location today with earnings on the signs blotted out
ALT text detailsThe same location today with earnings on the signs blotted out
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Nonexistent tourist sites. Ghibli slop. Fake disasters. Propagandists have always spread disinformation about Japan. Now, AI is making it ten times worse. We look at the impact and how, in some cases, it can even put people's lives in danger.

unseen-japan.com/ai-japan-perc

atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Rain in Maekawa, Sagami Province (1932)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

geinokai.jp/blog/2025/03/03/ts

Evening rain falls on a rural street in Maekawa, in modern-day Kanagawa Prefecture. On our left, branches of tall shadowy trees reach out over the road; a row of traditional thatched-roof houses stands on our right, warm lights shining in their windows. The road running down the middle of the image is slick with rain, and steady rain continues to fall from a dim, overcast sky. A solitary pedestrian carries a bamboo umbrella over their head as they walk away from us.
ALT text detailsEvening rain falls on a rural street in Maekawa, in modern-day Kanagawa Prefecture. On our left, branches of tall shadowy trees reach out over the road; a row of traditional thatched-roof houses stands on our right, warm lights shining in their windows. The road running down the middle of the image is slick with rain, and steady rain continues to fall from a dim, overcast sky. A solitary pedestrian carries a bamboo umbrella over their head as they walk away from us.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Rain in Maekawa, Sagami Province (1932)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

geinokai.jp/blog/2025/03/03/ts

Evening rain falls on a rural street in Maekawa, in modern-day Kanagawa Prefecture. On our left, branches of tall shadowy trees reach out over the road; a row of traditional thatched-roof houses stands on our right, warm lights shining in their windows. The road running down the middle of the image is slick with rain, and steady rain continues to fall from a dim, overcast sky. A solitary pedestrian carries a bamboo umbrella over their head as they walk away from us.
ALT text detailsEvening rain falls on a rural street in Maekawa, in modern-day Kanagawa Prefecture. On our left, branches of tall shadowy trees reach out over the road; a row of traditional thatched-roof houses stands on our right, warm lights shining in their windows. The road running down the middle of the image is slick with rain, and steady rain continues to fall from a dim, overcast sky. A solitary pedestrian carries a bamboo umbrella over their head as they walk away from us.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

"It’s an odd situation. Tell a Japanese person that you know Kitano Takeshi for his movies, and they’ll scratch their head. Tell a French film buff that Takeshi is mostly a slapstick comedian who hosts cheap talk shows, and they’ll get up in arms at the insult to a true film auteur."

buff.ly/bM4HVhQ

Scene from Outrage: Camera looking up at two men in suits, one holding a gun
ALT text detailsScene from Outrage: Camera looking up at two men in suits, one holding a gun
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Not Japan-related, but since we all need a distraction from The Horrors, Takaya Suzuki points out a study that examined 408 sleeping cats and found the majority (65%) curl leftwards.

I'm not sure how useful this information is, but...it's yours now.

Post by suzuki_takaya 衝撃の事実。ネコは１日12−16時間寝るけれども、この丸まったポジションの左巻き・右巻きのどちらが多いか。YouTubeで何匹もの眠るネコを観察し、266匹（65％）のネコが左巻き、142匹のネコが右巻きに寝ていたことを発見。有意な差が見られたとのこと。人類史上に残る幸せな研究といえる。
ALT text detailsPost by suzuki_takaya 衝撃の事実。ネコは１日12−16時間寝るけれども、この丸まったポジションの左巻き・右巻きのどちらが多いか。YouTubeで何匹もの眠るネコを観察し、266匹（65％）のネコが左巻き、142匹のネコが右巻きに寝ていたことを発見。有意な差が見られたとのこと。人類史上に残る幸せな研究といえる。
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Not Japan-related, but since we all need a distraction from The Horrors, Takaya Suzuki points out a study that examined 408 sleeping cats and found the majority (65%) curl leftwards.

I'm not sure how useful this information is, but...it's yours now.

Post by suzuki_takaya 衝撃の事実。ネコは１日12−16時間寝るけれども、この丸まったポジションの左巻き・右巻きのどちらが多いか。YouTubeで何匹もの眠るネコを観察し、266匹（65％）のネコが左巻き、142匹のネコが右巻きに寝ていたことを発見。有意な差が見られたとのこと。人類史上に残る幸せな研究といえる。
ALT text detailsPost by suzuki_takaya 衝撃の事実。ネコは１日12−16時間寝るけれども、この丸まったポジションの左巻き・右巻きのどちらが多いか。YouTubeで何匹もの眠るネコを観察し、266匹（65％）のネコが左巻き、142匹のネコが右巻きに寝ていたことを発見。有意な差が見られたとのこと。人類史上に残る幸せな研究といえる。
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Not Japan-related, but since we all need a distraction from The Horrors, Takaya Suzuki points out a study that examined 408 sleeping cats and found the majority (65%) curl leftwards.

I'm not sure how useful this information is, but...it's yours now.

Post by suzuki_takaya 衝撃の事実。ネコは１日12−16時間寝るけれども、この丸まったポジションの左巻き・右巻きのどちらが多いか。YouTubeで何匹もの眠るネコを観察し、266匹（65％）のネコが左巻き、142匹のネコが右巻きに寝ていたことを発見。有意な差が見られたとのこと。人類史上に残る幸せな研究といえる。
ALT text detailsPost by suzuki_takaya 衝撃の事実。ネコは１日12−16時間寝るけれども、この丸まったポジションの左巻き・右巻きのどちらが多いか。YouTubeで何匹もの眠るネコを観察し、266匹（65％）のネコが左巻き、142匹のネコが右巻きに寝ていたことを発見。有意な差が見られたとのこと。人類史上に残る幸せな研究といえる。
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Kasugai (Aichi Prefecture) city legislator Murakami Shinjirō referred to transgender legislator Kojima Sayuri as an "old dude" (ossan). She sued him for defamation. A Nagoya court ruled in her favor and ordered Murakami to pay out 170K yen ($1,170).

News article from Asahi Shimbun. Japanese headline: トランスジェンダー市議に「おっさん」発言　名古屋地裁が賠償命じる
ALT text detailsNews article from Asahi Shimbun. Japanese headline: トランスジェンダー市議に「おっさん」発言　名古屋地裁が賠償命じる
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A Shinto org in Japan spreads hate, another Japan TV sexual harassment scandal, an iconic street character, and whether tourist protests might spread to Japan - this and more in this week's Unseen Japan Newsletter.

buff.ly/UxG87bx

Mukogawa University
ALT text detailsMukogawa University
Three members of TOKIO
ALT text detailsThree members of TOKIO
Tobidashi Boya
ALT text detailsTobidashi Boya
People holding up protest fists and signs in SHibuya
ALT text detailsPeople holding up protest fists and signs in SHibuya
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Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

(広目天), one of the Four Heavenly Kings (四天王) guarding the four cardinal directions of the , dating to the period (794-1185) at Rokuharamitsu-ji (六波羅蜜寺) in Kyoto, .

#Kōmokuten (広目天), one of the Four Heavenly Kings (四天王) guarding the four cardinal directions of the #cosmos, dating to the #Heian period (794-1185) at Rokuharamitsu-ji (六波羅蜜寺) in Kyoto, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text details#Kōmokuten (広目天), one of the Four Heavenly Kings (四天王) guarding the four cardinal directions of the #cosmos, dating to the #Heian period (794-1185) at Rokuharamitsu-ji (六波羅蜜寺) in Kyoto, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
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Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

(広目天), one of the Four Heavenly Kings (四天王) guarding the four cardinal directions of the , dating to the period (794-1185) at Rokuharamitsu-ji (六波羅蜜寺) in Kyoto, .

#Kōmokuten (広目天), one of the Four Heavenly Kings (四天王) guarding the four cardinal directions of the #cosmos, dating to the #Heian period (794-1185) at Rokuharamitsu-ji (六波羅蜜寺) in Kyoto, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text details#Kōmokuten (広目天), one of the Four Heavenly Kings (四天王) guarding the four cardinal directions of the #cosmos, dating to the #Heian period (794-1185) at Rokuharamitsu-ji (六波羅蜜寺) in Kyoto, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
Bot in Japan's avatar
Bot in Japan

@botinjapan@mastodon.social

Random street view taken in February 2020, near Miyakojima in Okinawa prefecture. maps.google.com/?q=24.7242954,

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Why aren't people protesting overtourism in Japan like they are in Spain? The answer's more complicated than people are too polite to riot. We look at the facts in this week's Unseen Japan Insider newsletter - subscribe today before it comes out on Thursday:

unseen-japan.com/support/

Protestors in Europe have had enough. Fed up with tourists whose presence is driving up housing costs, demonstrators in Barcelona, Spain and elsewhere took to the streets on June 16th and shot water guns at tourists. In Japan, however, no one's demonstrating against overtourism. This, despite badly behaved tourists making headlines by stealing other people's Shinkansen reserved seats and trashing temples and shrines. The stereotype is that Japanese people are just too nice, too polite to do anything as unseemly as "demonstrate." It's a nice little argument. One look at history proves that it's bullshit. Wikipedia JP has an entire page dedicated to popular uprisings in Japanese history. Peasant uprisings occurred in Japan for well over a thousand years. (One of the marked exceptions was the early 18th century, when shogun Tokugawa Tsunayoshi was so attuned to the people's needs that it was a time of relative peace.)
ALT text detailsProtestors in Europe have had enough. Fed up with tourists whose presence is driving up housing costs, demonstrators in Barcelona, Spain and elsewhere took to the streets on June 16th and shot water guns at tourists. In Japan, however, no one's demonstrating against overtourism. This, despite badly behaved tourists making headlines by stealing other people's Shinkansen reserved seats and trashing temples and shrines. The stereotype is that Japanese people are just too nice, too polite to do anything as unseemly as "demonstrate." It's a nice little argument. One look at history proves that it's bullshit. Wikipedia JP has an entire page dedicated to popular uprisings in Japanese history. Peasant uprisings occurred in Japan for well over a thousand years. (One of the marked exceptions was the early 18th century, when shogun Tokugawa Tsunayoshi was so attuned to the people's needs that it was a time of relative peace.)
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A few days after Kokubun Taichi was suspended from male idol group TOKIO for power and sexual harassment, the group, which has been together since 1994, announced that it's disbanding. They said it'll be "difficult to regain trust" from fans after the scandal.

Article fro mNikkan Ports TOKIO解散発表「再び信頼をいただき、応援いただくことは難しい」国分太一の活動休止で決断
ALT text detailsArticle fro mNikkan Ports TOKIO解散発表「再び信頼をいただき、応援いただくことは難しい」国分太一の活動休止で決断
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Tamaki Yūichirō, Head of Japan's Democratic Party for the People, was asked at the Foreign Correspondents Club of Japan why his party fares so poorly with women. His response? Many say his party's message is complicated and "it's a bit difficult to understand for them."

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Why has Japan's far right been left behind? We go beyond the stereotypes and look at the data in our recent issue of Unseen Japan Insider, available to subscribers. Click below to join and read today:

unseen-japan.com/far-right-tak

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A new report from French marketing firm Ipsos tracking LGBTQ progress worldwide shows that, while support for LGBTQ couples in general slipped in Japan this year, awareness of and support for transgender people's rights fell consistently by double digits.

buff.ly/Ax5VMD6

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

From next month, Tokyo's Shibuya will require "street kart" companies that let tourists kart around Tokyo's streets to register with the city, signing a contract & filing an "explanation to citizens." The service is a fave of many tourists but generally hated by locals.

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The Japan Tourism Agency confirmed that travel from Hong Kong is down in May, thanks to an old manga that predicted a massive tsunami in Japan on July 5th. However, the panic isn't affecting travel from other Asian countries & Japan is still setting monthly inbound travel records.

Picture of article from Honichi Lab
ALT text detailsPicture of article from Honichi Lab
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Two men in Aichi Prefecture were arrested for marijuana possession when a neighbor reported something that "smelled like pot" to the cops. Cue Japanese social media troutting out its favorite "how did they know what pot smelled like" memes (descriptions in alt).

Post from LiveDoor News. JP text: 【発見】「大麻のような匂いがする」 近くの人からの通報で発覚、大麻所持の疑いで男2人を再逮捕 https://news.livedoor.com/article/detail/29030581/ 男の自宅周辺から「大麻のような匂いがする」と通報があり、捜索したところ、ドーム型のテント内で鉢に植えられた大麻草が見つかり、2人を現行犯逮捕していた。
ALT text detailsPost from LiveDoor News. JP text: 【発見】「大麻のような匂いがする」 近くの人からの通報で発覚、大麻所持の疑いで男2人を再逮捕 https://news.livedoor.com/article/detail/29030581/ 男の自宅周辺から「大麻のような匂いがする」と通報があり、捜索したところ、ドーム型のテント内で鉢に植えられた大麻草が見つかり、2人を現行犯逮捕していた。
Pic of Sugishita Ukyō from long-running detective TV series AIBOU saying, "Strange...how did you know it was marijuana?"
ALT text detailsPic of Sugishita Ukyō from long-running detective TV series AIBOU saying, "Strange...how did you know it was marijuana?"
Pic of Edogawa Conan from Detective Conan saying, "Huh...that's weird!!"
ALT text detailsPic of Edogawa Conan from Detective Conan saying, "Huh...that's weird!!"
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Today is UFO Catcher Day in Japan. 40 years ago, Sega debuted the iconic crane game that remains popular here. It wasn't always gonna be the "UFO Catcher," though: its original name was "Eagle Catcher," conjuring images of an eagle swooping down on its prey.

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dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Daily moment in Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
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dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Daily moment in Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
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SeanBreslin

@SeanBreslin@famichiki.jp

I've been wondering if there's any point to digital photography (and posting in general) when AI is creating an ever growing bucket of mush. The answer is '"Of course there is!" but still...

A surfer on a beach. No waves.
ALT text detailsA surfer on a beach. No waves.
A woman praying in a Japanese cemetery.
ALT text detailsA woman praying in a Japanese cemetery.
Mountains and clouds.
ALT text detailsMountains and clouds.
A mountain hut near a peak.
ALT text detailsA mountain hut near a peak.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

L'Atelier chouchou, a French restaurant in Tokyo's Setagaya, was the victim of a prank reservation this week when someone rented out the entire restaurant...and never showed up. The owner says they'll now (reluctantly) charge a 50% advance for block reservations.

Post from latelier_chouchou0422 on Threads. Japanese text: やられた。。。 先日『駒沢大学附属高等学校』の教員古賀と名乗る男より、 教員の親睦会をする為店を貸し切りたいとの相談があり、 予約を承り準備もしっかりとしました。 LINEでの打ち合わせも先程までやってました。 しかし待てど暮らせど来店されず、電話は拒否、LINEも既読にならず。 他の方の予約も3件ほどお断りして、、 準備した食材、どうしよう。。。 誰か来ませんか。。。？
ALT text detailsPost from latelier_chouchou0422 on Threads. Japanese text: やられた。。。 先日『駒沢大学附属高等学校』の教員古賀と名乗る男より、 教員の親睦会をする為店を貸し切りたいとの相談があり、 予約を承り準備もしっかりとしました。 LINEでの打ち合わせも先程までやってました。 しかし待てど暮らせど来店されず、電話は拒否、LINEも既読にならず。 他の方の予約も3件ほどお断りして、、 準備した食材、どうしよう。。。 誰か来ませんか。。。？
Pictures of the tables laid out for the no-show customers
ALT text detailsPictures of the tables laid out for the no-show customers
Pic showing the restaurant confirmed the reservation and payment details on LINE beforehand
ALT text detailsPic showing the restaurant confirmed the reservation and payment details on LINE beforehand
Threads post from latelier_chouchou0422. Japanese text: 実際、ご予約くださる方に はなから信用してません的な事はなかなかできません。
ALT text detailsThreads post from latelier_chouchou0422. Japanese text: 実際、ご予約くださる方に はなから信用してません的な事はなかなかできません。
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Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

Seated statue of Bosatsu enshrined in the repository of Rakuya-ji in Koka, Shiga Prefecture, . It was created in the third year of the late period (1187) and is designated as an important cultural property.

Seated statue of #Jizo Bosatsu enshrined in the repository of Rakuya-ji in Koka, Shiga Prefecture, #Japan. It was created in the third year of the late #Heian period (1187) and is designated as an important cultural property. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsSeated statue of #Jizo Bosatsu enshrined in the repository of Rakuya-ji in Koka, Shiga Prefecture, #Japan. It was created in the third year of the late #Heian period (1187) and is designated as an important cultural property. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
Buddhist Art's avatar
Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

Seated statue of Bosatsu enshrined in the repository of Rakuya-ji in Koka, Shiga Prefecture, . It was created in the third year of the late period (1187) and is designated as an important cultural property.

Seated statue of #Jizo Bosatsu enshrined in the repository of Rakuya-ji in Koka, Shiga Prefecture, #Japan. It was created in the third year of the late #Heian period (1187) and is designated as an important cultural property. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsSeated statue of #Jizo Bosatsu enshrined in the repository of Rakuya-ji in Koka, Shiga Prefecture, #Japan. It was created in the third year of the late #Heian period (1187) and is designated as an important cultural property. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Unknown (1968)

Artist: Toshi Yoshida

mainichi.jp/english/articles/2 #

An abstract image suggesting a landscape crossed by horizontal lines and touches of flat colour, stretching out toward a strange, gigantic, dark mesa-like feature.
ALT text detailsAn abstract image suggesting a landscape crossed by horizontal lines and touches of flat colour, stretching out toward a strange, gigantic, dark mesa-like feature.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Unknown (1968)

Artist: Toshi Yoshida

mainichi.jp/english/articles/2 #

An abstract image suggesting a landscape crossed by horizontal lines and touches of flat colour, stretching out toward a strange, gigantic, dark mesa-like feature.
ALT text detailsAn abstract image suggesting a landscape crossed by horizontal lines and touches of flat colour, stretching out toward a strange, gigantic, dark mesa-like feature.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social

🌩️BEWARE THE BELLY BUTTON THIEF!😳

On those rare rainy season days where storms grumble up in the mountains, be careful to keep a close eye on your navel🤔

speaking truth
the rainy season's crack
of thunder
正直に入梅雷の一つかな
-Kobayashi Issa, 1820.
Trans. David Lanoue.

'Spring thunder' or 'first thunder' is a traditional sweet found in springtime, known for its distinctive cracked surface.
ALT text details'Spring thunder' or 'first thunder' is a traditional sweet found in springtime, known for its distinctive cracked surface.
Woodblock print of a lightning storm over Amanohashidate. Image thanks - https://ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of a lightning storm over Amanohashidate. Image thanks - https://ukiyo-e.org/
Wind God Fujin (right) and Thunder God Raijin (left) by Tawaraya Sotatsu.
ALT text detailsWind God Fujin (right) and Thunder God Raijin (left) by Tawaraya Sotatsu.
'Spring thunder' or 'first thunder' is a traditional sweet found in springtime, known for its distinctive cracked surface.
ALT text details'Spring thunder' or 'first thunder' is a traditional sweet found in springtime, known for its distinctive cracked surface.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Uniqlo in Japan has a new unmanned locker system for picking up orders (you wave your membership card and the door opens), and it looks like a designer at the company saw the locker system in THE SUBSTANCE and thought, "now that's peak design"

X post from user @mekkon. Japanese text: UNIQLOの店舗引き取りで頼んだものだけ受け取ろうときたら無人対応になっていました。アニメとか漫画に出てきそうなロッカーのところで会員証を読み込ませると自分の荷物が開くシステム。超かっこいい
ALT text detailsX post from user @mekkon. Japanese text: UNIQLOの店舗引き取りで頼んだものだけ受け取ろうときたら無人対応になっていました。アニメとか漫画に出てきそうなロッカーのところで会員証を読み込ませると自分の荷物が開くシステム。超かっこいい
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Another TV station is in hot water for its star's bad behavior. Kokubun Taichi, keyboardist for the male group TOKIO, is out at NTV and suspended from the group after allegations of power and sexual harassment. It's the latest in a string of harassment scandals on Japanese TV.

unseen-japan.com/tokio-kokubun

Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social

🌩️BEWARE THE BELLY BUTTON THIEF!😳

On those rare rainy season days where storms grumble up in the mountains, be careful to keep a close eye on your navel🤔

speaking truth
the rainy season's crack
of thunder
正直に入梅雷の一つかな
-Kobayashi Issa, 1820.
Trans. David Lanoue.

'Spring thunder' or 'first thunder' is a traditional sweet found in springtime, known for its distinctive cracked surface.
ALT text details'Spring thunder' or 'first thunder' is a traditional sweet found in springtime, known for its distinctive cracked surface.
Woodblock print of a lightning storm over Amanohashidate. Image thanks - https://ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of a lightning storm over Amanohashidate. Image thanks - https://ukiyo-e.org/
Wind God Fujin (right) and Thunder God Raijin (left) by Tawaraya Sotatsu.
ALT text detailsWind God Fujin (right) and Thunder God Raijin (left) by Tawaraya Sotatsu.
'Spring thunder' or 'first thunder' is a traditional sweet found in springtime, known for its distinctive cracked surface.
ALT text details'Spring thunder' or 'first thunder' is a traditional sweet found in springtime, known for its distinctive cracked surface.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Amazing graph from the Tokyo Assembly Election showing who voted for what party by age group. Governor Koike Yuriko's Tomin First Party dominated, commanding strong support from every age bracket. Japan's ruling LDP, by contrast, lost 12 seats. Its biggest supporters? 80-year-olds.

X post by @nice_gaiaku. Text: テレビ見てて慌てて撮ったんだけど… これ、普通にすごくね？？
ALT text detailsX post by @nice_gaiaku. Text: テレビ見てて慌てて撮ったんだけど… これ、普通にすごくね？？
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japan is so hard up for delivery drivers given its chronic labor shortage issues that the government's considering a new rule that would make leaving packages at doors the standard. Currently, delivery services will re-deliver unless the building has an open package delivery locker.

Article from Asahi Shimbun. JP text: 「置き配」が標準、手渡しは追加料金　国交省が宅配の新ルール検討
ALT text detailsArticle from Asahi Shimbun. JP text: 「置き配」が標準、手渡しは追加料金　国交省が宅配の新ルール検討
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A Kurdish rights group held a symposium to discuss the hate aimed at Kurdish residents of Kawaguchi and Warabi, Saitama Prefecture. Acts include taking pics of kids & making baseless accusations of shoplifting on social media, & making hateful calls to Kurdish-owned restaurants.

Article from Mainichi Shimbun. JP headline: クルド人への差別「禁止する法律を」　川口でシンポ　／埼玉
ALT text detailsArticle from Mainichi Shimbun. JP headline: クルド人への差別「禁止する法律を」　川口でシンポ　／埼玉
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The big news about yesterday's Tokyo Metro Assembly Election is not who won or lost, but that Shinagawa City hands out a cute voting verification card featuring Cinnamoroll, the city's official Tourism Ambassador. The card has text warning not to resell it (good luck with THAT).

X post from @kawataka1110. Text in Japanese: みんな選挙に行こう！ちなみに品川区は投票済証としてこんな物もらえるよ✨
ALT text detailsX post from @kawataka1110. Text in Japanese: みんな選挙に行こう！ちなみに品川区は投票済証としてこんな物もらえるよ✨
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:'s avatar
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:

@norbertwoehnl@famichiki.jp

Arrived in Hakodate in southern Hokkaido tonight for a much-needed getaway from the daily grind. See you in a week! 👋

Random night photos from the hotel window (1), and a walk in the vicinity (2-4).

Night photo from Hakodate in southern Hokkaido, Japan - view from hotel window
ALT text detailsNight photo from Hakodate in southern Hokkaido, Japan - view from hotel window
Night photo from Hakodate in southern Hokkaido, Japan - walk in hotel vicinity
ALT text detailsNight photo from Hakodate in southern Hokkaido, Japan - walk in hotel vicinity
Night photo from Hakodate in southern Hokkaido, Japan - walk in hotel vicinity
ALT text detailsNight photo from Hakodate in southern Hokkaido, Japan - walk in hotel vicinity
Night photo from Hakodate in southern Hokkaido, Japan - trams are running in hotel vicinity
ALT text detailsNight photo from Hakodate in southern Hokkaido, Japan - trams are running in hotel vicinity
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SeanBreslin

@SeanBreslin@famichiki.jp

It looks like the stars are aligning for an overnight hike in the Minami Alps in the next few days. I go a little bit crazy if I don’t do it at least once a year. And the good news is the campsite will still be closed (= less people).

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The word is out as to why male idol group TOKIO member Kokubun Taichi has dropped out of entertainment. While NTV, which suspended him from his variety show, wouldn't say anything, sources say he bullied & sexually harassed staff, which included asking for lewd pics.

Clip from News Post Seven article on Kokubun Taichi. Japanese headline: 《セクハラに該当する行為》TOKIO・国分太一、元テレビ局員の年下妻への“裏切り”「調子に乗るなと言ってくれる」存在
ALT text detailsClip from News Post Seven article on Kokubun Taichi. Japanese headline: 《セクハラに該当する行為》TOKIO・国分太一、元テレビ局員の年下妻への“裏切り”「調子に乗るなと言ってくれる」存在
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

"Sakamoto Ryōma probably never even dreamed that, 160 years later, the spot where he was struck down would be a karaoke joint"

X post by @reiji_shimomura. JP text: 坂本龍馬は、自分が討たれた近江屋が160年後にカラオケ屋になってるなんて夢にも思わなかっただろうな
ALT text detailsX post by @reiji_shimomura. JP text: 坂本龍馬は、自分が討たれた近江屋が160年後にカラオケ屋になってるなんて夢にも思わなかっただろうな
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Asahi Post spotlights Ueda Nozomi, who as a high schooler invented a chest-flattening undergarment to help her gender-diverse friends achieve the appearance they want. She developed the garment with manufacturer Gunze; it's also popular with cosplayers & large-chested women.

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Mukogawa Women's University, which says it's the largest comprehensive women's university in Japan, is going co-ed in 2027. The school says it's a necessary response to the country's population decline. Some current students, however, aren't happy.

buff.ly/phEVVmI

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Fedi.Garden 🌱

@FediGarden@social.growyourown.services

Urusai.social is a friendly and non-toxic Glitch Mastodon server for anime, manga, and other otaku topics. It lets you write posts up 800 characters long and has many special features such as emoji reactions, additional themes, hover-zoom for emoji etc.

:Fediverse: urusai.social

You can find out more at urusai.social/about or contact the admin @neatchee

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Two Chinese aircraft carriers conducted about 1,000 takeoffs and landings of fighter jets based on the vessels during recent sailings that saw them punch further into the Pacific Ocean, Japan’s defense chief said Friday. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/06/

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Two Chinese aircraft carriers conducted about 1,000 takeoffs and landings of fighter jets based on the vessels during recent sailings that saw them punch further into the Pacific Ocean, Japan’s defense chief said Friday. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/06/

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

One of the best ways to reuse the cushioning they put around expensive fruits in Japan: Turn your cat into Bastet

X post by @Teagle_Noir featuring a cat with a fruit cushion around its neck and jewels dangling from it
ALT text detailsX post by @Teagle_Noir featuring a cat with a fruit cushion around its neck and jewels dangling from it
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Hori River (1935)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

a-rr.net/jp/en/waterside/domes

Evening on the banks of Nagoya's Hori River. In the foreground, a single small wooden boat is pulled up on a sloping launch; the water of the river is still. Warehouses crowd close together on the canal bank, their doors shut, windows dark and shuttered - except for one light glowing in a single window, reflected in the water below. Above, stars shine in the cloudless night sky.
ALT text detailsEvening on the banks of Nagoya's Hori River. In the foreground, a single small wooden boat is pulled up on a sloping launch; the water of the river is still. Warehouses crowd close together on the canal bank, their doors shut, windows dark and shuttered - except for one light glowing in a single window, reflected in the water below. Above, stars shine in the cloudless night sky.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Hori River (1935)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

a-rr.net/jp/en/waterside/domes

Evening on the banks of Nagoya's Hori River. In the foreground, a single small wooden boat is pulled up on a sloping launch; the water of the river is still. Warehouses crowd close together on the canal bank, their doors shut, windows dark and shuttered - except for one light glowing in a single window, reflected in the water below. Above, stars shine in the cloudless night sky.
ALT text detailsEvening on the banks of Nagoya's Hori River. In the foreground, a single small wooden boat is pulled up on a sloping launch; the water of the river is still. Warehouses crowd close together on the canal bank, their doors shut, windows dark and shuttered - except for one light glowing in a single window, reflected in the water below. Above, stars shine in the cloudless night sky.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Bell Tower at Okayama (1947)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

okayama-japan.jp/en/abouts

Rain falls on a quiet street somewhere in Okayama, Japan. On our right, the windows of houses are shut; pots of flowers sit out on a narrow second-story balcony and an adjacent rooftop, catching the rain. Up ahead, a temple bell tower stands tall against an overcast sky. Further on, as the street narrows to the width of a little lane, a single figure carries a yellow umbrella over their head as they walk away from us. In the foreground, the rain-slicked street reflects the scene.
ALT text detailsRain falls on a quiet street somewhere in Okayama, Japan. On our right, the windows of houses are shut; pots of flowers sit out on a narrow second-story balcony and an adjacent rooftop, catching the rain. Up ahead, a temple bell tower stands tall against an overcast sky. Further on, as the street narrows to the width of a little lane, a single figure carries a yellow umbrella over their head as they walk away from us. In the foreground, the rain-slicked street reflects the scene.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Bell Tower at Okayama (1947)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

okayama-japan.jp/en/abouts

Rain falls on a quiet street somewhere in Okayama, Japan. On our right, the windows of houses are shut; pots of flowers sit out on a narrow second-story balcony and an adjacent rooftop, catching the rain. Up ahead, a temple bell tower stands tall against an overcast sky. Further on, as the street narrows to the width of a little lane, a single figure carries a yellow umbrella over their head as they walk away from us. In the foreground, the rain-slicked street reflects the scene.
ALT text detailsRain falls on a quiet street somewhere in Okayama, Japan. On our right, the windows of houses are shut; pots of flowers sit out on a narrow second-story balcony and an adjacent rooftop, catching the rain. Up ahead, a temple bell tower stands tall against an overcast sky. Further on, as the street narrows to the width of a little lane, a single figure carries a yellow umbrella over their head as they walk away from us. In the foreground, the rain-slicked street reflects the scene.
Bytes Deutschland's avatar
Bytes Deutschland

@BytesDE@pubeurope.com

bytesde.com/1109404/ Anrufe, um die Einbürgerung schwieriger zu gestalten, entstehen im Parlamentsgespräche

Anrufe, um die Einbürgerung schwieriger zu gestalten, entstehen im Parlamentsgespräche
ALT text detailsAnrufe, um die Einbürgerung schwieriger zu gestalten, entstehen im Parlamentsgespräche
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dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Daytime rain in Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Daytime rain in Japan.
ALT text detailsDaytime rain in Japan.
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dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Daytime rain in Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Daytime rain in Japan.
ALT text detailsDaytime rain in Japan.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social

🥤THE SOLSTICE🌞

'Geshi' (夏至), the 'summer solstice', marks a period of purification in Japan.

Now that the first half of the year has passed thanks are given, and prayers made that the second half (beginning with fiercely hot months) will be healthy and misfortune free.

A hot June day at Ryoan-ji's famous dry landscape garden.
ALT text detailsA hot June day at Ryoan-ji's famous dry landscape garden.
A triangular sweet known as minatsuki. Eaten in the summer months, it is designed to resemble a slice of ice and thus help us think cooling thoughts.
ALT text detailsA triangular sweet known as minatsuki. Eaten in the summer months, it is designed to resemble a slice of ice and thus help us think cooling thoughts.
The purple flower of the 'self heal'.
ALT text detailsThe purple flower of the 'self heal'.
Oimatsu's wonderful natsu mikan, a whole citrus hollowed out and filled with refreshing jelly.
ALT text detailsOimatsu's wonderful natsu mikan, a whole citrus hollowed out and filled with refreshing jelly.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social

🥤THE SOLSTICE🌞

'Geshi' (夏至), the 'summer solstice', marks a period of purification in Japan.

Now that the first half of the year has passed thanks are given, and prayers made that the second half (beginning with fiercely hot months) will be healthy and misfortune free.

A hot June day at Ryoan-ji's famous dry landscape garden.
ALT text detailsA hot June day at Ryoan-ji's famous dry landscape garden.
A triangular sweet known as minatsuki. Eaten in the summer months, it is designed to resemble a slice of ice and thus help us think cooling thoughts.
ALT text detailsA triangular sweet known as minatsuki. Eaten in the summer months, it is designed to resemble a slice of ice and thus help us think cooling thoughts.
The purple flower of the 'self heal'.
ALT text detailsThe purple flower of the 'self heal'.
Oimatsu's wonderful natsu mikan, a whole citrus hollowed out and filled with refreshing jelly.
ALT text detailsOimatsu's wonderful natsu mikan, a whole citrus hollowed out and filled with refreshing jelly.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social

🥤THE SOLSTICE🌞

'Geshi' (夏至), the 'summer solstice', marks a period of purification in Japan.

Now that the first half of the year has passed thanks are given, and prayers made that the second half (beginning with fiercely hot months) will be healthy and misfortune free.

A hot June day at Ryoan-ji's famous dry landscape garden.
ALT text detailsA hot June day at Ryoan-ji's famous dry landscape garden.
A triangular sweet known as minatsuki. Eaten in the summer months, it is designed to resemble a slice of ice and thus help us think cooling thoughts.
ALT text detailsA triangular sweet known as minatsuki. Eaten in the summer months, it is designed to resemble a slice of ice and thus help us think cooling thoughts.
The purple flower of the 'self heal'.
ALT text detailsThe purple flower of the 'self heal'.
Oimatsu's wonderful natsu mikan, a whole citrus hollowed out and filled with refreshing jelly.
ALT text detailsOimatsu's wonderful natsu mikan, a whole citrus hollowed out and filled with refreshing jelly.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A woman in her 50s in Hakodate, Hokkaido lost 1 million yen ($6.8K) to a man pretending to be Meguro Ren of idol group Snow Man. The man, who contacted her on social media, video called her multiple times, meaning he likely used AI tech to help pull off the scam.

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Another member of the Japanese male idol group TOKIO has been beset by scandal. Keyboardist Kokubun Taichi has been fired as a VP from the group's company and suspended from all his TV programs for an as yet unspecified "compliance violation."

Article from Sponichi Annex. JP headline: 国分太一 （株）TOKIOが解雇も　全番組降板申し入れ　コンプラ違反で日テレが20日会見
ALT text detailsArticle from Sponichi Annex. JP headline: 国分太一 （株）TOKIOが解雇も　全番組降板申し入れ　コンプラ違反で日テレが20日会見
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japan's National Police Agency is issuing a directive restricting host club billboards. The ads will no longer be able to tout that a given host is "number 1 player" or tout how much hosts earn at the club, and will also restrict the use of words such as "god" and "legend."

Billboards for hosts in Kabukicho that ranks the hosts based on their earnings
ALT text detailsBillboards for hosts in Kabukicho that ranks the hosts based on their earnings
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social

🙌🍮WAGASHI DAY (和菓子の日)!🍡😋

June 16th is a day for celebrating traditional Japanese sweets...something we do a lot in the tearoom.

After a series of epidemics Emperor Ninmyō (仁明天皇) held special prayers on the 16th June 848 for the health and prosperity of the nation.

Sweet in the shape of a kikyu (Japanese bellflower).
ALT text detailsSweet in the shape of a kikyu (Japanese bellflower).
Sweet in the shape of a peach bell (in celebration of Hinamatsuri).
ALT text detailsSweet in the shape of a peach bell (in celebration of Hinamatsuri).
Sweet in the shape of a folded leaf, celebrating the early summer greens.
ALT text detailsSweet in the shape of a folded leaf, celebrating the early summer greens.
Vivid yellow sweet mimicking the head of a butterbur flower.
ALT text detailsVivid yellow sweet mimicking the head of a butterbur flower.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

The characters for confectionery/sweets '菓子' (kashi) were also a homonym for '下賜' (kashi), which meant the giving of something to a person of lower social standing than you.

This act of giving sweets reaffirmed hierarchical ties and subservience to the shōgunate.

Hydrangea inspired kinton (kinton are made from a type of shredded yam dough over a bean paste filling...they are coloured to represent different seasons).
ALT text detailsHydrangea inspired kinton (kinton are made from a type of shredded yam dough over a bean paste filling...they are coloured to represent different seasons).
A kinton inspired by the colours of a tiger.
ALT text detailsA kinton inspired by the colours of a tiger.
Strawberries are typically associated with the winter in Japan...this kinton has a whole strawberry at its heart.
ALT text detailsStrawberries are typically associated with the winter in Japan...this kinton has a whole strawberry at its heart.
A kinton designed to mimic an azalea bush.
ALT text detailsA kinton designed to mimic an azalea bush.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Thanks to Emperor Ninmyō, sweets became associated with good health and the prevention of disease.

Named after the new era, 'Kajō-gashi' (嘉祥菓子) were a type of sweet eaten each June 16th as a prayer for health. This tradition continued for many centuries.

Kagizen Yoshifusa produced 'Tameiki-chan', a pointy-headed, rather melancholy-looking sweet, for an art exhibition.
ALT text detailsKagizen Yoshifusa produced 'Tameiki-chan', a pointy-headed, rather melancholy-looking sweet, for an art exhibition.
An eel-shaped sweet produced for the Doyo-no-hi celebration in July.
ALT text detailsAn eel-shaped sweet produced for the Doyo-no-hi celebration in July.
Bandai and Family Mart's strawberry milk flavoured polar bear, and a milk flavoured tonkatsu nerikiri🤣
ALT text detailsBandai and Family Mart's strawberry milk flavoured polar bear, and a milk flavoured tonkatsu nerikiri🤣
A nerikiri sweet in the shape of a seal for Kyoto Aquarium.
ALT text detailsA nerikiri sweet in the shape of a seal for Kyoto Aquarium.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Ume fruit picked on June 16th is known as 'kashō-no-ume' (嘉祥の梅).
There is a superstition that if you dry out the plums and eat them then you will escape misfortune and other disasters✨

Vivid green sweet mimicking a ripe ume fruit.
ALT text detailsVivid green sweet mimicking a ripe ume fruit.
Luca and Ralph help harvest ume in Atsuko-san's garden.
ALT text detailsLuca and Ralph help harvest ume in Atsuko-san's garden.
Ripening ume.
ALT text detailsRipening ume.
Vivid green sweets mimicking ripe ume fruits.
ALT text detailsVivid green sweets mimicking ripe ume fruits.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

An official document of 1818 states that 20,000 individual sweets were prepared in Edo Castle (江戸城) for this single day!
Guests queued for hours to receive their sweets.

Naturally there was symbolism in this act....

A sweet designed to look like a juicy red apple.
ALT text detailsA sweet designed to look like a juicy red apple.
A sweet inspired by a Kyoto grown turnip.
ALT text detailsA sweet inspired by a Kyoto grown turnip.
A jelly with a miniature eggplant, tomato and okura within.
ALT text detailsA jelly with a miniature eggplant, tomato and okura within.
Soy flour and sugar crafted to look like cherries!
ALT text detailsSoy flour and sugar crafted to look like cherries!
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

The characters for confectionery/sweets '菓子' (kashi) were also a homonym for '下賜' (kashi), which meant the giving of something to a person of lower social standing than you.

This act of giving sweets reaffirmed hierarchical ties and subservience to the shōgunate.

Hydrangea inspired kinton (kinton are made from a type of shredded yam dough over a bean paste filling...they are coloured to represent different seasons).
ALT text detailsHydrangea inspired kinton (kinton are made from a type of shredded yam dough over a bean paste filling...they are coloured to represent different seasons).
A kinton inspired by the colours of a tiger.
ALT text detailsA kinton inspired by the colours of a tiger.
Strawberries are typically associated with the winter in Japan...this kinton has a whole strawberry at its heart.
ALT text detailsStrawberries are typically associated with the winter in Japan...this kinton has a whole strawberry at its heart.
A kinton designed to mimic an azalea bush.
ALT text detailsA kinton designed to mimic an azalea bush.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

An official document of 1818 states that 20,000 individual sweets were prepared in Edo Castle (江戸城) for this single day!
Guests queued for hours to receive their sweets.

Naturally there was symbolism in this act....

A sweet designed to look like a juicy red apple.
ALT text detailsA sweet designed to look like a juicy red apple.
A sweet inspired by a Kyoto grown turnip.
ALT text detailsA sweet inspired by a Kyoto grown turnip.
A jelly with a miniature eggplant, tomato and okura within.
ALT text detailsA jelly with a miniature eggplant, tomato and okura within.
Soy flour and sugar crafted to look like cherries!
ALT text detailsSoy flour and sugar crafted to look like cherries!
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

From crystal-clear lakes to vibrant coastal waters, Japan’s breathtaking “blue water” spots showcase the stunning beauty of nature’s blue hues. Join us as we journey across Japan to uncover the most mesmerizing “blue” scenery that will make your trip unforgettable.

unseen-japan.com/japan-blue-wa

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Millions in Japan suffer yearly as hay fever season kicks up. However, it didn't used to be that way. Learn how reforestation created a national epidemic that plagues the country's citizens to this day.

unseen-japan.com/japanese-hay-

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Extremists are taking over across the globe. So why has Japan's far right been left behind? Some attribute it to Japan's "unique culture." We look at more structural and data-driven explanations in this week's Unseen Japan Insider newsletter - join and read today:

unseen-japan.com/far-right-tak

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Switch 2 reseller controversy, a TV star's sexual harassment turned into content, the truth about foreigner crime in Japan, and discrimination in Kawaguchi - this and more in this week's free Unseen Japan newsletter.

us20.campaign-archive.com/?u=e

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Japan’s Defense Ministry has made the rare decision to release a map detailing the movements of Chinese aircraft carriers in the Pacific. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/06/

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Japan’s Defense Ministry has made the rare decision to release a map detailing the movements of Chinese aircraft carriers in the Pacific. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/06/

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h-pom

@hpom@vivaldi.net

 

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h-pom

@hpom@vivaldi.net

 

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Funeo Funekawa

@funefune_kyoto@mstdn.tokyocameraclub.com

Fireflies are flying over a river in Kyoto.
ホタル飛ぶ京都の川と星空(8)

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Funeo Funekawa

@funefune_kyoto@mstdn.tokyocameraclub.com

Fireflies are flying over a river in Kyoto.
ホタル飛ぶ京都の川と星空(8)

Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Thanks to Emperor Ninmyō, sweets became associated with good health and the prevention of disease.

Named after the new era, 'Kajō-gashi' (嘉祥菓子) were a type of sweet eaten each June 16th as a prayer for health. This tradition continued for many centuries.

Kagizen Yoshifusa produced 'Tameiki-chan', a pointy-headed, rather melancholy-looking sweet, for an art exhibition.
ALT text detailsKagizen Yoshifusa produced 'Tameiki-chan', a pointy-headed, rather melancholy-looking sweet, for an art exhibition.
An eel-shaped sweet produced for the Doyo-no-hi celebration in July.
ALT text detailsAn eel-shaped sweet produced for the Doyo-no-hi celebration in July.
Bandai and Family Mart's strawberry milk flavoured polar bear, and a milk flavoured tonkatsu nerikiri🤣
ALT text detailsBandai and Family Mart's strawberry milk flavoured polar bear, and a milk flavoured tonkatsu nerikiri🤣
A nerikiri sweet in the shape of a seal for Kyoto Aquarium.
ALT text detailsA nerikiri sweet in the shape of a seal for Kyoto Aquarium.
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:'s avatar
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:

@norbertwoehnl@famichiki.jp

Good morning from Tokyo on a very hot Wednesday! Working at the office today. As promised yesterday, here are four more square-format photos featuring old shops in my home ward of Itabashi. Details in ALT.

Bento (boxed lunch) shop in the Nakajuku area of Itabashi Ward in Tokyo, Japan.
ALT text detailsBento (boxed lunch) shop in the Nakajuku area of Itabashi Ward in Tokyo, Japan.
Old hairdresser and defunct restaurant in the Hikawacho area of Itabashi Ward in Tokyo, Japan.
ALT text detailsOld hairdresser and defunct restaurant in the Hikawacho area of Itabashi Ward in Tokyo, Japan.
Aptly named coffee shop in the area surrounding JR Itabashi Station in Tokyo, Japan.
ALT text detailsAptly named coffee shop in the area surrounding JR Itabashi Station in Tokyo, Japan.
Dramatically over-stocked recycle shop in the area surrounding JR Itabashi Station in Tokyo, Japan.
ALT text detailsDramatically over-stocked recycle shop in the area surrounding JR Itabashi Station in Tokyo, Japan.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

After a small fire of leaves occurred at a Shinto shrine in Osaka, Japan's Association of Shinto Shrines sent a warning to area shrines saying that "the culprit is a Muslim" & the fire was religiously motivated. Not true, say Osaka Police: a child started the fire as a prank.

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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Ume fruit picked on June 16th is known as 'kashō-no-ume' (嘉祥の梅).
There is a superstition that if you dry out the plums and eat them then you will escape misfortune and other disasters✨

Vivid green sweet mimicking a ripe ume fruit.
ALT text detailsVivid green sweet mimicking a ripe ume fruit.
Luca and Ralph help harvest ume in Atsuko-san's garden.
ALT text detailsLuca and Ralph help harvest ume in Atsuko-san's garden.
Ripening ume.
ALT text detailsRipening ume.
Vivid green sweets mimicking ripe ume fruits.
ALT text detailsVivid green sweets mimicking ripe ume fruits.
Nithin Coca నితిన్'s avatar
Nithin Coca నితిన్

@ncoca@social.coop

Another data point - flights to/from and the are the cheapest I've seen since, basically, the border reopened to tourism back in 2022.

ft.com/content/28fd4e9a-9bbd-4

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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social

🙌🍮WAGASHI DAY (和菓子の日)!🍡😋

June 16th is a day for celebrating traditional Japanese sweets...something we do a lot in the tearoom.

After a series of epidemics Emperor Ninmyō (仁明天皇) held special prayers on the 16th June 848 for the health and prosperity of the nation.

Sweet in the shape of a kikyu (Japanese bellflower).
ALT text detailsSweet in the shape of a kikyu (Japanese bellflower).
Sweet in the shape of a peach bell (in celebration of Hinamatsuri).
ALT text detailsSweet in the shape of a peach bell (in celebration of Hinamatsuri).
Sweet in the shape of a folded leaf, celebrating the early summer greens.
ALT text detailsSweet in the shape of a folded leaf, celebrating the early summer greens.
Vivid yellow sweet mimicking the head of a butterbur flower.
ALT text detailsVivid yellow sweet mimicking the head of a butterbur flower.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

We had a new Unseen Japan Tours client tell us recently about their poor experience with another company that kept trying to upsell them on unnecessary packages. That reflects our philosophy of fairness and charging only what makes sense - for both our customers and our guides.

White people eating soba because that's what we do when we come to Japan
ALT text detailsWhite people eating soba because that's what we do when we come to Japan
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The "controversy" over singer Nakagawa Shōko's Switch 2 continues. After some accused her of buying the prized game console from a reseller, Nakagawa's agency (which she owns) is now saying she got it as a gift from a friend, despite saying she "bought" it.

Story from LiveDoor News.
ALT text detailsStory from LiveDoor News.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

In a shocking (even for Japan) case of workplace abuse, a president in his 60s and two employees of construction company Hanai Group in Sapporo, Hokkaido have been charged after they put an employee in his 20s in a full nelson and took turns beating him.

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

As predicted by observers, separate spousal surnames won't come up for a vote in the current Japan Diet session. Kyodo reports that no one could drum up majority support in the Lower House for any of the three different proposals on the table.

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noco｜Flower Photographer

@noco3n_com@mstdn.jp

Rainy season color.

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Tokyo is moving ahead with an infrastructure overhaul aimed at restoring open skies to one of the city’s most culturally significant landmarks — the Nihonbashi bridge, which is overshadowed by an overpass. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/06/

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Tokyo is moving ahead with an infrastructure overhaul aimed at restoring open skies to one of the city’s most culturally significant landmarks — the Nihonbashi bridge, which is overshadowed by an overpass. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/06/

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Okinawa politician Takara Munenori tried to hop on the school lunch bashing bandwagon in Japan by posting a photo from an Ishigaki city school that made it look like the school was starving kids. Turns out Takara took the pic before staff had finished preparing the food.

Post from @takara_munenori on X saying he'll be looking into the matter of why this school lunch was lacking ingredients. Turns out he took the picture before it was done being served.
ALT text detailsPost from @takara_munenori on X saying he'll be looking into the matter of why this school lunch was lacking ingredients. Turns out he took the picture before it was done being served.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The US gov under Trump has made it clear that only *positive* views of Japanese American concentration camps will be allowed, thanks. Signs at Manzanar National Historic Site ask visitors to report depictions that "inappropriately disparage Americans past or living.”

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Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

Jizō, of the Earth Store (Kshitigarbha), by Kaikei, ca. 1202, .

Jizō, #Bodhisattva of the Earth Store (Kshitigarbha), by Kaikei, ca. 1202, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsJizō, #Bodhisattva of the Earth Store (Kshitigarbha), by Kaikei, ca. 1202, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

“Rewatched Evangelion previously and, rationally speaking, Katsuragi Misato (29) giving this to a middle school boy is pretty messed up”

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Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

Jizō, of the Earth Store (Kshitigarbha), by Kaikei, ca. 1202, .

Jizō, #Bodhisattva of the Earth Store (Kshitigarbha), by Kaikei, ca. 1202, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsJizō, #Bodhisattva of the Earth Store (Kshitigarbha), by Kaikei, ca. 1202, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
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atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Yodo River (1942)

Artist: Toshi Yoshida

samurai-archives.com/wiki/Yodo

A view of the Yodo River on a sullen, overcast day. In the foreground, three small wooden boats are pulled up by the riverbank; lilypads crowd the shallow water here. A single figure wearing a broad hat is at work in one of the boats, bent over some unseen task. Further up, another little boat is moored among reeds; beyond, trees flank the river as it approaches a bridge downstream, and a few small houses stand beneath the trees closer to the bridge. The river itself is a green colour, while the sky above is dingy and overcast.
ALT text detailsA view of the Yodo River on a sullen, overcast day. In the foreground, three small wooden boats are pulled up by the riverbank; lilypads crowd the shallow water here. A single figure wearing a broad hat is at work in one of the boats, bent over some unseen task. Further up, another little boat is moored among reeds; beyond, trees flank the river as it approaches a bridge downstream, and a few small houses stand beneath the trees closer to the bridge. The river itself is a green colour, while the sky above is dingy and overcast.
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atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Yodo River (1942)

Artist: Toshi Yoshida

samurai-archives.com/wiki/Yodo

A view of the Yodo River on a sullen, overcast day. In the foreground, three small wooden boats are pulled up by the riverbank; lilypads crowd the shallow water here. A single figure wearing a broad hat is at work in one of the boats, bent over some unseen task. Further up, another little boat is moored among reeds; beyond, trees flank the river as it approaches a bridge downstream, and a few small houses stand beneath the trees closer to the bridge. The river itself is a green colour, while the sky above is dingy and overcast.
ALT text detailsA view of the Yodo River on a sullen, overcast day. In the foreground, three small wooden boats are pulled up by the riverbank; lilypads crowd the shallow water here. A single figure wearing a broad hat is at work in one of the boats, bent over some unseen task. Further up, another little boat is moored among reeds; beyond, trees flank the river as it approaches a bridge downstream, and a few small houses stand beneath the trees closer to the bridge. The river itself is a green colour, while the sky above is dingy and overcast.
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Ukraine War Bulletins and News

@SocraticEthics@mastodon.online

‼️🇩🇪German government: Nord Stream not to be relaunched (more) ukrinform.net/rubric-economy/4

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Ukraine War Bulletins and News

@SocraticEthics@mastodon.online

‼️🇩🇪German government: Nord Stream not to be relaunched (more) ukrinform.net/rubric-economy/4

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Recent reports of suspected sabotage targeting undersea cables are highlighting a vulnerability in Japan — which relies almost entirely on such cables to stay connected to the rest of the world. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/06/

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Recent reports of suspected sabotage targeting undersea cables are highlighting a vulnerability in Japan — which relies almost entirely on such cables to stay connected to the rest of the world. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/06/

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dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Daily moment in Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Daily moment in Japan.
ALT text detailsDaily moment in Japan.
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dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Daily moment in Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Daily moment in Japan.
ALT text detailsDaily moment in Japan.
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noco｜Flower Photographer

@noco3n_com@mstdn.jp

Rainy season color.

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ANN asked 1,000 people what they thought of the taste of the strategic reserve rice being sold for half off at Japanese stores. 62.1% said it tastes worse than fresh rice, saying it's dry, tough, & smelly. Despite this, 73% said they'd eat it again (but only 23.6% are enthusiastic about it).

ANN graph showing 62.1% of people think the taste of the strategic reserve rice is off along with a list of their reasons
ALT text detailsANN graph showing 62.1% of people think the taste of the strategic reserve rice is off along with a list of their reasons
Number of people who say they'd eat it again.
ALT text detailsNumber of people who say they'd eat it again.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

SPA! has an amusing episode about tourists to an izakaya in Japan who didn't realize the appetizers (お通し; otōshi) served before your meal aren't free. The six visitors from South Asia ordered seconds and ended up paying 3600 yen ($25) more than they bargained for.

A serving of three otōshi along with sake and a set of chopsticks
ALT text detailsA serving of three otōshi along with sake and a set of chopsticks
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Tottori University says students at its affiliated preschool & K-12 schools will only get milk & rice for lunch for a while & will have to bring the rest with them. That's b/c their single nutritionist is taking time off work for illness & there's no one to plan the menus.

Picture of a sad lunch tray with only rice and milk on it
ALT text detailsPicture of a sad lunch tray with only rice and milk on it
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atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Morin-ji in Spring (1951)

Artist: Toshi Yoshida

sato-numa.jp/en/

A view looking out over Morinji-Numa, a flat, marshy stretch of land. In the foreground, a curving stream joins the larger marsh. On our right, two figures sit with fishing poles, one person on the bank and one in a small open boat nearby. On the other side of the marsh, tall trees surround and mostly hide the small thatched-roof gate and main building of Morin-ji Temple. Above, the sky is dingy and overcast.
ALT text detailsA view looking out over Morinji-Numa, a flat, marshy stretch of land. In the foreground, a curving stream joins the larger marsh. On our right, two figures sit with fishing poles, one person on the bank and one in a small open boat nearby. On the other side of the marsh, tall trees surround and mostly hide the small thatched-roof gate and main building of Morin-ji Temple. Above, the sky is dingy and overcast.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Morin-ji in Spring (1951)

Artist: Toshi Yoshida

sato-numa.jp/en/

A view looking out over Morinji-Numa, a flat, marshy stretch of land. In the foreground, a curving stream joins the larger marsh. On our right, two figures sit with fishing poles, one person on the bank and one in a small open boat nearby. On the other side of the marsh, tall trees surround and mostly hide the small thatched-roof gate and main building of Morin-ji Temple. Above, the sky is dingy and overcast.
ALT text detailsA view looking out over Morinji-Numa, a flat, marshy stretch of land. In the foreground, a curving stream joins the larger marsh. On our right, two figures sit with fishing poles, one person on the bank and one in a small open boat nearby. On the other side of the marsh, tall trees surround and mostly hide the small thatched-roof gate and main building of Morin-ji Temple. Above, the sky is dingy and overcast.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The Kurdish community in Japan's city of Kawaguchi, about 2,000 strong, is enduring a barrage of hate. Here's how Japan's online "neto-uyo" right-wingers and Japanese right-wing media are conspiring to paint a picture of this tiny immigrant population as criminals.

unseen-japan.com/kawaguchi-kur

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Reminder that if you vibe with what we do, a donation to the Unseen Japan Journalism helps keep us going during these tough times for independent media. You can donate in any amount or subscribe to our Insider program to receive weekly bonus content.

unseen-japan.com/support/

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

How did the Japanese Red Army, which terrorized Japan throughout the 1970s, finally meet its end? The final part of our five-part series on the Japanese Red Army and how they changed Japan forever.

unseen-japan.com/japan-red-arm

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Want to make the most of your Japanese studies? Here's how to employ the listening-reading (LR) method, which helps you boost both your literacy and your listening comprehension.

unseen-japan.com/read-japanese

Picture of four Japanese books, including the Monogatari series, Ring, Yesterday I Saw The Same Dream, and I Want to Eat Your Pancreas
ALT text detailsPicture of four Japanese books, including the Monogatari series, Ring, Yesterday I Saw The Same Dream, and I Want to Eat Your Pancreas
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The Kurdish community in Japan's city of Kawaguchi, about 2,000 strong, is enduring a barrage of hate. Here's how Japan's online "neto-uyo" right-wingers and Japanese right-wing media are conspiring to paint a picture of this tiny immigrant population as criminals.

unseen-japan.com/kawaguchi-kur

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The Kurdish community in Japan's city of Kawaguchi, about 2,000 strong, is enduring a barrage of hate. Here's how Japan's online "neto-uyo" right-wingers and Japanese right-wing media are conspiring to paint a picture of this tiny immigrant population as criminals.

unseen-japan.com/kawaguchi-kur

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Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

大威徳明王 , 1nd half 13th century, . Wood with metal, polychrome, gilding, and inlaid crystal eye.

大威徳明王 #Vajrabhairava, 1nd half 13th century, #Japan. Wood with metal, polychrome, gilding, and inlaid crystal eye. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text details大威徳明王 #Vajrabhairava, 1nd half 13th century, #Japan. Wood with metal, polychrome, gilding, and inlaid crystal eye. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
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Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

大威徳明王 , 1nd half 13th century, . Wood with metal, polychrome, gilding, and inlaid crystal eye.

大威徳明王 #Vajrabhairava, 1nd half 13th century, #Japan. Wood with metal, polychrome, gilding, and inlaid crystal eye. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text details大威徳明王 #Vajrabhairava, 1nd half 13th century, #Japan. Wood with metal, polychrome, gilding, and inlaid crystal eye. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
Flock of Cats 🐈 🐈 🐈 🌸's avatar
Flock of Cats 🐈 🐈 🐈 🌸

@FlockOfCats@famichiki.jp

Follow me for more Japan travel tips!

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Another tourism problem is plaguing Osaka: people's abandoned suitcases. Tourists are leaving their broken and busted-down suitcases in hotels and on streets. Kansai International Airport had 816 cases of abandoned suitcases in 2024, up 100+ cases from 2019.

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The number of pachinko companies in Japan fell again, with only 1,201 companies left standing in 2024 after 135 went out of business. However, sales were up, bucking a 10-year downward trend.

Chart showing the downward trend in pachinko parlors, with a line graph of sales plotted over it
ALT text detailsChart showing the downward trend in pachinko parlors, with a line graph of sales plotted over it
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The World Economic Forum's 2025 Gender Gap report is out. Japan retained its 118th place rank out of 148 countries, last in the G7. While women progressed economically and in legislative politics, their representation in ministerial positions plummeted.

unseen-japan.com/japan-gender-

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Another sign of population decline in Japan? Kewpie says it'll stop making baby food as of August 2026. The famed mayo manufacturer, which has sold baby food for 65 years & currently has 72 products, blames tight competition, low profits, and rising costs.

Kewpie ad showing mom and baby plus a lineup of some of the company's products
ALT text detailsKewpie ad showing mom and baby plus a lineup of some of the company's products
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japanese right-wingers insist foreigners are on a crime spree in Japan. But Tsurugashima city legislator Fukushima Megumi pulled 2024's crime numbers and found that arrests of non-citizens are significantly lower than arrests of Japanese citizens.

Chart showing that 0.036% of foreigners (both residents and visitors) were arrested in 2024, vs. 0.143% of Japanese citizens.
ALT text detailsChart showing that 0.036% of foreigners (both residents and visitors) were arrested in 2024, vs. 0.143% of Japanese citizens.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Optics is everything: After getting pummelled for serving students a single, sad-looking piece of karaage to kids, the Fukuoka Board of Education says that it'll set up a committee to revise the menu it serves to elementary and middle schoolers.

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Osaka News looks at how women and men are treated differently at work in Japan after they have children. Their survey found that 42.9% of women report working shorter hours once they've had a kid. Meanwhile, 40.6% of men say nothing's changed.

Data discussed in the post, with data for men on the left and for women on the right asking what's changed since they've had kids
ALT text detailsData discussed in the post, with data for men on the left and for women on the right asking what's changed since they've had kids
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Several women have given birth in secret at San-ikukai Hospital in Tokyo under a new "confidential birth" system. Introduced on March 31st, it's meant to provide support for unplanned births and reduce the incidence of abandoned children.

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A 76-year-old man in Tateyama, Chiba Prefecture, is under arrest for stalking a woman in her 20s even after police warned him. The man said the young woman had eyes that reminded him of his dead wife, and he fell in love with her at first sight.

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Rising prices in Japan aren't affecting one group: people engaged in oshikatsu, or support of their favorite idol/entertainer. A survey of 5K men & women by Intage found 35.1% are engaged in oshikatsu - and 54.1% of them said the economy isn't hampering support of their faves.

Chart showing if rising prices are impacting support of one's oshi vs. how much people spend on eating out or on their utilities
ALT text detailsChart showing if rising prices are impacting support of one's oshi vs. how much people spend on eating out or on their utilities
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Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

sculptures of Dharma protectors at National Museum, .

#Buddhist sculptures of Dharma protectors at #Tokyo National Museum, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text details#Buddhist sculptures of Dharma protectors at #Tokyo National Museum, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
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Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

sculptures of Dharma protectors at National Museum, .

#Buddhist sculptures of Dharma protectors at #Tokyo National Museum, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text details#Buddhist sculptures of Dharma protectors at #Tokyo National Museum, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Moon on the Arakawa River, Akabane (1929)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

astronomy.com/observing/the-sk

A bright full moon shines down on the Arakawa River, in Akabane. On this side of the river, a lone female figure carrying a child on her back walks down a short incline toward a single-story wooden house standing on the riverbank. Warm yellow light glows in the windows of the little house. Beyond, a small open wooden boat makes its way along the calm river, its cargo covered by a tarp, its pilots reduced to silhouettes in the gloom. On the other side of the river, more lights shine in the windows of houses, details of their shapes lost in shadows under tall trees. Above, a low full moon dominates the starless night sky, silvering tattered clouds.
ALT text detailsA bright full moon shines down on the Arakawa River, in Akabane. On this side of the river, a lone female figure carrying a child on her back walks down a short incline toward a single-story wooden house standing on the riverbank. Warm yellow light glows in the windows of the little house. Beyond, a small open wooden boat makes its way along the calm river, its cargo covered by a tarp, its pilots reduced to silhouettes in the gloom. On the other side of the river, more lights shine in the windows of houses, details of their shapes lost in shadows under tall trees. Above, a low full moon dominates the starless night sky, silvering tattered clouds.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Moon on the Arakawa River, Akabane (1929)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

astronomy.com/observing/the-sk

A bright full moon shines down on the Arakawa River, in Akabane. On this side of the river, a lone female figure carrying a child on her back walks down a short incline toward a single-story wooden house standing on the riverbank. Warm yellow light glows in the windows of the little house. Beyond, a small open wooden boat makes its way along the calm river, its cargo covered by a tarp, its pilots reduced to silhouettes in the gloom. On the other side of the river, more lights shine in the windows of houses, details of their shapes lost in shadows under tall trees. Above, a low full moon dominates the starless night sky, silvering tattered clouds.
ALT text detailsA bright full moon shines down on the Arakawa River, in Akabane. On this side of the river, a lone female figure carrying a child on her back walks down a short incline toward a single-story wooden house standing on the riverbank. Warm yellow light glows in the windows of the little house. Beyond, a small open wooden boat makes its way along the calm river, its cargo covered by a tarp, its pilots reduced to silhouettes in the gloom. On the other side of the river, more lights shine in the windows of houses, details of their shapes lost in shadows under tall trees. Above, a low full moon dominates the starless night sky, silvering tattered clouds.
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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Documents related to human experiments conducted on U.S. prisoners of war in 1945 are being exhibited at Kyushu University's medical history museum in the city of Fukuoka until June 22. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/06/

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Documents related to human experiments conducted on U.S. prisoners of war in 1945 are being exhibited at Kyushu University's medical history museum in the city of Fukuoka until June 22. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/06/

atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Pagoda at Ikegami Honmonji (1954)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

theweathernetwork.com/en/news/

A bright full moon rises over the five-story pagoda at Ikegami Honmonji, in Tokyo. In the foreground, tall trees crowd around the base of the pagoda; above, tattered clouds cross the face of the yellow moon.
ALT text detailsA bright full moon rises over the five-story pagoda at Ikegami Honmonji, in Tokyo. In the foreground, tall trees crowd around the base of the pagoda; above, tattered clouds cross the face of the yellow moon.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Pagoda at Ikegami Honmonji (1954)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

theweathernetwork.com/en/news/

A bright full moon rises over the five-story pagoda at Ikegami Honmonji, in Tokyo. In the foreground, tall trees crowd around the base of the pagoda; above, tattered clouds cross the face of the yellow moon.
ALT text detailsA bright full moon rises over the five-story pagoda at Ikegami Honmonji, in Tokyo. In the foreground, tall trees crowd around the base of the pagoda; above, tattered clouds cross the face of the yellow moon.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A Japanese man in his 70s generously gave a pile of gold to his city, asking they do good with it. Was it an act of generosity - or was the dude too trusting of politicians? We cover the details and round up reader reactions in our write-up below.

unseen-japan.com/japan-gold-bu

Pile of gold bullion
ALT text detailsPile of gold bullion
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

At Tokyo Pride, Daiwa Securities Group CEO Ogino Akihiko said he isn't on board with the anti-DEI fever gripping companies in the wake of Trump's rise. Ogino plans to *strengthen* DEI initiatives at Daiwa, saying they "establish an environment where employees can excel."

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Want to enjoy some nature in Japan? A popular mapping company used its data to find the most popular and beautiful spots across the country. Here are some great stops to add to your next Japan trip.

unseen-japan.com/japan-best-na

travel

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

In other Japan rice news, agriculture minister Koizumi Shinjirō says the Japanese gov intends to crack down on people reselling strategic reserve rice for profit. It'll leverage an emergency law to levy a 1yr jail term and/or a 1M yen ($6.9K) fine against offenders.

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Host club legislation debate, friendship couples, sexually explicit ads, and a tourist ghost town in Yamanashi - this and more in this week's roundup of our best content in the Unseen Japan Newsletter:

buff.ly/vSiM5SC

Sasaki Chiwawa
ALT text detailsSasaki Chiwawa
Man and woman getting married
ALT text detailsMan and woman getting married
Woman looking at her phone in shock and horror
ALT text detailsWoman looking at her phone in shock and horror
Kiyosato Then and Now
ALT text detailsKiyosato Then and Now
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A 17-year-old boy in Sapporo is under arrest after he flipped a teenage girl's skirt up while he was standing behind her on the train. Police are holding the boy on charges of disruptive behavior; the boy, according to reports, is remaining silent.

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Tiger Corp, one of Japan's big rice cooker makers, asked 648 men & women if they still wanted to eat "delicious rice" even if it meant paying more. 64.7% said they did, even though 66.1% also said they're feeling the pinch from last year's crop doubling in price.

An onyx-colored Tiger rice cooker on a nice dark marble countertop with a bowl on each side
ALT text detailsAn onyx-colored Tiger rice cooker on a nice dark marble countertop with a bowl on each side
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Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

A painted illustration of the Tamatare-gū Engi (玉垂宮縁起), a medieval origin story of the shrine multiple episodes of which can be seen here with a cast of characters including and local deities as well as historical and semi-historical figures. Color on silk dating to 1370 from the collection of Daizenji Tamatare-gū Shrine (大善寺玉垂宮) in Kurume, Fukuoka Prefecture, .

A painted illustration of the Tamatare-gū Engi (玉垂宮縁起), a medieval origin story of the shrine multiple episodes of which can be seen here with a cast of characters including #Buddhist and local deities as well as historical and semi-historical figures. Color on silk dating to 1370 from the collection of Daizenji Tamatare-gū Shrine (大善寺玉垂宮) in Kurume, Fukuoka Prefecture, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsA painted illustration of the Tamatare-gū Engi (玉垂宮縁起), a medieval origin story of the shrine multiple episodes of which can be seen here with a cast of characters including #Buddhist and local deities as well as historical and semi-historical figures. Color on silk dating to 1370 from the collection of Daizenji Tamatare-gū Shrine (大善寺玉垂宮) in Kurume, Fukuoka Prefecture, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
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Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

A painted illustration of the Tamatare-gū Engi (玉垂宮縁起), a medieval origin story of the shrine multiple episodes of which can be seen here with a cast of characters including and local deities as well as historical and semi-historical figures. Color on silk dating to 1370 from the collection of Daizenji Tamatare-gū Shrine (大善寺玉垂宮) in Kurume, Fukuoka Prefecture, .

A painted illustration of the Tamatare-gū Engi (玉垂宮縁起), a medieval origin story of the shrine multiple episodes of which can be seen here with a cast of characters including #Buddhist and local deities as well as historical and semi-historical figures. Color on silk dating to 1370 from the collection of Daizenji Tamatare-gū Shrine (大善寺玉垂宮) in Kurume, Fukuoka Prefecture, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsA painted illustration of the Tamatare-gū Engi (玉垂宮縁起), a medieval origin story of the shrine multiple episodes of which can be seen here with a cast of characters including #Buddhist and local deities as well as historical and semi-historical figures. Color on silk dating to 1370 from the collection of Daizenji Tamatare-gū Shrine (大善寺玉垂宮) in Kurume, Fukuoka Prefecture, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:'s avatar
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:

@norbertwoehnl@famichiki.jp

Hello from Tokyo on a rainy Tuesday! 🌧️

Today, a set of street photography from Asakusa, featuring locals and visitors going about a variety of activities in the streets around the famous Senso-ji Temple. Details in ALT.

Customers enjoying "Asakusa Silk Pudding" outside a small store in the Asakusa area of Tokyo, Japan.
ALT text detailsCustomers enjoying "Asakusa Silk Pudding" outside a small store in the Asakusa area of Tokyo, Japan.
Conversations at a pub in the Asakusa area of Tokyo, Japan.
ALT text detailsConversations at a pub in the Asakusa area of Tokyo, Japan.
A photographer setting up a shot of an old building in the Asakusa area of Tokyo, Japan.
ALT text detailsA photographer setting up a shot of an old building in the Asakusa area of Tokyo, Japan.
Kimono-clad women are passing a store for hand-made household goods in the Asakusa area of Tokyo, Japan.
ALT text detailsKimono-clad women are passing a store for hand-made household goods in the Asakusa area of Tokyo, Japan.
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Weather Mizu

@mizu@mastodon.social

JMA's announced that Baiu has started in Kanto/Tokyo and Hokuriku region.

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A Chinese real estate developer back off his attempt to kick out the residents of a building he owned in Itabashi, Tokyo to make it an illegal AirBnB. Residents were facing a 2.5x rent increase - from 72.5K ($500) to 190K yen ($1,310).

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The Kiyosato Plateau is a sprawling pastureland filled with natural beauty in Yamanashi Prefecture. Head into town via Kiyosato Station, however, and the town looks half-abandoned. What happened to the area that 80s Japan called "the Harajuku of the Plateau"?

Kiyosato in the 1980s versus today
ALT text detailsKiyosato in the 1980s versus today
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Anime fans were perplexed after voice actress Hayashibara Megumi (Rei in Evangelion & many others) ranted on her blog about foreign exchange student subsidies, rude tourists, and the need to spend Japanese tax money on JP residents.

Hayashibara Megumi's blog header
ALT text detailsHayashibara Megumi's blog header
このままだと 日本の日本らしさが マナーも、態度も、技術も もしかしたら、表現の自由としての アニメも(＞人＜;)
ALT text detailsこのままだと 日本の日本らしさが マナーも、態度も、技術も もしかしたら、表現の自由としての アニメも(＞人＜;)
そんな中 一部のマナーの無い民泊の人や 『譲る』を知らない海外観光客や 京都の竹削ってしまったりする人もいる 規制を持たないと、 そこはしっかり取り締まらないと やばい
ALT text detailsそんな中 一部のマナーの無い民泊の人や 『譲る』を知らない海外観光客や 京都の竹削ってしまったりする人もいる 規制を持たないと、 そこはしっかり取り締まらないと やばい
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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

The messy, transactional fallout between Donald Trump and Elon Musk has exposed a toxic alliance built on money, power and chaos — one that now threatens both men’s influence and the stability of U.S. governance. japantimes.co.jp/commentary/20

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Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

Standing statue of , by Kaikei, .

Standing statue of #Maitreya #Bodhisattva, by Kaikei, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsStanding statue of #Maitreya #Bodhisattva, by Kaikei, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
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Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

Standing statue of , by Kaikei, .

Standing statue of #Maitreya #Bodhisattva, by Kaikei, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsStanding statue of #Maitreya #Bodhisattva, by Kaikei, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

The messy, transactional fallout between Donald Trump and Elon Musk has exposed a toxic alliance built on money, power and chaos — one that now threatens both men’s influence and the stability of U.S. governance. japantimes.co.jp/commentary/20

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Ukraine War Bulletins and News

@SocraticEthics@mastodon.online

🇮🇱🇺🇦Israel gives Ukraine Patriot systems - ambassador (more) ukrinform.net/rubric-defense/4

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japanese social media users reacted strongly to this "sad" school lunch served in a Fukuoka elementary school for containing one single, lonely-looking piece of karaage. The school board retorted that it's the size of TWO karaage, akshually 😤, & the entire meal comes out to 620 calories.

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party is getting more serious about taxing tourists. Some members of the LDP are pushing both to eliminate most tax-free shopping (except at departure points) and also raise the country's departure tax.

Tax Free Akihabara shop at Narita Airport
ALT text detailsTax Free Akihabara shop at Narita Airport
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The veggie thieves in Japan are BOLD, man. A squash farming couple in Okinawa's Ishigaki visited their fields to harvest the ripe gourds, only to find some ne'er-do-wells had stolen all 2.5 tons of them. The haul is worth about 1.12 million yen ($7.7K).

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A new survey by nonprofit group ReBit in Japan shows that nearly 90% of middle and high school LGBTQ students report experiencing hardship or harassment due to their gender identity. 94.6% say they don't feel they can reach out to a teacher about these issues.

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Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

One of the FOur Heavenly Kings, Engyo-ji, .

One of the FOur Heavenly Kings, Engyo-ji, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsOne of the FOur Heavenly Kings, Engyo-ji, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

It's getting so tough out there for takoyaki vendors in Japan that some are skipping the tako. One vendor in Arakawa, Tokyo says rising costs forced her to switch from octopus to sausage - and raise her prices. She's lost some customers but also gained a few, especially kids.

A plate of takoyaki with one being picked up by chopsticks
ALT text detailsA plate of takoyaki with one being picked up by chopsticks
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Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

One of the FOur Heavenly Kings, Engyo-ji, .

One of the FOur Heavenly Kings, Engyo-ji, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsOne of the FOur Heavenly Kings, Engyo-ji, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

With news that Japan's dipped below 700K births for the first time ever, netizens are taking aim at ex-singer Mihara Junko, who leads the gov's anti-depopulation strategy. She's part of the Children & Families Agency, which has a yearly 7.3T yen ($50B!) budget.

news.yahoo.co.jp/articles/dd10

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

"Damn this kid's so sweet"

X post from @killerq111 こんなにも優しいのかよ…
ALT text detailsX post from @killerq111 こんなにも優しいのかよ…
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

It's progress...I guess? Japan's gov is trumpeting that, with the appointment of legal scholar Okino Masami, four members of the country's Supreme Court are women for the first time ever. Conversely, this means that 11 of its 15 members - a clear majority - are still men.

www3.nhk.or.jp/news/html/20250

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

OP snapped a pic of the stunning City Hall in Nago City, southern Okinawa. The building was constructed in 1981 after a countrywide competition. Nicknamed the "coral reef on land," the design by Team Zoo won the 1982 Architecture Institute of Japan Award for best design.

X post from @CtvTub53 ついに来れた... 知らなきゃ誰も現役の市役所とは思わない圧倒的佇まい... 来ることができて本当に良かった。
ALT text detailsX post from @CtvTub53 ついに来れた... 知らなきゃ誰も現役の市役所とは思わない圧倒的佇まい... 来ることができて本当に良かった。
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

In a horrifying case from Aomori Prefecture, police have arrested 53yo police inspector Sasaki Jun & 46yo Buddhist priest Mizuno Ryōshō for raping a high school girl. Police say Mizuno met the girl on an online app & invited her to a rental room.

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atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Abtruse (1964)

Artist: Toshi Yoshida

reuters.com/sustainability/cop

An abstract print, predominantly an aquatic blue, with ranks of dark coral-like shapes reaching up from the bottom half. Two trails of bright yellow dots cross the image: one passing horizontally, the other traveling an arc before settling into a parallel path with the first.
ALT text detailsAn abstract print, predominantly an aquatic blue, with ranks of dark coral-like shapes reaching up from the bottom half. Two trails of bright yellow dots cross the image: one passing horizontally, the other traveling an arc before settling into a parallel path with the first.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Abtruse (1964)

Artist: Toshi Yoshida

reuters.com/sustainability/cop

An abstract print, predominantly an aquatic blue, with ranks of dark coral-like shapes reaching up from the bottom half. Two trails of bright yellow dots cross the image: one passing horizontally, the other traveling an arc before settling into a parallel path with the first.
ALT text detailsAn abstract print, predominantly an aquatic blue, with ranks of dark coral-like shapes reaching up from the bottom half. Two trails of bright yellow dots cross the image: one passing horizontally, the other traveling an arc before settling into a parallel path with the first.
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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Kobe Gakuin University professor Yoshihiko Okabe was given the Golden Heart award by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy for making great contributions for humanitarian aid in Ukraine. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/06/

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Kobe Gakuin University professor Yoshihiko Okabe was given the Golden Heart award by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy for making great contributions for humanitarian aid in Ukraine. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/06/

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Brand rice has been in short supply in Japan's stores recently. But since Japan's gov started selling strategic reserve rice recently at a significant discount, brand rice has started crowding store shelves again. Prices are still high, but could start dropping next month.

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A man in his 70s in Sakurai, Nara Prefecture, had 20kg of gold bullion worth 330 million yen ($2.27M). He's donated the entire amount to the city, asking that they invest it in an emergency shelter to help the elderly & disabled during disasters.

buff.ly/dvHqegk

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Richard "RichiH" Hartmann

@RichiH@chaos.social · Reply to Richard "RichiH" Hartmann's post

I'm in riding the local trains. Masks are not really all that common any more. It's kinda a trope by now that the seats near The Big German remain free. I'm used to it. And if anyone sits down near or next to me it's almost exclusively men.

I'm wearing my as I do on planes and public transport, and for the first time ~ever in Asia the seats right next to me were taken up very quickly, both by women, one wearing a mask, one not.

1/2

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

In 2023, Japanese YouTuber Rin came out about her experience being bullied out of a small town in Hokkaido. Some spread rumors to discredit her, such as alleging she was dating an older man. Rin says that's not true...because she's been dating a woman.

atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Urayasu (1951)

Artist: Toshi Yoshida

asianstudies.org/publications/

A scene looking along a narrow canal on an overcast summer's day in Urayasu, Chiba. Small 'bekabune' style wooden boats are moored on either side of the canal, while houses crowd in close to the water's edge. On our left, a male figure is tying up a boat; up ahead, another male figure and three kids clamber into their own boat. A trio of ducks swims along the middle of the canal. Overhead, the sky is dingy and overcast.
ALT text detailsA scene looking along a narrow canal on an overcast summer's day in Urayasu, Chiba. Small 'bekabune' style wooden boats are moored on either side of the canal, while houses crowd in close to the water's edge. On our left, a male figure is tying up a boat; up ahead, another male figure and three kids clamber into their own boat. A trio of ducks swims along the middle of the canal. Overhead, the sky is dingy and overcast.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca · Reply to atomicker's post

Urayasu City Folk Museum | A hidden historical gem

visitchiba.jp/things/urayasu-c

An image of the front of the Urayasu Folk Museum in Chiba, Japan
ALT text detailsAn image of the front of the Urayasu Folk Museum in Chiba, Japan
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca · Reply to atomicker's post

Urayasu City Folk Museum | A hidden historical gem

visitchiba.jp/things/urayasu-c

An image of the front of the Urayasu Folk Museum in Chiba, Japan
ALT text detailsAn image of the front of the Urayasu Folk Museum in Chiba, Japan
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Urayasu (1951)

Artist: Toshi Yoshida

asianstudies.org/publications/

A scene looking along a narrow canal on an overcast summer's day in Urayasu, Chiba. Small 'bekabune' style wooden boats are moored on either side of the canal, while houses crowd in close to the water's edge. On our left, a male figure is tying up a boat; up ahead, another male figure and three kids clamber into their own boat. A trio of ducks swims along the middle of the canal. Overhead, the sky is dingy and overcast.
ALT text detailsA scene looking along a narrow canal on an overcast summer's day in Urayasu, Chiba. Small 'bekabune' style wooden boats are moored on either side of the canal, while houses crowd in close to the water's edge. On our left, a male figure is tying up a boat; up ahead, another male figure and three kids clamber into their own boat. A trio of ducks swims along the middle of the canal. Overhead, the sky is dingy and overcast.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Driven by pressure from parents and society, some sexual minorities in Japan are opting for "friendship marriages" that give them societal cover. As one expert notes, it's a “survival strategy” driven by a society that’s still working to fully accept its LGBTQ citizens.

buff.ly/V1sqTqe

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Prize-winning Japanese language novelist Li Kotomi is suing Kofu city assembly rep Muramatsu Hiromi for outing her as transgender. Li, who's Taiwanese, changed her gender before arriving in Japan. She's suing for 5.5 million yen ($38K).

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The number of reports of stalking in Japan exceeded 19,000 in 2024, with 2,415 resulting in restraining orders. That's the largest number of orders for stalking ever issued. Stalking is in the headlines after several murder cases made headlines in recent years.

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

There's some debate over whether terrorism's the real reason Japan's reduced garbage cans. Some say it's an excuse to reduce garbage collection costs. Whatever the true reason, it's now an iron-clad custom in Japan that you take your garbage with you.

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japanese cuisine is globally renowned. However, when asked what they know, people often get stuck after sushi and ramen. But Japanese food has so much more to offer. Here’s a quick-fire introduction.

buff.ly/vswuxeO

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Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:

@norbertwoehnl@famichiki.jp

Hydrangeas are in bloom now in Tokyo - here is a nice specimen I found on the way back home tonight, popping through the fence of our local elementary school.

Hydrangeas illuminated by the evening sun in a residential backstreet of Itabashi Ward in Tokyo, Japan
ALT text detailsHydrangeas illuminated by the evening sun in a residential backstreet of Itabashi Ward in Tokyo, Japan
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:'s avatar
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:

@norbertwoehnl@famichiki.jp

Hydrangeas are in bloom now in Tokyo - here is a nice specimen I found on the way back home tonight, popping through the fence of our local elementary school.

Hydrangeas illuminated by the evening sun in a residential backstreet of Itabashi Ward in Tokyo, Japan
ALT text detailsHydrangeas illuminated by the evening sun in a residential backstreet of Itabashi Ward in Tokyo, Japan
Christopher Keener, pHd :ddg:'s avatar
Christopher Keener, pHd :ddg:

@RoboticistDuck@mas.to

Our local rose garden is in full bloom and has a festival on going with a donor kebab truck and other food outlets (not open for breakfast when I visit though)

Flooded rice paddy in front of rose garden
ALT text detailsFlooded rice paddy in front of rose garden
Pink roses on trellis in front of mountains
ALT text detailsPink roses on trellis in front of mountains
The donor kebab truck (brighter than the roses themselves)
ALT text detailsThe donor kebab truck (brighter than the roses themselves)
Pink roses with koinobori kite and mountains in background
ALT text detailsPink roses with koinobori kite and mountains in background
Christopher Keener, pHd :ddg:'s avatar
Christopher Keener, pHd :ddg:

@RoboticistDuck@mas.to

Our local rose garden is in full bloom and has a festival on going with a donor kebab truck and other food outlets (not open for breakfast when I visit though)

Flooded rice paddy in front of rose garden
ALT text detailsFlooded rice paddy in front of rose garden
Pink roses on trellis in front of mountains
ALT text detailsPink roses on trellis in front of mountains
The donor kebab truck (brighter than the roses themselves)
ALT text detailsThe donor kebab truck (brighter than the roses themselves)
Pink roses with koinobori kite and mountains in background
ALT text detailsPink roses with koinobori kite and mountains in background
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Now here's the tricky part. Players do not look at the underside, but rather guess based on the shell's plain top (and memory).

Matching pairs would fit perfectly together. A player confirms a match by showing the related images on the underside (cheating was impossible!).

Picture of girls playing kai-awase. Image thanks - https://ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsPicture of girls playing kai-awase. Image thanks - https://ukiyo-e.org/
Selection of shells painted with scenes from The Tale of Genji.
ALT text detailsSelection of shells painted with scenes from The Tale of Genji.
Woodblock print of a courtesan holding a kai-awase shell. Image thanks - https://ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of a courtesan holding a kai-awase shell. Image thanks - https://ukiyo-e.org/
Close up of a shell painted with a scene from The Tale of Genji.
ALT text detailsClose up of a shell painted with a scene from The Tale of Genji.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Presented in a bamboo basket (fishing net) with cypress sprig (seaweed), hamazuto (浜土産) brings the sea to the tearoom.

from the temple
easy access...
shell gathering
御寺から直に行るる汐干哉
-Kobayashi Issa (小林一茶), 1804.
Trans David G. Lanoue.

A presentation of hamazuto.
ALT text detailsA presentation of hamazuto.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Inside the shell a rich amber jelly encases a dark, pearl-like bean. This miso-flavoured hama-nattō (浜納豆) gives the sweet confection a salty kick🦪😋

Opening a hamazuto to show you what's inside the shells.
ALT text detailsOpening a hamazuto to show you what's inside the shells.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

🌊'GIFT FROM THE SEASHORE'🐚

Kameya Norikatsu's (亀屋則克) 'hamazuto' (浜土産) is produced specially for the summertime.
As Kyōto city is far from the sea, the sight of shells reminds us of cool ocean breezes (and has us longing for the coast🥹).

'Hamazuto', a sweet that uses a real shell as a container to hold jelly.
ALT text details'Hamazuto', a sweet that uses a real shell as a container to hold jelly.
Woodblock print of women collecting shells on the coast. Image thanks - https://ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of women collecting shells on the coast. Image thanks - https://ukiyo-e.org/
Woodblock print of women collecting shells on the coast. Image thanks - https://ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of women collecting shells on the coast. Image thanks - https://ukiyo-e.org/
'Hamazuto', a sweet that uses a real shell as a container to hold jelly.
ALT text details'Hamazuto', a sweet that uses a real shell as a container to hold jelly.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Now here's the tricky part. Players do not look at the underside, but rather guess based on the shell's plain top (and memory).

Matching pairs would fit perfectly together. A player confirms a match by showing the related images on the underside (cheating was impossible!).

Picture of girls playing kai-awase. Image thanks - https://ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsPicture of girls playing kai-awase. Image thanks - https://ukiyo-e.org/
Selection of shells painted with scenes from The Tale of Genji.
ALT text detailsSelection of shells painted with scenes from The Tale of Genji.
Woodblock print of a courtesan holding a kai-awase shell. Image thanks - https://ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of a courtesan holding a kai-awase shell. Image thanks - https://ukiyo-e.org/
Close up of a shell painted with a scene from The Tale of Genji.
ALT text detailsClose up of a shell painted with a scene from The Tale of Genji.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

As we're in Pride Month, it remains ridiculous that Japan's Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) continues to block progress on marriage equality. According to Marriage for All Japan, over 92% of the population is already covered by partnership systems. It's time.

Data from Marriage For All Japan showing coverage for marriage equality
ALT text detailsData from Marriage For All Japan showing coverage for marriage equality
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

7-11 Japan announced it'll help fight high rice prices by selling rice from the government's strategic reserves in 2kg bags for 718 yen ($5). At 359 yen/kg, that's under the price of other retailers - and well under the market price of new rice, which is around 900 yen/kg.

7-11's musenbai (pre-washed rice) 2kg bag
ALT text details7-11's musenbai (pre-washed rice) 2kg bag
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Last month, a 20-something woman in Fukuoka came home from work during lunch to retrieve something she'd forgotten. She arrived to find her manager lying on her bed in his underwear. He told police he was interested in her and wanted to "get to know her better."

A 3D rendition of the woman coming home
ALT text detailsA 3D rendition of the woman coming home
The woman discovering her manager in her bed
ALT text detailsThe woman discovering her manager in her bed
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

This particular set of kai-awase were on display at the wonderful Yūsai-tei (祐斎亭) in Arashiyama.

Nao-san models at Yusai-tei...an old ryokan now known as an art space and for the beautiful seasonal colours framed outside its windows.
ALT text detailsNao-san models at Yusai-tei...an old ryokan now known as an art space and for the beautiful seasonal colours framed outside its windows.
Seasonal colours reflected in the table at Yusai-tei.
ALT text detailsSeasonal colours reflected in the table at Yusai-tei.
Seasonal colours reflected in the table at Yusai-tei.
ALT text detailsSeasonal colours reflected in the table at Yusai-tei.
Nao-san models at Yusai-tei...an old ryokan now known as an art space and for the beautiful seasonal colours framed outside its windows.
ALT text detailsNao-san models at Yusai-tei...an old ryokan now known as an art space and for the beautiful seasonal colours framed outside its windows.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social

🐚SHELL GAME🎴

To while away those rainy afternoons...a game of 'kai-awase' (貝合わせ).
Traditional or seasonal scenes are painted in elaborate detail on the inside of shells. The aim of the game is to find pairs amongst the shells (each half related in some way).

A set of 'kai-awase'. Painted shells are used to play a game very similar to 'concentration'.
ALT text detailsA set of 'kai-awase'. Painted shells are used to play a game very similar to 'concentration'.
Chrysanthemums painted on the gilded interior of a shell.
ALT text detailsChrysanthemums painted on the gilded interior of a shell.
A gorgeous set of 'kai-awase', these shells painted with seasonal flowers.
ALT text detailsA gorgeous set of 'kai-awase', these shells painted with seasonal flowers.
'Kai-awase' shells stored away. Here the paired shells are reunited so you cannot see the beautiful paintings within.
ALT text details'Kai-awase' shells stored away. Here the paired shells are reunited so you cannot see the beautiful paintings within.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Can AI teach you Japanese? Can it improve your speaking ability? We tried some AI-fueled conversation practice apps and came down firmly on the "hell no" side. Read our review below.

unseen-japan.com/ai-japanese-s

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A drone pilot with a huge following on Instagram recently published admittedly stunning footage of a flight at Tokyo’s famous Skytree. The problem? He likely broke Japanese law in the process.

buff.ly/8bk1xuU

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japanese parents & others have long complained about sexually explicit ads shown on social media, news, & gaming sites. While Japan's gov still hasn't acted, one webcomics association says it's voluntarily pulled such ads from all-ages websites. More below.

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

As US companies shy away from the LGBTQ community, Japan's Family Mart is embracing it, launching a We Are Rainbow campaign with three other companies to celebrate Pride Month. A portion of profits from select products, such as its famous Famichiki, will support LGBTQ org ReBit.

Bo Jacobs's avatar
Bo Jacobs

@bojacobs@hcommons.social

Webpage in and English

“Japanese Translation of Global Hibakusha by Robert A. Jacobs”

@histodons @sts

peace.hiroshima-cu.ac.jp/web_e

Bo Jacobs's avatar
Bo Jacobs

@bojacobs@hcommons.social

Webpage in and English

“Japanese Translation of Global Hibakusha by Robert A. Jacobs”

@histodons @sts

peace.hiroshima-cu.ac.jp/web_e

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The latest controversy with LUUP e-scooters in Japan: One dude was caught putting his suitcase on a scooter and then riding while sitting on it. LUUP says this is illegal and is telling customers to stop being idiots and ruining it for everyone else.

Story about LUUP on LiveDoor News. JP text: スーツケースに腰掛け電動キックボードを運転 LUUP側は「絶対やめて」
ALT text detailsStory about LUUP on LiveDoor News. JP text: スーツケースに腰掛け電動キックボードを運転 LUUP側は「絶対やめて」
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

"The narrative in the media is that women are the victims of host clubs. They’re young, stupid women, ignorant of the world, and they've been deceived by hosts. But the hosts are young men too. Most are in their 20s, some are 18 years old."

Wman standing in front of a series of host club billboards in Kabukicho
ALT text detailsWman standing in front of a series of host club billboards in Kabukicho
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Lawson is getting in on the "old rice" act, using 2023 rice it bought to make what it's labeling "Vintage Onigiri." The product will sell for between 30 and 70 yen less than other onigiri in an attempt to give consumers relief from rising rice prices.

nikkei.com/article/DGXZQOUC032

Article from Nikkei. JP headline: ローソンが古米で「ヴィンテージ米おにぎり」　30〜70円安く、7月から
ALT text detailsArticle from Nikkei. JP headline: ローソンが古米で「ヴィンテージ米おにぎり」　30〜70円安く、7月から
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Prosecutors are asking for a 28-year sentence for a 51yo man in Satoshō, Okayama Prefecture, saying he drugged & raped nine women at a guest house he ran. They call the house "a trap for fulfilling his sexual desires." His lawyers are copping an insanity defense.

雨宮凪沙/nagiko's avatar
雨宮凪沙/nagiko

@BananaGiko_cle@felesitas.cloud

村上隆が絶賛する さいとうなおき#shorts youtube.com/shorts/wv4KXd-XwA8
いないんだ、全然いると思ってた

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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

☔️Rain falling at the end of rainy season is known as 'abare-tsuyu' (暴れ梅雨)🌧️
Similar to the English expression "raining cats and dogs", we might translate 'abare-tsuyu' as 'riotous rain' or 'ranting rain'.
Rainy season often ends in such clamorous showers.

A sudden rain shower at Garden Teahouse.
ALT text detailsA sudden rain shower at Garden Teahouse.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

☔️Rain falling at the end of rainy season is known as 'abare-tsuyu' (暴れ梅雨)🌧️
Similar to the English expression "raining cats and dogs", we might translate 'abare-tsuyu' as 'riotous rain' or 'ranting rain'.
Rainy season often ends in such clamorous showers.

A sudden rain shower at Garden Teahouse.
ALT text detailsA sudden rain shower at Garden Teahouse.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

☔️🧑‍🤝‍🧑👫👭'Ame-onna' (雨女) and 'Ame-otoko' (雨男)...a woman or man who always seems to bring rain with them when they go out (especially when meeting friends).
If you don't know who it is in your friend group, it's you!😂

There are also 'fair weather' men and women (晴れ男/晴れ女).

Nao-san on a rainy autumn day at Kitano Tenmangu.
ALT text detailsNao-san on a rainy autumn day at Kitano Tenmangu.
A rainy day at Ota-jinja's iris pond.
ALT text detailsA rainy day at Ota-jinja's iris pond.
The priests of Yasui Konpiragu depart under matching umbrellas.
ALT text detailsThe priests of Yasui Konpiragu depart under matching umbrellas.
Nishi Hongan-ji's ginkgo looking spectacular in the rain.
ALT text detailsNishi Hongan-ji's ginkgo looking spectacular in the rain.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

☔️🍂When the rain in June carries on for days without a break you will sometimes hear the phrase 'unohana-kudashi' (卯の花腐し), a rather exaggerated concern that the newly emerging deutzia flowers will rot in the unyielding rain.

A kinton (shredded yam dough over a ball of bean paste) inspired by the deutzia flowers.
ALT text detailsA kinton (shredded yam dough over a ball of bean paste) inspired by the deutzia flowers.
Deutzia flowers.
ALT text detailsDeutzia flowers.
Deutzia flowers.
ALT text detailsDeutzia flowers.
A kinton (shredded yam dough over a ball of bean paste) inspired by the deutzia flowers.
ALT text detailsA kinton (shredded yam dough over a ball of bean paste) inspired by the deutzia flowers.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Pagoda at Nikko (c.1930s)

Artist: Ito Yuhan

nikkostation.com/nikko-toshogu

A view looking through a break in tall cryptomeria trees, over the line of a low fence, toward the five-story pagoda at Nikko's Toshogu shrine. Details of the pagoda and the trees crowding around its base are obscured by a heavy orange-tinted haze.
ALT text detailsA view looking through a break in tall cryptomeria trees, over the line of a low fence, toward the five-story pagoda at Nikko's Toshogu shrine. Details of the pagoda and the trees crowding around its base are obscured by a heavy orange-tinted haze.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

☔️🥶'Tsuyuzamu' (梅雨寒) are sudden chilly days during rainy season.

speaking truth
the rainy season's crack
of thunder
正直に入梅雷の一ッかな
-Kobayashi Issa (小林一茶), 1820.
Tr. David G. Lanoue.

High waters at the Togetsukyo Bridge after heavy rain.
ALT text detailsHigh waters at the Togetsukyo Bridge after heavy rain.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

A straw 'mino' raincoat (蓑) hangs beside the door at 'Rakushisha' (落柿舎), indicating that the host is home.

The small cottage was home to Mukai Kyorai (向井去来 1651-1704), chief disciple of Matsuo Bashō. It was here that Bashō composed 'Saga Nikki' (嵯峨日記) in 1691.

Rakushisha, a small hermitage in Sagano (Arashiyama).
ALT text detailsRakushisha, a small hermitage in Sagano (Arashiyama).
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

700 people attended Kobe's first Pride Parade during this past week's 3rd annual Pride Fest. Event committee head Arai Tomotaka said, "Throughout history, people have driven change by raising their voices against oppression. The important thing is to never give up."

News article from Asahi Shimbun. JP text: 「差別に声をあげ、諦めない」神戸市で性の多様性訴えるパレード開催
ALT text detailsNews article from Asahi Shimbun. JP text: 「差別に声をあげ、諦めない」神戸市で性の多様性訴えるパレード開催
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social

🌈🌦️ALL SORTS OF RAIN🌧️🌂

Not all rain is the same.
There are numerous words and phrases to describe the different conditions found around this time of year...

☔️'Hashiri-zuyu' (走り梅雨) expresses the unstable weather preceding the rainy season.

The mesmerizing, ultrahydrophobic surface of a lotus leaf😵‍💫👏😊
ALT text detailsThe mesmerizing, ultrahydrophobic surface of a lotus leaf😵‍💫👏😊
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Why did Abe Akie, Abe Shinzō's widow, decide to engage in diplomacy with Vladimir Putin as a private citizen? We round up reactions from the Japanese government & commentators - and discuss what it means - in tomorrow's Unseen Japan Insider newsletter. Subscribe now:

unseen-japan.com/support/

Abe Akie, the widow of former Prime Minister Abe Shinzō, has always been a bit of a political weirdo. During her husband's tenure, her relationship with the controversial Moritomo Gakuen school, a hyper-right-wing kindergarten (gotta get 'em young, I guess), helped land her hubs in hot water. She also recently met with Donald Trump (not too surprising given Shinzō's close relationship with the US President). On the other hand, she's long been an active supporter of the LGBTQ community in Japan, an issue on which her husband actively opposed any progress. She also had a pic taken in a cannabis field in 2015 to help revive Japan's cannabis culture.
ALT text detailsAbe Akie, the widow of former Prime Minister Abe Shinzō, has always been a bit of a political weirdo. During her husband's tenure, her relationship with the controversial Moritomo Gakuen school, a hyper-right-wing kindergarten (gotta get 'em young, I guess), helped land her hubs in hot water. She also recently met with Donald Trump (not too surprising given Shinzō's close relationship with the US President). On the other hand, she's long been an active supporter of the LGBTQ community in Japan, an issue on which her husband actively opposed any progress. She also had a pic taken in a cannabis field in 2015 to help revive Japan's cannabis culture.
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Night time in Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Night time in Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Pagoda at Nikko (c.1930s)

Artist: Ito Yuhan

nikkostation.com/nikko-toshogu

A view looking through a break in tall cryptomeria trees, over the line of a low fence, toward the five-story pagoda at Nikko's Toshogu shrine. Details of the pagoda and the trees crowding around its base are obscured by a heavy orange-tinted haze.
ALT text detailsA view looking through a break in tall cryptomeria trees, over the line of a low fence, toward the five-story pagoda at Nikko's Toshogu shrine. Details of the pagoda and the trees crowding around its base are obscured by a heavy orange-tinted haze.
Raymond Larabie's avatar
Raymond Larabie

@typodermic@mastodon.social

The façade is a masterclass in “lived-in.” Peeling paint, scuffed metal, weather-stained siding, and enough grime to fill a restoration YouTube channel. 🛠️🧱

質感だけで人生を語ってきたような玄関。錆び、染み、剥げたペンキ…いずれも立派な住人。🏚️📦

A gritty exterior of what appears to be a back entrance or side façade of a building in Nagoya. The image is rendered in high-contrast black and white, drawing attention to the weathered siding, a rust-streaked window, and a dented metal door with a screen panel. To the right, stacks of wooden boards are topped with a couple of plastic buckets, hinting at some kind of industrious activity—past or present. Pipes, meters, and wires trace their way across the surfaces like urban veins, adding a quiet complexity to the otherwise utilitarian composition.
ALT text detailsA gritty exterior of what appears to be a back entrance or side façade of a building in Nagoya. The image is rendered in high-contrast black and white, drawing attention to the weathered siding, a rust-streaked window, and a dented metal door with a screen panel. To the right, stacks of wooden boards are topped with a couple of plastic buckets, hinting at some kind of industrious activity—past or present. Pipes, meters, and wires trace their way across the surfaces like urban veins, adding a quiet complexity to the otherwise utilitarian composition.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Koizumi Shinjirō wants a new name for the rice sold from Japan's reserves. Koizumi-hating netouyo suggests "Nana-hikari" - a play on rice strain Koshihikari & the phrase "oya no nanahikari" (親の七光り), which means riding on your parents' success (Koizumi's dad is a former PM).

X post from the account @himuro398
ALT text detailsX post from the account @himuro398
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The tale of the 47yo who drove his car off the Tōmei Expressway & ran b/c of his suspended license continues. Police have arrested a 34yo women who appears to be his girlfriend for hiding him from cops. The two kids who were in the car may be her children.

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japan's stores are moving more towards self-checkout. One expert predicts that, in five years, 80% of checkouts at the country's iconic convenience stores will be self-checkout, & that the main job of combini employees will become talking to lonely local seniors.

Article from LiveDoor News. JP headline: 「後５年でコンビニの８割がセルフレジに」識者解説　まだ間に合う！慣れる練習は「平日朝10時の店内で」
ALT text detailsArticle from LiveDoor News. JP headline: 「後５年でコンビニの８割がセルフレジに」識者解説　まだ間に合う！慣れる練習は「平日朝10時の店内で」
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japan's government is cracking down on host clubs that it says are driving women to prostitution. But one expert on Kabukicho nightlife says the debate is taking place in an information vacuum - and the solutions proposed by legislators are drenched in sexism.

buff.ly/nxViIW0

Rafaelito 🦤's avatar
Rafaelito 🦤

@ipxfong@mastodon.sdf.org

In San Francisco, I was an extra in a Japanese film. I was walking by, the director liked the way I looked and had me walk through the back of a scene. I didn't speak any Japanese so I don't know what film it was. The scene was at the bottom of Lombard Street. A young woman in a white sweater was standing by a blue Volkswagen talking to a man on a motorcycle. This was 91-92. I was a big guy with green hair in a brightly painted leather jacket. Anyone know this film?

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Janne Moren

@jannem@fosstodon.org

My employer ( @oistedu.bsky.social ) is opening a special grad student application round for students currently studying at US universities.

The application period begins now and is only two weeks, but if accepted you may be able to start already in September.

Please reshare to get the word out.

oist.jp/admissions/special-app

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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

In the traditional calendar June 11th-15th is known as 'kusaretaru kusa hotaru to naru' (腐草為螢), 'rotten grass becomes fireflies'. There was a belief, imported from the mainland, that fireflies were born from grass decaying in the humid early summer heat.

A firefly.
ALT text detailsA firefly.
Fireflies at night.
ALT text detailsFireflies at night.
Fireflies at night.
ALT text detailsFireflies at night.
Fireflies at night.
ALT text detailsFireflies at night.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

In the traditional calendar June 11th-15th is known as 'kusaretaru kusa hotaru to naru' (腐草為螢), 'rotten grass becomes fireflies'. There was a belief, imported from the mainland, that fireflies were born from grass decaying in the humid early summer heat.

A firefly.
ALT text detailsA firefly.
Fireflies at night.
ALT text detailsFireflies at night.
Fireflies at night.
ALT text detailsFireflies at night.
Fireflies at night.
ALT text detailsFireflies at night.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social

🍵HUNTING FIREFLIES✨

Each year Shimogamo-jinja (下鴨神社) holds a special tea gathering called 'Hotarubi-no-Chakai' (蛍火の茶会). Over 600 fireflies are released beside the Mitarashi-gawa (御手洗川) as evening falls, bringing an otherworldly feel to the tea ceremony.

Fireflies are kept in a cage at Shimogamo-jinja, ready for evening when they will be released in a beautiful display.
ALT text detailsFireflies are kept in a cage at Shimogamo-jinja, ready for evening when they will be released in a beautiful display.
Tiny fireflies rendered in sweet form...the blue and green represents a river and riverbank.
ALT text detailsTiny fireflies rendered in sweet form...the blue and green represents a river and riverbank.
Torches are lit at Shimogamo-jinja to illuminate the dark grounds ready for the release of fireflies.
ALT text detailsTorches are lit at Shimogamo-jinja to illuminate the dark grounds ready for the release of fireflies.
Nao-san sets off for Shimogamo-jinja's firefly event.
ALT text detailsNao-san sets off for Shimogamo-jinja's firefly event.
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Morning rain in Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Morning rain in Japan.
ALT text detailsMorning rain in Japan.
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Morning rain in Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Morning rain in Japan.
ALT text detailsMorning rain in Japan.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Some guy apparently fell asleep and drove off the Tōmei Expressway in Hamamatsu. He had two kids in the car who are, thankfully, uninjured. The guy apparently just...walked away from the scene and is now missing. (What about the kids, dude?!?!)

buff.ly/hbqv03a

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

"Old, old, old rice" became a hot topic this week as Japan's government began selling large quantities from its strategic reserves at half the market price. News programs debated how good it tastes - and whether this will do anything to dent sky-high rice prices (probably not).

buff.ly/VUlQq2W

Rafaelito 🦤's avatar
Rafaelito 🦤

@ipxfong@mastodon.sdf.org

In San Francisco, I was an extra in a Japanese film. I was walking by, the director liked the way I looked and had me walk through the back of a scene. I didn't speak any Japanese so I don't know what film it was. The scene was at the bottom of Lombard Street. A young woman in a white sweater was standing by a blue Volkswagen talking to a man on a motorcycle. This was 91-92. I was a big guy with green hair in a brightly painted leather jacket. Anyone know this film?

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

It’s not yet climbing season on Mt. Fuji. That hasn’t stopped some idiots from attempting the hike – and getting stuck in the process. Now, both prefectures with Mt. Fuji hiking entrances say they may pass legislation that puts the financial burden for rescue on the offenders.

buff.ly/3GjCyPx

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Looking for a quick hit of protein in Japan? Don Quixote has your back. It's installing MyProtein vending machines, currently in 30 locations, in 100 stores across the country in response to Japan's weightlifting boom. 100 yen - a single coin - gets you a shot.

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A survey conducted this month by Mainichi Shimbun shows continued support for allowing Japan to once again have an empress. 70% polled favor allowing women to take the imperial throne. Only 6% oppose it.

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Some devoted anime fans tend to think that *everyone* in Japan watches anime. What's the reality? Here are the numbers we could find, along with what people are (and aren't) watching (more below).

Bo Jacobs's avatar
Bo Jacobs

@bojacobs@hcommons.social

When it's headed to his rice beds, let me know.

"Fukushima soil headed to PM’s flower beds to allay nuclear safety fears"

theguardian.com/world/2025/may

Fukushima Prefectural officers collect soil to check if it is contaminated by radioactive materials in 2011. Photograph: Tsuyoshi Yoshioka/AP
ALT text detailsFukushima Prefectural officers collect soil to check if it is contaminated by radioactive materials in 2011. Photograph: Tsuyoshi Yoshioka/AP
Bo Jacobs's avatar
Bo Jacobs

@bojacobs@hcommons.social

When it's headed to his rice beds, let me know.

"Fukushima soil headed to PM’s flower beds to allay nuclear safety fears"

theguardian.com/world/2025/may

Fukushima Prefectural officers collect soil to check if it is contaminated by radioactive materials in 2011. Photograph: Tsuyoshi Yoshioka/AP
ALT text detailsFukushima Prefectural officers collect soil to check if it is contaminated by radioactive materials in 2011. Photograph: Tsuyoshi Yoshioka/AP
pkg update's avatar
pkg update

@pkgupdt@hl.pkgu.net

키후네 신사 본궁으로 올라가는 계단.

The Japanese stair, Kifune Shrine, Kyoto, Japan.
ALT text detailsThe Japanese stair, Kifune Shrine, Kyoto, Japan.
pkg update's avatar
pkg update

@pkgupdt@hl.pkgu.net

교토에서 가장 좋아하고, 다시 가보고 싶은 숲길. 기후네 신사 본궁과 오쿠미야를 잇는 길. 교토는 외질수록 진해진다.

The walking road from the rear shrine to the main shrine, Kifune Shrine, Kyoto, Japan.
ALT text detailsThe walking road from the rear shrine to the main shrine, Kifune Shrine, Kyoto, Japan.
Brook Miles's avatar
Brook Miles

@brook@sunny.garden

We went camping in Nagatoro last weekend and saw a cool moth.

I didn't see the first part, but my partner said it was crawling along the ground as a "weird monster", then climbed up onto our bundle of firewood to begin unfurling its wings.

The triangular patches on its wings were silvery and reflective depending on the angle.

(edit: appears to be a Tarsolepis japonica)

A large moth perched on the side of a small bundle of firewood which is tied together with a blue plastic strap. The moth is mostly brown, and slightly shiny like smooth brushed hair. Each wing has two triangular patches, one pointing backwards and one pointing forwards, which are bright and silvery.
ALT text detailsA large moth perched on the side of a small bundle of firewood which is tied together with a blue plastic strap. The moth is mostly brown, and slightly shiny like smooth brushed hair. Each wing has two triangular patches, one pointing backwards and one pointing forwards, which are bright and silvery.
Brook Miles's avatar
Brook Miles

@brook@sunny.garden

We went camping in Nagatoro last weekend and saw a cool moth.

I didn't see the first part, but my partner said it was crawling along the ground as a "weird monster", then climbed up onto our bundle of firewood to begin unfurling its wings.

The triangular patches on its wings were silvery and reflective depending on the angle.

(edit: appears to be a Tarsolepis japonica)

A large moth perched on the side of a small bundle of firewood which is tied together with a blue plastic strap. The moth is mostly brown, and slightly shiny like smooth brushed hair. Each wing has two triangular patches, one pointing backwards and one pointing forwards, which are bright and silvery.
ALT text detailsA large moth perched on the side of a small bundle of firewood which is tied together with a blue plastic strap. The moth is mostly brown, and slightly shiny like smooth brushed hair. Each wing has two triangular patches, one pointing backwards and one pointing forwards, which are bright and silvery.
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Kunihito Ohtsubo

@kunihito_ohtsubo@mstdn.tokyocameraclub.com

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Kunihito Ohtsubo

@kunihito_ohtsubo@mstdn.tokyocameraclub.com

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Kunihito Ohtsubo

@kunihito_ohtsubo@mstdn.tokyocameraclub.com

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Kunihito Ohtsubo

@kunihito_ohtsubo@mstdn.tokyocameraclub.com

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Kunihito Ohtsubo

@kunihito_ohtsubo@mstdn.tokyocameraclub.com

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Kunihito Ohtsubo

@kunihito_ohtsubo@mstdn.tokyocameraclub.com

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Iris Ohyama was one of the stores in Japan to land a no-bid contract to sell strategic reserve rice released by the Japanese gov at half off market price. 100+ people lined up in Sendai starting the night before for 95 tickets to buy 5kg bags at 2,160 yen ($15), tax included.

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Ex-SMAP member Nakai Masahiro's attempts to deny he sexually assaulted a woman amount to a "second assault," his victim's lawyers said. Nakai is trying to get the third-party Fuji TV committee that investigated the charges to walk back its use of the term "sexual assault."

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Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

Copy of the Chōmei-ji Sankei / , Ōmihachiman, Shiga Prefecture, , populated by various pilgrims and a few divine beings, probably used by travelling fundraisers to encourage donations for rebuilding the temple after a major fire in 1516.

Copy of the Chōmei-ji Sankei #Mandara / #mandala, Ōmihachiman, Shiga Prefecture, #Japan, populated by various pilgrims and a few divine beings, probably used by travelling fundraisers to encourage donations for rebuilding the temple after a major fire in 1516. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsCopy of the Chōmei-ji Sankei #Mandara / #mandala, Ōmihachiman, Shiga Prefecture, #Japan, populated by various pilgrims and a few divine beings, probably used by travelling fundraisers to encourage donations for rebuilding the temple after a major fire in 1516. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
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Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

Copy of the Chōmei-ji Sankei / , Ōmihachiman, Shiga Prefecture, , populated by various pilgrims and a few divine beings, probably used by travelling fundraisers to encourage donations for rebuilding the temple after a major fire in 1516.

Copy of the Chōmei-ji Sankei #Mandara / #mandala, Ōmihachiman, Shiga Prefecture, #Japan, populated by various pilgrims and a few divine beings, probably used by travelling fundraisers to encourage donations for rebuilding the temple after a major fire in 1516. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsCopy of the Chōmei-ji Sankei #Mandara / #mandala, Ōmihachiman, Shiga Prefecture, #Japan, populated by various pilgrims and a few divine beings, probably used by travelling fundraisers to encourage donations for rebuilding the temple after a major fire in 1516. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Three of Japan's opposition parties - the Constitutional Democrats, Innovation, and Democratic Party for the People - have entered debate on their separate bills to legalize separate spousal surnames in Japan. It's the first official debate on the issue in 28 years.

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

In January, two Chinese tourists were killed on a train track in Kobe's Tarumi Ward. To help prevent future accidents, the city has put up a new sign warning against the obvious in English, Korean, and Simplified and Traditional Chinese.

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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

'May Sickness' (五月病 'gogatsu-byō') is a term for a seasonal disorder that strikes a little after Golden Week.

After the flurry of changes that take place each April, it may seem like May should be smooth sailing, but returning to work or school after the break is tough.

Polished table and spectacular greens at Yusai-tei.
ALT text detailsPolished table and spectacular greens at Yusai-tei.
Nao-san amongst the great torii gates of Fushimi Inari.
ALT text detailsNao-san amongst the great torii gates of Fushimi Inari.
Nao-san contemplates the zen garden at Ryoan-ji.
ALT text detailsNao-san contemplates the zen garden at Ryoan-ji.
Summer at Garden Teahouse.
ALT text detailsSummer at Garden Teahouse.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

The symbolism behind hydrangeas changes depending on their colour🌈

In one Japanese legend an emperor gifted blue hydrangeas to a neglected lover as a sign of contrition for leaving her alone for so long. Blue hydrangeas thus came to represent gratitude and understanding.

Hydrangeas in bloom far above Kyoto.
ALT text detailsHydrangeas in bloom far above Kyoto.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

The symbolism behind hydrangeas changes depending on their colour🌈

In one Japanese legend an emperor gifted blue hydrangeas to a neglected lover as a sign of contrition for leaving her alone for so long. Blue hydrangeas thus came to represent gratitude and understanding.

Hydrangeas in bloom far above Kyoto.
ALT text detailsHydrangeas in bloom far above Kyoto.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

'May Sickness' (五月病 'gogatsu-byō') is a term for a seasonal disorder that strikes a little after Golden Week.

After the flurry of changes that take place each April, it may seem like May should be smooth sailing, but returning to work or school after the break is tough.

Polished table and spectacular greens at Yusai-tei.
ALT text detailsPolished table and spectacular greens at Yusai-tei.
Nao-san amongst the great torii gates of Fushimi Inari.
ALT text detailsNao-san amongst the great torii gates of Fushimi Inari.
Nao-san contemplates the zen garden at Ryoan-ji.
ALT text detailsNao-san contemplates the zen garden at Ryoan-ji.
Summer at Garden Teahouse.
ALT text detailsSummer at Garden Teahouse.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social

How your email finds me...

A car in the driveway of a house close to The Philosopher's Path is slowly being swallowed by undergrowth.
ALT text detailsA car in the driveway of a house close to The Philosopher's Path is slowly being swallowed by undergrowth.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

At 37 locations in Japan, you can drive along a road that sings to you, sometimes with theme music from your favorite anime. Here's how musical roads in Japan came about, and a look at some of the most interesting Japanese pop culture-inspired ones.

buff.ly/8u9D3TC

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

In Japan, prostitution exists in a gray zone: Japan’s Anti-Prostitution Law outlaws both selling and buying sexual intercourse, yet levies no direct penalty on those who actually do it. So police chase the middlemen while treating women as wards in need of protection.

Picture of SOD Land, a "settai" style night club in which guests can drink with working porn actresses.
ALT text detailsPicture of SOD Land, a "settai" style night club in which guests can drink with working porn actresses.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

In 2021, a high schooler repeatedly told a teacher to "die" for interrupting his mobile gameplay, so the principal told him not to come back to school. A Hiroshima court just ruled this was inappropriate & ordered the city to pay the kid 200K yen ($1,387).

Clip from Asahi Shimbun. JP headline: 「学校に来させないで」校長の発言巡り高校側敗訴「必要な配慮欠く」
ALT text detailsClip from Asahi Shimbun. JP headline: 「学校に来させないで」校長の発言巡り高校側敗訴「必要な配慮欠く」
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A group in the ruling Liberal Democratic Party has compiled a recommendation that Japan generally eliminate tax-free tourist shopping. The recommendation would still permit tax-free shopping at duty-free stores at local airports and seaports.

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Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

One of nine statues of Nyorai in the main hall of Joruri-ji, . The nine statues of Nyorai in the Western Pure Land represent the nine paths to paradise, and each one has a different hand seal. This temple is a temple of the Shingon Ritsu sect located in Prefecture, and the name of the temple comes from the Eastern Pure Land, 'Touhou Joruri Sekai', the residence of Yakushi Nyorai.

One of nine statues of #Amida Nyorai in the main hall of Joruri-ji, #Japan. The nine statues of #Amida Nyorai in the Western Pure Land represent the nine paths to paradise, and each one has a different hand seal. This temple is a temple of the Shingon Ritsu sect located in #Kyoto Prefecture, and the name of the temple comes from the Eastern Pure Land, 'Touhou Joruri Sekai', the residence of Yakushi Nyorai. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsOne of nine statues of #Amida Nyorai in the main hall of Joruri-ji, #Japan. The nine statues of #Amida Nyorai in the Western Pure Land represent the nine paths to paradise, and each one has a different hand seal. This temple is a temple of the Shingon Ritsu sect located in #Kyoto Prefecture, and the name of the temple comes from the Eastern Pure Land, 'Touhou Joruri Sekai', the residence of Yakushi Nyorai. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
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Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

One of nine statues of Nyorai in the main hall of Joruri-ji, . The nine statues of Nyorai in the Western Pure Land represent the nine paths to paradise, and each one has a different hand seal. This temple is a temple of the Shingon Ritsu sect located in Prefecture, and the name of the temple comes from the Eastern Pure Land, 'Touhou Joruri Sekai', the residence of Yakushi Nyorai.

One of nine statues of #Amida Nyorai in the main hall of Joruri-ji, #Japan. The nine statues of #Amida Nyorai in the Western Pure Land represent the nine paths to paradise, and each one has a different hand seal. This temple is a temple of the Shingon Ritsu sect located in #Kyoto Prefecture, and the name of the temple comes from the Eastern Pure Land, 'Touhou Joruri Sekai', the residence of Yakushi Nyorai. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsOne of nine statues of #Amida Nyorai in the main hall of Joruri-ji, #Japan. The nine statues of #Amida Nyorai in the Western Pure Land represent the nine paths to paradise, and each one has a different hand seal. This temple is a temple of the Shingon Ritsu sect located in #Kyoto Prefecture, and the name of the temple comes from the Eastern Pure Land, 'Touhou Joruri Sekai', the residence of Yakushi Nyorai. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
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atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Evening Rain in Kawarago (1947)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

matcha-jp.com/en/2529

Rain falls on a narrow lane in a town by the seaside in Kawarago, Miyagi Prefecture. In the foreground, a small wooden boat is pulled up, lying at an awkward angle on the uneven, stony ground. Beyond, warm lights glow in the windows of houses on either side of a meandering little lane; up ahead, a single pedestrian carrying an umbrella passes beneath wires strung between utility poles. Rain continues to fall across the scene; the ground is slick with rainwater, and the sky above is dark and overcast.
ALT text detailsRain falls on a narrow lane in a town by the seaside in Kawarago, Miyagi Prefecture. In the foreground, a small wooden boat is pulled up, lying at an awkward angle on the uneven, stony ground. Beyond, warm lights glow in the windows of houses on either side of a meandering little lane; up ahead, a single pedestrian carrying an umbrella passes beneath wires strung between utility poles. Rain continues to fall across the scene; the ground is slick with rainwater, and the sky above is dark and overcast.
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atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Evening Rain in Kawarago (1947)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

matcha-jp.com/en/2529

Rain falls on a narrow lane in a town by the seaside in Kawarago, Miyagi Prefecture. In the foreground, a small wooden boat is pulled up, lying at an awkward angle on the uneven, stony ground. Beyond, warm lights glow in the windows of houses on either side of a meandering little lane; up ahead, a single pedestrian carrying an umbrella passes beneath wires strung between utility poles. Rain continues to fall across the scene; the ground is slick with rainwater, and the sky above is dark and overcast.
ALT text detailsRain falls on a narrow lane in a town by the seaside in Kawarago, Miyagi Prefecture. In the foreground, a small wooden boat is pulled up, lying at an awkward angle on the uneven, stony ground. Beyond, warm lights glow in the windows of houses on either side of a meandering little lane; up ahead, a single pedestrian carrying an umbrella passes beneath wires strung between utility poles. Rain continues to fall across the scene; the ground is slick with rainwater, and the sky above is dark and overcast.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Hydrangea were first introduced to Europe around 1862 by the German naturalist Siebold (フォン・シーボルト 1796-1866).
It is said he selected the flower's scientific name 'Hydrangea Otaksa' in memory of his Japanese mistress Kusumoto Taki (楠本滝/'Otaki-san' お滝).

Hydrangeas through a heart shaped hole in a bench.
ALT text detailsHydrangeas through a heart shaped hole in a bench.
Nao-san at Yokoku-ji.
ALT text detailsNao-san at Yokoku-ji.
A gorgeous blue hydrangea bush.
ALT text detailsA gorgeous blue hydrangea bush.
Hydrangeas at Yoshimine-dera.
ALT text detailsHydrangeas at Yoshimine-dera.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

on the head mound
just one rosary-
hydrangeas
首塚にロザリオひとつ額の花
-Kashiwabara Min-u (柏原眠雨).

In hanakotoba (花言葉), the Japanese language of flowers, hydrangeas carry the meaning of 'patience' and 'cool-headedness', but this was not always the case.

A kinton (a traditional Japanese sweet made from shredded yam dough about a bean paste ball) coloured shades of purple to mimic a hydrangea flower speckled with dew.
ALT text detailsA kinton (a traditional Japanese sweet made from shredded yam dough about a bean paste ball) coloured shades of purple to mimic a hydrangea flower speckled with dew.
A two coloured (blue and purple), heart shaped hydrangea flower.
ALT text detailsA two coloured (blue and purple), heart shaped hydrangea flower.
Gorgeous purple pinky hydrangea flowers.
ALT text detailsGorgeous purple pinky hydrangea flowers.
Dried sugar sweets in the shape of a plover and hydrangea.
ALT text detailsDried sugar sweets in the shape of a plover and hydrangea.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

While it is unproven, many people believe hydrangeas originated in Japan.
The Japanese name 'ajisai' (紫陽花), meaning 'gathering of blue' (aji/atsu 集まる = gathering/ai 藍 = indigo), suggests the flowers were originally mostly blue in colour.

Nao-san amongst a blue hydrangeas in Yokoku-ji.
ALT text detailsNao-san amongst a blue hydrangeas in Yokoku-ji.
A field of blue hydrangeas.
ALT text detailsA field of blue hydrangeas.
Blue hydrangeas.
ALT text detailsBlue hydrangeas.
Blue hydrangeas in bloom far above Kyoto.
ALT text detailsBlue hydrangeas in bloom far above Kyoto.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Matsuo Bashō wrote only 2 haiku about hydrangea. We opened this thread with the first, this is the second...

hydrangeas adorn
the little woodland garden-
a splendid parlor!
紫陽花や藪を小庭の別座敷
-Matsuo Bashō (松尾芭蕉 1644–94).

Hydrangeas at Yokoku-ji.
ALT text detailsHydrangeas at Yokoku-ji.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A Japanese app wants to end so-called "full-stop harassment" (maru-hara). The Simeji mobile keyboard will help translate sentences ending in periods to ones ending in emojis so older texters don't scare young Japanese who say full stops in SMS are "scary."

Segment om Abema about maru-hara and the Simeji app
ALT text detailsSegment om Abema about maru-hara and the Simeji app
Segment om Abema about maru-hara and the Simeji app
ALT text detailsSegment om Abema about maru-hara and the Simeji app
Segment om Abema about maru-hara and the Simeji app
ALT text detailsSegment om Abema about maru-hara and the Simeji app
Team at Aichi University that developed SImeji
ALT text detailsTeam at Aichi University that developed SImeji
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

On a side note...Siebold and Otaki-san's daughter, Kusumoto Ine (楠本イネ 1827-1903), was the first female doctor of Western medicine in Japan.

Photo of Kusumoto Ine, the first female doctor of Western medicine in Japan.
ALT text detailsPhoto of Kusumoto Ine, the first female doctor of Western medicine in Japan.
Photo of Kusumoto Ine, in old age, and her daughter.
ALT text detailsPhoto of Kusumoto Ine, in old age, and her daughter.
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Yukihito Ono

@onotch@mstdn.tokyocameraclub.com

花桃の里の空に昇る天の川🌸🌌✨

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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Hydrangea were first introduced to Europe around 1862 by the German naturalist Siebold (フォン・シーボルト 1796-1866).
It is said he selected the flower's scientific name 'Hydrangea Otaksa' in memory of his Japanese mistress Kusumoto Taki (楠本滝/'Otaki-san' お滝).

Hydrangeas through a heart shaped hole in a bench.
ALT text detailsHydrangeas through a heart shaped hole in a bench.
Nao-san at Yokoku-ji.
ALT text detailsNao-san at Yokoku-ji.
A gorgeous blue hydrangea bush.
ALT text detailsA gorgeous blue hydrangea bush.
Hydrangeas at Yoshimine-dera.
ALT text detailsHydrangeas at Yoshimine-dera.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Rakuten has announced it's selling strategic reserve rice released by the Japanese government for 1,980 yen a 5kg bag - over half off its current elevated price. People trying to reserve a bag, though, might have issues, as the site is being overloaded with requests.

Rakuten rice special advertisement on their site
ALT text detailsRakuten rice special advertisement on their site
Error we received trying to place an order
ALT text detailsError we received trying to place an order
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Matsuo Bashō wrote only 2 haiku about hydrangea. We opened this thread with the first, this is the second...

hydrangeas adorn
the little woodland garden-
a splendid parlor!
紫陽花や藪を小庭の別座敷
-Matsuo Bashō (松尾芭蕉 1644–94).

Hydrangeas at Yokoku-ji.
ALT text detailsHydrangeas at Yokoku-ji.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

While it is unproven, many people believe hydrangeas originated in Japan.
The Japanese name 'ajisai' (紫陽花), meaning 'gathering of blue' (aji/atsu 集まる = gathering/ai 藍 = indigo), suggests the flowers were originally mostly blue in colour.

Nao-san amongst a blue hydrangeas in Yokoku-ji.
ALT text detailsNao-san amongst a blue hydrangeas in Yokoku-ji.
A field of blue hydrangeas.
ALT text detailsA field of blue hydrangeas.
Blue hydrangeas.
ALT text detailsBlue hydrangeas.
Blue hydrangeas in bloom far above Kyoto.
ALT text detailsBlue hydrangeas in bloom far above Kyoto.
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dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

An alley street in Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
An alley street in Japan.
ALT text detailsAn alley street in Japan.
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dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

An alley street in Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
An alley street in Japan.
ALT text detailsAn alley street in Japan.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

on the head mound
just one rosary-
hydrangeas
首塚にロザリオひとつ額の花
-Kashiwabara Min-u (柏原眠雨).

In hanakotoba (花言葉), the Japanese language of flowers, hydrangeas carry the meaning of 'patience' and 'cool-headedness', but this was not always the case.

A kinton (a traditional Japanese sweet made from shredded yam dough about a bean paste ball) coloured shades of purple to mimic a hydrangea flower speckled with dew.
ALT text detailsA kinton (a traditional Japanese sweet made from shredded yam dough about a bean paste ball) coloured shades of purple to mimic a hydrangea flower speckled with dew.
A two coloured (blue and purple), heart shaped hydrangea flower.
ALT text detailsA two coloured (blue and purple), heart shaped hydrangea flower.
Gorgeous purple pinky hydrangea flowers.
ALT text detailsGorgeous purple pinky hydrangea flowers.
Dried sugar sweets in the shape of a plover and hydrangea.
ALT text detailsDried sugar sweets in the shape of a plover and hydrangea.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Gateball, a variation of croquet invented in Japan, was once extremely popular. Now, however, it's dying. Yamaguchi Prefecture has gone from 10K registered players to a mere 138 today. Why are people in Japan souring on the home-grown lawn sport?

unseen-japan.com/gateball-japa

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The Heian era was a particularly active time for Mt. Fuji. Twelve eruptions occurred between 800 and 1083. Centuries of calm ensued afterwards.

Then came the winter of 1707. For generations, the fierce power of Mt. Fuji would be well remembered.

buff.ly/QqnZ6L2

Artist’s rendering of the darkened state of Edo during the eruption. Source: Mt. Fuji Jukū Forest Park.
ALT text detailsArtist’s rendering of the darkened state of Edo during the eruption. Source: Mt. Fuji Jukū Forest Park.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Oooops: An employee at a second-hand shop in Matsuyama, Ehime Prefecture in Japan who bought a "toy" gun from a customer was shocked when the gun "exploded" and shot out a bullet. It was apparently sold by someone who found it among their relatives' artifacts.

Story from itv. JP text: 遺品整理で見つかった“モデルガン” 買い取り店で暴発 本物の自動式拳銃か 弾丸が発射され仕切り板を貫通 愛媛・松山市
ALT text detailsStory from itv. JP text: 遺品整理で見つかった“モデルガン” 買い取り店で暴発 本物の自動式拳銃か 弾丸が発射され仕切り板を貫通 愛媛・松山市
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Spring Rain at Matsushima (1936)

Artist: Koitsu Tsuchiya

creatureandcreator.ca/?p=5329

A view of Matsushima Bay on a cool rainy spring day. In the foreground, wiry pine trees screen our view of the bay; out on the water, a small sailboat passes by a pair of small tree-covered islands. The sky above is overcast, yet, combined with the reflective surface of the still ocean, creates a soft luminescence. A light rain falls across the scene.
ALT text detailsA view of Matsushima Bay on a cool rainy spring day. In the foreground, wiry pine trees screen our view of the bay; out on the water, a small sailboat passes by a pair of small tree-covered islands. The sky above is overcast, yet, combined with the reflective surface of the still ocean, creates a soft luminescence. A light rain falls across the scene.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A 40yo Sapporo woman whose parents took out a student loan in her name w/o telling her won't have to pay 980K yen ($6.7K) back after a Sapporo court threw out a previous court's decision on appeal. The parents put the money towards her mother's cancer treatment.

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Doctor and YouTuber Takasu Mikiya says many Japanese women are too thin. He says one out of every five women has a BMI below 18.5, putting them at the level of people in an "impoverished nation." Mikiya blames social media & modern beauty standards.

Clip from article on LiveDoor News. JP headline: 「“細ければ美しい”はメディアの洗脳」高須幹弥氏が日本の女性巡り警鐘
ALT text detailsClip from article on LiveDoor News. JP headline: 「“細ければ美しい”はメディアの洗脳」高須幹弥氏が日本の女性巡り警鐘
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Spring Rain at Matsushima (1936)

Artist: Koitsu Tsuchiya

creatureandcreator.ca/?p=5329

A view of Matsushima Bay on a cool rainy spring day. In the foreground, wiry pine trees screen our view of the bay; out on the water, a small sailboat passes by a pair of small tree-covered islands. The sky above is overcast, yet, combined with the reflective surface of the still ocean, creates a soft luminescence. A light rain falls across the scene.
ALT text detailsA view of Matsushima Bay on a cool rainy spring day. In the foreground, wiry pine trees screen our view of the bay; out on the water, a small sailboat passes by a pair of small tree-covered islands. The sky above is overcast, yet, combined with the reflective surface of the still ocean, creates a soft luminescence. A light rain falls across the scene.
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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Japan's parliament enacted a bill to establish a new law that will promote the development of artificial intelligence while addressing risks associated with the technology. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/05/

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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social

😋THE GUARDIAN OF KYŌTO'S KITCHEN🍴

Nishiki Tenmangū (錦天満宮) stands on Shinkyōgoku (新京極), at the east end of Nishiki Market (錦市場).
Enshrining Tenjin (天満天神 the deified statesman Sugawara-no-Michizane 菅原道真 845-903), people pray here for wisdom, scholarship and prosperous business.

Nishiki Tenmangu's main hall.
ALT text detailsNishiki Tenmangu's main hall.
Looking down Nishiki Market, Kyoto's 'kitchen'.
ALT text detailsLooking down Nishiki Market, Kyoto's 'kitchen'.
Nao-san poses outside one of Nishiki Market's decorated shutters. Ito Jakuchu, one of Japan's most famous painters, was born at the west end of Nishiki.
ALT text detailsNao-san poses outside one of Nishiki Market's decorated shutters. Ito Jakuchu, one of Japan's most famous painters, was born at the west end of Nishiki.
Entrance to Nishiki Tenmangu shrine.
ALT text detailsEntrance to Nishiki Tenmangu shrine.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

The shrine also goes by the names Nishiki Tenjin-sha (錦天神社), Nishiki Tenman-jinja (錦天満神社) and Nishiki-no-Tenjin-san (錦の天神さん).

The grounds preserve one of the wells so pivotal in the development of Nishiki Market (錦市場).

Wash basin at Nishiki Tenmangu. Natural springs around this area were pivotal in the development of the market here.
ALT text detailsWash basin at Nishiki Tenmangu. Natural springs around this area were pivotal in the development of the market here.
Nishiki Market.
ALT text detailsNishiki Market.
Entrance to Nishiki Tenmangu, nestled in Shinkyogoku Arcade.
ALT text detailsEntrance to Nishiki Tenmangu, nestled in Shinkyogoku Arcade.
Tiny octopus snacks on sale.
ALT text detailsTiny octopus snacks on sale.
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dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Alley story in Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Mika's avatar
Mika

@irfan@sakurajima.social

is debuting some sort of concept that ties your physical (home) address to a 7-character alphanumeric code (i.e. ABC-12D6) - sorta like how DNS works on the internet, I suppose.

The idea is, for mailing purposes or even for online shopping platforms - instead of manually filling up your full address (which supposedly can be a lot more complicated in ), you could instead give them this unique code.

You will need to sign up with Japan Post to get this Digital Address. I wonder about the security and logistical implications of this, in the long term - but the concept itself is pretty neat, honestly.

Even in Malaysia, it's not uncommon to easily find your exact address on one service/platform, but struggle to find/register the exact same address on a different app which might rely on a poorer map service - delegating this to a 'single source of truth' denoted only by a 7-char long code might make sense.

🔗 https://lp.da.pf.japanpost.jp

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dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Alley story in Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

The shrine also goes by the names Nishiki Tenjin-sha (錦天神社), Nishiki Tenman-jinja (錦天満神社) and Nishiki-no-Tenjin-san (錦の天神さん).

The grounds preserve one of the wells so pivotal in the development of Nishiki Market (錦市場).

Wash basin at Nishiki Tenmangu. Natural springs around this area were pivotal in the development of the market here.
ALT text detailsWash basin at Nishiki Tenmangu. Natural springs around this area were pivotal in the development of the market here.
Nishiki Market.
ALT text detailsNishiki Market.
Entrance to Nishiki Tenmangu, nestled in Shinkyogoku Arcade.
ALT text detailsEntrance to Nishiki Tenmangu, nestled in Shinkyogoku Arcade.
Tiny octopus snacks on sale.
ALT text detailsTiny octopus snacks on sale.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social

😋THE GUARDIAN OF KYŌTO'S KITCHEN🍴

Nishiki Tenmangū (錦天満宮) stands on Shinkyōgoku (新京極), at the east end of Nishiki Market (錦市場).
Enshrining Tenjin (天満天神 the deified statesman Sugawara-no-Michizane 菅原道真 845-903), people pray here for wisdom, scholarship and prosperous business.

Nishiki Tenmangu's main hall.
ALT text detailsNishiki Tenmangu's main hall.
Looking down Nishiki Market, Kyoto's 'kitchen'.
ALT text detailsLooking down Nishiki Market, Kyoto's 'kitchen'.
Nao-san poses outside one of Nishiki Market's decorated shutters. Ito Jakuchu, one of Japan's most famous painters, was born at the west end of Nishiki.
ALT text detailsNao-san poses outside one of Nishiki Market's decorated shutters. Ito Jakuchu, one of Japan's most famous painters, was born at the west end of Nishiki.
Entrance to Nishiki Tenmangu shrine.
ALT text detailsEntrance to Nishiki Tenmangu shrine.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japan's Emperor Naruhito is attracting attention for a pivotal question he asked Iceland's President Halla Tómasdóttir: How did your country make gender equality a reality? She explained the steps the country has taken since 1975's Women's Strike.

buff.ly/IgF2WEr

Article from Asahi Shimbun. JP text: 天皇陛下、ジェンダー平等「どうして実現を」　アイスランド大統領に
ALT text detailsArticle from Asahi Shimbun. JP text: 天皇陛下、ジェンダー平等「どうして実現を」　アイスランド大統領に
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The head of Japan's Polygamy Party says she's throwing her hat into the ring in this summer's Upper House election. 64yo Nagayasu Yuko is campaigning for a seat from Hyogo Prefecture on a platform of legalizing polygamy to reverse Japan's declining birth rates.

youtube.com/watch?v=YPzFKoZYP_

Clip from Sunday News. JP text: 参院選兵庫選挙区　「多夫多妻党」永安祐子氏が立候補表明
ALT text detailsClip from Sunday News. JP text: 参院選兵庫選挙区　「多夫多妻党」永安祐子氏が立候補表明
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Some more details on the drone flight by Skytree - the latest in a series of incidents involving tourists performing unauthorized flights at Japan travel hot spots. Here's what we know, along with a review of the country's drone laws for those who want to shoot legally.

buff.ly/9rqQwFp

Drones at Skytree
ALT text detailsDrones at Skytree
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Will calling people "-san" catch on *outside* of Japanese? Kyodo reports that the honorary suffix has come into common use at the Osaka Expo. Some people working at the Pavilion say it's a custom they want to take home as a way of showing respect regardless of age or gender.

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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

A little bit of magic...

The gorgeously green reflection in the table at Kyutei Omuro.
ALT text detailsThe gorgeously green reflection in the table at Kyutei Omuro.
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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Japan's government has said it will use soil removed during radiation decontamination work following the 2011 nuclear accident within the grounds of central government agencies and the prime minister's office in Tokyo. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/05/

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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

A little bit of magic...

The gorgeously green reflection in the table at Kyutei Omuro.
ALT text detailsThe gorgeously green reflection in the table at Kyutei Omuro.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Ikegami Honmonji (1937)

Artist: Noël Nouët

nippon.com/en/guide-to-japan/g

A view looking up at the temple bell at Ikegami Honmonji on a bright spring day. A single tree stands between us and the bell, a few pink blossoms clinging to its otherwise bare branches. The tall temple gate stands beyond, flanked by green trees; above, the sky is blue and cloudless.
ALT text detailsA view looking up at the temple bell at Ikegami Honmonji on a bright spring day. A single tree stands between us and the bell, a few pink blossoms clinging to its otherwise bare branches. The tall temple gate stands beyond, flanked by green trees; above, the sky is blue and cloudless.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

In the villa's sitting room is a low table made from a single piece of Chinese quince.
The polished surface perfectly captures the reflection of the lush green garden outside, bringing the cool shade of the trees into the room.

Nao-san reflected in the quince table at Kyutei Omuro.
ALT text detailsNao-san reflected in the quince table at Kyutei Omuro.
Stunning green reflections in the polished quince table at Kyutei Omuro.
ALT text detailsStunning green reflections in the polished quince table at Kyutei Omuro.
The sitting room at Kyutei Omuro.
ALT text detailsThe sitting room at Kyutei Omuro.
Painted ceiling panels at Kyutei Omuro, decorated with images of flowers.
ALT text detailsPainted ceiling panels at Kyutei Omuro, decorated with images of flowers.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

In 1969 the residence was owned by Abe Kihee (阿部喜兵衛), the 4th generation director of a saké brewing company.
He sold it to Yamamoto Mitsuo (山本三夫), father of the current owner Murata Akiyo (村田章代). Mitsuo was the founder of Yamasan sawmill (山三製材所).

Relaxing amongst gathered green.
ALT text detailsRelaxing amongst gathered green.
Looking down at Kyutei Omuro.
ALT text detailsLooking down at Kyutei Omuro.
A glimpse inside Kyutei Omuro's teahouse.
ALT text detailsA glimpse inside Kyutei Omuro's teahouse.
Giant stepping stones lead out into the garden at Kyutei Omuro.
ALT text detailsGiant stepping stones lead out into the garden at Kyutei Omuro.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

In 1969 the residence was owned by Abe Kihee (阿部喜兵衛), the 4th generation director of a saké brewing company.
He sold it to Yamamoto Mitsuo (山本三夫), father of the current owner Murata Akiyo (村田章代). Mitsuo was the founder of Yamasan sawmill (山三製材所).

Relaxing amongst gathered green.
ALT text detailsRelaxing amongst gathered green.
Looking down at Kyutei Omuro.
ALT text detailsLooking down at Kyutei Omuro.
A glimpse inside Kyutei Omuro's teahouse.
ALT text detailsA glimpse inside Kyutei Omuro's teahouse.
Giant stepping stones lead out into the garden at Kyutei Omuro.
ALT text detailsGiant stepping stones lead out into the garden at Kyutei Omuro.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

New rules have gone into effect in Japan to crack down on "kira-kira names." Parents must now spell out a new child's registered name in katakana, & city halls can reject readings that have no relation to the underlying readings or meanings of the associated kanji.

In this pic, names are allowed if they use (1) part of a kanji's pronunciation (心愛 read as "Kokoa"), (2) a standard pronunciation (飛鳥 read as "Asuka"), or (3) readings with one kanji omitted (okiji - 彩夢 read as "Yume," the pronunciation of just 夢). Rejected names include (1) names w/ no relationship to the kanji (太郎 read as "Maikeru"), (2) names that are easy to mispronounce ("Taro" read as "Jiro"), & (3) different words imposed on kanji ("Ken/Takeshi" read as "Kenichiro").
ALT text detailsIn this pic, names are allowed if they use (1) part of a kanji's pronunciation (心愛 read as "Kokoa"), (2) a standard pronunciation (飛鳥 read as "Asuka"), or (3) readings with one kanji omitted (okiji - 彩夢 read as "Yume," the pronunciation of just 夢). Rejected names include (1) names w/ no relationship to the kanji (太郎 read as "Maikeru"), (2) names that are easy to mispronounce ("Taro" read as "Jiro"), & (3) different words imposed on kanji ("Ken/Takeshi" read as "Kenichiro").
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

drinking tea alone
on the month's first day...
green bamboo blinds
一人呑茶も朔日ぞ青簾
-Kobayashi Issa (小林一茶) 1817.
Trans. David G. Lanoue.

Nao-san enjoys tea at Kyutei Omuro...her reflection caught in the polished table.
ALT text detailsNao-san enjoys tea at Kyutei Omuro...her reflection caught in the polished table.
Nao-san enjoys tea at Kyutei Omuro...her reflection caught in the polished table.
ALT text detailsNao-san enjoys tea at Kyutei Omuro...her reflection caught in the polished table.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

In the villa's sitting room is a low table made from a single piece of Chinese quince.
The polished surface perfectly captures the reflection of the lush green garden outside, bringing the cool shade of the trees into the room.

Nao-san reflected in the quince table at Kyutei Omuro.
ALT text detailsNao-san reflected in the quince table at Kyutei Omuro.
Stunning green reflections in the polished quince table at Kyutei Omuro.
ALT text detailsStunning green reflections in the polished quince table at Kyutei Omuro.
The sitting room at Kyutei Omuro.
ALT text detailsThe sitting room at Kyutei Omuro.
Painted ceiling panels at Kyutei Omuro, decorated with images of flowers.
ALT text detailsPainted ceiling panels at Kyutei Omuro, decorated with images of flowers.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Ikegami Honmonji (1937)

Artist: Noël Nouët

nippon.com/en/guide-to-japan/g

A view looking up at the temple bell at Ikegami Honmonji on a bright spring day. A single tree stands between us and the bell, a few pink blossoms clinging to its otherwise bare branches. The tall temple gate stands beyond, flanked by green trees; above, the sky is blue and cloudless.
ALT text detailsA view looking up at the temple bell at Ikegami Honmonji on a bright spring day. A single tree stands between us and the bell, a few pink blossoms clinging to its otherwise bare branches. The tall temple gate stands beyond, flanked by green trees; above, the sky is blue and cloudless.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

An ANA flight from Tokyo to Houston got diverted to Seattle after a passenger tried to open an emergency exit door in-flight. A *second* person was detained in Seattle after getting frustrated over the diversion and punching a bathroom door.

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

South Korean tourists love Japan so much that Japan is testing out dedicated immigration lanes for returning visitors. In June, Haneda and Fukuoka airports will set up express lines for South Korean arrivals in an experiment designed to encourage repeat tourism.

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Looking for a job in Japan? Some municipalities are hiring people to stand on the right side of the escalator to get people out of the habit of using it as a walking lane. Standers make around 6500 yen ($45) a day, with supervisors making 16K ($112).

buff.ly/qLQ6Ach

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atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Half Moon Bridge (1940)

Artist: Toshi Yoshida

sciencedirect.com/science/arti

In the foreground, a wisteria tree in bloom stretches across a pond, its branches heavy with purple flowers, their weight supported from below by wooden poles. Beyond, pedestrians cross a short bridge with an exaggerated curve; combined with its reflection in the still water of the pond, the bridge is designed to create a complete circle.
ALT text detailsIn the foreground, a wisteria tree in bloom stretches across a pond, its branches heavy with purple flowers, their weight supported from below by wooden poles. Beyond, pedestrians cross a short bridge with an exaggerated curve; combined with its reflection in the still water of the pond, the bridge is designed to create a complete circle.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Half Moon Bridge (1940)

Artist: Toshi Yoshida

sciencedirect.com/science/arti

In the foreground, a wisteria tree in bloom stretches across a pond, its branches heavy with purple flowers, their weight supported from below by wooden poles. Beyond, pedestrians cross a short bridge with an exaggerated curve; combined with its reflection in the still water of the pond, the bridge is designed to create a complete circle.
ALT text detailsIn the foreground, a wisteria tree in bloom stretches across a pond, its branches heavy with purple flowers, their weight supported from below by wooden poles. Beyond, pedestrians cross a short bridge with an exaggerated curve; combined with its reflection in the still water of the pond, the bridge is designed to create a complete circle.
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Zen in Color

@zencolor@mastodon.art

A frog standing upright, a branch over his shoulder, a fan in his girdle (detail). Muromachi period, 1392-1568, . Ink on paper.

A frog standing upright, a branch over his shoulder, a fan in his girdle (detail). Muromachi period, 1392-1568, #Japan. Ink on paper.
ALT text detailsA frog standing upright, a branch over his shoulder, a fan in his girdle (detail). Muromachi period, 1392-1568, #Japan. Ink on paper.
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Zen in Color

@zencolor@mastodon.art

A frog standing upright, a branch over his shoulder, a fan in his girdle (detail). Muromachi period, 1392-1568, . Ink on paper.

A frog standing upright, a branch over his shoulder, a fan in his girdle (detail). Muromachi period, 1392-1568, #Japan. Ink on paper.
ALT text detailsA frog standing upright, a branch over his shoulder, a fan in his girdle (detail). Muromachi period, 1392-1568, #Japan. Ink on paper.
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Tokyo

@Tokyo@channels.im

Univ. of Tokyo mulls accepting Harvard foreign students if barred

The University of Tokyo said Monday it is considering temporarily accepting international students from Harvard University if they are affected by the U.S. government’s move to bar them from studying at the institute. The university previously launched a program in 2022 to temporarily host researchers and studen…

alojapan.com/1283078/univ-of-t

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Does Japan need more garbage cans? Or does it just need fewer trashy tourists? How can the country address the growing problem of rubbish at travel hot spots? We look at some strategies and the data backing them in Tuesday's Unseen Japan Insider. Subscribe now:

unseen-japan.com/support/

One user had complained about the bottles lined up in a bathroom near Fushimi Inari Shrine. Another user shot back that this happened because of the lack of garbage cans at tourist sites. The user said that local businesses should do more to fund the placement of trash cans at popular tourist sites. The post sparked a sizable debate on our Threads account, with over 200 comments last I looked. The majority of commenters seemed to agree that the current Japanese custom of bringing a bag with you and lugging out your own trash is perfectly fine. Most opposed installing more garbage cans for tourists' sake. Indeed, increasing the number of trash cans would reverse a trend that started after the Aum Shinrikyō sarin subway attack. Ever since, Japan has been steadily reducing the number of public garbage cans as an anti-terrorism strategy.
ALT text detailsOne user had complained about the bottles lined up in a bathroom near Fushimi Inari Shrine. Another user shot back that this happened because of the lack of garbage cans at tourist sites. The user said that local businesses should do more to fund the placement of trash cans at popular tourist sites. The post sparked a sizable debate on our Threads account, with over 200 comments last I looked. The majority of commenters seemed to agree that the current Japanese custom of bringing a bag with you and lugging out your own trash is perfectly fine. Most opposed installing more garbage cans for tourists' sake. Indeed, increasing the number of trash cans would reverse a trend that started after the Aum Shinrikyō sarin subway attack. Ever since, Japan has been steadily reducing the number of public garbage cans as an anti-terrorism strategy.
Tokyo's avatar
Tokyo

@Tokyo@channels.im

Univ. of Tokyo mulls accepting Harvard foreign students if barred

The University of Tokyo said Monday it is considering temporarily accepting international students from Harvard University if they are affected by the U.S. government’s move to bar them from studying at the institute. The university previously launched a program in 2022 to temporarily host researchers and studen…

alojapan.com/1283078/univ-of-t

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Terry Wallwork

@terrywallwork@mstdn.jp

Major Japan tutoring firm apologizes for false claim on Minamata disease - Japan Today

japantoday.com/category/busine

> A major Japanese tutoring company has recently apologized for inaccurately describing the Minamata mercury-poisoning disease as hereditary in its online study material, a description that drew strong public criticism.

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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

The mesmerizing, ultrahydrophobic surface of a lotus leaf😵‍💫👏😊

on lotus leaves
this world's dewdrops
are warped
蓮の葉に此世の露はいびつ也
-Kobayashi Issa (小林一茶), 1819.
Trans. David Lanoue.

Water dancing on the surface of a lotus leaf.
ALT text detailsWater dancing on the surface of a lotus leaf.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

The warm, damp conditions of rainy season are perfect for mold, and there is a theory that at first this time was known as 'Baiu' (黴雨 lit. 'Mold Rains').
As this name was rather ugly it was a simple switch to 'Baiyu' (梅雨 'Plum Rain'), now commonly read as 'Tsuyu'.

Ume fruit in a downpour.
ALT text detailsUme fruit in a downpour.
Luca the dog excitedly looks over his ume harvest.
ALT text detailsLuca the dog excitedly looks over his ume harvest.
Ume fruit ripening in the sunshine.
ALT text detailsUme fruit ripening in the sunshine.
Ume fruit in a downpour.
ALT text detailsUme fruit in a downpour.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

The poet Du Fu (杜甫 712–70) helped romanticize the idea of plums causing the rains.
But...while it is a lovely image (rain showers misting up from plum trees), the simple truth is that plums ripened at the time of the wet season, and so the name 'Plum Rain' was born🌧️

Rain falling on Nao-san's ume tree (the small ume are slowly ripening).
ALT text detailsRain falling on Nao-san's ume tree (the small ume are slowly ripening).
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dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Gate of underground. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Gate of underground.
ALT text detailsGate of underground.
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dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Gate of underground. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Gate of underground.
ALT text detailsGate of underground.
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dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Gate of underground. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Gate of underground.
ALT text detailsGate of underground.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

The mesmerizing, ultrahydrophobic surface of a lotus leaf😵‍💫👏😊

on lotus leaves
this world's dewdrops
are warped
蓮の葉に此世の露はいびつ也
-Kobayashi Issa (小林一茶), 1819.
Trans. David Lanoue.

Water dancing on the surface of a lotus leaf.
ALT text detailsWater dancing on the surface of a lotus leaf.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social

🌧️'THE PLUM RAIN'☔️

June heralds the rainy season in Japan. Known as 'Tsuyu' (梅雨), the 'Plum Rain', this period coincides with the plums ripening.
The damp weeks are marked by their dazzling greenery and the appearance of the celebrated hydrangea.

Rainy season marks the appearance of hydrangeas in Japan.
ALT text detailsRainy season marks the appearance of hydrangeas in Japan.
A mino straw raincoat, hung at the entrance of Rakushisha (here it denotes the host is home).
ALT text detailsA mino straw raincoat, hung at the entrance of Rakushisha (here it denotes the host is home).
A watery themed sweet for rainy season...a slightly purple jelly is wrapped around bean paste, which shows through as a dark red.
ALT text detailsA watery themed sweet for rainy season...a slightly purple jelly is wrapped around bean paste, which shows through as a dark red.
Water gathers on a lotus leaf.
ALT text detailsWater gathers on a lotus leaf.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A woman in Japan won a lawsuit against her ex after he failed to disclose a tiny detail: his marriage. As more men (let's be honest) use dating apps to cheat, some apps are requiring that users submit documents proving they are, in fact, single.

buff.ly/1vC9rHr

Picture of a man and a woman about to hold hands
ALT text detailsPicture of a man and a woman about to hold hands
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

See a side of Japan most tourists never experience. Let Unseen Japan Tours serve as your expert guides to make your time in the country truly unique.

unseen-japan.com/unseen-japan-

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The Liberal Democratic Party's Moriyama Hiroshi says rice being affordable "isn't a good thing" and says rice should cost what it takes to support rice farmers. The comment is likely to fall on deaf ears among Japanese consumers, for whom the cost of rice has doubled.

FNN Prime Online article. JP headline: 自民・森山氏　コメ価格「安ければいいというものではない」　農家に再生産してもらえる価格を目指すべき
ALT text detailsFNN Prime Online article. JP headline: 自民・森山氏　コメ価格「安ければいいというものではない」　農家に再生産してもらえる価格を目指すべき
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Young people in Japan have been canceling bathtime. Now they appear to be canceling...their stoves? 20% of 20-somethings say they're covering up their stovetops and using electric equipment such as microwaves & one-pot cookers to make all their meals.

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

The transport ministry is considering abolishing monochromatic versions of "gotochi" special vehicle registration plates designed by local governments, it was learned. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/05/

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

The transport ministry is considering abolishing monochromatic versions of "gotochi" special vehicle registration plates designed by local governments, it was learned. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/05/

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Yukihito Ono

@onotch@mstdn.tokyocameraclub.com

花桃の里の空に昇る天の川🌸🌌✨

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Bernie

@codewiz@mstdn.io

At the Yodobashi Camera store near Kichijoji station, you can test ride bicycles on an indoors track! 😮

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

It's official: resellers in Japan have defeated McDonald's. The chain has stopped its second wave sale of Chiikawa Happy Meals early & said it's discontinuing the promotion entirely. Resellers were nabbing up the toys in the meals & reselling them online.

Article from Oricon News. JP title: 売終了…実質4日で幕　第3弾もなし
ALT text detailsArticle from Oricon News. JP title: 売終了…実質4日で幕　第3弾もなし
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Stories abound lately about people getting stuck while hiking Mt. Fuji during the off-season. In response to public outcry, Shizuoka and Yamanashi Prefectures may pass ordinances that put the costs of helicopter rescues onto the rescued.

unseen-japan.com/mt-fuji-rescu

Mt. Fuji helicopter rescue
ALT text detailsMt. Fuji helicopter rescue
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

"Japanese people under 40 who say they fear punctuation aren't remembering some long-lost past baked into their genes. They, like their English-speaking counterparts, just think that ending text messages with a period makes you sound like an asshole."

unseen-japan.com/punctuation-j

atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Koi no Mizu (1957)

Artist: Kasamatsu Shiro

toki.tokyo/blogt/2017/1/16/koi

Two koi swim just below the surface of a pond. One fish looks like a Sanshoku type with white, orange and black colours; the other looks like a dark-coloured Matsuba type. Pink cherry blossom petals float on the surface of the green-tinted water.
ALT text detailsTwo koi swim just below the surface of a pond. One fish looks like a Sanshoku type with white, orange and black colours; the other looks like a dark-coloured Matsuba type. Pink cherry blossom petals float on the surface of the green-tinted water.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Koi no Mizu (1957)

Artist: Kasamatsu Shiro

toki.tokyo/blogt/2017/1/16/koi

Two koi swim just below the surface of a pond. One fish looks like a Sanshoku type with white, orange and black colours; the other looks like a dark-coloured Matsuba type. Pink cherry blossom petals float on the surface of the green-tinted water.
ALT text detailsTwo koi swim just below the surface of a pond. One fish looks like a Sanshoku type with white, orange and black colours; the other looks like a dark-coloured Matsuba type. Pink cherry blossom petals float on the surface of the green-tinted water.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

The 'Rokuji Raisan' (六時礼讃) was a service of hymn-like songs performed six times in a day by Hōnen at...

😮🎶 daytime (日中 - sometime after midday)
😮🎶 sunset (日没)
😮🎶 first watch of night (初夜)
😮🎶 midnight (半夜)
😮🎶 4am (後夜)
😮🎶 dawn (晨朝 - 6am)

Honen-in's rustic gate.
ALT text detailsHonen-in's rustic gate.
A camellia leaf channels a drip of water from the water basin at Honen-in.
ALT text detailsA camellia leaf channels a drip of water from the water basin at Honen-in.
Camellia bush at Honen-in.
ALT text detailsCamellia bush at Honen-in.
Tokonoma (alcove) at Honen-in.
ALT text detailsTokonoma (alcove) at Honen-in.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

The shield bug (カメムシ 'kamemushi') sliding door was inspired by an old belief that an outbreak of shield bugs heralds a long, hard winter ahead (カメムシが大発生するとその冬は寒く大雪になる).

Shutting up Honen-in for the evening.
ALT text detailsShutting up Honen-in for the evening.
An artist plate exhibited at Honen-in.
ALT text detailsAn artist plate exhibited at Honen-in.
A world of green reflections in the water basin at Honen-in.
ALT text detailsA world of green reflections in the water basin at Honen-in.
Statue of Jizo at Honen-in.
ALT text detailsStatue of Jizo at Honen-in.
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:'s avatar
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:

@norbertwoehnl@famichiki.jp

Happy Friday from Itabashi, Tokyo!

Watching my feed, you'll find I like photographing my neighborhood at night, and I like old local shops. Here is a set of photos combining those topics.

1. Takimoto Optometrist, Watches and Jewelry Store
2. Araiya Liquor Store
3. Tajimaya Roasted Beans Shop
4. Tsuboi Bookstore

1. Takimoto Optometrician, Watches and Jewelry Store
ALT text details1. Takimoto Optometrician, Watches and Jewelry Store
2. Araiya Liquor Store
ALT text details2. Araiya Liquor Store
3. Tajimaya Roasted Beans Shop
ALT text details3. Tajimaya Roasted Beans Shop
4. Tsuboi Bookstore
ALT text details4. Tsuboi Bookstore
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

One of the temple's most stunning features is a rather new addition...a sliding door painted with very lifelike shield bugs (カメムシの絵).
Titled 'Yokyō' (余興 'entertainment' or 'performance'), it was created by Mizuno Hiroyo (水野浩世).

Honen-in's unique shoji, painted with tiny shield bugs.
ALT text detailsHonen-in's unique shoji, painted with tiny shield bugs.
Honen-in's unique shoji, painted with tiny shield bugs.
ALT text detailsHonen-in's unique shoji, painted with tiny shield bugs.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

The 'Rokuji Raisan' (六時礼讃) was a service of hymn-like songs performed six times in a day by Hōnen at...

😮🎶 daytime (日中 - sometime after midday)
😮🎶 sunset (日没)
😮🎶 first watch of night (初夜)
😮🎶 midnight (半夜)
😮🎶 4am (後夜)
😮🎶 dawn (晨朝 - 6am)

Honen-in's rustic gate.
ALT text detailsHonen-in's rustic gate.
A camellia leaf channels a drip of water from the water basin at Honen-in.
ALT text detailsA camellia leaf channels a drip of water from the water basin at Honen-in.
Camellia bush at Honen-in.
ALT text detailsCamellia bush at Honen-in.
Tokonoma (alcove) at Honen-in.
ALT text detailsTokonoma (alcove) at Honen-in.
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

An alley in Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
An alley in Japan.
ALT text detailsAn alley in Japan.
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dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

An alley in Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
An alley in Japan.
ALT text detailsAn alley in Japan.
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:'s avatar
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:

@norbertwoehnl@famichiki.jp

Happy Friday from Itabashi, Tokyo!

Watching my feed, you'll find I like photographing my neighborhood at night, and I like old local shops. Here is a set of photos combining those topics.

1. Takimoto Optometrist, Watches and Jewelry Store
2. Araiya Liquor Store
3. Tajimaya Roasted Beans Shop
4. Tsuboi Bookstore

1. Takimoto Optometrician, Watches and Jewelry Store
ALT text details1. Takimoto Optometrician, Watches and Jewelry Store
2. Araiya Liquor Store
ALT text details2. Araiya Liquor Store
3. Tajimaya Roasted Beans Shop
ALT text details3. Tajimaya Roasted Beans Shop
4. Tsuboi Bookstore
ALT text details4. Tsuboi Bookstore
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Hōnen-in (法然院) was built close to the site of a simple hermitage where Hōnen (法然 1133-1212) and his disciples (Jūren 住蓮 and Anraku 安楽), worshiped the bodhisattva Amida (阿弥陀仏) 6 times each day and night on Shishigatani (鹿ヶ谷).

Flower basin filled with red, pink and white camellia flowers.
ALT text detailsFlower basin filled with red, pink and white camellia flowers.
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Kagi HQ

@kagihq@mastodon.social

A look into Kagi's trip to Tokyo, where we connected with the Kagi community, collaborated with local companies, and enjoyed everything the city has to offer.

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who met with us, shared meals, and made this experience unforgettable!

また次回お会いしましょう。

tilvids.com/w/sK56bkBg7uWXqKMH

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Two managers at Japanese confectionery chain store Chateraise have been charged with forcing multiple employees to work overtime. In one case, the overtime exceeded 100 hours in a month - the "karōshi line" where overtime is ruled a cause of work-related death.

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The head of Japan's National Police Agency confirmed that it will tighten regulations on foreigners who attempt driver's license exchange in Japan. The NPA will now require a residence certificate, closing a loophole that allowed tourists to get JP licenses.

Article on LiveDoor News. JP title: 【速報】警察庁長官「外免切替」の見直し「今後すみやかに改正案とりまとめていく」
ALT text detailsArticle on LiveDoor News. JP title: 【速報】警察庁長官「外免切替」の見直し「今後すみやかに改正案とりまとめていく」
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

McDonald's Japan is trying to crack down on resellers of Chiikawa Happy Meal toys. For the second release, it says it will restrict Happy Meal purchases to four per adult. Resellers have cleaned stores out in order to resell the limited edited toys online at a markup.

news.livedoor.com/article/deta

Headline from LiveDoor News. Japanese title: マクドナルド・ハッピーセット 購入時に制限を発表「多くのお子様に…」
ALT text detailsHeadline from LiveDoor News. Japanese title: マクドナルド・ハッピーセット 購入時に制限を発表「多くのお子様に…」
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atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Ayame (1929)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

visitchiba.jp/things/ayame-par

A scattering of colourful irises in bloom, surrounded by lush grass; the flowers are white, red, lavender, trimmed with pink and blue, and deep dark purple. A sliver of a clear blue sky is just visible above.
ALT text detailsA scattering of colourful irises in bloom, surrounded by lush grass; the flowers are white, red, lavender, trimmed with pink and blue, and deep dark purple. A sliver of a clear blue sky is just visible above.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Ayame (1929)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

visitchiba.jp/things/ayame-par

A scattering of colourful irises in bloom, surrounded by lush grass; the flowers are white, red, lavender, trimmed with pink and blue, and deep dark purple. A sliver of a clear blue sky is just visible above.
ALT text detailsA scattering of colourful irises in bloom, surrounded by lush grass; the flowers are white, red, lavender, trimmed with pink and blue, and deep dark purple. A sliver of a clear blue sky is just visible above.
The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

The situation in Tokyo bears no similarity to the euro-zone crisis era in Athens. The comparison drawn by Shigeru Ishiba is reckless and irresponsible. japantimes.co.jp/commentary/20

The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

The situation in Tokyo bears no similarity to the euro-zone crisis era in Athens. The comparison drawn by Shigeru Ishiba is reckless and irresponsible. japantimes.co.jp/commentary/20

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dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

An ordinary residential area in Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
An ordinary residential area in Japan
ALT text detailsAn ordinary residential area in Japan
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dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

An ordinary residential area in Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
An ordinary residential area in Japan
ALT text detailsAn ordinary residential area in Japan
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Koizumi Shinjirō is back in the political spotlight as Japan's new Minister of Agriculture, replacing Etō Taku after the latter's weird rice brags. Koizumi immediately vowed to address Japan's rice price crisis through several proactive measures.

Headline from NTV about Koizumi becoming Agricultural Minister
ALT text detailsHeadline from NTV about Koizumi becoming Agricultural Minister
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atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Iidabashi (1939)

Artist: Toshi Yoshida

oldtokyo.com/iidabashi-bridge-

A view from the Iidabashi, looking down the curve of the Kanda River. Wooden boats clutter the waterway; in the foreground, a female figure on a boat is surrounded by young children, not all of whom are behaving themselves. Beyond, two figures in two different boats hold a conversation; further on, others are offloading merchandise, carrying items out of a boat, up a narrow ramp and into a riverside warehouse. On our right, a willow tree is just beginning to show new leaves; above, the sky is grimy and overcast.
ALT text detailsA view from the Iidabashi, looking down the curve of the Kanda River. Wooden boats clutter the waterway; in the foreground, a female figure on a boat is surrounded by young children, not all of whom are behaving themselves. Beyond, two figures in two different boats hold a conversation; further on, others are offloading merchandise, carrying items out of a boat, up a narrow ramp and into a riverside warehouse. On our right, a willow tree is just beginning to show new leaves; above, the sky is grimy and overcast.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Iidabashi (1939)

Artist: Toshi Yoshida

oldtokyo.com/iidabashi-bridge-

A view from the Iidabashi, looking down the curve of the Kanda River. Wooden boats clutter the waterway; in the foreground, a female figure on a boat is surrounded by young children, not all of whom are behaving themselves. Beyond, two figures in two different boats hold a conversation; further on, others are offloading merchandise, carrying items out of a boat, up a narrow ramp and into a riverside warehouse. On our right, a willow tree is just beginning to show new leaves; above, the sky is grimy and overcast.
ALT text detailsA view from the Iidabashi, looking down the curve of the Kanda River. Wooden boats clutter the waterway; in the foreground, a female figure on a boat is surrounded by young children, not all of whom are behaving themselves. Beyond, two figures in two different boats hold a conversation; further on, others are offloading merchandise, carrying items out of a boat, up a narrow ramp and into a riverside warehouse. On our right, a willow tree is just beginning to show new leaves; above, the sky is grimy and overcast.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Iidabashi (1939)

Artist: Toshi Yoshida

oldtokyo.com/iidabashi-bridge-

A view from the Iidabashi, looking down the curve of the Kanda River. Wooden boats clutter the waterway; in the foreground, a female figure on a boat is surrounded by young children, not all of whom are behaving themselves. Beyond, two figures in two different boats hold a conversation; further on, others are offloading merchandise, carrying items out of a boat, up a narrow ramp and into a riverside warehouse. On our right, a willow tree is just beginning to show new leaves; above, the sky is grimy and overcast.
ALT text detailsA view from the Iidabashi, looking down the curve of the Kanda River. Wooden boats clutter the waterway; in the foreground, a female figure on a boat is surrounded by young children, not all of whom are behaving themselves. Beyond, two figures in two different boats hold a conversation; further on, others are offloading merchandise, carrying items out of a boat, up a narrow ramp and into a riverside warehouse. On our right, a willow tree is just beginning to show new leaves; above, the sky is grimy and overcast.
The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Taiwan regrets not being invited by Nagasaki to this year's peace memorial ceremony to mark the anniversary of the 1945 U.S. atomic bombing, a spokesman at Taiwan's foreign ministry has said. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/05/

DB 🇵🇸 🌎🌏🌍's avatar
DB 🇵🇸 🌎🌏🌍

@dbattistella@mstdn.ca

In what has been described as 'an outrageous diplomatic incident', fired at an international delegation of diplomats from nearly two dozen countries, as they approached to investigate conditions at the camp in the , which has been under siege from the since Jan. 21.

The diplomats were from , , , , , , , , , , , , the , , and more.

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Taiwan regrets not being invited by Nagasaki to this year's peace memorial ceremony to mark the anniversary of the 1945 U.S. atomic bombing, a spokesman at Taiwan's foreign ministry has said. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/05/

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

The National Archives of Japan has disclosed to researchers the names of members of biological warfare units that the former Imperial Japanese Army had stationed in China. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/05/

The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

The National Archives of Japan has disclosed to researchers the names of members of biological warfare units that the former Imperial Japanese Army had stationed in China. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/05/

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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

The approach to the temple was once so filled with worshippers on their way to pray to 'Tako Yakushi' (蛸薬師) that the road's name was changed to 'Takoyakushi-dōri' (蛸薬師道)...and the name stuck.

Woodblock print of a 'rubbed Buddha', a statue of Buddha intended to be rubbed by the faithful as an act of faith. Image thanks - https://ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of a 'rubbed Buddha', a statue of Buddha intended to be rubbed by the faithful as an act of faith. Image thanks - https://ukiyo-e.org/
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

The approach to the temple was once so filled with worshippers on their way to pray to 'Tako Yakushi' (蛸薬師) that the road's name was changed to 'Takoyakushi-dōri' (蛸薬師道)...and the name stuck.

Woodblock print of a 'rubbed Buddha', a statue of Buddha intended to be rubbed by the faithful as an act of faith. Image thanks - https://ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of a 'rubbed Buddha', a statue of Buddha intended to be rubbed by the faithful as an act of faith. Image thanks - https://ukiyo-e.org/
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Eifuku-ji was founded in 1181 by a wealthy man named Rinshū (林秀) who, later in life, shaved his head and undertook monthly pilgrimages to worship the Medicine Buddha on Mt Hiei.
As he grew old the journey became impossible, and he began to fear for his soul...

Resting after a long hike up Mt Hiei to Enryaku-ji.
ALT text detailsResting after a long hike up Mt Hiei to Enryaku-ji.
Looking down at Kyoto from Mt Hiei.
ALT text detailsLooking down at Kyoto from Mt Hiei.
Enryaku-ji's Monju Gate.
ALT text detailsEnryaku-ji's Monju Gate.
The Eastern Pagoda of Enryaku-ji.
ALT text detailsThe Eastern Pagoda of Enryaku-ji.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

2) THE OCTOPUS SELLER:

After Rinshū's death his home fell to ruin and the statue lay forgotten.
A store selling octopus later opened on the site.
The owner found the statue and enshrined it (until Eifuku-ji's revival) in his shop for 'luck'...it thus became known as 'Tako Yakushi'.

Painting in Kobe of a 13 legged octopus.
ALT text detailsPainting in Kobe of a 13 legged octopus.
Takoyaki.
ALT text detailsTakoyaki.
A giant octopus sits atop a takoyaki shop in Dotonburi.
ALT text detailsA giant octopus sits atop a takoyaki shop in Dotonburi.
An octopus sign guides visitors to a takoyaki shop.
ALT text detailsAn octopus sign guides visitors to a takoyaki shop.
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dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Exploring street in Osaka Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Exploring street in Osaka Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Eifuku-ji was founded in 1181 by a wealthy man named Rinshū (林秀) who, later in life, shaved his head and undertook monthly pilgrimages to worship the Medicine Buddha on Mt Hiei.
As he grew old the journey became impossible, and he began to fear for his soul...

Resting after a long hike up Mt Hiei to Enryaku-ji.
ALT text detailsResting after a long hike up Mt Hiei to Enryaku-ji.
Looking down at Kyoto from Mt Hiei.
ALT text detailsLooking down at Kyoto from Mt Hiei.
Enryaku-ji's Monju Gate.
ALT text detailsEnryaku-ji's Monju Gate.
The Eastern Pagoda of Enryaku-ji.
ALT text detailsThe Eastern Pagoda of Enryaku-ji.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social

🐙📿THE OCTOPUS BUDDHA & OTHER CEPHALOPODS✨🦑

In the heart of Kyōto octopuses are celebrated at the small temple of Eifuku-ji (永福寺), known more familiarly as 'Tako Yakushi-dō' (蛸薬師堂 the 'Temple of the Octopus Medicine Buddha')🙏

The temple of Eifuku-ji in the heart of Kyoto's Shinkyogoku.
ALT text detailsThe temple of Eifuku-ji in the heart of Kyoto's Shinkyogoku.
Selection of rainy season sweets, with a gorgeous octopus shaped confection in the centre.
ALT text detailsSelection of rainy season sweets, with a gorgeous octopus shaped confection in the centre.
An abstract sweet made to mimic the suckers of an octopus.
ALT text detailsAn abstract sweet made to mimic the suckers of an octopus.
'Nade-tako' - a small octopus statue intended to be rubbed by the faithful in the hope it will cure ailments and sickness. Typically you rub the area of the statue that corresponds to a problem you are having (the head for headaches etc...).
ALT text details'Nade-tako' - a small octopus statue intended to be rubbed by the faithful in the hope it will cure ailments and sickness. Typically you rub the area of the statue that corresponds to a problem you are having (the head for headaches etc...).
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

“Someone posted ‘I’m gonna shoot Shikano Tsuno on May 22nd’ to a net message board. It got to where I couldn’t go about my day, either mentally or physically. I’ve met with the cops, and they’ve increased patrols around my place.”

unseen-japan.com/marcille-cosp

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Etō Taku, Japan's Minister of Agriculture, is officially out of a job after bragging that he "never buys rice" because his supporters give him so much that he "could sell it." Japan is paying double what it did for rice a year ago due to last season's poor crops.

unseen-japan.com/japan-agricul

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Tipping in Japan, the great Japan escalator debate, all about resignation proxy services, and a UK couple hike a mountain in street clothes - this and more in our round-up of last week's best UJ stories in the Unseen Japan newsletter:

us20.campaign-archive.com/?u=e

Picture of an open air ramen shop; in the foreground, a hand deposits USD into a jar
ALT text detailsPicture of an open air ramen shop; in the foreground, a hand deposits USD into a jar
Sign showing standing on the escalator and prohibiting walking
ALT text detailsSign showing standing on the escalator and prohibiting walking
A woman handing her boss a letter of resignation
ALT text detailsA woman handing her boss a letter of resignation
Yōtei in Hokkaido seen from a distance with a river in the foreground
ALT text detailsYōtei in Hokkaido seen from a distance with a river in the foreground
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Ruins of Rice Warehouses, Karatsu (1922)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/new

An abandoned warehouse, dark and unused, slowly crumbling away under a starry night sky. A disused path of wooden duckboards passes through a covered opening, allowing us to see beyond toward another dark building standing next to a body of water; nearby, a small open boat has been pulled up on shore. Further on, the shadowy shapes of mountains cross the horizon.
ALT text detailsAn abandoned warehouse, dark and unused, slowly crumbling away under a starry night sky. A disused path of wooden duckboards passes through a covered opening, allowing us to see beyond toward another dark building standing next to a body of water; nearby, a small open boat has been pulled up on shore. Further on, the shadowy shapes of mountains cross the horizon.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Ruins of Rice Warehouses, Karatsu (1922)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/new

An abandoned warehouse, dark and unused, slowly crumbling away under a starry night sky. A disused path of wooden duckboards passes through a covered opening, allowing us to see beyond toward another dark building standing next to a body of water; nearby, a small open boat has been pulled up on shore. Further on, the shadowy shapes of mountains cross the horizon.
ALT text detailsAn abandoned warehouse, dark and unused, slowly crumbling away under a starry night sky. A disused path of wooden duckboards passes through a covered opening, allowing us to see beyond toward another dark building standing next to a body of water; nearby, a small open boat has been pulled up on shore. Further on, the shadowy shapes of mountains cross the horizon.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social

🎋BRILLIANT BAMBOO🎍

The bamboo groves of Sagano (嵯峨野竹林の道) may be world famous, but there are many -equally gorgeous but far quieter- places to see bamboo forests in and around Kyōto.

Mukō (向日市), a short train ride from the city, has a whole park dedicated to bamboo!

Arashiyama bamboo grove, the most famous (and crowded) of Kyoto's bamboo 'forests'.
ALT text detailsArashiyama bamboo grove, the most famous (and crowded) of Kyoto's bamboo 'forests'.
Arashiyama bamboo grove, the most famous (and crowded) of Kyoto's bamboo 'forests'.
ALT text detailsArashiyama bamboo grove, the most famous (and crowded) of Kyoto's bamboo 'forests'.
Arashiyama bamboo grove, the most famous (and crowded) of Kyoto's bamboo 'forests'.
ALT text detailsArashiyama bamboo grove, the most famous (and crowded) of Kyoto's bamboo 'forests'.
Arashiyama bamboo grove, the most famous (and crowded) of Kyoto's bamboo 'forests'.
ALT text detailsArashiyama bamboo grove, the most famous (and crowded) of Kyoto's bamboo 'forests'.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Hikone Castle in Spring (1951)

Artist: Toshi Yoshida

visit.hikoneshi.com/en/castle/

A view across a patchwork of cultivated fields toward Hikone Castle, which stands on a forest-covered hill in the distance. Some of the fields are green with flowers and tidy rows of spring growth, while ither sections are still bare earth. A few figures in broad hats are working in the fields. Beyond, the forest covering the low hill of Mount Konki is dim and shadowed; the highest parts of Hikone Castle reach above the treetops. Overhead, the sky is cloudy and hazy.
ALT text detailsA view across a patchwork of cultivated fields toward Hikone Castle, which stands on a forest-covered hill in the distance. Some of the fields are green with flowers and tidy rows of spring growth, while ither sections are still bare earth. A few figures in broad hats are working in the fields. Beyond, the forest covering the low hill of Mount Konki is dim and shadowed; the highest parts of Hikone Castle reach above the treetops. Overhead, the sky is cloudy and hazy.
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Sleeping in the snow. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Sleeping in the snow.
ALT text detailsSleeping in the snow.
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Sleeping in the snow. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Sleeping in the snow.
ALT text detailsSleeping in the snow.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Mukō (向日) has long been famed for producing high quality bamboo shoots (for consumption), and in 2000 began a campaign to preserve the natural landscape of bamboo groves. This same year a 1.8km road through the bamboo forest on Nishi-no-oka (西の岡) was opened.

Atsuko-san almost blends in amongst the bamboo in her green kimono.
ALT text detailsAtsuko-san almost blends in amongst the bamboo in her green kimono.
The unusual 'turtle shell bamboo', which grows in such a way that the stalk segments look like the shell of a tortoise.
ALT text detailsThe unusual 'turtle shell bamboo', which grows in such a way that the stalk segments look like the shell of a tortoise.
Bamboo shoots in a bamboo grove.
ALT text detailsBamboo shoots in a bamboo grove.
Although it is difficult to see here these bamboo stalks grow in a squarish shape. They were prized by tea masters for use in tea rooms.
ALT text detailsAlthough it is difficult to see here these bamboo stalks grow in a squarish shape. They were prized by tea masters for use in tea rooms.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Although bamboo itself does not inspire many traditional sweets, the leaves of the plant make for a handy wrapping or even as a small plate!🎋

Chimaki, a sticky rice cake wrapped tightly in bamboo leaves.
ALT text detailsChimaki, a sticky rice cake wrapped tightly in bamboo leaves.
Traditional sweet with a bamboo and dog motif (symbols of health, longevity and successful childbirth).
ALT text detailsTraditional sweet with a bamboo and dog motif (symbols of health, longevity and successful childbirth).
A bamboo leaf is used here as a small plate for sweets.
ALT text detailsA bamboo leaf is used here as a small plate for sweets.
Bamboo skewers are used for traditional aburi-mochi (bite sized rice cakes).
ALT text detailsBamboo skewers are used for traditional aburi-mochi (bite sized rice cakes).
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social

🎋BRILLIANT BAMBOO🎍

The bamboo groves of Sagano (嵯峨野竹林の道) may be world famous, but there are many -equally gorgeous but far quieter- places to see bamboo forests in and around Kyōto.

Mukō (向日市), a short train ride from the city, has a whole park dedicated to bamboo!

Arashiyama bamboo grove, the most famous (and crowded) of Kyoto's bamboo 'forests'.
ALT text detailsArashiyama bamboo grove, the most famous (and crowded) of Kyoto's bamboo 'forests'.
Arashiyama bamboo grove, the most famous (and crowded) of Kyoto's bamboo 'forests'.
ALT text detailsArashiyama bamboo grove, the most famous (and crowded) of Kyoto's bamboo 'forests'.
Arashiyama bamboo grove, the most famous (and crowded) of Kyoto's bamboo 'forests'.
ALT text detailsArashiyama bamboo grove, the most famous (and crowded) of Kyoto's bamboo 'forests'.
Arashiyama bamboo grove, the most famous (and crowded) of Kyoto's bamboo 'forests'.
ALT text detailsArashiyama bamboo grove, the most famous (and crowded) of Kyoto's bamboo 'forests'.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Metropolitan Tokyo's 8 million households may get free water this summer. Tokyo will vote next month on making water service free for four months. This would give households relief from rising prices & encourage ppl to keep their AC on, reducing heat stroke risk.

news.livedoor.com/article/deta

Nithin Coca నితిన్'s avatar
Nithin Coca నితిన్

@ncoca@social.coop

Noticing a lot more coughing people on trains in recently too. Bet it's surging here too nationthailand.com/health-well

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

How long has punctuation been part of the Japanese language? Do young Japanese people fear it because it's so "alien"?! We dispel some myths and look at the actual history of full stops in tomorrow's Unseen Japan Insider newsletter. Subscribe today:

buff.ly/ohTkwcg

Even well-meaning people sometimes reach for outlandish historical explanations for things in modern Japan, explaining phenomena in terms of "national character" or history. Often, the truth is a lot simpler and, simultaneously, more interesting. You see this in many forms. When people in Japan clean up a sports stadium after a match, you hear how this shows "the Japanese ethic of cleanliness." In fact, some Japanese streets are filthy (have you seen Kabukicho, folks?), and the clean ones stay that way from volunteers who care about where they live. (Gomi-yashiki, trashed-out houses, are also a thing, as is illegal trash disposal.) When someone does something nice or chivalrous in Japan, we're told this is due to Japan's "collective society" or "samurai sense of honor" or "bushido" or some bullshit. Anything other than simple human decency.
ALT text detailsEven well-meaning people sometimes reach for outlandish historical explanations for things in modern Japan, explaining phenomena in terms of "national character" or history. Often, the truth is a lot simpler and, simultaneously, more interesting. You see this in many forms. When people in Japan clean up a sports stadium after a match, you hear how this shows "the Japanese ethic of cleanliness." In fact, some Japanese streets are filthy (have you seen Kabukicho, folks?), and the clean ones stay that way from volunteers who care about where they live. (Gomi-yashiki, trashed-out houses, are also a thing, as is illegal trash disposal.) When someone does something nice or chivalrous in Japan, we're told this is due to Japan's "collective society" or "samurai sense of honor" or "bushido" or some bullshit. Anything other than simple human decency.
Nithin Coca నితిన్'s avatar
Nithin Coca నితిన్

@ncoca@social.coop

Noticing a lot more coughing people on trains in recently too. Bet it's surging here too nationthailand.com/health-well

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba rebuffed calls for tax cuts, saying that the nation’s financial conditions are worse than Greece’s. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/05/

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba rebuffed calls for tax cuts, saying that the nation’s financial conditions are worse than Greece’s. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/05/

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Mandy Watson

@MandyCanUDigIt@mastodon.social

Large show gardens unveiled at - Cha No Niwa – Japanese Tea Garden by Kazuyuki Ishihara.

Cha No Niwa – Japanese Tea Garden with small tea house and colour provided by foliage
ALT text detailsCha No Niwa – Japanese Tea Garden with small tea house and colour provided by foliage
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Holly Becker

@hwesta@wandering.shop · Reply to Holly Becker's post

Second day, we visited the Omiya Bonsai Museum - mostly because it opened an hour before the Railway Museum. What a delight! It had a great short exhibit to prime us on what to look for in the bonsai, and then a small elegant garden full of bonsai ranging from 40 to 1000 (!) years old. We stayed way past our budgeted time and I have a new appreciation for this art form.

Koryo, a 120 year old Japanese Maple bonsai tree in an oval pot. The slanted pale trunk splits into three, each with a small src of bright green maple leaves. It feels serene and balanced
ALT text detailsKoryo, a 120 year old Japanese Maple bonsai tree in an oval pot. The slanted pale trunk splits into three, each with a small src of bright green maple leaves. It feels serene and balanced
Chiyo-no-matsu, a 500 year old Japanese White Pine bonsai in a large oval pot. It's enormous, nearly two meters across, with a gnarled central trunk rising wavily to support a large lush arc of needles. A branch splits very low to the right and circles around, a green swirl like a cloak. It feels majestic and powerful
ALT text detailsChiyo-no-matsu, a 500 year old Japanese White Pine bonsai in a large oval pot. It's enormous, nearly two meters across, with a gnarled central trunk rising wavily to support a large lush arc of needles. A branch splits very low to the right and circles around, a green swirl like a cloak. It feels majestic and powerful
A 60 year old pine bonsai growing around and though a craggy rock. It hangs down to the left, as if windswept from a giant cliff. It feels both delicate and strong, clinging precariously to the a cliff
ALT text detailsA 60 year old pine bonsai growing around and though a craggy rock. It hangs down to the left, as if windswept from a giant cliff. It feels both delicate and strong, clinging precariously to the a cliff
A 100 year old Ezo Spruce bonsai in a flat oval pot. Several small trees grow straight and true, forming a pleasing trianglular shape with their combined branches. With moss in the pot, it feels like a forest made miniature, green and refreshing
ALT text detailsA 100 year old Ezo Spruce bonsai in a flat oval pot. Several small trees grow straight and true, forming a pleasing trianglular shape with their combined branches. With moss in the pot, it feels like a forest made miniature, green and refreshing
Mandy Watson's avatar
Mandy Watson

@MandyCanUDigIt@mastodon.social

Large show gardens unveiled at - Cha No Niwa – Japanese Tea Garden by Kazuyuki Ishihara.

Cha No Niwa – Japanese Tea Garden with small tea house and colour provided by foliage
ALT text detailsCha No Niwa – Japanese Tea Garden with small tea house and colour provided by foliage
James Patten's avatar
James Patten

@Jpatten@kind.social

Third museum of the trip: the huge Ōmiya Railroad Museum! A must visit for any train enthusiast. Pictured here is the rolling stock exhibit, just one of five! We barely saw a third of it before we had to head out to catch our shinkansen to Hakodate. We'll be back for sure, maybe even this trip!

A photo of a huge indoor space scattered with many different train cars and engines, shot down from a second floor balcony.
ALT text detailsA photo of a huge indoor space scattered with many different train cars and engines, shot down from a second floor balcony.
Holly Becker's avatar
Holly Becker

@hwesta@wandering.shop · Reply to Holly Becker's post

Spent our first day at the excellent Edo Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum. 30+ historic buildings from the Tokyo area relocated to a lovely park for you to explore. Lots of friendly staff, some of whom spoke English. Hard to capture the experience in photos, since so much of the delight was walking though and feeling the spaces.

Inside of a mondernist Japanese living room built in 1940, during WW2. Two storey windows with a wood lattice open to a garden. Inside, wood floors, and a squareish couch in front of a wooden table.
ALT text detailsInside of a mondernist Japanese living room built in 1940, during WW2. Two storey windows with a wood lattice open to a garden. Inside, wood floors, and a squareish couch in front of a wooden table.
Exterior view of a very fancy Japanese home from the 1930s or earlier. Well trimmed bushes and lush trees partly obscure the house, which has many gables and partly gables roofs made of wavy tiles
ALT text detailsExterior view of a very fancy Japanese home from the 1930s or earlier. Well trimmed bushes and lush trees partly obscure the house, which has many gables and partly gables roofs made of wavy tiles
Inside of an old (around 1700s) farmhouse of a village administrator. It shows three different types of floor: in the foreground, stone floor for dirty shoes and messy work; then wood steps and walking area for high traffic zones; then tatami mats around an inset fire pit for sitting and relaxing. The fire pit has an iron kettle and a fish shaped pot hook hanging above it.
ALT text detailsInside of an old (around 1700s) farmhouse of a village administrator. It shows three different types of floor: in the foreground, stone floor for dirty shoes and messy work; then wood steps and walking area for high traffic zones; then tatami mats around an inset fire pit for sitting and relaxing. The fire pit has an iron kettle and a fish shaped pot hook hanging above it.
Exterior view of a 1920s Japanese house built with strong European influences. One story, with a simple gabled roof made of tile. The walls are pale yellow slats with white framed windows. A trellis covers a porch on the side
ALT text detailsExterior view of a 1920s Japanese house built with strong European influences. One story, with a simple gabled roof made of tile. The walls are pale yellow slats with white framed windows. A trellis covers a porch on the side
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

As Japanese consumers struggle thanks to record-high rice prices, Etō Taku, Japan's Minister of Agriculture, says he's...never bought rice. "My supporters give me so much rice," he somehow thought it was a good idea to say out loud. "So much I could sell it."

news.yahoo.co.jp/articles/d087

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

When employees resign using a resignation proxy service in Japan, company reactions can vary. Some take it in stride. Others ask if they can talk to the employee and work things out. Still others quickly cycle through Kübler-Ross’s Five Stages of Grief.

unseen-japan.com/resignation-p

An ad for Mō Muri in Ōta City, Tokyo. The company also employs large advertising trucks used primarily by host clubs and other nightlife entertainment businesses. (Picture: Unseen Japan)
ALT text detailsAn ad for Mō Muri in Ōta City, Tokyo. The company also employs large advertising trucks used primarily by host clubs and other nightlife entertainment businesses. (Picture: Unseen Japan)
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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

1,400 Photos Donated to Remember Horror of Aum Shinrikyo japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/05/

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Kunihito Ohtsubo

@kunihito_ohtsubo@mstdn.tokyocameraclub.com

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

1,400 Photos Donated to Remember Horror of Aum Shinrikyo japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/05/

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Kunihito Ohtsubo

@kunihito_ohtsubo@mstdn.tokyocameraclub.com

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Holly Becker

@hwesta@wandering.shop

I'm in Japan! My second visit and this time we're going to Hakodate, Sapporo and Aomori, in addition to Tokyo. @Jpatten is my travel partner and better at live posting than I am so I'll mostly boost his stuff

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Kunihito Ohtsubo

@kunihito_ohtsubo@mstdn.tokyocameraclub.com

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Tanuki.no.mori

@tanukinomori_jp@pixelfed.social

The Maple Path in Yase, enveloped by vibrant greenery🍃

📍Sakyo Ward, Kyoto City

#photography #nature #leaves #landscape #japan #kyoto #photo
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obrhoff

@obrhoff@mastodon.social

Germany is proud to be the third largest economy in the world. The truth is that Japan, our main competitor for the third place, is far worse off than us due to their poor migration policy and their even greater unwillingness to innovate.

It’s literally a race between snails.

Meanwhile, it’s projected that India will overtake both in about 2 years, relegating Germany to fourth place.

dw.com/en/japans-economy-shrin

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Tanuki.no.mori

@tanukinomori_jp@pixelfed.social

Wandering through Yase, northeast of Kyoto City, surrounded by lush greenery 🌱🍃

#photography #nature #naturephotography #japan #landscape #greenery #kyoto
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A couple in Tokyo got divorced after the wife discovered her husband was out having affairs while she was caring for his paralyzed 70yo mother. Asahi calls it an example of "nursing divorce," and lawyers say consultations about such cases are on the rise in Japan.

buff.ly/N1DZHcI

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Tanuki.no.mori

@tanukinomori_jp@pixelfed.social

Wandering through Yase, northeast of Kyoto City, surrounded by lush greenery 🌱🍃

#photography #nature #naturephotography #japan #landscape #greenery #kyoto
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

McDonald's Japan released a new Chiikawa Happy Meal, and resellers were right there to scoop up the limited edition toys. Screenshot below shows the order list for a store that just opened, as resellers grab the toys out of the hands of kids to sell for a markup on Mercari.

X post by syonbenshitesyu. Japanese text: ちいかわハッピーセットでマック開店した瞬間からこれ笑笑 店内怒号飛び交う 地獄すぎる
ALT text detailsX post by syonbenshitesyu. Japanese text: ちいかわハッピーセットでマック開店した瞬間からこれ笑笑 店内怒号飛び交う 地獄すぎる
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Kinokunizaka, in the Rainy Season (1938)

Artist: Kasamatsu Shiro

japan-guide.com/e/e2277.html

An overcast, rainy day somewhere in Japan (possibly near Akasaka, in Tokyo). In the foreground, a wiry pine tree stands atop a grassy hill; a little further on, a pair of figures, a child and an adult, carry umbrellas as they walk past. Beyond, the shapes of trees and buildings are reduced to hazy silhouettes in the gloom.
ALT text detailsAn overcast, rainy day somewhere in Japan (possibly near Akasaka, in Tokyo). In the foreground, a wiry pine tree stands atop a grassy hill; a little further on, a pair of figures, a child and an adult, carry umbrellas as they walk past. Beyond, the shapes of trees and buildings are reduced to hazy silhouettes in the gloom.
RM's avatar
RM

@TokyoCityUrbex@pixelfed.social

The House
I just love all the designs of old Japanese houses like this one
#architecture #japan #lightandshadow #photography
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A ramen chain in Japan with 34 stores in the greater Tokyo area is closing 10 shops, or 29%, by June 30th, 2025. The company won't say why it's closing so many stores. But longtime fans say it's because the flavor just isn't there anymore.

unseen-japan.com/ramen-chain-c

A bowl of ramen with a Closed sign superimposed over it
ALT text detailsA bowl of ramen with a Closed sign superimposed over it
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Kinokunizaka, in the Rainy Season (1938)

Artist: Kasamatsu Shiro

japan-guide.com/e/e2277.html

An overcast, rainy day somewhere in Japan (possibly near Akasaka, in Tokyo). In the foreground, a wiry pine tree stands atop a grassy hill; a little further on, a pair of figures, a child and an adult, carry umbrellas as they walk past. Beyond, the shapes of trees and buildings are reduced to hazy silhouettes in the gloom.
ALT text detailsAn overcast, rainy day somewhere in Japan (possibly near Akasaka, in Tokyo). In the foreground, a wiry pine tree stands atop a grassy hill; a little further on, a pair of figures, a child and an adult, carry umbrellas as they walk past. Beyond, the shapes of trees and buildings are reduced to hazy silhouettes in the gloom.
RM's avatar
RM

@TokyoCityUrbex@pixelfed.social

The House
I just love all the designs of old Japanese houses like this one
#architecture #japan #lightandshadow #photography
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Tokyo police have arrested a woman and two men for running a year-long scam operation. The three used a dating app that caters to disabled people and those sympathetic to them. They reportedly bilked 54 men of 80 million yen ($548K).

unseen-japan.com/dating-app-di

Woman using smartphone with a heart drawn over the hand holding the phone
ALT text detailsWoman using smartphone with a heart drawn over the hand holding the phone
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The Himeyuri students, or Lily Princesses Student Corps, were a group of 222 students and 18 teachers from women's schools who were forced into front-line military service as medical personnel during the 1945 Battle of Okinawa.

Himeyuri students before mobilization
ALT text detailsHimeyuri students before mobilization
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Unseen Japan documents the stories, debates, and social movements that are shaping modern Japan. If you love what we do, help us do more of it - contribute to the Unseen Japan Journalism Fund today.

unseen-japan.com/support/

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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Just like nearby Yoshimine-dera, Yōkoku-ji (楊谷寺) is famed for its pure waters.

Above the inner shrine is a small spring known as 'Minori-sui' (神徳水 the 'Water of Divine Virtues'), once thought to be the key to perpetual youth (or at the very least a long life).

Yokoku-ji is famed for its clear springs and hydrangea gardens.
ALT text detailsYokoku-ji is famed for its clear springs and hydrangea gardens.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Someone on X complained about the volume of garbage in a bathroom near Fushimi Inari-taisha in Kyoto. Another user shot back, "This happens b/c there are no garbage cans at tourist sites," & blamed retailers who don't provide trash cans for "foisting infrastructure costs onto citizens."

X post. Original Japanese text: 京都の観光地で起きているゴミ問題は「ゴミ箱」が無い事が原因です。そもそも、ゴミを出す商品を販売しておいて、ゴミ箱を設置しない事業者は、生活する市民のインフラに負担を押し付けています。ホテルの持ち帰りもホテルへの負担押し付けです。京都市民は怒り条例で飲食物を販売する事業者に、店先のゴミ箱設置を義務づけるべきです。
ALT text detailsX post. Original Japanese text: 京都の観光地で起きているゴミ問題は「ゴミ箱」が無い事が原因です。そもそも、ゴミを出す商品を販売しておいて、ゴミ箱を設置しない事業者は、生活する市民のインフラに負担を押し付けています。ホテルの持ち帰りもホテルへの負担押し付けです。京都市民は怒り条例で飲食物を販売する事業者に、店先のゴミ箱設置を義務づけるべきです。
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

In a recent survey, 41 out of 48 large companies said their employees had used a resignation proxy service to quit. Most of them are whining that this is "a huge pain," as they can't talk with their soon-to-be-ex-employees about bonuses & procedures.

buff.ly/lPzBEj7

Article from LiveDoor: ｢退職代行は大迷惑！｣人事部の本音に納得の理由
ALT text detailsArticle from LiveDoor: ｢退職代行は大迷惑！｣人事部の本音に納得の理由
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Just like nearby Yoshimine-dera, Yōkoku-ji (楊谷寺) is famed for its pure waters.

Above the inner shrine is a small spring known as 'Minori-sui' (神徳水 the 'Water of Divine Virtues'), once thought to be the key to perpetual youth (or at the very least a long life).

Yokoku-ji is famed for its clear springs and hydrangea gardens.
ALT text detailsYokoku-ji is famed for its clear springs and hydrangea gardens.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

The temple has not 1, not 2, not 3, not 4, but 5 'hana-chōzu' (花手水)!😳🌺💦🥰

Flowers are used to decorate a wash basin at Yokoku-ji.
ALT text detailsFlowers are used to decorate a wash basin at Yokoku-ji.
Flowers are used to decorate a wash basin at Yokoku-ji.
ALT text detailsFlowers are used to decorate a wash basin at Yokoku-ji.
Flowers are used to decorate a wash basin at Yokoku-ji.
ALT text detailsFlowers are used to decorate a wash basin at Yokoku-ji.
Flowers are used to decorate a wash basin at Yokoku-ji.
ALT text detailsFlowers are used to decorate a wash basin at Yokoku-ji.
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Symbol of Osaka. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Symbol of Osaka.
ALT text detailsSymbol of Osaka.
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Symbol of Osaka. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Symbol of Osaka.
ALT text detailsSymbol of Osaka.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

There’s a lot of talk lately of foreign “nuisance influencers” plaguing Japan with their obnoxious stunts. However, a new incident of "food terrorism" involving two teens in Osaka reminds us that Japanese people seeking online notoriety can be just as gross.

unseen-japan.com/food-terroris

Sukiya Food Terrorism - picture of woman drinking directly from a tea pitcher with a Sukiya shown in the background
ALT text detailsSukiya Food Terrorism - picture of woman drinking directly from a tea pitcher with a Sukiya shown in the background
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:'s avatar
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:

@norbertwoehnl@famichiki.jp

Good morning from Tokyo, where it looks like we're set for a quite warm Thursday!
For this morning, I chose a calming image of a woman ascending the stairs to Shinonome Shrine in Matsuyama City on the southern island of Shikoku.

A woman is ascending the stairs to Shinonome Shrine in Matsuyama City on the southern Japanese island of Shikoku. The late-afternoon sun casts a long shadow on her silhouette.
ALT text detailsA woman is ascending the stairs to Shinonome Shrine in Matsuyama City on the southern Japanese island of Shikoku. The late-afternoon sun casts a long shadow on her silhouette.
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Alo Japan

@alojapan@channels.im

alojapan.com/1274097/japanese- Japanese poetry translation documents WWII incarceration A collection of Japanese poetry written by a Japanese immigrant couple incarcerated during World War II has been translated into English for the first time, offering rare, first-person emotional insights into the losses and injustices of those detained during wartime in the United States. …

Japanese poetry translation documents WWII incarceration
ALT text detailsJapanese poetry translation documents WWII incarceration
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Hikone Castle in Spring (1951)

Artist: Toshi Yoshida

visit.hikoneshi.com/en/castle/

A view across a patchwork of cultivated fields toward Hikone Castle, which stands on a forest-covered hill in the distance. Some of the fields are green with flowers and tidy rows of spring growth, while ither sections are still bare earth. A few figures in broad hats are working in the fields. Beyond, the forest covering the low hill of Mount Konki is dim and shadowed; the highest parts of Hikone Castle reach above the treetops. Overhead, the sky is cloudy and hazy.
ALT text detailsA view across a patchwork of cultivated fields toward Hikone Castle, which stands on a forest-covered hill in the distance. Some of the fields are green with flowers and tidy rows of spring growth, while ither sections are still bare earth. A few figures in broad hats are working in the fields. Beyond, the forest covering the low hill of Mount Konki is dim and shadowed; the highest parts of Hikone Castle reach above the treetops. Overhead, the sky is cloudy and hazy.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Hikone Castle in Spring (1951)

Artist: Toshi Yoshida

visit.hikoneshi.com/en/castle/

A view across a patchwork of cultivated fields toward Hikone Castle, which stands on a forest-covered hill in the distance. Some of the fields are green with flowers and tidy rows of spring growth, while ither sections are still bare earth. A few figures in broad hats are working in the fields. Beyond, the forest covering the low hill of Mount Konki is dim and shadowed; the highest parts of Hikone Castle reach above the treetops. Overhead, the sky is cloudy and hazy.
ALT text detailsA view across a patchwork of cultivated fields toward Hikone Castle, which stands on a forest-covered hill in the distance. Some of the fields are green with flowers and tidy rows of spring growth, while ither sections are still bare earth. A few figures in broad hats are working in the fields. Beyond, the forest covering the low hill of Mount Konki is dim and shadowed; the highest parts of Hikone Castle reach above the treetops. Overhead, the sky is cloudy and hazy.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Chapter 9 of 'The Tale of Genji' (源氏物語), 'Aoi' (葵), features the Aoi Matsuri (葵祭).
As Hikaru Genji (光源氏) is participating in the festival Lady Rokujō (御息所), his mistress, arrives early in her carriage to save a good spot.

Painting depicting the 'Aoi' chapter of The Tale of Genji. Attendants fight to secure the best viewing spot for their carriages (and their mistresses within).
ALT text detailsPainting depicting the 'Aoi' chapter of The Tale of Genji. Attendants fight to secure the best viewing spot for their carriages (and their mistresses within).
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

A little later Genji's wife, Lady Aoi (葵の上), has her servants maliciously shove Rokujō's carriage aside.

Utterly humiliated and filled with hatred, Rokujō's living spirit will later possess and kill Aoi!

Painting depicting a Noh performance of the play 'Lady Oi'.
ALT text detailsPainting depicting a Noh performance of the play 'Lady Oi'.
Painting depicting a funeral service.
ALT text detailsPainting depicting a funeral service.
Painting depicting a funeral service.
ALT text detailsPainting depicting a funeral service.
Painting depicting a Noh performance of the play 'Lady Oi'.
ALT text detailsPainting depicting a Noh performance of the play 'Lady Oi'.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

3) 堂々巡り📿

"Circling the temple hall" is similar to the English phrase "Going around in circles". It is yet another idiom born at Kiyomizu-dera.
Pilgrims would circle the main hall, often many hundreds of times, as an act of faith.

A deep scratch can be seen carved around the outside of Kiyomizu-dera's main hall.
ALT text detailsA deep scratch can be seen carved around the outside of Kiyomizu-dera's main hall.
Nao-san beneath Kiyomizu-dera's Nio-mon gate.
ALT text detailsNao-san beneath Kiyomizu-dera's Nio-mon gate.
Atsuko-san and Nao-san enjoy the fresh greens at Kiyomizu-dera in early summer.
ALT text detailsAtsuko-san and Nao-san enjoy the fresh greens at Kiyomizu-dera in early summer.
Kiyomizu-dera on a hot afternoon in early summer.
ALT text detailsKiyomizu-dera on a hot afternoon in early summer.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Tatsuki Ryō, the manga author who's predicted a massive tsunami in July 2025, was asked what she thought of Hong Kong tourists canceling plans b/c of her. She said it's "positive" that people's awareness of disaster prevention is on the rise.

news.yahoo.co.jp/articles/fe2f

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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

A little later Genji's wife, Lady Aoi (葵の上), has her servants maliciously shove Rokujō's carriage aside.

Utterly humiliated and filled with hatred, Rokujō's living spirit will later possess and kill Aoi!

Painting depicting a Noh performance of the play 'Lady Oi'.
ALT text detailsPainting depicting a Noh performance of the play 'Lady Oi'.
Painting depicting a funeral service.
ALT text detailsPainting depicting a funeral service.
Painting depicting a funeral service.
ALT text detailsPainting depicting a funeral service.
Painting depicting a Noh performance of the play 'Lady Oi'.
ALT text detailsPainting depicting a Noh performance of the play 'Lady Oi'.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Young Japanese say they're wary of so-called "maru harassment," or "maru-hara," which is when someone ends a text message w/ a period. Over 31% of those between 15-29yo found such messages "scary" or "painful." Only 12.5% of those over 30 agreed.

Survey showing 31.8% of 15-22yos finding period-ending messages "scary" while 31.5% of 23-29yos felt the same way. Only 12.5% of those 30 and over said the same thing.
ALT text detailsSurvey showing 31.8% of 15-22yos finding period-ending messages "scary" while 31.5% of 23-29yos felt the same way. Only 12.5% of those 30 and over said the same thing.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Chapter 9 of 'The Tale of Genji' (源氏物語), 'Aoi' (葵), features the Aoi Matsuri (葵祭).
As Hikaru Genji (光源氏) is participating in the festival Lady Rokujō (御息所), his mistress, arrives early in her carriage to save a good spot.

Painting depicting the 'Aoi' chapter of The Tale of Genji. Attendants fight to secure the best viewing spot for their carriages (and their mistresses within).
ALT text detailsPainting depicting the 'Aoi' chapter of The Tale of Genji. Attendants fight to secure the best viewing spot for their carriages (and their mistresses within).
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dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Daytime in the rain in Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
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dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Daytime in the rain in Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

There are now two main parts to the parade day: the procession, known as 'Rotō-no-gi' (路頭の儀 lit. 'Roadside Ceremony'), and the shrine rites, known as 'Shatō-no-gi' (社頭の儀 'Front of Shrine Ceremony’).

Photos from the Aoi Matsuri parade.
ALT text detailsPhotos from the Aoi Matsuri parade.
Photos from the Aoi Matsuri parade.
ALT text detailsPhotos from the Aoi Matsuri parade.
Photos from the Aoi Matsuri parade.
ALT text detailsPhotos from the Aoi Matsuri parade.
Photos from the Aoi Matsuri parade.
ALT text detailsPhotos from the Aoi Matsuri parade.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Two male police officers in Kyoto have been charged, in two separate incidents, with attempting to take illicit photos by installing a hidden camera in the women's bathroom at Kyoto police stations. Both will also face disciplinary action.

news.yahoo.co.jp/articles/5210

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Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:

@norbertwoehnl@famichiki.jp

Good morning from Tokyo, where it looks like we're set for a quite warm Thursday!
For this morning, I chose a calming image of a woman ascending the stairs to Shinonome Shrine in Matsuyama City on the southern island of Shikoku.

A woman is ascending the stairs to Shinonome Shrine in Matsuyama City on the southern Japanese island of Shikoku. The late-afternoon sun casts a long shadow on her silhouette.
ALT text detailsA woman is ascending the stairs to Shinonome Shrine in Matsuyama City on the southern Japanese island of Shikoku. The late-afternoon sun casts a long shadow on her silhouette.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

The other notable figure in the procession is the Saiō-dai (斎王代).
Once an unmarried imperial princess (that acted as priestess for the Kamo shrines), the Saiō-dai is now chosen from a respected local family. She participates in a handful of festival rituals.

The Aoi Matsuri's Saio-dai (once a princess of imperial blood that served as priestess to the Kamo shrines). Photo thanks🙇‍♂️-https://wakasa15thfd.wordpress.com/2019/05/06/
ALT text detailsThe Aoi Matsuri's Saio-dai (once a princess of imperial blood that served as priestess to the Kamo shrines). Photo thanks🙇‍♂️-https://wakasa15thfd.wordpress.com/2019/05/06/
The Aoi Matsuri's Saio-dai (once a princess of imperial blood that served as priestess to the Kamo shrines). Photo thanks🙇‍♂️-https://wakasa15thfd.wordpress.com/2019/05/06/
ALT text detailsThe Aoi Matsuri's Saio-dai (once a princess of imperial blood that served as priestess to the Kamo shrines). Photo thanks🙇‍♂️-https://wakasa15thfd.wordpress.com/2019/05/06/
The Aoi Matsuri's Saio-dai (once a princess of imperial blood that served as priestess to the Kamo shrines). Photo thanks🙇‍♂️-https://wakasa15thfd.wordpress.com/2019/05/06/
ALT text detailsThe Aoi Matsuri's Saio-dai (once a princess of imperial blood that served as priestess to the Kamo shrines). Photo thanks🙇‍♂️-https://wakasa15thfd.wordpress.com/2019/05/06/
The Aoi Matsuri's Saio-dai (once a princess of imperial blood that served as priestess to the Kamo shrines). Photo thanks🙇‍♂️-https://wakasa15thfd.wordpress.com/2019/05/06/
ALT text detailsThe Aoi Matsuri's Saio-dai (once a princess of imperial blood that served as priestess to the Kamo shrines). Photo thanks🙇‍♂️-https://wakasa15thfd.wordpress.com/2019/05/06/
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The 1970 World Expo in Osaka popularized the idea of leaving one lane of an escalator open for walking in Japan. Now, the 2025 Osaka Expo, along with cities like Nagoya, is trying to reverse that habit in the name of efficiency and safety.

unseen-japan.com/escalator-two

Sign showing standing on the escalator and prohibiting walking
ALT text detailsSign showing standing on the escalator and prohibiting walking
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

SASAYA Holdings, an Osaka-based restaurant chain, has apologized on its website after one of its stores posted a sign refusing service to anyone of Chinese nationality. The chain has closed the store and reiterated its commitment to treating all customers equally.

unseen-japan.com/japanese-rest

Man putting a "Store Closed" sign on a storefront
ALT text detailsMan putting a "Store Closed" sign on a storefront
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A couple from the UK attempted to hike up Hokkaido's Mt. Yōtei in short sleeves and shorts. Predictably, they required a helicopter rescue at around 1,750 meters (5,741 feet) after they got too cold. Around 80% of those who get stuck yearly on Yōtei are foreigners.

unseen-japan.com/mt-yotei-uk-c

Yōtei in Hokkaido seen from a distance with a river in the foreground
ALT text detailsYōtei in Hokkaido seen from a distance with a river in the foreground
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atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Flowering Plum and Full Moon (c.1920s-30s)

Artist: Ohara Koson

space.com/stargazing/mays-full

A bright full moon occupies a dark, starless night sky; in the foreground, a wiry plum brunch crosses the view, shedding pale blossoms.
ALT text detailsA bright full moon occupies a dark, starless night sky; in the foreground, a wiry plum brunch crosses the view, shedding pale blossoms.
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Alo Japan

@alojapan@channels.im

alojapan.com/1274097/japanese- Japanese poetry translation documents WWII incarceration A collection of Japanese poetry written by a Japanese immigrant couple incarcerated during World War II has been translated into English for the first time, offering rare, first-person emotional insights into the losses and injustices of those detained during wartime in the United States. …

Japanese poetry translation documents WWII incarceration
ALT text detailsJapanese poetry translation documents WWII incarceration
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Hélène Cook 📷

@helenecookphoto@pixelfed.social

'Tokyo insomnia'
📸© www.helene-cook.eu
#art #photography #ArtYear #scape #dream #urbanphotography #architecturephotography #cityscape #urbanlandscape #streetphotography #nightphotography #nightlife #tokyo #japan #shinjuku
View on Tokyo at night from a skyscrapper building, using a slow shutter speed. A train is crossing the image in diagonal creating a green glow on the black tracks. Buildings and streets around it are bathed in orange or blue lighting depending on the types of lamps used.
ALT text detailsView on Tokyo at night from a skyscrapper building, using a slow shutter speed. A train is crossing the image in diagonal creating a green glow on the black tracks. Buildings and streets around it are bathed in orange or blue lighting depending on the types of lamps used.
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Hélène Cook 📷

@helenecookphoto@pixelfed.social

'Tokyo insomnia'
📸© www.helene-cook.eu
#art #photography #ArtYear #scape #dream #urbanphotography #architecturephotography #cityscape #urbanlandscape #streetphotography #nightphotography #nightlife #tokyo #japan #shinjuku
View on Tokyo at night from a skyscrapper building, using a slow shutter speed. A train is crossing the image in diagonal creating a green glow on the black tracks. Buildings and streets around it are bathed in orange or blue lighting depending on the types of lamps used.
ALT text detailsView on Tokyo at night from a skyscrapper building, using a slow shutter speed. A train is crossing the image in diagonal creating a green glow on the black tracks. Buildings and streets around it are bathed in orange or blue lighting depending on the types of lamps used.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Flowering Plum and Full Moon (c.1920s-30s)

Artist: Ohara Koson

space.com/stargazing/mays-full

A bright full moon occupies a dark, starless night sky; in the foreground, a wiry plum brunch crosses the view, shedding pale blossoms.
ALT text detailsA bright full moon occupies a dark, starless night sky; in the foreground, a wiry plum brunch crosses the view, shedding pale blossoms.
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Ted O'Neill

@ton@scholar.social

Quick -landscape post on the blog I share with students.

llll.minami-2-413.net/L4/one-s

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Ted O'Neill

@ton@scholar.social

Quick -landscape post on the blog I share with students.

llll.minami-2-413.net/L4/one-s

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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

2) 玉の輿に乗る💎

"To ride a jeweled palanquin"...
"to marry into wealth".

This rags-to-riches expression was born from the tale of Otama (お玉 later known as Keishō-in 桂昌院), a greengrocer's daughter who would become mother of the 5th shōgun, Tokugawa Tsunayoshi (徳川綱吉).

Statue of Keisho-in at Yoshimine-dera.
ALT text detailsStatue of Keisho-in at Yoshimine-dera.
The main gate of Imamiya-jinja.
ALT text detailsThe main gate of Imamiya-jinja.
Nao-san enjoys aburi-mochi beside Imamiya-jinja.
ALT text detailsNao-san enjoys aburi-mochi beside Imamiya-jinja.
Monument to Keisho-in at Imamiya-jinja.
ALT text detailsMonument to Keisho-in at Imamiya-jinja.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

The jump was seen as an act of faith in Kannon (十一面千手千眼観音). Those planning on making the jump would typically retire for a period of prayer and reflection within the main hall.

If you did not survive the fall your soul would be carried directly to "Kannon's Pure Land", Mount Potalaka (補陀洛).

Nao-san prays at Kiyomizu-dera.
ALT text detailsNao-san prays at Kiyomizu-dera.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A lawyer for ex-SMAP member Nakai Masahiro says that there are "serious problems" with the Fuji TV independent commission finding that he sexually assaulted an ex-Fuji announcer, saying the conclusion damages his "reputation & social standing."

buff.ly/ZFREFf1

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Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:

@norbertwoehnl@famichiki.jp

Good morning from Japan on a bright Wednesday!
Today, I have something different than usual - 4 photos from the annual Firewalking Festival at Yugasan Rendaiji in Kurashiki, Okayama Prefecture / see ALT texts for more info.

Firewalking Festival at Yugasan Rendaiji Temple on the outskirts of Kurashiki, Okayama Prefecture. Prayers at the beginning of the event.
ALT text detailsFirewalking Festival at Yugasan Rendaiji Temple on the outskirts of Kurashiki, Okayama Prefecture. Prayers at the beginning of the event.
Firewalking Festival at Yugasan Rendaiji Temple on the outskirts of Kurashiki, Okayama Prefecture. The fire pit has been fully prepared.
ALT text detailsFirewalking Festival at Yugasan Rendaiji Temple on the outskirts of Kurashiki, Okayama Prefecture. The fire pit has been fully prepared.
Firewalking Festival at Yugasan Rendaiji Temple on the outskirts of Kurashiki, Okayama Prefecture. The embers are coming along nicely.
ALT text detailsFirewalking Festival at Yugasan Rendaiji Temple on the outskirts of Kurashiki, Okayama Prefecture. The embers are coming along nicely.
Firewalking Festival at Yugasan Rendaiji Temple on the outskirts of Kurashiki, Okayama Prefecture. The decisive moment has come.
ALT text detailsFirewalking Festival at Yugasan Rendaiji Temple on the outskirts of Kurashiki, Okayama Prefecture. The decisive moment has come.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

"This is largely Japanese TV these days"

Post from X user @outdated22: 今の日本のテレビほぼこれ
ALT text detailsPost from X user @outdated22: 今の日本のテレビほぼこれ
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

"Put the receipt from the photo frame I bought in the photo frame"

X post by _bokunou: フォトホルダーを買ったときのレシートをフォトホルダーに入れる
ALT text detailsX post by _bokunou: フォトホルダーを買ったときのレシートをフォトホルダーに入れる
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A middle school girl in Kumamoto went to extreme lengths to bully her classmates: she reportedly created over 100 fake social media accounts to threaten three other girls into giving her money over the course of three years. She got them to fork over around 180K yen ($1,220).

sankei.com/article/20250513-X7

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Raymond Larabie

@typodermic@mastodon.social

A bike path boldly announces its purpose in the blockiest kanji imaginable. 🚲🧱

ドット絵かと思いきや、まさかの漢字「自転車」。このピクセル感、懐かしのファミコンか、令和の歩道か。いずれにせよ、自転車通行はOK。 🚲🉐

A textured sidewalk in monochrome features the kanji characters for “bicycle” (自転車) embedded into the brickwork in a charmingly pixelated style. The chunky, blocky font recalls retro gaming graphics, a lo-fi declaration of cycling territory. A rider approaches in the background, front wheel perfectly aligned with the path's utilitarian intent.
ALT text detailsA textured sidewalk in monochrome features the kanji characters for “bicycle” (自転車) embedded into the brickwork in a charmingly pixelated style. The chunky, blocky font recalls retro gaming graphics, a lo-fi declaration of cycling territory. A rider approaches in the background, front wheel perfectly aligned with the path's utilitarian intent.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Attendance for Osaka Expo appears to be...well, not great. The festival is around halfway to entrance ticket sale goals (11.37 million). However, one-month attendance is only 2.613 million, or below 1/10th of the event's six-month goal.

buff.ly/ar2uPFE

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

A Chinese district court sentenced a Japanese man in his 50s to 12 years in prison for espionage. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/05/

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japan Diet member Kōno Tarō said the National Police Agency will no longer approve of Chinese tourists doing driver's license exchange here w/o a residence certificate. However, the press secretary for another Diet rep said the NPA denied any such policy change had taken place.

X post from yukarimurakami5: 警察庁よりお電話頂きました。 【回答】 日本に住民票のない中国人が、来日して中国の運転免許証を日本の免許証に切り替えるのは今後認めないことを警察庁が明確にした、という事実はない。 （外国人の外免切替に関する問題意識はあり国会でも答弁している通り検討を進めているところとの事。）
ALT text detailsX post from yukarimurakami5: 警察庁よりお電話頂きました。 【回答】 日本に住民票のない中国人が、来日して中国の運転免許証を日本の免許証に切り替えるのは今後認めないことを警察庁が明確にした、という事実はない。 （外国人の外免切替に関する問題意識はあり国会でも答弁している通り検討を進めているところとの事。）
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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

A Chinese district court sentenced a Japanese man in his 50s to 12 years in prison for espionage. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/05/

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

”Yo, stop mimicking the tissue boxes lol"

X post from @animalkyat: ねぇww 鼻セレブに擬態するのやめてww
ALT text detailsX post from @animalkyat: ねぇww 鼻セレブに擬態するのやめてww
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

It's a drink that some call "the worst cola in the world." It also has its ardent fans. What it doesn't have any longer is a place at Osaka Expo. A South Korean import shop at Expo has pulled McCol from its shelves due to its ties to the Unification Church.

unseen-japan.com/unification-c

Four cans of McCol with Japanese labels
ALT text detailsFour cans of McCol with Japanese labels
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Unlike some countries, Japan has no tipping culture. It can even be considered rude. That leaves a lot of tourists from tipping-heavy countries confused. But now, say reports, some places in Japan have started putting out tip jars. Could it become a trend?

unseen-japan.com/japan-tipping

Picture of an open air ramen shop; in the foreground, a hand deposits USD into a jar
ALT text detailsPicture of an open air ramen shop; in the foreground, a hand deposits USD into a jar
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andres_sanchis

@andres_sanchis@mastodon.art

Cuatro novelas de la serie V.I. Warshawski, de la escritora Sara Paretsky, con portada ilustradas por de gran Hisashi Eguchi.

Vaya flow más tremendo tiene. Pop total!

Hisashi Eguchi art
ALT text detailsHisashi Eguchi art
Hisashi Eguchi art
ALT text detailsHisashi Eguchi art
Hisashi Eguchi Art
ALT text detailsHisashi Eguchi Art
Hisashi Eguchi Art
ALT text detailsHisashi Eguchi Art
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Why do people in Japan use resignation proxy services? The top reason shouldn’t be any surprise: harassment. 33.9% of respondents used Mō Muri because their boss had harassed them – an enduring problem in Japan, especially for working women.

unseen-japan.com/resignation-p

A chart showing the reasons people used resignation proxy service Mō Muri
ALT text detailsA chart showing the reasons people used resignation proxy service Mō Muri
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A scary manga derails Japan tourism, Japan's young keep their faces hidden, why Japan is covered in wires, and slander against a war memorial - this and more in our weekly round-up up UJ's best content:

us20.campaign-archive.com/?u=e

Young woman putting mask on her face
ALT text detailsYoung woman putting mask on her face
Picture of Tokyo subsumed by flood waters with the manga "The Future I've Seen " superimposed over it
ALT text detailsPicture of Tokyo subsumed by flood waters with the manga "The Future I've Seen " superimposed over it
Why Does Japan Look Like This? Picture of power lines in a Japanese skyline
ALT text detailsWhy Does Japan Look Like This? Picture of power lines in a Japanese skyline
Himeyuri students before mobilization
ALT text detailsHimeyuri students before mobilization
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Unlike the more public-orientated Gion Festival (祇園祭), the Aoi Matsuri became 1 of the 'sanchoku-sai' (三勅祭), three great festivals held by imperial order.

🌩️The Kamo Shrines (賀茂神社)
🕊️Iwashimizu Hachimangū (石清水八幡宮)
🦌Kasuga Taisha (春日大社)

Kasuga Taisha in Nara.
ALT text detailsKasuga Taisha in Nara.
Shimogamo-jinja.
ALT text detailsShimogamo-jinja.
An imperial cart at Shimogamo-jinja, used in the Aoi Matsuri procession.
ALT text detailsAn imperial cart at Shimogamo-jinja, used in the Aoi Matsuri procession.
Iwashimizu Hachiman-gu, south of Kyoto city.
ALT text detailsIwashimizu Hachiman-gu, south of Kyoto city.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Next month, Aeon stores in Japan will start selling California-grown Calrose rice. A 4kg bag will run for 2,680 yen ($18). Japanese-grown rice is currently running 4,214 yen ($28) a 5kg bag - a 172.8 yen/kg difference - due to last year's hot summer.

news.yahoo.co.jp/articles/0a79

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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Unlike the more public-orientated Gion Festival (祇園祭), the Aoi Matsuri became 1 of the 'sanchoku-sai' (三勅祭), three great festivals held by imperial order.

🌩️The Kamo Shrines (賀茂神社)
🕊️Iwashimizu Hachimangū (石清水八幡宮)
🦌Kasuga Taisha (春日大社)

Kasuga Taisha in Nara.
ALT text detailsKasuga Taisha in Nara.
Shimogamo-jinja.
ALT text detailsShimogamo-jinja.
An imperial cart at Shimogamo-jinja, used in the Aoi Matsuri procession.
ALT text detailsAn imperial cart at Shimogamo-jinja, used in the Aoi Matsuri procession.
Iwashimizu Hachiman-gu, south of Kyoto city.
ALT text detailsIwashimizu Hachiman-gu, south of Kyoto city.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Interestingly it was only after the Tokugawa’s assistance in reviving the festival that it became known as the Aoi Matsuri (葵祭).
Until this time is was known as the 'Kamo Matsuri' (賀茂祭), or simply as 'The Festival' (祭).

Participants in the May 15th Aoi Matsuri parade. The procession departs from the Imperial Palace and winds towards the Kamo shrines.
ALT text detailsParticipants in the May 15th Aoi Matsuri parade. The procession departs from the Imperial Palace and winds towards the Kamo shrines.
Participants in the May 15th Aoi Matsuri parade. The procession departs from the Imperial Palace and winds towards the Kamo shrines.
ALT text detailsParticipants in the May 15th Aoi Matsuri parade. The procession departs from the Imperial Palace and winds towards the Kamo shrines.
Participants in the May 15th Aoi Matsuri parade. The procession departs from the Imperial Palace and winds towards the Kamo shrines.
ALT text detailsParticipants in the May 15th Aoi Matsuri parade. The procession departs from the Imperial Palace and winds towards the Kamo shrines.
Participants in the May 15th Aoi Matsuri parade. The procession departs from the Imperial Palace and winds towards the Kamo shrines.
ALT text detailsParticipants in the May 15th Aoi Matsuri parade. The procession departs from the Imperial Palace and winds towards the Kamo shrines.
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dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

They found something in the rain. #photography #streetphotography #japan
They found something in the rain.
ALT text detailsThey found something in the rain.
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dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

They found something in the rain. #photography #streetphotography #japan
They found something in the rain.
ALT text detailsThey found something in the rain.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

In response the emperor had special rites performed at the Kamo shrines (賀茂神社 - the current Kamigamo-jinja and Shimogamo-jinja) and miraculously the crisis abated.
Over time the rituals grew into a larger, two-week celebration, including horse races and a sumptuous parade🏇

The Romon gate at Kamigamo-jinja (the upper Kamo shrine).
ALT text detailsThe Romon gate at Kamigamo-jinja (the upper Kamo shrine).
Participants in the Aoi Matsuri parade.
ALT text detailsParticipants in the Aoi Matsuri parade.
Nao-san feeds the 'sacred horse' at Kamigamo-jinja. The shrine is famed for its horse races in May, used to entertain the Kamo gods.
ALT text detailsNao-san feeds the 'sacred horse' at Kamigamo-jinja. The shrine is famed for its horse races in May, used to entertain the Kamo gods.
The Romon gate at Shimogamo-jinja (the lower Kamo shrine).
ALT text detailsThe Romon gate at Shimogamo-jinja (the lower Kamo shrine).
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Ever been nervous about quitting your job? Ever needed to leave a toxic work environment and worried about how that conversation would play out? In Japan, there's a service that'll resign so you don't have to. And business, much to one company's dismay, is booming.

unseen-japan.com/resignation-p

A woman handing her boss a letter of resignation
ALT text detailsA woman handing her boss a letter of resignation
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atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Spring Moon, Ninomiya Beach (1932)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

gov-online.go.jp/eng/publicity

A bright full moon shines down out of a starless night sky, illuminating a single shadowy figure walking along Ninomiya Beach, in Kanagawa Prefecture. Tall wiry pine trees stand on our side of the beach; beyond, the waters of the Pacific are calm, silvered by moonlight.
ALT text detailsA bright full moon shines down out of a starless night sky, illuminating a single shadowy figure walking along Ninomiya Beach, in Kanagawa Prefecture. Tall wiry pine trees stand on our side of the beach; beyond, the waters of the Pacific are calm, silvered by moonlight.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A significant number of young Japanese people are also continuing to mask up on a regular basis. Some among this “mask generation,” who came of age during the pandemic, say it’s because they feel more comfortable hiding their faces.

unseen-japan.com/japan-young-m

Woman wearing a pink mask
ALT text detailsWoman wearing a pink mask
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Bad news for tourists to Japan looking to get their samurai on. The National Police Agency has determined that allowing travelers to slice actual objects with samurai swords violates Japan’s Firearm and Sword Possession Control Law and will be banned.

unseen-japan.com/japanese-swor

Businessman in suit unsheathing samurai sword
ALT text detailsBusinessman in suit unsheathing samurai sword
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atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Spring Moon, Ninomiya Beach (1932)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

gov-online.go.jp/eng/publicity

A bright full moon shines down out of a starless night sky, illuminating a single shadowy figure walking along Ninomiya Beach, in Kanagawa Prefecture. Tall wiry pine trees stand on our side of the beach; beyond, the waters of the Pacific are calm, silvered by moonlight.
ALT text detailsA bright full moon shines down out of a starless night sky, illuminating a single shadowy figure walking along Ninomiya Beach, in Kanagawa Prefecture. Tall wiry pine trees stand on our side of the beach; beyond, the waters of the Pacific are calm, silvered by moonlight.
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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

President Trump's persistent desire to annex Canada, despite Canada's rejection and the growing backlash from both nations, has strained the once-respectful U.S.-Canada relationship. japantimes.co.jp/commentary/20

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

President Trump's persistent desire to annex Canada, despite Canada's rejection and the growing backlash from both nations, has strained the once-respectful U.S.-Canada relationship. japantimes.co.jp/commentary/20

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

BREAKING: Police officers in Japan did their jobs for once?! Cops in Gifu Prefecture arrested a male college student from Aichi Prefecture for stalking his ex after her mother filed a single report. The guy had been stalking her outside her home.

topics.smt.docomo.ne.jp/articl

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A private group asked 1,970 people in Japan where they've seen sexually explicit online ads. Over half cite places such as game strategy sites & personal blogs. However, around half also say they've seen them on social media and news websites.

buff.ly/pPiiUBH

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@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Daytime in Osaka Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Daytime in Osaka Japan.
ALT text detailsDaytime in Osaka Japan.
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dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Daytime in Osaka Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Daytime in Osaka Japan.
ALT text detailsDaytime in Osaka Japan.
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@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A World Expo. A worrying quantity of methane gas. Nicotine addicts with no place to go. What could possibly go wrong?

Get this article and more bonus content in this week's Unseen Japan Insider newsletter, coming out Tuesday AM. Subscribe below:

unseen-japan.com/support/

This week, I want to tackle what I hope doesn’t become a truly explosive topic. It concerns a certain long-running world exposition, a worrying quantity of methane gas, and nicotine addicts with no place to go. There have been many controversies surrounding Osaka Expo. The lines have been long. Some of the food is overpriced. And, overall, many people in Japan just aren’t that interested in attending.
ALT text detailsThis week, I want to tackle what I hope doesn’t become a truly explosive topic. It concerns a certain long-running world exposition, a worrying quantity of methane gas, and nicotine addicts with no place to go. There have been many controversies surrounding Osaka Expo. The lines have been long. Some of the food is overpriced. And, overall, many people in Japan just aren’t that interested in attending.
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Ame

@ame@breta.moe · Reply to Ame's post

The room was equipped with a wooden puzzle. The goal was to create specific shapes with a set of wooden blocks.

Turns out, I'm particularly bad at this :neocat_laugh_sweat:

Here are some of my failed tries.

I actually ended up not solving it.

Wooden puzzle pieces arranged in an angular shape possibly resembling a sailboat.
ALT text detailsWooden puzzle pieces arranged in an angular shape possibly resembling a sailboat.
Wooden puzzle assembled in the shape of a simple boat. some connecting parts of the boat are simply missing.
ALT text detailsWooden puzzle assembled in the shape of a simple boat. some connecting parts of the boat are simply missing.
Wooden puzzle arranged in a shape resembling a steam boat.
ALT text detailsWooden puzzle arranged in a shape resembling a steam boat.
Wooden puzzle assembled in a symmetrical boat-like shape with flat bottom and two triangular sails, placed on a glass surface.
ALT text detailsWooden puzzle assembled in a symmetrical boat-like shape with flat bottom and two triangular sails, placed on a glass surface.
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Ame

@ame@breta.moe · Reply to Ame's post

Afterwards we were able to move into our Japanese-style room!
I thought the futon were pretty comfy and the view was amazing!
I wish I had taken a picture at night.

Traditional Japanese tatami room with several neatly arranged futons and pillows on the floor, a large window revealing a forested mountain view, and a pink heart sticker partially censoring the picture.
ALT text detailsTraditional Japanese tatami room with several neatly arranged futons and pillows on the floor, a large window revealing a forested mountain view, and a pink heart sticker partially censoring the picture.
The view from our window. An elevated concrete bridge cutting across a lush, forested mountain valley at sunset, with a winding road below and a gradient sky transitioning from soft orange near the horizon to pale blue above.
ALT text detailsThe view from our window. An elevated concrete bridge cutting across a lush, forested mountain valley at sunset, with a winding road below and a gradient sky transitioning from soft orange near the horizon to pale blue above.
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Yukihito Ono

@onotch@mstdn.tokyocameraclub.com

花桃の里の空に昇る天の川🌸🌌✨

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Maisu

@maisu.95@pixelfed.social

Tanooki!
#japan
#photography
#tokyo
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Maisu

@maisu.95@pixelfed.social

Tanooki!
#japan
#photography
#tokyo
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@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Unseen Japan is an independent publication covering the stories about modern Japan that matter most to our readers. If you love what we do, help us do more by contributing today:

unseen-japan.com/support/

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

New report that Okazaki Asahi, who reported her ex-boyfriend nine times for stalking before her murder, also reported him for stealing her bike and demanded he be arrested. She filed the report on December 10th. She was dead 10 days later.

news.livedoor.com/article/deta

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Not to be outdone by foreign nuisance influencers making Japan worse, Japanese TikToker Senpu repeated a gimmick run by another influencer, hauling a huge portable speaker onto a train & dancing on the platform. She bolted after station employees tried to stop her.

news.yahoo.co.jp/articles/83f8

Senpu with a large JBL suitcase-style speaker on a train
ALT text detailsSenpu with a large JBL suitcase-style speaker on a train
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andres_sanchis

@andres_sanchis@mastodon.art

Cuatro novelas de la serie V.I. Warshawski, de la escritora Sara Paretsky, con portada ilustradas por de gran Hisashi Eguchi.

Vaya flow más tremendo tiene. Pop total!

Hisashi Eguchi art
ALT text detailsHisashi Eguchi art
Hisashi Eguchi art
ALT text detailsHisashi Eguchi art
Hisashi Eguchi Art
ALT text detailsHisashi Eguchi Art
Hisashi Eguchi Art
ALT text detailsHisashi Eguchi Art
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atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Mt Fuji from Susono (1952)

Artist: Ito Takahashi

japan-guide.com/ad/shizuoka-fu

Sunset, looking toward Mount Fuji from a farm in Susono, Shizuoka. In the foreground, trees are bare, waiting for spring. A pair of farmhouses, one with a traditional thatched roof, have been closed up for the evening; warm light glows in their windows. Nearby, rectangular vegetable patches have been sown in tidy rows, but have yet to develop much. Beyond, forests and foothills lead toward a snow-capped Mount Fuji, still shining in a sky turned purple and pink with the setting sun.
ALT text detailsSunset, looking toward Mount Fuji from a farm in Susono, Shizuoka. In the foreground, trees are bare, waiting for spring. A pair of farmhouses, one with a traditional thatched roof, have been closed up for the evening; warm light glows in their windows. Nearby, rectangular vegetable patches have been sown in tidy rows, but have yet to develop much. Beyond, forests and foothills lead toward a snow-capped Mount Fuji, still shining in a sky turned purple and pink with the setting sun.
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atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Moon at Magome (1930)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/sho

A bright yellow full moon, screened by shredded cloud, shines down out of a starless night sky and illuminates a small farm in rural Japan. In the foreground, a broad field has been tilled and planted in tidy rows; just beyond, tucked in amongst a stand of trees, a warm light glows in the window of a thatched-roof farmhouse. Nearby, tall wiry pines reach up into the sky.
ALT text detailsA bright yellow full moon, screened by shredded cloud, shines down out of a starless night sky and illuminates a small farm in rural Japan. In the foreground, a broad field has been tilled and planted in tidy rows; just beyond, tucked in amongst a stand of trees, a warm light glows in the window of a thatched-roof farmhouse. Nearby, tall wiry pines reach up into the sky.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Right-wing politician Nishida Shōji belittled a monument to female students killed in Okinawa in WWII, saying it "rewrote history," depicting Japanese soldiers as responsible for their deaths. After days of doubling down amidst criticism, he finally apologized.

unseen-japan.com/okinawa-women

Himeyuri students before mobilization
ALT text detailsHimeyuri students before mobilization
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

It’s rare for Japanese celebrities to wade into domestic politics. But Hikaru Utada isn't shy about standing up for what they believe in. The singer is currently causing waves by asking when Japanese women will be allowed to keep their maiden names.

unseen-japan.com/hikaru-utada-

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Will Japan be the victim of a massive, terrible tsunami in July? One manga artist thinks so. Her prediction, which she saw in a dream in the 1990s and assigned a date in 2021, has convinced some travelers in Hong Kong that it's better to stay home.

unseen-japan.com/manga-july-di

Picture of Tokyo subsumed by flood waters with the manga "The Future I've Seen " superimposed over it
ALT text detailsPicture of Tokyo subsumed by flood waters with the manga "The Future I've Seen " superimposed over it
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atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Moon at Magome (1930)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/sho

A bright yellow full moon, screened by shredded cloud, shines down out of a starless night sky and illuminates a small farm in rural Japan. In the foreground, a broad field has been tilled and planted in tidy rows; just beyond, tucked in amongst a stand of trees, a warm light glows in the window of a thatched-roof farmhouse. Nearby, tall wiry pines reach up into the sky.
ALT text detailsA bright yellow full moon, screened by shredded cloud, shines down out of a starless night sky and illuminates a small farm in rural Japan. In the foreground, a broad field has been tilled and planted in tidy rows; just beyond, tucked in amongst a stand of trees, a warm light glows in the window of a thatched-roof farmhouse. Nearby, tall wiry pines reach up into the sky.
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Ame

@ame@breta.moe · Reply to Ame's post

More pictures from the top!

Looking down the path of the cablecar you're able to see the highway bridge that was also visible from our hotel room.

A snow-speckled mountain peak dominates the center of the frame, surrounded by rugged, forested ridges. Sparse branches and foliage partially frame the view, while a clear sky and soft mountain haze stretch into the distance.
ALT text detailsA snow-speckled mountain peak dominates the center of the frame, surrounded by rugged, forested ridges. Sparse branches and foliage partially frame the view, while a clear sky and soft mountain haze stretch into the distance.
A panoramic view from a mountain lookout shows a snow-dusted ridge extending into a distant mountain range under a clear blue sky. In the foreground, leafless trees and evergreen bushes line a stone-paved area next to a railing and building structure, partially visible on the right.
ALT text detailsA panoramic view from a mountain lookout shows a snow-dusted ridge extending into a distant mountain range under a clear blue sky. In the foreground, leafless trees and evergreen bushes line a stone-paved area next to a railing and building structure, partially visible on the right.
A steep cable car station with a track descends a mountain slope, overlooking a vast cityscape and coastline in the background. The support structure of the cable car is prominent in the foreground, with patches of snow and rocky terrain scattered along the hillside.
ALT text detailsA steep cable car station with a track descends a mountain slope, overlooking a vast cityscape and coastline in the background. The support structure of the cable car is prominent in the foreground, with patches of snow and rocky terrain scattered along the hillside.
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Ame

@ame@breta.moe · Reply to Ame's post

The view on the top was quite amazing!
Also, the hotel staff gave us this snow ducky mold and 2 sleds which we had tons of fun with.

It was quite a challenge to create the most perfect snow ducky!

A scenic panoramic view of a mountain range under a mostly clear sky with light clouds. The foreground shows leafless trees with hints of snow, while the background reveals ridges and valleys dusted with snow, stretching into the horizon.
ALT text detailsA scenic panoramic view of a mountain range under a mostly clear sky with light clouds. The foreground shows leafless trees with hints of snow, while the background reveals ridges and valleys dusted with snow, stretching into the horizon.
A wooden triangular summit marker stands on a snowy mountain peak under a clear blue sky. The sign reads “御在所岳 標高1212M” indicating Mount Gozaisho at an elevation of 1212 meters, with additional vertical signs showing the location in Mie Prefecture and nearby Yunoyama Onsen. Leafless trees and light snow surround the sign.
ALT text detailsA wooden triangular summit marker stands on a snowy mountain peak under a clear blue sky. The sign reads “御在所岳 標高1212M” indicating Mount Gozaisho at an elevation of 1212 meters, with additional vertical signs showing the location in Mie Prefecture and nearby Yunoyama Onsen. Leafless trees and light snow surround the sign.
A bright yellow snow mold tool labeled "Mt.G" is resting on a stone ledge. The tool is shaped like a duck and contains a half-formed snow duck, still clinging to the open mold. Scattered snow is visible on the stone surface beneath.
ALT text detailsA bright yellow snow mold tool labeled "Mt.G" is resting on a stone ledge. The tool is shaped like a duck and contains a half-formed snow duck, still clinging to the open mold. Scattered snow is visible on the stone surface beneath.
A small snow sculpture shaped like a duck sits in the palm of a black-gloved hand.
ALT text detailsA small snow sculpture shaped like a duck sits in the palm of a black-gloved hand.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

One of the last chances to enjoy wisteria this year🥹

Wisteria dangle beside Heian Jingu's covered bridge.
ALT text detailsWisteria dangle beside Heian Jingu's covered bridge.
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dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Alley in Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
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dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Alley in Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

running messages, wagtail
for the shrine's god?
irises
鶺鴒は神の使かかきつばた
-1810.

the long skinny snake's
Shinto shrine...
irises
細長い蛇の社や杜若
-1818.
Kobayashi Issa (小林一茶).
Trans. David G. Lanoue.

Irises bloom in Heian Jingu's gardens.
ALT text detailsIrises bloom in Heian Jingu's gardens.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Reports say that two men who beat up five male teachers in an elementary school in Tachikawa, Tokyo did so after one of the assailants' friends told the school her child was being bullied & the school did nothing. No students were injured.

mainichi.jp/articles/20250508/

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Two 19-year-olds from Kanagawa Prefecture were arrested in April for graffiti tagging the historic Bandai Bridge in Niigata Prefecture. The damage cost four million yen ($27K) to undo, and Niigata officials say they're demanding the two teens pay it back.

news.yahoo.co.jp/articles/f420

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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social

Irises at Heian-jingū (平安神宮) herald the comfortable dying days of spring.

in the spring breeze
already casting shadows...
irises
春風やはや陰作るかきつばた
-Kobayashi Issa (小林一茶), 1810.
Trans. David G. Lanoue.

Irises bloom within Heian Jingu's gardens.
ALT text detailsIrises bloom within Heian Jingu's gardens.
An iced matcha within the small cafe in the gardens of Heian Jingu.
ALT text detailsAn iced matcha within the small cafe in the gardens of Heian Jingu.
Heian Jingu's 'Reclining Dragon Bridge'.
ALT text detailsHeian Jingu's 'Reclining Dragon Bridge'.
A wooden bridge winds through clusters of irises at Heian Jingu.
ALT text detailsA wooden bridge winds through clusters of irises at Heian Jingu.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

According to one survey, the single life is uniquely hard on Japanese men: 37.8% report themselves as unhappy. By contrast, married women in Japan tend to be unhappier than unmarried women, likely due to the uneven burden of housework & childcare.

unseen-japan.com/japan-single-

Chart showing unhappiness levels among unmarried and married people in Japan, South Korea, America, UK, and Germany
ALT text detailsChart showing unhappiness levels among unmarried and married people in Japan, South Korea, America, UK, and Germany
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Nao-san is our resident parfait (パフェ) expert🍨😋🙌
It will be a little chilly in Kyōto tomorrow for ice cream, but that gives us plenty of time to plan what stores to visit when it gets warmer👍

Dry ice extravaganza! Desserts are slowly revealed...
ALT text detailsDry ice extravaganza! Desserts are slowly revealed...
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social

🍨ICE CREAM & OTHER DELIGHTS🍦

May 9th is "Ice Cream Day" (アイスクリームの日)!🥳

The celebration was created by the Tōkyō Ice Cream Association (now Japan Ice Cream Association) in 1964, to remember the day in 1869 that ice cream was first sold in Japan (in Yokohama)🙌

A whale shark inspired ice cream from Osaka Aquarium.
ALT text detailsA whale shark inspired ice cream from Osaka Aquarium.
Matcha ice cream topped with a generous helping of actual matcha.
ALT text detailsMatcha ice cream topped with a generous helping of actual matcha.
A jellyfish inspired ice cream sold at Kyoto Aquarium.
ALT text detailsA jellyfish inspired ice cream sold at Kyoto Aquarium.
Nao-san tucks in to a luxurious parfait topped with a whole caramel pudding!
ALT text detailsNao-san tucks in to a luxurious parfait topped with a whole caramel pudding!
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Nao-san is our resident parfait (パフェ) expert🍨😋🙌
It will be a little chilly in Kyōto tomorrow for ice cream, but that gives us plenty of time to plan what stores to visit when it gets warmer👍

Dry ice extravaganza! Desserts are slowly revealed...
ALT text detailsDry ice extravaganza! Desserts are slowly revealed...
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Sadly Fusazō's store in Bashamichi (馬車道) is long gone, but his legacy lives on.

From the moment ice cream arrive in Japan, people began to experiment with new flavours. There's an early record of matcha ice cream (in the shape of Mt Fuji) being served at an imperial banquet.

Matcha gelato, sprinkled with matcha powder.
ALT text detailsMatcha gelato, sprinkled with matcha powder.
Matcha parfait with anko (sweet bean paste) and dango.
ALT text detailsMatcha parfait with anko (sweet bean paste) and dango.
Matcha soft serve.
ALT text detailsMatcha soft serve.
Matcha ice cream on a chocolate waffle.
ALT text detailsMatcha ice cream on a chocolate waffle.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

For the store's first 10 years Fusazō had to bring natural ice all the way from Hokkaidō to produce his 'aisu kurin', making it a luxury item that, at 25 yen per serving, was too expensive for most people.
But by 1901 the price had tumbled to 1 yen, and its popularity exploded.

Cat themed parfait for Christmas, with a strawberry doubling as Santa's hat.
ALT text detailsCat themed parfait for Christmas, with a strawberry doubling as Santa's hat.
Parfait in a traditional kissaten (coffee shop). The huge portions contain oranges, limes and whole purins (caramel puddings).
ALT text detailsParfait in a traditional kissaten (coffee shop). The huge portions contain oranges, limes and whole purins (caramel puddings).
Matcha and coffee parfait topped with cotton candy.
ALT text detailsMatcha and coffee parfait topped with cotton candy.
Peach parfait with leaping deer biscuit.
ALT text detailsPeach parfait with leaping deer biscuit.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The 50-something Japanese woman who forcibly hugged & kissed K-pop band BTS member Jin at a meet-and-greet event last year has been officially charged by South Korean police with sexual assault. The woman has gone back from Japan to SK to face the charges.

fnn.jp/articles/-/868592

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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Back in Yokohama, Fusazō marketed his creation as 'aisu kurin' (アイスクリン). Containing milk, eggs and sugar, it was more like frozen custard than the ice cream we’re now familiar with.
On May 9th 1869 he began selling 'aisu kurin' from his store "Hyōsuiten" (氷水店).

The first ice cream sold in Japan was more like a frozen custard, using milk, eggs and sugar.
ALT text detailsThe first ice cream sold in Japan was more like a frozen custard, using milk, eggs and sugar.
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dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Daily life in Osaka Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Daily life in Osaka Japan
ALT text detailsDaily life in Osaka Japan
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dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Daily life in Osaka Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Daily life in Osaka Japan
ALT text detailsDaily life in Osaka Japan
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Okazaki Asahi reported her ex to the police nine times. Later that month, she disappeared. It would take police four months to search her ex-boyfriend's residence fully. Why did cops in Japan fail to arrest Shirai Hideyuki despite all the evidence pointing to him?

unseen-japan.com/stalking-murd

Man in handcuffs
ALT text detailsMan in handcuffs
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social

🍨ICE CREAM & OTHER DELIGHTS🍦

May 9th is "Ice Cream Day" (アイスクリームの日)!🥳

The celebration was created by the Tōkyō Ice Cream Association (now Japan Ice Cream Association) in 1964, to remember the day in 1869 that ice cream was first sold in Japan (in Yokohama)🙌

A whale shark inspired ice cream from Osaka Aquarium.
ALT text detailsA whale shark inspired ice cream from Osaka Aquarium.
Matcha ice cream topped with a generous helping of actual matcha.
ALT text detailsMatcha ice cream topped with a generous helping of actual matcha.
A jellyfish inspired ice cream sold at Kyoto Aquarium.
ALT text detailsA jellyfish inspired ice cream sold at Kyoto Aquarium.
Nao-san tucks in to a luxurious parfait topped with a whole caramel pudding!
ALT text detailsNao-san tucks in to a luxurious parfait topped with a whole caramel pudding!
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japan has great museums. It also has fantastic aquariums. It even has a fantastic aquarium museum! Here's why you should visit Art Aquarium Ginza, a unique attraction hidden in Tokyo's popular high-end shopping district.

unseen-japan.com/art-aquarium-

Art Aquarium Ginza picture - turquoise colored tubes filled with water and plants
ALT text detailsArt Aquarium Ginza picture - turquoise colored tubes filled with water and plants
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japan’s government tracks travelers’ satisfaction with their surroundings on their trip. It just announced this year’s results, which show that the most common complaint tourists have about Japan is…well, nothing at all.

unseen-japan.com/tourist-compl

Sensoji in Asakusa
ALT text detailsSensoji in Asakusa
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

[Insider] Comedian Matsumoto Hitoshi is betting he can simply ignore the sexual assault accusations against him, end-running around Japanese TV by creating his own pay-per-view service. Will it work? And what would it mean for holding other stars accountable?

unseen-japan.com/unseen-japan-

Green exit sign showing a male figure running
ALT text detailsGreen exit sign showing a male figure running
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Possible bad news for rice prices in Japan: data from a private research company finds that 89 rice farmers went bankrupt in 2024, the largest number since 2013. The news comes as poor crops have led to a near-doubling of domestic rice prices in the past year.

news.livedoor.com/article/deta

Photo of original article. Headline in Japanese: コメ農家の倒産や休廃業が過去最多に
ALT text detailsPhoto of original article. Headline in Japanese: コメ農家の倒産や休廃業が過去最多に
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

In 2023, 30yo Tamura Runa chopped off a 62yo man's head in a love hotel in Susukino, Sapporo. Yesterday, a court in Sapporo sentenced her mother, Hiroko, to 1 year & 2 months + 3 years suspended for helping her daughter hide the severed head in their house.

buff.ly/lvV0vqy

atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Mt Fuji from Susono (1952)

Artist: Ito Takahashi

japan-guide.com/ad/shizuoka-fu

Sunset, looking toward Mount Fuji from a farm in Susono, Shizuoka. In the foreground, trees are bare, waiting for spring. A pair of farmhouses, one with a traditional thatched roof, have been closed up for the evening; warm light glows in their windows. Nearby, rectangular vegetable patches have been sown in tidy rows, but have yet to develop much. Beyond, forests and foothills lead toward a snow-capped Mount Fuji, still shining in a sky turned purple and pink with the setting sun.
ALT text detailsSunset, looking toward Mount Fuji from a farm in Susono, Shizuoka. In the foreground, trees are bare, waiting for spring. A pair of farmhouses, one with a traditional thatched roof, have been closed up for the evening; warm light glows in their windows. Nearby, rectangular vegetable patches have been sown in tidy rows, but have yet to develop much. Beyond, forests and foothills lead toward a snow-capped Mount Fuji, still shining in a sky turned purple and pink with the setting sun.
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

An alley in Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Kyōto is, of course, exceptionally busy during Golden Week. The best piece of advice I can give is to focus on a particular area of the city and explore at leisure (preferably by bike or on foot)🚵

Irises bloom in Heian Jingu's gardens.
ALT text detailsIrises bloom in Heian Jingu's gardens.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

In 2007 Midori-no-hi was moved to May 4th and Shōwa-no-hi was reinstated on April 29th.

'Greenery Day' is a time for appreciating nature (an indirect reference to Emperor Shōwa's love of plants), and Kyōto certainly is verdant with fresh leaves around this time.

A decorative water wheel splashes above a pond of koi.
ALT text detailsA decorative water wheel splashes above a pond of koi.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

The rain goes by many names at this time of year...

🌧️Saikau (催花雨) = spring rain that hastens the blooming of flowers
🌧️Kokū (穀雨 April 20ish) = "grain rain"
🌧️Zuiu (瑞雨) = rain that helps grain crops sprout
🌧️Kanu (甘雨) = rain that falls at the right time to moisten plants

Walking up to Jojakko-ji's rustic gate. After the rain the greens are particularly vibrant.
ALT text detailsWalking up to Jojakko-ji's rustic gate. After the rain the greens are particularly vibrant.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social

☔️💚Kyōto's greens sing in rain💚🙌

A vibrant green canopy covers Jojakko-ji's rustic gate.
ALT text detailsA vibrant green canopy covers Jojakko-ji's rustic gate.
The mossy garden of Gio-ji.
ALT text detailsThe mossy garden of Gio-ji.
Sagano's famous 'bamboo road'.
ALT text detailsSagano's famous 'bamboo road'.
Maples and moss, vibrant in the rain.
ALT text detailsMaples and moss, vibrant in the rain.
The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

The U.S. Army plans to deploy one of its new agile units to Japan for exercises as it looks to work more closely with allies to help deter adversaries in the Indo-Pacific, the army’s Pacific commander said Wednesday. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/05/

The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

The U.S. Army plans to deploy one of its new agile units to Japan for exercises as it looks to work more closely with allies to help deter adversaries in the Indo-Pacific, the army’s Pacific commander said Wednesday. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/05/

Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

The rain goes by many names at this time of year...

🌧️Saikau (催花雨) = spring rain that hastens the blooming of flowers
🌧️Kokū (穀雨 April 20ish) = "grain rain"
🌧️Zuiu (瑞雨) = rain that helps grain crops sprout
🌧️Kanu (甘雨) = rain that falls at the right time to moisten plants

Walking up to Jojakko-ji's rustic gate. After the rain the greens are particularly vibrant.
ALT text detailsWalking up to Jojakko-ji's rustic gate. After the rain the greens are particularly vibrant.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A reminder that if you wanna get chatty with us and other UJ fans, we're just a Discord server away. Join us to talk about all things Japan, ask Japan travel questions, or just vent about your day. We'll listen because we *care*, dammit.

discord.gg/uPwBhuBCwQ

UJ banner showing a woman walking a shiba inu down a Japanese shopping district. You can see a page containing the Japanese flag peeling back from the left edge.
ALT text detailsUJ banner showing a woman walking a shiba inu down a Japanese shopping district. You can see a page containing the Japanese flag peeling back from the left edge.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japan saw a record number of potential refugees withdraw their applications for asylum last year. Almost 40% of the 8,000 applicants dropped their petitions, citing reasons such as "I resolved my issue in my home country" or "I married a Japanese person."

sankei.com/article/20250507-ZX

Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social

☔️💚Kyōto's greens sing in rain💚🙌

A vibrant green canopy covers Jojakko-ji's rustic gate.
ALT text detailsA vibrant green canopy covers Jojakko-ji's rustic gate.
The mossy garden of Gio-ji.
ALT text detailsThe mossy garden of Gio-ji.
Sagano's famous 'bamboo road'.
ALT text detailsSagano's famous 'bamboo road'.
Maples and moss, vibrant in the rain.
ALT text detailsMaples and moss, vibrant in the rain.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Papua New Guinea Seafood Co. in Settsu, Osaka lets workers take off without notice or permission for any reason whatsoever. On the day of filming, it was a rainy Friday, and only three people were working in the AM. (More showed up once the rain stopped.)

youtu.be/JY27K78eOls

dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

An alley in Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

What tourists hate most about Japan, dumbass rescued twice from Mt. Fuji, tattooed sashimi chef makes good, and Hikaru Utada wants women's rights - all that and more in our weekly roundup of the week's most interesting Japan stories in our newsletter.

buff.ly/Zxz0DtC

Sensoji in Asakusa
ALT text detailsSensoji in Asakusa
Mt. Fuji seen from a distance
ALT text detailsMt. Fuji seen from a distance
Tochonika Pepe holding a banana and a bag of bread, superimposed on a bowl of kaisendon
ALT text detailsTochonika Pepe holding a banana and a bag of bread, superimposed on a bowl of kaisendon
Utada Hikaru
ALT text detailsUtada Hikaru
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Shirakawagō in Gifu Prefecture has 1,500 residents but welcomes two million tourists a year. In its latest overtourism measure, the village says it may start requiring tour buses to make reservations. It's already planning to raise parking rates on buses significantly.

unseen-japan.com/shirakawago-b

Shirakawagō's diagonal thatched roof houses in winter
ALT text detailsShirakawagō's diagonal thatched roof houses in winter
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Misty Evening at Shinobazu Pond (1932)

Artist: Kasamatsu Shiro

swindon-bonsai.co.uk/2011/06/2

The 'blue hour' of the evening descends on Ueno Park, in Tokyo. In the foreground, a tall willow tree is supported from below by a simple wooden A-frame prop; green new leaves of spring have begun to appear on the slender branches. Beyond, lanterns are already lit for the evening. Further on, a pair of figures approaches a torii gate marking the path to the five-story pagoda of Kaneji Temple. The image is an 'aizuri-e' print, rendered almost entirely in shades of blue.
ALT text detailsThe 'blue hour' of the evening descends on Ueno Park, in Tokyo. In the foreground, a tall willow tree is supported from below by a simple wooden A-frame prop; green new leaves of spring have begun to appear on the slender branches. Beyond, lanterns are already lit for the evening. Further on, a pair of figures approaches a torii gate marking the path to the five-story pagoda of Kaneji Temple. The image is an 'aizuri-e' print, rendered almost entirely in shades of blue.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

50 years ago, someone in Japan's city of Fuchū managed to steal 300 million yen (USD $2M today) without firing a shot. Was it, as some say, the perfect crime? Here's what we know and why the case still remains Japan's largest unsolved robbery.

unseen-japan.com/300-million-y

Composite picture of suspect in the robbery
ALT text detailsComposite picture of suspect in the robbery
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A revision to Japan's traffic laws aims to change that by issuing fines for a wide swath of violations. Will they be effective, though? Some cyclists say that, before levying fines on bicycle users, Japan should invest in biking infrastructure.

unseen-japan.com/japan-new-bic

Person running bike into an area with a sign that reads "Please dismount from your bikes"
ALT text detailsPerson running bike into an area with a sign that reads "Please dismount from your bikes"
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

“People here will think it’s fine if you’re good but embarrassing if you’re awful at it,” Tohru says about dancing in public. “That’s naturally the way Japanese people think. I don’t. What’s important is that I’m enjoying myself.”

unseen-japan.com/uncle-tohru-d

atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Misty Evening at Shinobazu Pond (1932)

Artist: Kasamatsu Shiro

swindon-bonsai.co.uk/2011/06/2

The 'blue hour' of the evening descends on Ueno Park, in Tokyo. In the foreground, a tall willow tree is supported from below by a simple wooden A-frame prop; green new leaves of spring have begun to appear on the slender branches. Beyond, lanterns are already lit for the evening. Further on, a pair of figures approaches a torii gate marking the path to the five-story pagoda of Kaneji Temple. The image is an 'aizuri-e' print, rendered almost entirely in shades of blue.
ALT text detailsThe 'blue hour' of the evening descends on Ueno Park, in Tokyo. In the foreground, a tall willow tree is supported from below by a simple wooden A-frame prop; green new leaves of spring have begun to appear on the slender branches. Beyond, lanterns are already lit for the evening. Further on, a pair of figures approaches a torii gate marking the path to the five-story pagoda of Kaneji Temple. The image is an 'aizuri-e' print, rendered almost entirely in shades of blue.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Misty Evening at Shinobazu Pond (1932)

Artist: Kasamatsu Shiro

swindon-bonsai.co.uk/2011/06/2

The 'blue hour' of the evening descends on Ueno Park, in Tokyo. In the foreground, a tall willow tree is supported from below by a simple wooden A-frame prop; green new leaves of spring have begun to appear on the slender branches. Beyond, lanterns are already lit for the evening. Further on, a pair of figures approaches a torii gate marking the path to the five-story pagoda of Kaneji Temple. The image is an 'aizuri-e' print, rendered almost entirely in shades of blue.
ALT text detailsThe 'blue hour' of the evening descends on Ueno Park, in Tokyo. In the foreground, a tall willow tree is supported from below by a simple wooden A-frame prop; green new leaves of spring have begun to appear on the slender branches. Beyond, lanterns are already lit for the evening. Further on, a pair of figures approaches a torii gate marking the path to the five-story pagoda of Kaneji Temple. The image is an 'aizuri-e' print, rendered almost entirely in shades of blue.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Misty Evening at Shinobazu Pond (1932)

Artist: Kasamatsu Shiro

swindon-bonsai.co.uk/2011/06/2

The 'blue hour' of the evening descends on Ueno Park, in Tokyo. In the foreground, a tall willow tree is supported from below by a simple wooden A-frame prop; green new leaves of spring have begun to appear on the slender branches. Beyond, lanterns are already lit for the evening. Further on, a pair of figures approaches a torii gate marking the path to the five-story pagoda of Kaneji Temple. The image is an 'aizuri-e' print, rendered almost entirely in shades of blue.
ALT text detailsThe 'blue hour' of the evening descends on Ueno Park, in Tokyo. In the foreground, a tall willow tree is supported from below by a simple wooden A-frame prop; green new leaves of spring have begun to appear on the slender branches. Beyond, lanterns are already lit for the evening. Further on, a pair of figures approaches a torii gate marking the path to the five-story pagoda of Kaneji Temple. The image is an 'aizuri-e' print, rendered almost entirely in shades of blue.
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Night street in Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Night street in Japan.
ALT text detailsNight street in Japan.
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Night street in Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Night street in Japan.
ALT text detailsNight street in Japan.
Raymond Larabie's avatar
Raymond Larabie

@typodermic@mastodon.social

It's not just abandoned—it’s unsubscribed from life. 📬🕸️

誰も開けないポスト、それはもう生活からログアウト済み。 📪🥀

A weathered mailbox juts from a traditional exterior wall, its overstuffed contents creating a dramatic, exaggerated shadow in the harsh afternoon light. The surrounding textures—wood paneling, rough plaster, and frosted glass—form a collage of surfaces slowly surrendering to time.
ALT text detailsA weathered mailbox juts from a traditional exterior wall, its overstuffed contents creating a dramatic, exaggerated shadow in the harsh afternoon light. The surrounding textures—wood paneling, rough plaster, and frosted glass—form a collage of surfaces slowly surrendering to time.
Alfie Goodrich's avatar
Alfie Goodrich

@alfiegoodrich@photog.social

Good morning. Rainy day here. Which makes it a little easier to be sat at the desk writing and working all day.

If you're in Japan, enjoy your last day of Golden Week. And wherever you are, have a lovely day.

A shot from back in 2008, from the rocks of the wave-cut platform on Enoshima.

Luv&peace
❤️🙏

Mount Fuji at sunset with a fisherman in the foreground, fishing from the wave-cut platform on the south west side of Enoshima Island.
ALT text detailsMount Fuji at sunset with a fisherman in the foreground, fishing from the wave-cut platform on the south west side of Enoshima Island.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Koinobori (1948)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

theconversation.com/the-histor

A view looking down a curving lane in an unidentified Japanese town on a bright spring day. On either side of the lane, the plaster walls of the houses looks like they would benefit from some repair. At the other end of the lane, a pair of kids are busy with something unseen; above them, a red carp kite flutters in in the breeze. Overhead, the bright blue sky is populated by a few puffy white clouds.
ALT text detailsA view looking down a curving lane in an unidentified Japanese town on a bright spring day. On either side of the lane, the plaster walls of the houses looks like they would benefit from some repair. At the other end of the lane, a pair of kids are busy with something unseen; above them, a red carp kite flutters in in the breeze. Overhead, the bright blue sky is populated by a few puffy white clouds.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Koinobori (1948)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

theconversation.com/the-histor

A view looking down a curving lane in an unidentified Japanese town on a bright spring day. On either side of the lane, the plaster walls of the houses looks like they would benefit from some repair. At the other end of the lane, a pair of kids are busy with something unseen; above them, a red carp kite flutters in in the breeze. Overhead, the bright blue sky is populated by a few puffy white clouds.
ALT text detailsA view looking down a curving lane in an unidentified Japanese town on a bright spring day. On either side of the lane, the plaster walls of the houses looks like they would benefit from some repair. At the other end of the lane, a pair of kids are busy with something unseen; above them, a red carp kite flutters in in the breeze. Overhead, the bright blue sky is populated by a few puffy white clouds.
The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

In France, a state-of-the-art rare earths plant is being built with French and Japanese support — a first-of-its-kind outside China. Its significance goes beyond the project itself. japantimes.co.jp/commentary/20

The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

In France, a state-of-the-art rare earths plant is being built with French and Japanese support — a first-of-its-kind outside China. Its significance goes beyond the project itself. japantimes.co.jp/commentary/20

Funeo Funekawa's avatar
Funeo Funekawa

@funefune_kyoto@mstdn.tokyocameraclub.com

5月の京都の神社の祭

Funeo Funekawa's avatar
Funeo Funekawa

@funefune_kyoto@mstdn.tokyocameraclub.com

There's a small child-shaped Jizo statue in the moss garden of a temple in Kyoto.
京都のお寺の石仏

Funeo Funekawa's avatar
Funeo Funekawa

@funefune_kyoto@mstdn.tokyocameraclub.com

5月の京都の神社の祭

dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

A night life in Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

A night life in Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Janne Moren's avatar
Janne Moren

@jannem@fosstodon.org

FYI, if you happen to be a scientist in a large English-speaking country with uncertain future research financing; my employer, Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) is looking for grad students, postdocs and PIs.

It's a research institute, so no undergraduates, and the working language is English - no japanese required. And its located on a (semi) tropical island in the Pacific.

oist.jp/careers?f%5B0%5D=oist_

dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Morning rain in Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Morning rain in Japan
ALT text detailsMorning rain in Japan
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Morning rain in Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Morning rain in Japan
ALT text detailsMorning rain in Japan
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Morning rain in Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Morning rain in Japan
ALT text detailsMorning rain in Japan
Janne Moren's avatar
Janne Moren

@jannem@fosstodon.org

FYI, if you happen to be a scientist in a large English-speaking country with uncertain future research financing; my employer, Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) is looking for grad students, postdocs and PIs.

It's a research institute, so no undergraduates, and the working language is English - no japanese required. And its located on a (semi) tropical island in the Pacific.

oist.jp/careers?f%5B0%5D=oist_

The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Japan is hoping that U.S. President Donald Trump will visit the 2025 Osaka Expo, but any trip is likely to depend on how tariff negotiations develop. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/05/

SparklingOutlaw🍉's avatar
SparklingOutlaw🍉

@nogajun@mastodon.social · Reply to SparklingOutlaw🍉's post

日本文書マネージメント協会の「電子公文書等の長期保存に関する調査検討報告書」: archives.go.jp/about/report/pd

SparklingOutlaw🍉's avatar
SparklingOutlaw🍉

@nogajun@mastodon.social · Reply to SparklingOutlaw🍉's post

国立公文書館の電子公文書等の適切な保存に係る調査検討で「電子公文書等の長期保存フォーマットを含む長期保存に関する調査報告」なんてものも見つけた

電子公文書等の長期保存フォーマットを含む長期保存に関する調査報告（令和6年3月）（国立公文書館）: archives.go.jp/about/report/pd

SparklingOutlaw🍉's avatar
SparklingOutlaw🍉

@nogajun@mastodon.social

一太郎ファイル jtd の変換ツールが無いのは、ファイル形式に特許を申請してたからだったのか。しかし、今、j-platpatで検索するとほとんど拒絶になってるから、もしかして大丈夫っぽい?

The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Fifty years ago, Junko Tabei made history as the first woman to reach the top of Mount Everest. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/05/

The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Fifty years ago, Junko Tabei made history as the first woman to reach the top of Mount Everest. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/05/

Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:'s avatar
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:

@norbertwoehnl@famichiki.jp

The Japanese government's new leaflet on preventing heatstroke addresses a rather serious topic in uniquely Japanese style.

Page 1 of a leaflet on preventing heatstroke, issued by the Japanese government. This page explains common-sense everyday measures to avoid the heat, and advises to stay hydrated.
ALT text detailsPage 1 of a leaflet on preventing heatstroke, issued by the Japanese government. This page explains common-sense everyday measures to avoid the heat, and advises to stay hydrated.
Page 2 of a leaflet on preventing heatstroke, issued by the Japanese government. This page explains heatstroke symptoms, and some first-aid measures to take when encountering someone supposedly suffering from heatstroke.
ALT text detailsPage 2 of a leaflet on preventing heatstroke, issued by the Japanese government. This page explains heatstroke symptoms, and some first-aid measures to take when encountering someone supposedly suffering from heatstroke.
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

A night in Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
A night in Japan.
ALT text detailsA night in Japan.
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

A night in Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
A night in Japan.
ALT text detailsA night in Japan.
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

A night in Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
A night in Japan.
ALT text detailsA night in Japan.
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:'s avatar
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:

@norbertwoehnl@famichiki.jp

The Japanese government's new leaflet on preventing heatstroke addresses a rather serious topic in uniquely Japanese style.

Page 1 of a leaflet on preventing heatstroke, issued by the Japanese government. This page explains common-sense everyday measures to avoid the heat, and advises to stay hydrated.
ALT text detailsPage 1 of a leaflet on preventing heatstroke, issued by the Japanese government. This page explains common-sense everyday measures to avoid the heat, and advises to stay hydrated.
Page 2 of a leaflet on preventing heatstroke, issued by the Japanese government. This page explains heatstroke symptoms, and some first-aid measures to take when encountering someone supposedly suffering from heatstroke.
ALT text detailsPage 2 of a leaflet on preventing heatstroke, issued by the Japanese government. This page explains heatstroke symptoms, and some first-aid measures to take when encountering someone supposedly suffering from heatstroke.
The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Hundreds of people prayed for the victims of Minamata disease in a ceremony, 69 years after the neurological disorder caused by polluted industrial wastewater was officially recognized. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/05/

The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Hundreds of people prayed for the victims of Minamata disease in a ceremony, 69 years after the neurological disorder caused by polluted industrial wastewater was officially recognized. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/05/

dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Dinner in the rain. #photography #streetphotography #japan
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Dinner in the rain. #photography #streetphotography #japan
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Rever side rain in Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Rever side rain in Japan.
ALT text detailsRever side rain in Japan.
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Rever side rain in Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Rever side rain in Japan.
ALT text detailsRever side rain in Japan.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Rice Planting (1953)

Artist: Kasamatsu Shiro

worldhistory.org/article/1082/

Spring in a mountain village somewhere in Japan. Villagers in broad bamboo hats plant rice in a flooded paddy; beyond, farmhouses stand tucked in among trees at the base of the mountains. Further on, the forested peaks of mountains are obscured by mist. Above, the sky is pale blue with a few stray clouds passing by.
ALT text detailsSpring in a mountain village somewhere in Japan. Villagers in broad bamboo hats plant rice in a flooded paddy; beyond, farmhouses stand tucked in among trees at the base of the mountains. Further on, the forested peaks of mountains are obscured by mist. Above, the sky is pale blue with a few stray clouds passing by.
MJ :blobfoxcomputer:'s avatar
MJ :blobfoxcomputer:

@voyager@vmst.io

Ok so I decide to give my account a fresh look for more activities ahead.

Profile picture: a photo I took on the street last week with the word “攰”. It means “tired” in Cantonese. Cantonese is a language widely used in Hong Kong and Guangdong, China.

Header image: another photo I took in Okutama, . Man I still in love with this quiet place. And I just found out that I wrongly typed Okutama to Okunaka, which happens to be one of the Japanese artist I like, for, nearly a year. :flan_facepalm:

Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

In 2007 Midori-no-hi was moved to May 4th and Shōwa-no-hi was reinstated on April 29th.

'Greenery Day' is a time for appreciating nature (an indirect reference to Emperor Shōwa's love of plants), and Kyōto certainly is verdant with fresh leaves around this time.

A decorative water wheel splashes above a pond of koi.
ALT text detailsA decorative water wheel splashes above a pond of koi.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Kyōto is, of course, exceptionally busy during Golden Week. The best piece of advice I can give is to focus on a particular area of the city and explore at leisure (preferably by bike or on foot)🚵

Irises bloom in Heian Jingu's gardens.
ALT text detailsIrises bloom in Heian Jingu's gardens.
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Exploring the Alleys in Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Exploring the Alleys in Japan
ALT text detailsExploring the Alleys in Japan
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Exploring the Alleys in Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Exploring the Alleys in Japan
ALT text detailsExploring the Alleys in Japan
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social

🌄🚃THE GOLDEN WEEK⛱️😎

April 29th is the start of 'Golden Week' (ゴールデンウィーク), a series of national holidays that follow in short succession.
We begin with 'Shōwa-no-hi' (昭和の日 'Shōwa Day'), the birthday of Emperor Shōwa (昭和天皇 aka Hirohito 裕仁 1901-89)...

A frog and salamanders (fortune holders) sit on the rim of a beautifully decorated water basin (filled with flowers).
ALT text detailsA frog and salamanders (fortune holders) sit on the rim of a beautifully decorated water basin (filled with flowers).
Nao-san enjoys a matcha and soaks in the early morning warmth, bathed in the greens of late spring.
ALT text detailsNao-san enjoys a matcha and soaks in the early morning warmth, bathed in the greens of late spring.
Tofuku-ji's famous checkerboard garden, made from squares of moss and stone.
ALT text detailsTofuku-ji's famous checkerboard garden, made from squares of moss and stone.
Many temples offer sutra copying as a form of prayer. Visitors trace over sutra passages (and in some cases images of Bodhisattvas and Buddhas).
ALT text detailsMany temples offer sutra copying as a form of prayer. Visitors trace over sutra passages (and in some cases images of Bodhisattvas and Buddhas).
Buddhist Art's avatar
Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

Elephant Statue of Fugen , national treasure, .

Elephant Statue of Fugen #Bodhisattva, national treasure, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsElephant Statue of Fugen #Bodhisattva, national treasure, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
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Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

Elephant Statue of Fugen , national treasure, .

Elephant Statue of Fugen #Bodhisattva, national treasure, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsElephant Statue of Fugen #Bodhisattva, national treasure, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Some 45% of full-time employees in Japan are “quiet quitters” — workers doing the bare minimum to meet their job requirements — according to a survey by job-matching company Mynavi. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/04/

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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

In Edo times 'yamabuki-iro' (山吹色) described the colour of gold (and bribery).

💛🪙💛🪙💛🪙💛🪙💛🪙💛🪙💛🪙💛🪙💛
There are 2 main types of kerria rose: the five-petalled variety, and the marigold-like 'pleniflora'.
💛🪙💛🪙💛🪙💛🪙💛🪙💛🪙💛🪙💛🪙💛

5 petalled variety of yamabuki.
ALT text details5 petalled variety of yamabuki.
5 petalled variety of yamabuki.
ALT text details5 petalled variety of yamabuki.
The marigold-like variety of yamabuki.
ALT text detailsThe marigold-like variety of yamabuki.
The marigold-like variety of yamabuki.
ALT text detailsThe marigold-like variety of yamabuki.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Around 3000 yamabuki bushes bloom from April to May along the banks of Matsunoo-taisha's Ichinoigawa (一ノ井川).

The canal was allegedly first excavated by the Hata clan (秦氏) with the founding of the shrine in 701.

Yamabuki bloom along the banks of Matsunoo-taisha's Ichinoigawa.
ALT text detailsYamabuki bloom along the banks of Matsunoo-taisha's Ichinoigawa.
Jay Justice🏳‍🌈🇯🇲♿'s avatar
Jay Justice🏳‍🌈🇯🇲♿

@JayJustice@blacktwitter.io

Ran into an old friend in Kyoto! We rode the Shinkansen back to Osaka together 🥰

Jay sitting in her wheelchair wearing a long white dress and silver shoes on the train platform in Kyoto Station next to a large sign with Hello Kitty wearing a station master uniform and hat with her signature red bow, next to a chibi pink version of the Shinkansen train that is also wearing a bow, and text advertising the train, in front of the Hello Kitty Shinkansen itself
ALT text detailsJay sitting in her wheelchair wearing a long white dress and silver shoes on the train platform in Kyoto Station next to a large sign with Hello Kitty wearing a station master uniform and hat with her signature red bow, next to a chibi pink version of the Shinkansen train that is also wearing a bow, and text advertising the train, in front of the Hello Kitty Shinkansen itself
One of the doors within the Hello Kitty Shinkansen with floral artwork alongside Hello Kitty on it
ALT text detailsOne of the doors within the Hello Kitty Shinkansen with floral artwork alongside Hello Kitty on it
A close-up of a Hello Kitty themed wall panel inside the train
ALT text detailsA close-up of a Hello Kitty themed wall panel inside the train
Jay sitting in her seat on the train in front of a wall with Hello Kitty themed artwork on it and a custom headrest cover that shows Hello Kitty kneeling in a blue floral kimono with the text "Hello Kitty Haruka"
ALT text detailsJay sitting in her seat on the train in front of a wall with Hello Kitty themed artwork on it and a custom headrest cover that shows Hello Kitty kneeling in a blue floral kimono with the text "Hello Kitty Haruka"
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Night in Osaka Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Night in Osaka Japan.
ALT text detailsNight in Osaka Japan.
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Night in Osaka Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Night in Osaka Japan.
ALT text detailsNight in Osaka Japan.
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Raoul Breugelmans

@breugel@pixelfed.de

We visited the "Agency of Imaginary Journeys" exhibit of works by Jean-Michel Folon (1934-2005) at the Abeno Harukas Art Museum in Osaka, Japan. Folon, a fellow Belgian, was an artist, illustrator, painter and sculptor.

#Folon #AbenoHarukas #Osaka #Japan
A man wearing a dark blue denim hat, dark blue denim blazer, red denim pants, and sneakers is standing in an art gallery, looking at framed artworks by Folon displayed on a green wall. The paintings feature surreal scenes with minimalist, colorful backgrounds. The gallery has wooden flooring and clean, modern decor.
ALT text detailsA man wearing a dark blue denim hat, dark blue denim blazer, red denim pants, and sneakers is standing in an art gallery, looking at framed artworks by Folon displayed on a green wall. The paintings feature surreal scenes with minimalist, colorful backgrounds. The gallery has wooden flooring and clean, modern decor.
A close-up of a framed painting by Folon showing a person sitting on a simple flying machine with a wide, curved wing against a gradient background of green and pink tones, with scattered white stars.
ALT text detailsA close-up of a framed painting by Folon showing a person sitting on a simple flying machine with a wide, curved wing against a gradient background of green and pink tones, with scattered white stars.
A man wearing a dark blue denim hat, dark blue denim jacket, red denim pants, and sneakers is observing a bronze sculpture by Folon of a person wearing a trench coat and hat. The sculpture is split vertically down the middle. Surrounding the sculpture are framed artworks mounted on a peach-colored wall.
ALT text detailsA man wearing a dark blue denim hat, dark blue denim jacket, red denim pants, and sneakers is observing a bronze sculpture by Folon of a person wearing a trench coat and hat. The sculpture is split vertically down the middle. Surrounding the sculpture are framed artworks mounted on a peach-colored wall.
A framed painting by Folon of a large, geometric human figure with a hat standing on top of a rectangular frame. Inside the frame is a vibrant landscape of hills and a setting sun, all set against a warm orange sky.
ALT text detailsA framed painting by Folon of a large, geometric human figure with a hat standing on top of a rectangular frame. Inside the frame is a vibrant landscape of hills and a setting sun, all set against a warm orange sky.
Jay Justice🏳‍🌈🇯🇲♿'s avatar
Jay Justice🏳‍🌈🇯🇲♿

@JayJustice@blacktwitter.io

Ran into an old friend in Kyoto! We rode the Shinkansen back to Osaka together 🥰

Jay sitting in her wheelchair wearing a long white dress and silver shoes on the train platform in Kyoto Station next to a large sign with Hello Kitty wearing a station master uniform and hat with her signature red bow, next to a chibi pink version of the Shinkansen train that is also wearing a bow, and text advertising the train, in front of the Hello Kitty Shinkansen itself
ALT text detailsJay sitting in her wheelchair wearing a long white dress and silver shoes on the train platform in Kyoto Station next to a large sign with Hello Kitty wearing a station master uniform and hat with her signature red bow, next to a chibi pink version of the Shinkansen train that is also wearing a bow, and text advertising the train, in front of the Hello Kitty Shinkansen itself
One of the doors within the Hello Kitty Shinkansen with floral artwork alongside Hello Kitty on it
ALT text detailsOne of the doors within the Hello Kitty Shinkansen with floral artwork alongside Hello Kitty on it
A close-up of a Hello Kitty themed wall panel inside the train
ALT text detailsA close-up of a Hello Kitty themed wall panel inside the train
Jay sitting in her seat on the train in front of a wall with Hello Kitty themed artwork on it and a custom headrest cover that shows Hello Kitty kneeling in a blue floral kimono with the text "Hello Kitty Haruka"
ALT text detailsJay sitting in her seat on the train in front of a wall with Hello Kitty themed artwork on it and a custom headrest cover that shows Hello Kitty kneeling in a blue floral kimono with the text "Hello Kitty Haruka"
Darnell Clayton :verified:'s avatar
Darnell Clayton :verified:

@darnell@one.darnell.one

This is a very clever way to protect people & property from lightning ⚡️ strikes!

👉🏾 🇯🇵 Has Successfully Used Drones to Trigger and Guide Lightning Strikes — Announcing a New Era of Storm Control dailygalaxy.com/2025/04/japan-

Darnell Clayton :verified:'s avatar
Darnell Clayton :verified:

@darnell@one.darnell.one

This is a very clever way to protect people & property from lightning ⚡️ strikes!

👉🏾 🇯🇵 Has Successfully Used Drones to Trigger and Guide Lightning Strikes — Announcing a New Era of Storm Control dailygalaxy.com/2025/04/japan-

Ukraine War Bulletins and News's avatar
Ukraine War Bulletins and News

@SocraticEthics@mastodon.online

youtu.be/15k3paCFDYg
⛔️🇺🇸Failing to learn from History - How America Falls Into A Fascist Dictatorship: Trump Breaks America, Voters Yawn? (w/ Anne Applebaum) | Focus Group (The Bulwark VIDEO)


Ukraine War Bulletins and News's avatar
Ukraine War Bulletins and News

@SocraticEthics@mastodon.online

youtu.be/15k3paCFDYg
⛔️🇺🇸Failing to learn from History - How America Falls Into A Fascist Dictatorship: Trump Breaks America, Voters Yawn? (w/ Anne Applebaum) | Focus Group (The Bulwark VIDEO)


Sam at BLAG's avatar
Sam at BLAG

@blag@typo.social · Reply to Sam at BLAG's post

From 7pm London time we travel back to late 1920s Japan with @stewf at @letterformarchive as he takes you deeper into the 24 volumes of The Complete Commercial Artist.

The periodical, and the archive's new book (letterformarchive.org/shop/com), were the topic of Stephen's regular BLAG column: Inside Letterform Archive.

Stephen's is one of 12 sessions running across five hours of BLAG Meet: Inside Issue 06. Learn more, and book for free at bl.ag/meet.

Illustration of a projecting cabinet sign that incorporated Japanese scripts with the word "Radio" that dominates and provides the sign with its shape: the large R extends the left portion of the sign upwards instead of being rectangular, while the O is formed into a speaker from an old radio with the tube extending downwards, taking the shape of the sign with it.
ALT text detailsIllustration of a projecting cabinet sign that incorporated Japanese scripts with the word "Radio" that dominates and provides the sign with its shape: the large R extends the left portion of the sign upwards instead of being rectangular, while the O is formed into a speaker from an old radio with the tube extending downwards, taking the shape of the sign with it.
The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Concentrations of PFAS, potentially carcinogenic chemicals, in groundwater and river water exceeded Japan's provisional standard at 242 locations in 22 of the country's 47 prefectures in fiscal 2023 japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/04/

Sam at BLAG's avatar
Sam at BLAG

@blag@typo.social · Reply to Sam at BLAG's post

From 7pm London time we travel back to late 1920s Japan with @stewf at @letterformarchive as he takes you deeper into the 24 volumes of The Complete Commercial Artist.

The periodical, and the archive's new book (letterformarchive.org/shop/com), were the topic of Stephen's regular BLAG column: Inside Letterform Archive.

Stephen's is one of 12 sessions running across five hours of BLAG Meet: Inside Issue 06. Learn more, and book for free at bl.ag/meet.

Illustration of a projecting cabinet sign that incorporated Japanese scripts with the word "Radio" that dominates and provides the sign with its shape: the large R extends the left portion of the sign upwards instead of being rectangular, while the O is formed into a speaker from an old radio with the tube extending downwards, taking the shape of the sign with it.
ALT text detailsIllustration of a projecting cabinet sign that incorporated Japanese scripts with the word "Radio" that dominates and provides the sign with its shape: the large R extends the left portion of the sign upwards instead of being rectangular, while the O is formed into a speaker from an old radio with the tube extending downwards, taking the shape of the sign with it.
The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Concentrations of PFAS, potentially carcinogenic chemicals, in groundwater and river water exceeded Japan's provisional standard at 242 locations in 22 of the country's 47 prefectures in fiscal 2023 japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/04/

dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Osaka rainy story. #photography #streetphotography #japan
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Osaka rainy story. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Nithin Coca నితిన్'s avatar
Nithin Coca నితిన్

@ncoca@social.coop

A pet peeve is western tourists in who can't tell the difference between and and keep assuming everyone (sometimes too!) are the latter.

Inverse Phase's avatar
Inverse Phase

@inversephase@hackers.town

Discovered something very important

A google translation where ピッツバーグ in japanese becomes Pittsburgh
ALT text detailsA google translation where ピッツバーグ in japanese becomes Pittsburgh
A google translation where ピッツァバーグ in japanese becomes Pizzaburg
ALT text detailsA google translation where ピッツァバーグ in japanese becomes Pizzaburg
Inverse Phase's avatar
Inverse Phase

@inversephase@hackers.town

Discovered something very important

A google translation where ピッツバーグ in japanese becomes Pittsburgh
ALT text detailsA google translation where ピッツバーグ in japanese becomes Pittsburgh
A google translation where ピッツァバーグ in japanese becomes Pizzaburg
ALT text detailsA google translation where ピッツァバーグ in japanese becomes Pizzaburg
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Night life in Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Ame's avatar
Ame

@ame@breta.moe

On our 6th day we travelled to our next hotel.

It was located in a rural mountain area in Mie prefecture.

Because we arrived too early to check into our hotel room right away, we instead used the gondola to ride up the mountain.

A blurry p-chan on a handrail in front of a gondola that's waiting for people to board.
ALT text detailsA blurry p-chan on a handrail in front of a gondola that's waiting for people to board.
A red gondola in front of a mountain landscape. It was photographed from inside our gondola
ALT text detailsA red gondola in front of a mountain landscape. It was photographed from inside our gondola
A hiker climbing up a mountain.
ALT text detailsA hiker climbing up a mountain.
A beautiful mountain landscape.
ALT text detailsA beautiful mountain landscape.
Ame's avatar
Ame

@ame@breta.moe · Reply to Ame's post

Some more cat pictures from the café!

A pink rubber ducky sitting on the back of a black cat.
ALT text detailsA pink rubber ducky sitting on the back of a black cat.
A cat sleeping in a model train valley with its face leaning against a model house.
ALT text detailsA cat sleeping in a model train valley with its face leaning against a model house.
An orange cat preparing to settle down next to a black and white cat which is looking at the orange cat.
ALT text detailsAn orange cat preparing to settle down next to a black and white cat which is looking at the orange cat.
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Daily night in Osaka Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Daily night in Osaka Japan.
ALT text detailsDaily night in Osaka Japan.
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Daily night in Osaka Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Daily night in Osaka Japan.
ALT text detailsDaily night in Osaka Japan.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Foreign tourists to Japan love staying in traditional ryokans, with some inns saying inbound travelers now comprise 90% of their business. However, foreigners are less enamored of traditional Japanese food, leading some ryokans to stop offering meals at all.

unseen-japan.com/kyoto-ryokan-

Woman drinking tea inside of an old traditional Japanese house/ryokan
ALT text detailsWoman drinking tea inside of an old traditional Japanese house/ryokan
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Funeo Funekawa

@funefune_kyoto@mstdn.tokyocameraclub.com

There's a small child-shaped Jizo statue in the moss garden of a temple in Kyoto.
京都のお寺の石仏

Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

4) One of the most surprising places to enjoy wisteria is the Toba Water Treatment Plant (鳥羽浄水場).
The ground's 120m long trellis is the largest of its kind in Kyōto, and is only open for a few short days at the end of April.

Wisteria in the Toba Water Treatment grounds. Photo thanks🙇‍♂️-https://wakasa15thfd.wordpress.com
ALT text detailsWisteria in the Toba Water Treatment grounds. Photo thanks🙇‍♂️-https://wakasa15thfd.wordpress.com
Wisteria in the Toba Water Treatment grounds. Photo thanks🙇‍♂️-https://wakasa15thfd.wordpress.com
ALT text detailsWisteria in the Toba Water Treatment grounds. Photo thanks🙇‍♂️-https://wakasa15thfd.wordpress.com
Wisteria in the Toba Water Treatment grounds. Photo thanks🙇‍♂️-https://wakasa15thfd.wordpress.com
ALT text detailsWisteria in the Toba Water Treatment grounds. Photo thanks🙇‍♂️-https://wakasa15thfd.wordpress.com
Wisteria in the Toba Water Treatment grounds. Photo thanks🙇‍♂️-https://wakasa15thfd.wordpress.com
ALT text detailsWisteria in the Toba Water Treatment grounds. Photo thanks🙇‍♂️-https://wakasa15thfd.wordpress.com
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

4) One of the most surprising places to enjoy wisteria is the Toba Water Treatment Plant (鳥羽浄水場).
The ground's 120m long trellis is the largest of its kind in Kyōto, and is only open for a few short days at the end of April.

Wisteria in the Toba Water Treatment grounds. Photo thanks🙇‍♂️-https://wakasa15thfd.wordpress.com
ALT text detailsWisteria in the Toba Water Treatment grounds. Photo thanks🙇‍♂️-https://wakasa15thfd.wordpress.com
Wisteria in the Toba Water Treatment grounds. Photo thanks🙇‍♂️-https://wakasa15thfd.wordpress.com
ALT text detailsWisteria in the Toba Water Treatment grounds. Photo thanks🙇‍♂️-https://wakasa15thfd.wordpress.com
Wisteria in the Toba Water Treatment grounds. Photo thanks🙇‍♂️-https://wakasa15thfd.wordpress.com
ALT text detailsWisteria in the Toba Water Treatment grounds. Photo thanks🙇‍♂️-https://wakasa15thfd.wordpress.com
Wisteria in the Toba Water Treatment grounds. Photo thanks🙇‍♂️-https://wakasa15thfd.wordpress.com
ALT text detailsWisteria in the Toba Water Treatment grounds. Photo thanks🙇‍♂️-https://wakasa15thfd.wordpress.com
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

2) Taizō-in (退蔵院) is the oldest of Myōshin-ji’s sub-temples (妙心寺), known for its beautiful gardens and a very famous painting of a smug little catfish.
The temple was founded by the powerful Echizen lord Hatano Shigemichi (波多野重通) some time between 1395 and 1404.

Pink wisteria at Taizo-in.
ALT text detailsPink wisteria at Taizo-in.
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Midnight in Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Midnight in Japan
ALT text detailsMidnight in Japan
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Midnight in Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Midnight in Japan
ALT text detailsMidnight in Japan
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Someone went off on a political poster for the Innovation Party's Takahashi Hideaki by posting a printed outburst on his face: "Do you have permission to post this? Stop just posting stuff!! You've been warned before!! Take this down immediately!! It's a nuisance."

X Post by @dagjapvnxal. Text: すげーな。恥ずかしすぎる…🫣
ALT text detailsX Post by @dagjapvnxal. Text: すげーな。恥ずかしすぎる…🫣
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

The dance begins with a young woman, depicted in a painting called 'Katsugi-musume' (かつぎ娘) by Domomata (吃又), coming to life.
Representing the 'spirit of wisteria', she laments how men's feelings can be difficult to win over (men are symbolized by a pine on stage).

Woodblock print of the 'wisteria maiden'. Image thanks - https://ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of the 'wisteria maiden'. Image thanks - https://ukiyo-e.org/
Otsu-e of a dancing maiden. Image thanks - https://ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsOtsu-e of a dancing maiden. Image thanks - https://ukiyo-e.org/
Woodblock print of a kabuki actor dressed at the 'wisteria maiden'. Image thanks - https://ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of a kabuki actor dressed at the 'wisteria maiden'. Image thanks - https://ukiyo-e.org/
Otsu-e of the 'wisteria maiden'. Image thanks - https://ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsOtsu-e of the 'wisteria maiden'. Image thanks - https://ukiyo-e.org/
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Sponichi says New Century Records has started selling its CD of deceased singer Yashiro Aki that includes two private nude Polaroids of her, despite public backlash. Resellers are reselling them for 3x their original price 🤢

sponichi.co.jp/entertainment/n

Yashiro Aki
ALT text detailsYashiro Aki
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A store in the Jirō Ramen chain, which is infamous for its 2,000+-calorie oversized bowls, is asking customers not to force new employees to eat the gut-busting servings as a hazing ritual. Indeed, one legal expert (& ramen fan) says that could amount to workplace harassment.

unseen-japan.com/jiro-ramen-wo

Jiro ramen - big heaping bowl of ramen
ALT text detailsJiro ramen - big heaping bowl of ramen
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Tomorrow's Unseen Japan Insider newsletter tackles "Uterine Love," affairs in Japanese dramas, and why Japan's incel set is upset that so many of this season's dramas are about women. That and more news + commentary only for subscribers - sign up below:

unseen-japan.com/support/

A few months ago, I went to a local florist in Tokyo to buy my wife flowers. The florist asked me what the special occasion was. No occasion, I said - I just wanted to surprise my wife. “That’s what husbands do, right?” I asked. She sighed. “You should tell that to Japanese husbands.” That life episode stuck in my mind as I watched what many of us on the Japanese Discord agreed was a silly, silly drama. On the other hand, it’s also one of two dramas in the current Japanese TV season depicting women having affairs. Some Japanese media and culture critics have lambasted the two dramas, missing out on the larger truths that both address.
ALT text detailsA few months ago, I went to a local florist in Tokyo to buy my wife flowers. The florist asked me what the special occasion was. No occasion, I said - I just wanted to surprise my wife. “That’s what husbands do, right?” I asked. She sighed. “You should tell that to Japanese husbands.” That life episode stuck in my mind as I watched what many of us on the Japanese Discord agreed was a silly, silly drama. On the other hand, it’s also one of two dramas in the current Japanese TV season depicting women having affairs. Some Japanese media and culture critics have lambasted the two dramas, missing out on the larger truths that both address.
Yogthos's avatar
Yogthos

@yogthos@social.marxist.network

Japan's Prime Minister Ishiba says Japan won't just keep conceding in US tariff talks, per Bloomberg.

“If Japan concedes everything, we won’t be able to secure our national interest,” Ishiba said.

The market is now realizing a Japan deal is distant at best.

bloomberg.com/news/articles/20

Yogthos's avatar
Yogthos

@yogthos@social.marxist.network

Japan's Prime Minister Ishiba says Japan won't just keep conceding in US tariff talks, per Bloomberg.

“If Japan concedes everything, we won’t be able to secure our national interest,” Ishiba said.

The market is now realizing a Japan deal is distant at best.

bloomberg.com/news/articles/20

マリオ (Mario Menti)'s avatar
マリオ (Mario Menti)

@mario@neko.cat

I took this photo a few days ago, walking through Kamakura, and didn't really think much about it. Until someone said "this looks straight out of Ghibli", and I guess they're right. 😊

And no stupid Gen AI required. 😅

A little alley in Kamakura, Japan.
ALT text detailsA little alley in Kamakura, Japan.
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Stormy Tokyo. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Stormy Tokyo.
ALT text detailsStormy Tokyo.
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Stormy Tokyo. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Stormy Tokyo.
ALT text detailsStormy Tokyo.
Karl Baron's avatar
Karl Baron

@kalleboo@bitbang.social

🚨 Network Rack Gacha Alert 🚨

The Network Rack Series 3 has been announced and goes on sale in June! Now with That APC UPS That Everyone Has, a huge NetApp device, and a half-width NEC router + shelf

tarlin-capsule.jp/product/528

手のひらネットワーク機器３ A little plastic toy rack with servers and network devices in it
ALT text details手のひらネットワーク機器３ A little plastic toy rack with servers and network devices in it
A litte plastic [APC Smart-UPS 1500 RM 2U LCD 100V)
ALT text detailsA litte plastic [APC Smart-UPS 1500 RM 2U LCD 100V)
NetApp (AFF A70)
ALT text detailsNetApp (AFF A70)
NEC (UNIVERGE IX-R2530]
ALT text detailsNEC (UNIVERGE IX-R2530]
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

In the language of flowers, 'hanakotoba' (花言葉), wisteria also represent kindness, gentleness and amiability (優しさ), a welcoming nature (歓迎), intoxicating love (恋に酔う), and somewhat more ominously never *ever* being parted (決して離れない).

Folding fan painted with wisteria flowers.
ALT text detailsFolding fan painted with wisteria flowers.
Woodblock print of shrine visitors admiring the wisteria. Image thanks - https://ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of shrine visitors admiring the wisteria. Image thanks - https://ukiyo-e.org/
Woodblock print of wisteria and arched bridge. Image thanks - https://ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of wisteria and arched bridge. Image thanks - https://ukiyo-e.org/
Woodblock print of wisteria and bird. Image thanks - https://ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of wisteria and bird. Image thanks - https://ukiyo-e.org/
noco｜Flower Photographer's avatar
noco｜Flower Photographer

@noco3n_com@mstdn.jp

faint memories.

dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Daily life in Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Daily life in Japan.
ALT text detailsDaily life in Japan.
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Daily life in Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Daily life in Japan.
ALT text detailsDaily life in Japan.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Movie review: DETECTIVE CONAN - ONE-EYED FLASHBACK once again brings great production values to a bombastic, Hollywood-level story, giving non-fans a wild ride and fans a more serious look at a recurring character who's often played for laughs.

unseen-japan.com/review-detect

Conan One-Eyed Flashback
ALT text detailsConan One-Eyed Flashback
noco｜Flower Photographer's avatar
noco｜Flower Photographer

@noco3n_com@mstdn.jp

Spring Dreams.

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The head of the Morioka Chamber of Commerce made an appeal at a press conference last week to keep the city’s longstanding geisha tradition alive. However, he made it clear that, if you’re over age 25, men don’t wanna see you.

unseen-japan.com/morioka-young

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

In celebration of the new film (and before our review goes up), we take a look at the Japanese pop culture phenomenon that is the Detective Conan series. Here's what makes the series popular—and the questionable aspects you should overlook to enjoy it.

unseen-japan.com/detective-con

A series of Conan movie posters on display in Shinjuku Station.
ALT text detailsA series of Conan movie posters on display in Shinjuku Station.
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Spring in Tokyo. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Spring in Tokyo.
ALT text detailsSpring in Tokyo.
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Spring in Tokyo. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Spring in Tokyo.
ALT text detailsSpring in Tokyo.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

One popular hamburg steak chain in Japan is proving popular with tourists. However, some commenters and food safety experts warn that a food poisoning incident could happen at any time if customers aren’t careful.

unseen-japan.com/hamburg-steak

Raw hamburger meat
ALT text detailsRaw hamburger meat
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

An outdated way to refer to the three-dimensional Tokyo landscape was “organized chaos." Today, at least, one physical reality still deserves the “chaotic” descriptor. And it’s something you only really notice when looking up: Japanese power lines.

unseen-japan.com/whats-with-th

A tangle of power lines on a street facing Mt. Fuji
ALT text detailsA tangle of power lines on a street facing Mt. Fuji
Ben Royce 🇺🇸🇺🇦 Don't Boo: Vote's avatar
Ben Royce 🇺🇸🇺🇦 Don't Boo: Vote

@benroyce@mastodon.social

On the surface, in govt and business, is an extremely polite country. To the point that people from other countries have difficulty parsing disapproval and rejection since the verbiage is subtle

With that in mind, listen to of the House of Reps talking about and his galaxy brain bs

😂😂😂

"a delinquent kid extorting someone"

Shinji even name drops 😲

longer video (original with subtitles) for the full acid take down:

youtu.be/EIao2kkB7Gg

Shinji Oguma spittin'
ALT text details Shinji Oguma spittin'
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Daytime in Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Daytime in Japan.
ALT text detailsDaytime in Japan.
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Daytime in Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Daytime in Japan.
ALT text detailsDaytime in Japan.
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Rainy day in Tokyo Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Rainy day in Tokyo Japan.
ALT text detailsRainy day in Tokyo Japan.
Canicula's avatar
Canicula

@Canicula@pixelfed.de

A photo of Japan a day. Day 108. #japan #japanphotography #streetphotography #market #kanazawa #ishikawa #日本 #金沢 #石川県
A fish market stall selling a wide variety of fresh fish and seafood. Prices in Japanese yen are labelled in black ink over white sheets of paper. There is a man cutting and preparing fish behind the table.
ALT text detailsA fish market stall selling a wide variety of fresh fish and seafood. Prices in Japanese yen are labelled in black ink over white sheets of paper. There is a man cutting and preparing fish behind the table.
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Weather Mizu

@mizu@mastodon.social

High temperatures on Apr 19th. Over 30C was observed in 15 places.🥵

noco｜Flower Photographer's avatar
noco｜Flower Photographer

@noco3n_com@mstdn.jp

faint memories.

dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Rainy day in Tokyo Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Rainy day in Tokyo Japan.
ALT text detailsRainy day in Tokyo Japan.
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Rainy day in Tokyo Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Rainy day in Tokyo Japan.
ALT text detailsRainy day in Tokyo Japan.
Alfie Goodrich's avatar
Alfie Goodrich

@alfiegoodrich@photog.social

Good morning to you all from a sunny Saturday morning in Tokyo.

Trying to have a relaxed weekend, myself. Next week is a busy one. Three day shoot in Kyushu, amongst other things.

Photo details in the ALT.

Whatever your weekend brings you, I wish you joy, love, peace and calm.

🙏❤️⛩️

Sunset over Sendai, as seen from the Otakamori viewpoint up in the nearby islands to the north east of the city. Sun has dropped behind some clouds but the whole scene is a stunning gradation of oranges, from light to super dark. The massive "Kannon" statue in Sendai can be seen at the right-middle of the frame.
ALT text detailsSunset over Sendai, as seen from the Otakamori viewpoint up in the nearby islands to the north east of the city. Sun has dropped behind some clouds but the whole scene is a stunning gradation of oranges, from light to super dark. The massive "Kannon" statue in Sendai can be seen at the right-middle of the frame.
Alfie Goodrich's avatar
Alfie Goodrich

@alfiegoodrich@photog.social

Good morning to you all from a sunny Saturday morning in Tokyo.

Trying to have a relaxed weekend, myself. Next week is a busy one. Three day shoot in Kyushu, amongst other things.

Photo details in the ALT.

Whatever your weekend brings you, I wish you joy, love, peace and calm.

🙏❤️⛩️

Sunset over Sendai, as seen from the Otakamori viewpoint up in the nearby islands to the north east of the city. Sun has dropped behind some clouds but the whole scene is a stunning gradation of oranges, from light to super dark. The massive "Kannon" statue in Sendai can be seen at the right-middle of the frame.
ALT text detailsSunset over Sendai, as seen from the Otakamori viewpoint up in the nearby islands to the north east of the city. Sun has dropped behind some clouds but the whole scene is a stunning gradation of oranges, from light to super dark. The massive "Kannon" statue in Sendai can be seen at the right-middle of the frame.
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Rainy night in Osaka. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Rainy night in Osaka.
ALT text detailsRainy night in Osaka.
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Rainy night in Osaka. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Rainy night in Osaka.
ALT text detailsRainy night in Osaka.
Ame's avatar
Ame

@ame@breta.moe · Reply to Ame's post

Outside again we got to enjoy the amazing colors of the scenery in Osaka!

And there was a store with an amazing illustration on its wall.

A scenic view of the river in Dotonbori, Osaka.
ALT text detailsA scenic view of the river in Dotonbori, Osaka.
Street art of a pink haired anime character. I believe it's advertising a store called pink flamingo.
ALT text detailsStreet art of a pink haired anime character. I believe it's advertising a store called pink flamingo.
Ukraine War Bulletins and News's avatar
Ukraine War Bulletins and News

@SocraticEthics@mastodon.online

youtu.be/oWpqJ8pD2Ng
⛔️🇺🇸NLRB whistleblower provides evidence Musk's DOGE intentionally caused significant national security breach (PBS NewsHour VIDEO)


noco｜Flower Photographer's avatar
noco｜Flower Photographer

@noco3n_com@mstdn.jp

Spring Dreams.

The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

UNESCO's executive board on Thursday added Buddhist scriptures kept at Tokyo's Zojoji Temple to its Memory of the World register, making it the ninth Japanese inscription. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/04/

The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

UNESCO's executive board on Thursday added Buddhist scriptures kept at Tokyo's Zojoji Temple to its Memory of the World register, making it the ninth Japanese inscription. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/04/

dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

River flowing through the heart of urban Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
River flowing through the heart of urban Japan.
ALT text detailsRiver flowing through the heart of urban Japan.
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

River flowing through the heart of urban Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
River flowing through the heart of urban Japan.
ALT text detailsRiver flowing through the heart of urban Japan.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A case in Karatsu, Saga Prefecture, shows that criminals in Japan leveraging "dark part-time" thieves are getting bolder. In the latest case, a 20-year-old told a court he was told to rob a house associated with the yakuza. Details below.

unseen-japan.com/yakuza-dark-p

Picture of a man holding a crowbar about to break into a home
ALT text detailsPicture of a man holding a crowbar about to break into a home
Ukraine War Bulletins and News's avatar
Ukraine War Bulletins and News

@SocraticEthics@mastodon.online

youtu.be/oWpqJ8pD2Ng
⛔️🇺🇸NLRB whistleblower provides evidence Musk's DOGE intentionally caused significant national security breach (PBS NewsHour VIDEO)


Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Go to Akihabara and you’ll see a maid cafe everywhere you look. But how did they get started? Here’s a look at the history of maid cafes, how they’ve changed over the years, and what to know before you go.

unseen-japan.com/maid-cafes-hi

Drawing of women in maid cafe uniforms
ALT text detailsDrawing of women in maid cafe uniforms
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

After a grueling interrogation, cops in Japan's Hyogo Prefecture got a 12-year-old girl to confess to sexually assaulting a classmate. Months later, however, they concluded that the incident was a false report.

unseen-japan.com/12-year-old-f

Hyogo Prefectural Police Department
ALT text detailsHyogo Prefectural Police Department
omi's avatar
omi

@omi_geek@mstdn.jp

Deep rain.

dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Night Life in Osaka. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Night Life in Osaka.
ALT text detailsNight Life in Osaka.
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Night Life in Osaka. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Night Life in Osaka.
ALT text detailsNight Life in Osaka.
Raymond Larabie's avatar
Raymond Larabie

@typodermic@mastodon.social

No sleek lines, no minimalist branding. Just a structure too stubborn to care what the algorithm thinks. 😎📡

それでもそこにある。それこそが、いちばんクール。 🧊🏮

A crooked yield sign leans into frame beside an aging Japanese home. The house, with its layered tile roof and makeshift supports, wears its years unapologetically. A satellite dish sits like a forgotten accessory on a too-old outfit, trying its best to pull the look together. Shadows cut the composition into bold contrasts, emphasizing texture over polish.
ALT text detailsA crooked yield sign leans into frame beside an aging Japanese home. The house, with its layered tile roof and makeshift supports, wears its years unapologetically. A satellite dish sits like a forgotten accessory on a too-old outfit, trying its best to pull the look together. Shadows cut the composition into bold contrasts, emphasizing texture over polish.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

"Please consult with staff if you plan to shoplift"

Lower left: "I'm shoplifting"

Lower right: "I'm calling the cops"

X post by @EVERYDAYSUNDAY_. Text: こにちは🌞 今日も19時まで開いてます🏠 よろしくお願いします🙇‍♂️🧸 Sign is as translated in the post
ALT text detailsX post by @EVERYDAYSUNDAY_. Text: こにちは🌞 今日も19時まで開いてます🏠 よろしくお願いします🙇‍♂️🧸 Sign is as translated in the post
Dan Jones's avatar
Dan Jones

@danjones000@microwords.goodevilgenius.org

Question for anybody who knows about living and working in Japan.

Is ¥10 million a reasonable annual salary to support an entire family of six in Tokyo? Especially for someone used to making more than two and a half times that in the US?

atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Mountain Cottage in Spring (c.1960s)

Artist: Kasamatsu Shiro

teamjapanese.com/spring-in-jap

A view looking up over green trees at a traditional thatched-roof cottage standing on tall stone foundations. Just behind the cottage, tall cherry trees are in full bloom, their branches packed with pink and white blossoms. Further on, a shadowy hillside rises into an overcast sky
ALT text detailsA view looking up over green trees at a traditional thatched-roof cottage standing on tall stone foundations. Just behind the cottage, tall cherry trees are in full bloom, their branches packed with pink and white blossoms. Further on, a shadowy hillside rises into an overcast sky
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Mountain Cottage in Spring (c.1960s)

Artist: Kasamatsu Shiro

teamjapanese.com/spring-in-jap

A view looking up over green trees at a traditional thatched-roof cottage standing on tall stone foundations. Just behind the cottage, tall cherry trees are in full bloom, their branches packed with pink and white blossoms. Further on, a shadowy hillside rises into an overcast sky
ALT text detailsA view looking up over green trees at a traditional thatched-roof cottage standing on tall stone foundations. Just behind the cottage, tall cherry trees are in full bloom, their branches packed with pink and white blossoms. Further on, a shadowy hillside rises into an overcast sky
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

What’s interesting about the modern Japanese toilet is that the bidet toilet is originally a foreign import. Toto didn’t invent the home bidet seat. Heck, it wasn’t even the first company in Japan to manufacture a bidet. Learn more below.

unseen-japan.com/japanese-toil

Toilet seat in Japan
ALT text detailsToilet seat in Japan
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

What’s interesting about the modern Japanese toilet is that the bidet toilet is originally a foreign import. Toto didn’t invent the home bidet seat. Heck, it wasn’t even the first company in Japan to manufacture a bidet. Learn more below.

unseen-japan.com/japanese-toil

Toilet seat in Japan
ALT text detailsToilet seat in Japan
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Rainy night in Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Rainy night in Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

There’s some chatter lately about how Generative AI will “revolutionize” language learning – particularly when it comes to learning to speak a language like Japanese. After trying out several services, we think that's bunk. Here's why.

unseen-japan.com/ai-japanese-s

Don't Learn Japanese Using AI: A picture of an anime style young woman on the left and a real live human being on the right with a Japanese flag and pagoda in the background
ALT text detailsDon't Learn Japanese Using AI: A picture of an anime style young woman on the left and a real live human being on the right with a Japanese flag and pagoda in the background
Dan Jones's avatar
Dan Jones

@danjones000@microwords.goodevilgenius.org

Question for anybody who knows about living and working in Japan.

Is ¥10 million a reasonable annual salary to support an entire family of six in Tokyo? Especially for someone used to making more than two and a half times that in the US?

Ame's avatar
Ame

@ame@breta.moe

On our 4. day we visited the Eorzea Cafe in Osaka!

My food was as mediocre as last year, but I do love the interesting drinks they serve there.

I had the blue alcoholic beverage which had jelly in it, I love interesting texture in my drinks!

The entrance for the Final Fantasy XIV Eorzea Cafe.
ALT text detailsThe entrance for the Final Fantasy XIV Eorzea Cafe.
Various colorful drinks and some mashed potatoes served on on ff14 themed paper.
ALT text detailsVarious colorful drinks and some mashed potatoes served on on ff14 themed paper.
Fruits and the face of a Loporrit on arranged around some pudding.
ALT text detailsFruits and the face of a Loporrit on arranged around some pudding.
Assorted ff14 merch including some official signatures.
ALT text detailsAssorted ff14 merch including some official signatures.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

On April 7, several men in dark suits, some with only nine fingers, walked into the Hyogo Prefectural Police Headquarters. They were lieutenants of the Yamaguchi-gumi—the biggest of Japan’s crime syndicates. And they were there to hand over a sheet of paper.

unseen-japan.com/yakuza-war-tr

Yakuza style guys, both in suits and glasses and one with a purple shirt
ALT text detailsYakuza style guys, both in suits and glasses and one with a purple shirt
The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

More than 75% of Taiwanese say that Japan is their favorite country, followed by South Korea at just 4% and both China and the U.S. on 3%, according to a regular survey released Tuesday. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/04/

The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

More than 75% of Taiwanese say that Japan is their favorite country, followed by South Korea at just 4% and both China and the U.S. on 3%, according to a regular survey released Tuesday. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/04/

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

At the time of the murder, the assailant wore a sweatshirt with the word “NEVADA” emblazoned across the front. Pictures of her wearing the shirt eventually made their way onto the Internet. Soon, artists drew pics of the girl who became known as “Nevada-tan.”

unseen-japan.com/nevada-tan-up

Sasebo Okubo Elementary School
ALT text detailsSasebo Okubo Elementary School
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The cost of rice in Japan shows no signs of declining. Thanks to a poor crop last year, a 5kg bag now costs double what it cost a year ago. Why aren’t the Japanese government’s efforts to bring the price down working?

unseen-japan.com/rice-prices-j

Picture of rice being poured out of a wooden box
ALT text detailsPicture of rice being poured out of a wooden box
Ame's avatar
Ame

@ame@breta.moe

Still on the third day, we went to the ReGLOSS cafe.
Of course we all chose our Oshi's menu, which sadly left me which the worst food selection.

Udon noodles and black coffee, 2 things I don't like 😭

And no P-chan pictures this time, I forgor 💀

Udon noodles with various toppings. There are various Raden decorations on the table, there's even an edible picture of her on top of the noodles.
ALT text detailsUdon noodles with various toppings. There are various Raden decorations on the table, there's even an edible picture of her on top of the noodles.
Wall mural at a concept café in Osaka by Sweets Paradise, featuring five characters from hololive's ReGLOSS group.
ALT text detailsWall mural at a concept café in Osaka by Sweets Paradise, featuring five characters from hololive's ReGLOSS group.
A clear glass cup of black coffee on a matching glass saucer, accompanied by a single round butter cookie. Attached to the cup is a decorative tag featuring Raden from hololive's ReGLOSS group.
ALT text detailsA clear glass cup of black coffee on a matching glass saucer, accompanied by a single round butter cookie. Attached to the cup is a decorative tag featuring Raden from hololive's ReGLOSS group.
Life-sized cardboard standees of the five ReGLOSS members from hololive displayed inside a themed concept café.
ALT text detailsLife-sized cardboard standees of the five ReGLOSS members from hololive displayed inside a themed concept café.
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Everyday life in Kyoto Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Everyday life in Kyoto Japan.
ALT text detailsEveryday life in Kyoto Japan.
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Everyday life in Kyoto Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Everyday life in Kyoto Japan.
ALT text detailsEveryday life in Kyoto Japan.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Politicians in Japan are feeling the pressure to do something – anything – to relieve Japanese citizens’ financial distress as the cost of nearly everything continues to increase. Some are setting their sights on taxing tourists (more) as a solution.

unseen-japan.com/japan-tax-fre

Don Quijote in Shibuya
ALT text detailsDon Quijote in Shibuya
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

16-year-old Japanese singer Tuki went viral with this post of two friends, "Kin-chan" and "Tama-chan." "Kintama" (金玉) is Japanese for "testicles."

Post by tuki_music_ on X. Drawing shows two circles that look like balls drawn as best buddies with arms and legs.
ALT text detailsPost by tuki_music_ on X. Drawing shows two circles that look like balls drawn as best buddies with arms and legs.
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atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Hayase (1933)

Artist: Hiroshi Yoshida

japan.travel/en/guide/spring-g

Cherry blossoms screen our view looking across a calm, narrow river. On the far side of the water, a string of buildings stand close together, their foundations coming right up to the river's edge to form an embankment. On our left, a small group of people cross a curving bridge; on our right, a single pilot steers a narrow boat along the water.
ALT text detailsCherry blossoms screen our view looking across a calm, narrow river. On the far side of the water, a string of buildings stand close together, their foundations coming right up to the river's edge to form an embankment. On our left, a small group of people cross a curving bridge; on our right, a single pilot steers a narrow boat along the water.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

just touching
the cherry blossom petals
brings tears
花びらがさわつても出る涙哉
-Kobayashi Issa (小林一茶), 1810.
Trans. David G. Lanoue.

Statues of Yajirobee and Kitahachi, protagonists in Jippensha Ikku's (十返舎一九 1765–1831) part-comic, part-travelogue "Shank's Mare" (東海道中膝栗毛 "Tokaidochu Hizakurige"-written 1802-22), enjoying the blossoms.
ALT text detailsStatues of Yajirobee and Kitahachi, protagonists in Jippensha Ikku's (十返舎一九 1765–1831) part-comic, part-travelogue "Shank's Mare" (東海道中膝栗毛 "Tokaidochu Hizakurige"-written 1802-22), enjoying the blossoms.
The Takasegawa becomes a river of petals.
ALT text detailsThe Takasegawa becomes a river of petals.
The Takasegawa becomes a river of petals.
ALT text detailsThe Takasegawa becomes a river of petals.
The Takasegawa becomes a river of petals.
ALT text detailsThe Takasegawa becomes a river of petals.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

just touching
the cherry blossom petals
brings tears
花びらがさわつても出る涙哉
-Kobayashi Issa (小林一茶), 1810.
Trans. David G. Lanoue.

Statues of Yajirobee and Kitahachi, protagonists in Jippensha Ikku's (十返舎一九 1765–1831) part-comic, part-travelogue "Shank's Mare" (東海道中膝栗毛 "Tokaidochu Hizakurige"-written 1802-22), enjoying the blossoms.
ALT text detailsStatues of Yajirobee and Kitahachi, protagonists in Jippensha Ikku's (十返舎一九 1765–1831) part-comic, part-travelogue "Shank's Mare" (東海道中膝栗毛 "Tokaidochu Hizakurige"-written 1802-22), enjoying the blossoms.
The Takasegawa becomes a river of petals.
ALT text detailsThe Takasegawa becomes a river of petals.
The Takasegawa becomes a river of petals.
ALT text detailsThe Takasegawa becomes a river of petals.
The Takasegawa becomes a river of petals.
ALT text detailsThe Takasegawa becomes a river of petals.
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dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Everyday life in Osaka Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Everyday life in Osaka Japan. #photography
ALT text detailsEveryday life in Osaka Japan. #photography
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dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Everyday life in Osaka Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Everyday life in Osaka Japan. #photography
ALT text detailsEveryday life in Osaka Japan. #photography
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Commodity dealers built storehouses about the 9 registered boat launches (the 1st, Ichino Funairi 一之船入, is preserved), creating neighbourhoods such as Kiyamachi (木屋町 Lumber Yard Town), Kamiyamachi (紙屋町 Paper Dealers' Town) and Ishiyamachi (石屋町 Stonemasons' Town).

Walking along Kiyamachi beneath the blossoms.
ALT text detailsWalking along Kiyamachi beneath the blossoms.
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atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Hayase (1933)

Artist: Hiroshi Yoshida

japan.travel/en/guide/spring-g

Cherry blossoms screen our view looking across a calm, narrow river. On the far side of the water, a string of buildings stand close together, their foundations coming right up to the river's edge to form an embankment. On our left, a small group of people cross a curving bridge; on our right, a single pilot steers a narrow boat along the water.
ALT text detailsCherry blossoms screen our view looking across a calm, narrow river. On the far side of the water, a string of buildings stand close together, their foundations coming right up to the river's edge to form an embankment. On our left, a small group of people cross a curving bridge; on our right, a single pilot steers a narrow boat along the water.
RM's avatar
RM

@TokyoCityUrbex@pixelfed.social

The Approach
#train #trainspotting #japan #photography
A grey train approaching, with a grassy mountain in the background and a smallish city in view
ALT text detailsA grey train approaching, with a grassy mountain in the background and a smallish city in view
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RM

@TokyoCityUrbex@pixelfed.social

The Approach
#train #trainspotting #japan #photography
A grey train approaching, with a grassy mountain in the background and a smallish city in view
ALT text detailsA grey train approaching, with a grassy mountain in the background and a smallish city in view
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Two to five hours to get in. An eight-hour wait for food. Rain and rude staff. Osaka Expo 2025 opened on Sunday, and its opening was as controversial as the event's lead-up. As organizers scramble to fix problems, polls show the public losing interest.

unseen-japan.com/osaka-world-e

Osaka Expo wooden ring under construction with a picture of a wifi symbol with no signal
ALT text detailsOsaka Expo wooden ring under construction with a picture of a wifi symbol with no signal
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hesselschut

@hesselschut@pixelfed.social

Singularity Express

Video of a train passing at a crossing near Shinagawa railway station. Video processed through an algorithm where a rectangular volume of pixels (x, y, t) is transformed to a sphere. Made with Python and OpenCV. - Tokyo, Japan, January 2025

#railwaycrossing #videoprocessing #train #video #urbanphotography #computationalart #tokyo #shinagawa #japan #digitalart #railway #keikyuhonsen
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

There are many ways to refer to one's husband in Japanese. Some of them, however, rub many Japanese women the wrong way. One survey that looked at how women refer to their husbands today provides a glimpse into how Japanese is evolving with the times.

unseen-japan.com/husband-or-ma

Woman looking at a man as he does up his cufflinks
ALT text detailsWoman looking at a man as he does up his cufflinks
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

In a 7-Eleven in Ōita Prefecture, one man bore the burden of keeping the store running 24 hours a day. After six months of toil without a break, he died by suicide. The case was later officially certified as death by overwork, which remains a chronic problem in Japan.

unseen-japan.com/7-11-manager-

7-11 in Yamanashi Prefecture
ALT text details7-11 in Yamanashi Prefecture
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dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Daily night in Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
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dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Life in Dotonbori Osaka Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Life in Dotonbori Osaka Japan
ALT text detailsLife in Dotonbori Osaka Japan
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dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Life in Dotonbori Osaka Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Life in Dotonbori Osaka Japan
ALT text detailsLife in Dotonbori Osaka Japan
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A member of the Japanese Communist Party garnered headlines when she declared that women’s sanitary products should be free in public buildings “like toilet paper.” However, the city hall where she had the emergency that preceded her post doesn’t agree.

unseen-japan.com/tsu-mie-prefe

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Some in Japan are calling for cash handouts to offset King Trump's tariffs. However, new polls show a majority of Japanese citizens don't want it. This story and more commentary on this week's Japan news in Tuesday's Unseen Japan Insider - subscribe today:

unseen-japan.com/support/

Over the past two weeks, America’s aspiring dictator, Donald Trump, threw world markets into chaos when he slapped ridiculous tariffs on everybody. That included Japan, which saw a 25% tariff slapped on automobiles. The Trump admin insisted the auto tariffs were necessary to force Japan to buy more American cars, which it insists Japan doesn’t buy because…well, um, Japan demands that they be safe. In reality, Japan doesn’t buy a ton of American cars because the honking monstrosities, designed as they are for the wide-open roads of Bumfuck Montana, don’t fit on most Japanese streets. Trump has rescinded most of the insane tariffs after he almost crashed the bond market. And while his sycophants are busy screaming “MASTERFUL GAMBIT SIR” as he withdraws his member from the slammed door of his Tesla,...
ALT text detailsOver the past two weeks, America’s aspiring dictator, Donald Trump, threw world markets into chaos when he slapped ridiculous tariffs on everybody. That included Japan, which saw a 25% tariff slapped on automobiles. The Trump admin insisted the auto tariffs were necessary to force Japan to buy more American cars, which it insists Japan doesn’t buy because…well, um, Japan demands that they be safe. In reality, Japan doesn’t buy a ton of American cars because the honking monstrosities, designed as they are for the wide-open roads of Bumfuck Montana, don’t fit on most Japanese streets. Trump has rescinded most of the insane tariffs after he almost crashed the bond market. And while his sycophants are busy screaming “MASTERFUL GAMBIT SIR” as he withdraws his member from the slammed door of his Tesla,...
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

🌸🤗✨

The Takasegawa becomes a river of pink as petals gather on the water.
ALT text detailsThe Takasegawa becomes a river of pink as petals gather on the water.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social

Oh to be boating on a river of pink...🌸🌸🛶🥰🌸🌸

The Takasegawa alongside Kiyamachi turns into a river of pink petals.
ALT text detailsThe Takasegawa alongside Kiyamachi turns into a river of pink petals.
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dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

On the way home in the rain. Osaka Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
On the way home in the rain. Osaka Japan.
ALT text detailsOn the way home in the rain. Osaka Japan.
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dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

On the way home in the rain. Osaka Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
On the way home in the rain. Osaka Japan.
ALT text detailsOn the way home in the rain. Osaka Japan.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The Morioka Chamber of Commerce in Japan has something in common with Leonardo DiCaprio: It only wants women under 25. The Chamber put out a call for apprentice geisha in the 18-25 age range because "it's natural for men to like younger women."

unseen-japan.com/morioka-young

Maiko (apprentice geisha) shot from the back holding a fan in her right hand
ALT text detailsMaiko (apprentice geisha) shot from the back holding a fan in her right hand
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

It's a story that could have ended poorly. But as it turns out, the post from a Japanese Twitter user ended up being a heartwarming story about the love between a man, a woman...and virtual Vocaloid idol Hatsune Miku.

unseen-japan.com/cheating-husb

Doll of Hatsune Miku in a red, flower-patterned kimono standing on a log
ALT text detailsDoll of Hatsune Miku in a red, flower-patterned kimono standing on a log
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dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Rainy day in Kyoto Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Rainy day in Kyoto Japan. #photography
ALT text detailsRainy day in Kyoto Japan. #photography
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dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Rainy day in Kyoto Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Rainy day in Kyoto Japan. #photography
ALT text detailsRainy day in Kyoto Japan. #photography
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A popular Japanese YouTuber has announced he’s committing to becoming the best Fortnite player in the world, dedicating himself to practicing between nine and 11 hours daily.

That’s gonna require, however, that he postpone middle school.

unseen-japan.com/tarou-middle-

Header image for YouTuber Tarou from his channel
ALT text detailsHeader image for YouTuber Tarou from his channel
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Ame

@ame@breta.moe · Reply to Ame's post

At the actually working train station a year number 1983 was engraved so deeply that P-chan fit snugly into the number 8.
I'm sure it must have felt cozy for him 🧺

P-chan (a small, pink sad-looking cat figurine) fitting exactly into the numberal 8 which was engraved as part of the year 1983 into a stone wall.
ALT text detailsP-chan (a small, pink sad-looking cat figurine) fitting exactly into the numberal 8 which was engraved as part of the year 1983 into a stone wall.
The same picture, but P-chan's face is clearly visible as the picture is taken from a left angle.
ALT text detailsThe same picture, but P-chan's face is clearly visible as the picture is taken from a left angle.
Ame's avatar
Ame

@ame@breta.moe · Reply to Ame's post

These were 2 of the railway tunnels we walked through.

It was incredibly cold inside and at one point you couldn't see light from either end of the tunnel.
At first we tried walking though without a flashlight, but that quickly turned out not to be feasible

Gravel path lined with old wooden railroad sleepers leads through a forest of bare and sparse trees toward a dark tunnel in the distance.
ALT text detailsGravel path lined with old wooden railroad sleepers leads through a forest of bare and sparse trees toward a dark tunnel in the distance.
A wooden bridge leading to a very dark tunnel.
ALT text detailsA wooden bridge leading to a very dark tunnel.
Ame's avatar
Ame

@ame@breta.moe · Reply to Ame's post

P-chan and Shunta had multiple photo-shootings along the way.

Shunta seems to have really enjoyed the attention while P-chan looked sad as usual.

Shunta sitting next to P-chan in front of a railroad sleeper.
ALT text detailsShunta sitting next to P-chan in front of a railroad sleeper.
Shunta sitting between some bamboo.
ALT text detailsShunta sitting between some bamboo.
P-chan sitting on a rusty handrail with a rocky river in the background.
ALT text detailsP-chan sitting on a rusty handrail with a rocky river in the background.
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Ame

@ame@breta.moe · Reply to Ame's post

Along the way we found the remains of an old abandoned motorcycle (which might have gotten dumped after having been stolen?).

The remains of an old motorcycle covered by dirt and leaves.
ALT text detailsThe remains of an old motorcycle covered by dirt and leaves.
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Ame

@ame@breta.moe

On our third day we did multiple interesting things!

We first walked along an abandoned railway line and took lots of photos.
Old railroad sleepers were embedded in the road we got to walk on.
P-chan starred in a lot of the photos we took, together with Shunta.

P-chan (a small, pink sad-looking cat figurine) on top of a Japanese village name/welcome sign.
ALT text detailsP-chan (a small, pink sad-looking cat figurine) on top of a Japanese village name/welcome sign.
A street with old railway sleepers embedded into the ground.
ALT text detailsA street with old railway sleepers embedded into the ground.
Shunta (a blue stuffed bird toy) sitting on a tree branch in front of a blurry background.
ALT text detailsShunta (a blue stuffed bird toy) sitting on a tree branch in front of a blurry background.
P-chan (a small, pink sad-looking cat figurine) on top of a tree branch.
ALT text detailsP-chan (a small, pink sad-looking cat figurine) on top of a tree branch.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A drug store in Japan went viral a few days ago when employees tried to charge someone 10,000 yen ($68) for what they deemed illegal parking. Turns out the employees were never told their parking lot was a shared lot.

unseen-japan.com/cosmos-drug-s

Cosmos drug store
ALT text detailsCosmos drug store
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Ame

@ame@breta.moe

On our second day, we went shopping in Umeda!
We met up at a giant golden clock before fully embracing our inner consumers and buying lots of stuff at the Umeda shopping arcade.
P-chan got to hang out with some friends too!
Afterwards, we walked around Dotonbori.

Tall golden clock tower inside Osaka station.
ALT text detailsTall golden clock tower inside Osaka station.
Close-up of a display featuring small, colorful toy figurines from the "Mofusand" collection. At the center is P-chan, a sad-looking pink cat with teary eyes.
ALT text detailsClose-up of a display featuring small, colorful toy figurines from the "Mofusand" collection. At the center is P-chan, a sad-looking pink cat with teary eyes.
Brightly lit advertisements in Dotonbori.
ALT text detailsBrightly lit advertisements in Dotonbori.
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Kurau 🦐

@kurau@mastodon.kurau.tokyo

Hamburger breads are so hard to find in Japan.
What is your go-to market/chain when you wanna buy one of those?

Hamburger bread package from Pasco
ALT text detailsHamburger bread package from Pasco
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dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

An Alley in Kyoto Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
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dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

An Alley in Kyoto Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
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dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Snowy day in Kyoto. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Snowy day in Kyoto. with color umbrellas.
ALT text detailsSnowy day in Kyoto. with color umbrellas.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Many areas of Japan are assessing new travel-related fees to fund building out infrastructure to fend off overtourism. However, some Japanese citizens and residents are fuming, as the new fees apply to everyone – not just the out-of-towners.

unseen-japan.com/lodging-taxes

Japanese woman showing tourist vegetables
ALT text detailsJapanese woman showing tourist vegetables
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dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Snowy day in Kyoto. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Snowy day in Kyoto. with color umbrellas.
ALT text detailsSnowy day in Kyoto. with color umbrellas.
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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

As Washington and Tokyo prepare to launch key tariff negotiations, U.S. President Donald Trump has once again criticized the 1960 security treaty with Japan as “one-sided.” japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/04/

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

As Washington and Tokyo prepare to launch key tariff negotiations, U.S. President Donald Trump has once again criticized the 1960 security treaty with Japan as “one-sided.” japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/04/

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Chris Alemany🇺🇦🇨🇦🇪🇸

@chris@mstdn.chrisalemany.ca

Remembering when the Commander of the Missouri battleship ordered a burial at sea for a kamikaze pilot that attacked his ship the day earlier.

apnews.com/article/uss-missour

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Chris Alemany🇺🇦🇨🇦🇪🇸

@chris@mstdn.chrisalemany.ca

Remembering when the Commander of the Missouri battleship ordered a burial at sea for a kamikaze pilot that attacked his ship the day earlier.

apnews.com/article/uss-missour

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Minoru Saba

@minorusaba@toad.social

Whilst browsing the Gogglemap satellite view of Matsuzaki-chō on the Izu Peninsula to see if a small sushi restaurant where we had lunch some 20 years ago still existed, something unusual caught the eye.✈️🙂

Screenshot of Googlemap satellite view of a crossroads in Matsuzaki-chō, Izu Peninsula, Japan, which appears to have been photobombed by a 2-engine airliner. 34°45'08.9"N 138°46'54.9"E
ALT text detailsScreenshot of Googlemap satellite view of a crossroads in Matsuzaki-chō, Izu Peninsula, Japan, which appears to have been photobombed by a 2-engine airliner. 34°45'08.9"N 138°46'54.9"E
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dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Everyday life in Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Everyday life in Japan. cityscape. there is a taxi.
ALT text detailsEveryday life in Japan. cityscape. there is a taxi.
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dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Everyday life in Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Everyday life in Japan. cityscape. there is a taxi.
ALT text detailsEveryday life in Japan. cityscape. there is a taxi.
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dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Winter in Kyoto. #photography #streetphotography #japan
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Staying independent enables UJ to cover interesting stories about modern Japan through a liberal lens. You can help by making a donation in any amount to the Unseen Japan Journalism Fund below:

unseen-japan.com/support/

UJ Banner - woman in kimono walking down the street of a Japanese shopping district with a shiba inu on a leash.
ALT text detailsUJ Banner - woman in kimono walking down the street of a Japanese shopping district with a shiba inu on a leash.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

As Japan’s youth suicide rate hits record levels, authorities are searching for solutions to address the epidemic. Kumamoto City in Kumamoto Prefecture thinks it has an idea: security cameras as an antidote to bullying.

unseen-japan.com/kumamoto-city

Close up of three or so desks in a school, with books on one of the desks
ALT text detailsClose up of three or so desks in a school, with books on one of the desks
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dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Winter in Kyoto. #photography #streetphotography #japan
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dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Winter in Kyoto. #photography #streetphotography #japan
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

It shouldn’t have to be said that you should respect all local laws and customs during your travel to Japan. Sadly, one American traveler couldn’t be bothered to perform due diligence on his packed luggage.

unseen-japan.com/american-tour

Picture of hand holding a gun (from the bottom of the picture towards the top) with Kansai International Airport as the backdrop
ALT text detailsPicture of hand holding a gun (from the bottom of the picture towards the top) with Kansai International Airport as the backdrop
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dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Daily morning in Dotonbori Osaka. #photography #streetphotography #japan
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dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Daily morning in Dotonbori Osaka. #photography #streetphotography #japan
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The conflict between two yakuza gangs - the Yamaguchi-gumi and a splinter Kobe faction - has cost over 90 lives in blood-soaked scenes that would befit a Takashi Miike film. Now, Yamaguchi-gumi says the war is done. The cops, however, aren't convinced.

unseen-japan.com/yakuza-war-tr

Yakuza style guys, both in suits and glasses and one with a purple shirt
ALT text detailsYakuza style guys, both in suits and glasses and one with a purple shirt
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A female lawmaker in Japan who found herself in a personal emergency made a call on social media for free sanitary products in public buildings. Here's how her seemingly benign request resulted in an automated stream of death threats.

unseen-japan.com/yoshida-ayaka

Yoshida Ayaka sitting at a table during a press conference
ALT text detailsYoshida Ayaka sitting at a table during a press conference
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Ready to be happy? You might get more than you bargained for if you become entangled with this Japanese new religion whose founder declared himself the reincarnation of Buddha *and* Hermes - and whose political views occupy the far, far right.

unseen-japan.com/happy-science

Happy Science flower symbol
ALT text detailsHappy Science flower symbol
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Ame

@ame@breta.moe

Our first day in Japan after arrival, we did some walking around the neighborhood near our hotel in Osaka, shopped around in a Japanese supermarket and ate some ramen in the evening.

Narrow urban alleyway in Osaka, Japan with overcast sky, lined with small buildings and shops. Utility poles and a dense web of overhead wires span the street. A red traffic light and multiple signs in Japanese are visible, including a blue left-turn arrow and parking signs. Bicycles are parked along the sidewalk.The ground is slightly wet because of recent rain.
ALT text detailsNarrow urban alleyway in Osaka, Japan with overcast sky, lined with small buildings and shops. Utility poles and a dense web of overhead wires span the street. A red traffic light and multiple signs in Japanese are visible, including a blue left-turn arrow and parking signs. Bicycles are parked along the sidewalk.The ground is slightly wet because of recent rain.
Close-up view of a supermarket shelf displaying several cans of Strong Zero cans.
ALT text detailsClose-up view of a supermarket shelf displaying several cans of Strong Zero cans.
Pedestrian street in a Japanese neighborhood with overhead lantern-style lights and numerous hanging wires. Several people walk along the wet pavement, including elderly individuals using canes. Bicycles are parked on the side, and small shops with signs line both sides of the street. Cherry blossom decorations hang above, and a “Shopping Street” archway with red and green traffic lights is visible in the background.
ALT text detailsPedestrian street in a Japanese neighborhood with overhead lantern-style lights and numerous hanging wires. Several people walk along the wet pavement, including elderly individuals using canes. Bicycles are parked on the side, and small shops with signs line both sides of the street. Cherry blossom decorations hang above, and a “Shopping Street” archway with red and green traffic lights is visible in the background.
Bowl of ramen served in a white bowl with red accents. Topped with a thick slice of pork meat, chopped green onions, bamboo shoots, and a red ramen spoon resting inside.
ALT text detailsBowl of ramen served in a white bowl with red accents. Topped with a thick slice of pork meat, chopped green onions, bamboo shoots, and a red ramen spoon resting inside.
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Hanse Mina

@hanse_mina@mastodon.social

Japan expressed interest Tuesday in participating in the NATO command for its Ukrainian mission based in Germany in what would be a major boost in ties with the largely European alliance.

apnews.com/article/japan-defen

dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Osaka, a complex urban structure. #photography #streetphotography #japan
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Osaka, a complex urban structure. #photography #streetphotography #japan
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Benkei Bridge (1933)

Artist: Koitsu Tsuchiya

youtube.com/watch?v=wOpj_XkfDmY

A view of Benkeibashi on a spring evening. On the far side of the bridge, cherry trees in full bloom are lit from beneath by lanterns; beaneath the bridge, the waters of the Benkeibori are calm, while the sky above is dark and starless.
ALT text detailsA view of Benkeibashi on a spring evening. On the far side of the bridge, cherry trees in full bloom are lit from beneath by lanterns; beaneath the bridge, the waters of the Benkeibori are calm, while the sky above is dark and starless.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

In their petition, parents at Musashino Gakuen school expressed their fears that the institution, once a “safe haven for our children,” is now in a “deep state of crisis" and that they have "an ever-growing concern about the future of our school.”

unseen-japan.com/musashino-hig

Musashino Higashi Gakuen
ALT text detailsMusashino Higashi Gakuen
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A recent survey by a language education company reveals that some Japanese people don’t feel at all confident in their English abilities. Tourists to Japan, however, seem to think that they’re doing just fine.

unseen-japan.com/japanese-engl

Man holding his hand up to his ear while an unintelligible stream of Latin characters enters it
ALT text detailsMan holding his hand up to his ear while an unintelligible stream of Latin characters enters it
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

An American cowboys into Japan, the meaning of the Fuji TV scandal, maybe Japan's English isn't so bad, and death threats over free women's hygiene products - that & our other best content of the week in the Unseen Japan Newsletter.

us20.campaign-archive.com/?u=e

The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Why are Japanese streets empty of U.S. cars? It’s no mystery — they're not good enough. japantimes.co.jp/commentary/20

The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Why are Japanese streets empty of U.S. cars? It’s no mystery — they're not good enough. japantimes.co.jp/commentary/20

dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Morning rain in Osaka Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
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dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Morning rain in Osaka Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Why are Japanese streets empty of U.S. cars? It’s no mystery — they're not good enough. japantimes.co.jp/commentary/20

dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Rainy night in Osaka Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:'s avatar
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:

@norbertwoehnl@famichiki.jp

Good morning from Japan! The Cherry Blossom Season is almost over in Tokyo. Capturing that melancholic mood, here is a set of film photography taken a few years ago at Hirano Shrine in Kyoto.

📷 Mamiya 6, 50mm f/4
🎞️ Fujicolor Pro 400H

Fallen petals during late cherry blossom season at Hirano Shrine in Kyoto, Japan.
ALT text detailsFallen petals during late cherry blossom season at Hirano Shrine in Kyoto, Japan.
Fallen petals during late cherry blossom season at Hirano Shrine in Kyoto, Japan.
ALT text detailsFallen petals during late cherry blossom season at Hirano Shrine in Kyoto, Japan.
Fallen petals during late cherry blossom season at Hirano Shrine in Kyoto, Japan.
ALT text detailsFallen petals during late cherry blossom season at Hirano Shrine in Kyoto, Japan.
Fallen petals during late cherry blossom season at Hirano Shrine in Kyoto, Japan.
ALT text detailsFallen petals during late cherry blossom season at Hirano Shrine in Kyoto, Japan.
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Yukihito Ono

@onotch@mstdn.tokyocameraclub.com

Roppongi Hills 🌸

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Alfie Goodrich

@alfiegoodrich@photog.social

The next chapter of the cherry blossom will be the Okamezakura. And one of the best places in Tokyo to see them, imho is Nihonbashi.

Here's some shots on my blog from there, back in 2024.

blog.alfiegoodrich.com/portfol

Screenshot of an article on my blog about the late flowering cherry blossoms in Nihonbashi, Tokyo. Shows a photo of fallen petals in drainage channels in a car park.
ALT text detailsScreenshot of an article on my blog about the late flowering cherry blossoms in Nihonbashi, Tokyo. Shows a photo of fallen petals in drainage channels in a car park.
Alfie Goodrich's avatar
Alfie Goodrich

@alfiegoodrich@photog.social

The next chapter of the cherry blossom will be the Okamezakura. And one of the best places in Tokyo to see them, imho is Nihonbashi.

Here's some shots on my blog from there, back in 2024.

blog.alfiegoodrich.com/portfol

Screenshot of an article on my blog about the late flowering cherry blossoms in Nihonbashi, Tokyo. Shows a photo of fallen petals in drainage channels in a car park.
ALT text detailsScreenshot of an article on my blog about the late flowering cherry blossoms in Nihonbashi, Tokyo. Shows a photo of fallen petals in drainage channels in a car park.
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:'s avatar
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:

@norbertwoehnl@famichiki.jp

Good morning from Japan! The Cherry Blossom Season is almost over in Tokyo. Capturing that melancholic mood, here is a set of film photography taken a few years ago at Hirano Shrine in Kyoto.

📷 Mamiya 6, 50mm f/4
🎞️ Fujicolor Pro 400H

Fallen petals during late cherry blossom season at Hirano Shrine in Kyoto, Japan.
ALT text detailsFallen petals during late cherry blossom season at Hirano Shrine in Kyoto, Japan.
Fallen petals during late cherry blossom season at Hirano Shrine in Kyoto, Japan.
ALT text detailsFallen petals during late cherry blossom season at Hirano Shrine in Kyoto, Japan.
Fallen petals during late cherry blossom season at Hirano Shrine in Kyoto, Japan.
ALT text detailsFallen petals during late cherry blossom season at Hirano Shrine in Kyoto, Japan.
Fallen petals during late cherry blossom season at Hirano Shrine in Kyoto, Japan.
ALT text detailsFallen petals during late cherry blossom season at Hirano Shrine in Kyoto, Japan.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A 38-year-old 7-11 manager's death was ruled a case of overwork after he worked six months w/o a break. The case has some saying it's time to end 24-hour combini culture in Japan - and to crack down harder on companies that cross the so-called "karōshi line."

unseen-japan.com/7-11-manager-

7-11 in Yamanashi Prefecture
ALT text details7-11 in Yamanashi Prefecture
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Tanuki.no.mori

@tanukinomori_jp@pixelfed.social

Cherry blossoms blooming at the Kamogawa Delta (Kamo & Takano Rivers confluence) 🌸

📸 04/06/2025
📍Sakyo Ward, Kyoto City

#photography #landscape #japan #kyoto #cherryblossom #travel
Tanuki.no.mori's avatar
Tanuki.no.mori

@tanukinomori_jp@pixelfed.social

Cherry blossoms blooming at the Kamogawa Delta (Kamo & Takano Rivers confluence) 🌸

📸 04/06/2025
📍Sakyo Ward, Kyoto City

#photography #landscape #japan #kyoto #cherryblossom #travel
The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

The call was the first interaction between the two leaders since the U.S. president rolled out new tariffs targeting almost every country on the planet. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/04/

atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: In a Temple Yard (1935)

Artist: Hiroshi Yoshida

studerautomlands.ki.se/2025/04

Three female figures in traditional clothing, each carrying a small child strapped to their back, pause beneath a cherry tree in bloom. Just beyond, a covered temple bell stands in shadow; at their feet, a large puddle reflects the scene. Above, the sky is hazy and overcast.
ALT text detailsThree female figures in traditional clothing, each carrying a small child strapped to their back, pause beneath a cherry tree in bloom. Just beyond, a covered temple bell stands in shadow; at their feet, a large puddle reflects the scene. Above, the sky is hazy and overcast.
The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

The call was the first interaction between the two leaders since the U.S. president rolled out new tariffs targeting almost every country on the planet. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/04/

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A city in Japan says it won't make women's sanitary products available after politician Yoshida Ayaka called for them to be free like toilet paper - even though a simple solution to providing them is already in use across the country.

unseen-japan.com/tsu-mie-prefe

Tsu, Mie Prefecture - city center
ALT text detailsTsu, Mie Prefecture - city center
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: In a Temple Yard (1935)

Artist: Hiroshi Yoshida

studerautomlands.ki.se/2025/04

Three female figures in traditional clothing, each carrying a small child strapped to their back, pause beneath a cherry tree in bloom. Just beyond, a covered temple bell stands in shadow; at their feet, a large puddle reflects the scene. Above, the sky is hazy and overcast.
ALT text detailsThree female figures in traditional clothing, each carrying a small child strapped to their back, pause beneath a cherry tree in bloom. Just beyond, a covered temple bell stands in shadow; at their feet, a large puddle reflects the scene. Above, the sky is hazy and overcast.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The independent commission investigating allegations of sexual assault by Nakai Masahiro found that he did in fact assault the victim. It further ruled the act a “serious human rights violation" & found it occurred in line w/ the victim's work at Fuji TV.

unseen-japan.com/nakai-masahir

Fuji independent committee press conference
ALT text detailsFuji independent committee press conference
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Morning rain in Osaka Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Morning rain in Osaka Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
noco｜Flower Photographer's avatar
noco｜Flower Photographer

@noco3n_com@mstdn.jp

Spring colors.

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Last year, Kan reportedly attempted to drive his car down the stairwell to snack bar Kasumi’s location on a basement floor. When that failed for obvious reasons, he reportedly jumped out, ran into the bar, and smashed a bottle over his ex-wife's head.

unseen-japan.com/snack-bar-mur

Snack Kasumi in Nishitokyo
ALT text detailsSnack Kasumi in Nishitokyo
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Kyoto rainy day. #photography #streetphotography #japan
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Kyoto rainy day. #photography #streetphotography #japan
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Everyday life of snow in Kyoto. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Gerard Thomas ⭕️'s avatar
Gerard Thomas ⭕️

@iamgerardthomas@mastodon.social

This is a fantastic essay, especially if you are into design, or are a designer

theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2

Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:'s avatar
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:

@norbertwoehnl@famichiki.jp

Happy Monday from Tokyo! May the new week bring you more good vibes and fewer tariffs than the previous one. 😇
One more place I went to yesterday after the drumming lesson was Kyū-Furukawa Gardens in Nishigahara.

Spring scene with blossoming cherry trees at Kyu-Furukawa Gardens in Nishigahara, Tokyo.
ALT text detailsSpring scene with blossoming cherry trees at Kyu-Furukawa Gardens in Nishigahara, Tokyo.
Spring scene with blossoming cherry trees at Kyu-Furukawa Gardens in Nishigahara, Tokyo.
ALT text detailsSpring scene with blossoming cherry trees at Kyu-Furukawa Gardens in Nishigahara, Tokyo.
Spring scene with blossoming cherry trees at Kyu-Furukawa Gardens in Nishigahara, Tokyo.
ALT text detailsSpring scene with blossoming cherry trees at Kyu-Furukawa Gardens in Nishigahara, Tokyo.
Spring scene overlooking the pond at Kyu-Furukawa Gardens in Nishigahara, Tokyo.
ALT text detailsSpring scene overlooking the pond at Kyu-Furukawa Gardens in Nishigahara, Tokyo.
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:'s avatar
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:

@norbertwoehnl@famichiki.jp

Happy Monday from Tokyo! May the new week bring you more good vibes and fewer tariffs than the previous one. 😇
One more place I went to yesterday after the drumming lesson was Kyū-Furukawa Gardens in Nishigahara.

Spring scene with blossoming cherry trees at Kyu-Furukawa Gardens in Nishigahara, Tokyo.
ALT text detailsSpring scene with blossoming cherry trees at Kyu-Furukawa Gardens in Nishigahara, Tokyo.
Spring scene with blossoming cherry trees at Kyu-Furukawa Gardens in Nishigahara, Tokyo.
ALT text detailsSpring scene with blossoming cherry trees at Kyu-Furukawa Gardens in Nishigahara, Tokyo.
Spring scene with blossoming cherry trees at Kyu-Furukawa Gardens in Nishigahara, Tokyo.
ALT text detailsSpring scene with blossoming cherry trees at Kyu-Furukawa Gardens in Nishigahara, Tokyo.
Spring scene overlooking the pond at Kyu-Furukawa Gardens in Nishigahara, Tokyo.
ALT text detailsSpring scene overlooking the pond at Kyu-Furukawa Gardens in Nishigahara, Tokyo.
砂漠人 :hyogo: x 🏜️'s avatar
砂漠人 :hyogo: x 🏜️

@sleepytako@famichiki.jp

In 徳島県 for a few nights for 参拝. Some of that 参拝 will be part of the 四国八十八ヶ所. But that is tomorrow. Today I have a more quirky place to visit and in my weird 地理学 rotted brain qualifies as 参拝... Kinda.

So I'm here at 地蔵橋駅. What for? I'll show you in the next post.

dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Daily life in Kyoto Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Rainy night in Osaka Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

12-year-old Japanese gamer Tarou made headlines in February when he said he was postponing middle school to work on his Fortnite skills - a rare move in a country with no legal structure for homeschooling. His mom & dad say they stand behind the decision.

unseen-japan.com/tarou-middle-

Header image for YouTuber Tarou from his channel
ALT text detailsHeader image for YouTuber Tarou from his channel
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A Cosmos Drug Store in Osaka went viral after it tried to charge a customer who ate at a neighboring ramen shop 10,000 yen ($68) for parking in its parking lot. The chain had to apologize profusely when it came out that the lot was shared by the two stores.

unseen-japan.com/cosmos-drug-s

Post by X user @drybear800. Japanese text: この駐車場に車停めてラーメン屋行ったらこれ。 どうみてもこの看板共用駐車場にみえるだろ！！！！！
ALT text detailsPost by X user @drybear800. Japanese text: この駐車場に車停めてラーメン屋行ったらこれ。 どうみてもこの看板共用駐車場にみえるだろ！！！！！
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:'s avatar
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:

@norbertwoehnl@famichiki.jp

Good morning from Tokyo! Hope y’all will enjoy your Sunday. I’ll have my first regular drumming lesson later, and then we’ll see what else the weather allows.
Here is some more for you, this time of a nighttime variety from last night around my neighborhood in Itabashi Ward. Unedited iPhone photos.

Urban cherry blossoms on an evening in suburban Tokyo, Japan.
ALT text detailsUrban cherry blossoms on an evening in suburban Tokyo, Japan.
Urban cherry blossoms on an evening in suburban Tokyo, Japan.
ALT text detailsUrban cherry blossoms on an evening in suburban Tokyo, Japan.
Urban cherry blossoms on an evening in suburban Tokyo, Japan.
ALT text detailsUrban cherry blossoms on an evening in suburban Tokyo, Japan.
Urban cherry blossoms on an evening in suburban Tokyo, Japan.
ALT text detailsUrban cherry blossoms on an evening in suburban Tokyo, Japan.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

In the wake of the Fuji TV scandal, a question lingers: Who is "Celebrity U," the celeb who allegedly accosted another female Fuji anchor at a Nakai Masahiro sex party? We go into details in the next issue of Unseen Japan Insider, releasing Tuesday - sign up below:

unseen-japan.com/support/

With the release of the independent committee’s report, the Fuji TV scandal has entered a new stage. Fuji now needs to show it can pick up the pieces and change its culture if it wants to continue as a business. That’s easier said than done. The committee’s finding that Nakai committed sexual assault - and that this occurred within the context of the victim’s work - means it had to make meaningful change to show the advertisers who have bailed that it’s safe to come back. So far, only around 10% have restored their ads on the network. Fuji also received an official warning from the country’s private broadcasting associating, the Japan Commercial Broadcasters Association, which gave it “administrative guidance” around its lack of awareness concerning human rights and adherence to the law. One thing’s for sure: former SMAP member Nakai Masahiro has no career left to speak of (donald_glover_good.gif).
ALT text detailsWith the release of the independent committee’s report, the Fuji TV scandal has entered a new stage. Fuji now needs to show it can pick up the pieces and change its culture if it wants to continue as a business. That’s easier said than done. The committee’s finding that Nakai committed sexual assault - and that this occurred within the context of the victim’s work - means it had to make meaningful change to show the advertisers who have bailed that it’s safe to come back. So far, only around 10% have restored their ads on the network. Fuji also received an official warning from the country’s private broadcasting associating, the Japan Commercial Broadcasters Association, which gave it “administrative guidance” around its lack of awareness concerning human rights and adherence to the law. One thing’s for sure: former SMAP member Nakai Masahiro has no career left to speak of (donald_glover_good.gif).
The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Japan will play a major role under defense cooperation between the governments in Tokyo and Washington under the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump if a conflict occurs in Taiwan. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/04/

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A scruffy-looking, stammering fellow who doesn’t tend to leave much of an impression on people who meet him, fictional detective Kindaichi Kosuke is nonetheless able to solve the trickiest of murders using only his powers of observation.

Picture of The Honjin Murders by Yokomizo Seishi
ALT text detailsPicture of The Honjin Murders by Yokomizo Seishi
The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Japan will play a major role under defense cooperation between the governments in Tokyo and Washington under the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump if a conflict occurs in Taiwan. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/04/

dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Daily life in Kyoto Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The TV show SMAPxSMAP, referred to colloquially as “Sma-Sma,” wasn’t just a hit—it was a cultural institution. Nakai, the sharp-tongued MC with impeccable timing, became the face of Fuji’s golden age. The show ran for 20 years right up until SMAP disbanded.

Nakai Masahiro interviewing Ueto Aya on SMAPxSMAP
ALT text detailsNakai Masahiro interviewing Ueto Aya on SMAPxSMAP
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:'s avatar
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:

@norbertwoehnl@famichiki.jp

After the drumming lesson, a delightful lunch at “cafe chocotto” in Komagome, Tokyo, followed by a short stroll through the decidedly retro-style Shimofuri Shopping Street.

Mixed lunch plate at “cafe chocotto” in Komagome, Tokyo
ALT text detailsMixed lunch plate at “cafe chocotto” in Komagome, Tokyo
Dessert at “cafe chocotto” in Komagome, Tokyo
ALT text detailsDessert at “cafe chocotto” in Komagome, Tokyo
Shimofuri Shopping Street in Komagome, Tokyo
ALT text detailsShimofuri Shopping Street in Komagome, Tokyo
Shimofuri Shopping Street in Komagome, Tokyo
ALT text detailsShimofuri Shopping Street in Komagome, Tokyo
The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Some 100 people mourned those who committed mass suicide at a cave in Okinawa Prefecture 80 years ago in the final stages of World War II. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/04/

The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Some 100 people mourned those who committed mass suicide at a cave in Okinawa Prefecture 80 years ago in the final stages of World War II. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/04/

dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Daily night in Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Daily night in Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

In Japan, it seems there’s a service for everything. But one business may cross both ethical *and* legal lines. Meet the wakaresaseya – Japan’s “break up” companies – who promise to destroy another's happiness so you can get yours.

unseen-japan.com/breakup-compa

Woman crying as her man walks off with another woman
ALT text detailsWoman crying as her man walks off with another woman
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:'s avatar
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:

@norbertwoehnl@famichiki.jp

Good morning from Tokyo! Hope y’all will enjoy your Sunday. I’ll have my first regular drumming lesson later, and then we’ll see what else the weather allows.
Here is some more for you, this time of a nighttime variety from last night around my neighborhood in Itabashi Ward. Unedited iPhone photos.

Urban cherry blossoms on an evening in suburban Tokyo, Japan.
ALT text detailsUrban cherry blossoms on an evening in suburban Tokyo, Japan.
Urban cherry blossoms on an evening in suburban Tokyo, Japan.
ALT text detailsUrban cherry blossoms on an evening in suburban Tokyo, Japan.
Urban cherry blossoms on an evening in suburban Tokyo, Japan.
ALT text detailsUrban cherry blossoms on an evening in suburban Tokyo, Japan.
Urban cherry blossoms on an evening in suburban Tokyo, Japan.
ALT text detailsUrban cherry blossoms on an evening in suburban Tokyo, Japan.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Getting married in Japan creates a new family registry, which requires listing an address. Turns out you can list an address anywhere in Japan - and some people do: around 3,000 people have opted to list the Imperial Palace in Tokyo’s Chiyoda City as their registered domicile.

Japan Imperial Palace, Chiyoda City, Tokyo
ALT text detailsJapan Imperial Palace, Chiyoda City, Tokyo
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The news Sukiya would temporarily close most stores came as a shock to Manarisu, who’s eaten at Sukiya every day for 2,000 consecutive days as of March 20th, 2025. He’s asking his 149,000 followers to help him identify local Sukiyas in food courts so he can keep the streak going.

X post by @mararisu9475. Text in Japanese: マナリス、終了のお知らせと聞いて
ALT text detailsX post by @mararisu9475. Text in Japanese: マナリス、終了のお知らせと聞いて
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The popular onsen city of Atami is implementing a new lodging tax - and it applies to inbound tourists and residents of Japan alike. Some insist the tax should only apply to foreign visitors. However, implementing such a "two-tiered" system wouldn't be easy.

unseen-japan.com/lodging-taxes

Japanese woman showing tourist vegetables
ALT text detailsJapanese woman showing tourist vegetables
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Rainy night with Cherry blossom. #photography #streetphotography #japan
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Rainy night with Cherry blossom. #photography #streetphotography #japan
neatchee's avatar
neatchee

@neatchee@urusai.social

Alright, where are my Tokyo-local / fans???

I want to attend the yama concert on Friday the 25th and need a) people to go with, and b) help securing tickets without a Tokyo phone number or address of my own.

I would go see Ado that night if I could but I figure that's a tall order since it's her world-tour kickoff and already sold out long ago haha

noco｜Flower Photographer's avatar
noco｜Flower Photographer

@noco3n_com@mstdn.jp

Spring colors.

janhoglund's avatar
janhoglund

@janhoglund@mastodon.nu

”My strong recommendation to Canada, Mexico, Japan, and the European Union is to join together to create a free trade zone that excludes the United States… They need to negotiate from a position of strength. A non-U.S. free trade union will give them that strength.”
—Robert Reich
robertreich.substack.com/p/wha

dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Kyoto rainy day. #photography #streetphotography #japan
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Kyoto rainy day. #photography #streetphotography #japan
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Cherry Blossoms & Castle (c.1930s)

Artist: Ito Yuhan

japan-guide.com/e/e3050.html

A view looking along a calm river, past a wooden bridge, and toward a Japanese-style castle standing on steep, angular stone foundations. On our right, a cherry tree overlooks the water, its branches packed with pink blossoms; above, the sky is clear and bright.
ALT text detailsA view looking along a calm river, past a wooden bridge, and toward a Japanese-style castle standing on steep, angular stone foundations. On our right, a cherry tree overlooks the water, its branches packed with pink blossoms; above, the sky is clear and bright.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Cherry Blossoms & Castle (c.1930s)

Artist: Ito Yuhan

japan-guide.com/e/e3050.html

A view looking along a calm river, past a wooden bridge, and toward a Japanese-style castle standing on steep, angular stone foundations. On our right, a cherry tree overlooks the water, its branches packed with pink blossoms; above, the sky is clear and bright.
ALT text detailsA view looking along a calm river, past a wooden bridge, and toward a Japanese-style castle standing on steep, angular stone foundations. On our right, a cherry tree overlooks the water, its branches packed with pink blossoms; above, the sky is clear and bright.
neatchee's avatar
neatchee

@neatchee@urusai.social

Alright, where are my Tokyo-local / fans???

I want to attend the yama concert on Friday the 25th and need a) people to go with, and b) help securing tickets without a Tokyo phone number or address of my own.

I would go see Ado that night if I could but I figure that's a tall order since it's her world-tour kickoff and already sold out long ago haha

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Mass strikes, the creation of the 8-hour workday, and an early 20th-century vogue for foreign words - all led to the most popular Japanese word many don't even realize is foreign in origin. Here's how "saboru" came to be.

unseen-japan.com/saboru-the-st

Cartoon of girl waving her hand at a desk. Behind her, a mass of workers are striking
ALT text detailsCartoon of girl waving her hand at a desk. Behind her, a mass of workers are striking
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Want an onigiri you can take anywhere – or perhaps use during a national emergency? You’re in luck! One company in Japan sells “non-grip onigiri,” which you can take anywhere and make by just adding water. The question is: how do they taste?

unseen-japan.com/travel-onigir

Hiker standing on cliff and looking at Onisi Onigiri
ALT text detailsHiker standing on cliff and looking at Onisi Onigiri
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A female snack bar owner in Nishitokyo was found dead in her place of business, her ex-husband lying unconscious and injured nearby. Her death currently appears to be the result of a campaign of violence that authorities didn't stop until it was too late.

unseen-japan.com/snack-bar-own

Woman pouring a drink at a snack bar from a bottle of whisky
ALT text detailsWoman pouring a drink at a snack bar from a bottle of whisky
noco｜Flower Photographer's avatar
noco｜Flower Photographer

@noco3n_com@mstdn.jp

retro style.

　

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noco｜Flower Photographer

@noco3n_com@mstdn.jp

retro style.

　

Aldi80s's avatar
Aldi80s

@aldi80s@minidisc.tokyo

10 years ago I got that BABYMETAL album released in 2015.

An German edition with CD + DVD featuring the song "Road of Resistance" as a bonus track from the next album to be released in 2016.

Both albums were the best !

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Aldi80s

@aldi80s@minidisc.tokyo

10 years ago I got that BABYMETAL album released in 2015.

An German edition with CD + DVD featuring the song "Road of Resistance" as a bonus track from the next album to be released in 2016.

Both albums were the best !

dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Rainy night in Tokyo Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Rainy night in Tokyo Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Rainy Evening at Yasaka Pagoda (1932)

Artist: Kasamatsu Shiro

atravelingfairy.com/kyoto-cher

A spring rain falls at Hokan-ji Temple in Kyoto. A single female figure carries a bamboo umbrella in one hand and a small wrapped package in the other as she crosses the temple grounds; on her way, she passes beneath a cherry tree in full bloom. In the background, the famous five-story Yasaka Pagoda stands tall against the gloomy overcast sky.
ALT text detailsA spring rain falls at Hokan-ji Temple in Kyoto. A single female figure carries a bamboo umbrella in one hand and a small wrapped package in the other as she crosses the temple grounds; on her way, she passes beneath a cherry tree in full bloom. In the background, the famous five-story Yasaka Pagoda stands tall against the gloomy overcast sky.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

As bullying and related youth suicides remain persistent problems in Japan, Kumamoto City is weighing whether to install security cameras as an anti-bullying measure. Experts are split, with some saying the measure will do nothing to address online abuse.

unseen-japan.com/kumamoto-city

Close up of three or so desks in a school, with books on one of the desks
ALT text detailsClose up of three or so desks in a school, with books on one of the desks
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

You may experience longer wait times at Japan's arrival ports thanks to one American. The tourist reportedly brought a handgun & ammunition into Japan, somehow getting it through two airports before realizing his "mistake" at his Osaka hotel. He's now under arrest.

unseen-japan.com/american-tour

atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Rainy Evening at Yasaka Pagoda (1932)

Artist: Kasamatsu Shiro

atravelingfairy.com/kyoto-cher

A spring rain falls at Hokan-ji Temple in Kyoto. A single female figure carries a bamboo umbrella in one hand and a small wrapped package in the other as she crosses the temple grounds; on her way, she passes beneath a cherry tree in full bloom. In the background, the famous five-story Yasaka Pagoda stands tall against the gloomy overcast sky.
ALT text detailsA spring rain falls at Hokan-ji Temple in Kyoto. A single female figure carries a bamboo umbrella in one hand and a small wrapped package in the other as she crosses the temple grounds; on her way, she passes beneath a cherry tree in full bloom. In the background, the famous five-story Yasaka Pagoda stands tall against the gloomy overcast sky.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

What's it like to become a Shinto shrine maiden (miko)? A look at what a miko does, the tumultuous history of the profession, and a peek inside a new school that teaches you everything you need to know.

unseen-japan.com/japanese-shri

Shinto shrine maiden (miko) in a white top and red dress facing a shrine
ALT text detailsShinto shrine maiden (miko) in a white top and red dress facing a shrine
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dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

daily life on snowy day in Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

daily life on snowy day in Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Wanna see Mt. Fuji? Can't be f*cked to actually hike the dang thing? That's okay - it's overcrowded anyway. Instead, enjoy these spots around the area where you can get spectacular views for far less effort.

unseen-japan.com/mt-fuji-viewi

Mt. Fuji seen from Shizuoka
ALT text detailsMt. Fuji seen from Shizuoka
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A popular late-night talk show issued a public apology for a segment in which it intentionally edited a Chinese guest to make it sound like she said Chinese people regularly eat crows. Critics say it’s both racist and a gross violation of television standards.

unseen-japan.com/matsuko-delux

Monday Late Show (Getsuyou Kara no Yofukashi) - Chinese woman speaking about crows in Japan
ALT text detailsMonday Late Show (Getsuyou Kara no Yofukashi) - Chinese woman speaking about crows in Japan
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Snowing day in Kyoto Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
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dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Snowing day in Kyoto Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
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dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Snowing day in Kyoto Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
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janhoglund

@janhoglund@mastodon.nu

”My strong recommendation to Canada, Mexico, Japan, and the European Union is to join together to create a free trade zone that excludes the United States… They need to negotiate from a position of strength. A non-U.S. free trade union will give them that strength.”
—Robert Reich
robertreich.substack.com/p/wha

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dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Osaka Boat Trip. #photography #streetphotography #japan
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dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Osaka Boat Trip. #photography #streetphotography #japan
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

The way home with cherry blossoms. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japan's a relatively safe place to travel. But disasters happen - and navigating them when you don't know the local language can be harrowing. Popular navigation app NAVITIME hopes to bridge that gap with a new Safety feature in its multilingual app for travelers.

unseen-japan.com/navitime-app-

Japan Travel by NAVITIME
ALT text detailsJapan Travel by NAVITIME
Nonilex's avatar
Nonilex

@Nonilex@masto.ai · Reply to Nonilex's post

Many of these tariff rates seem much higher than some economists & policymakers had been expecting.

says the US will calculate a tariff rate for other countries based on & “other forms of cheating” — whatever that means.

He says will face a 34% tariff, while the will be 20%. will be 24% & 26%.

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

“The beer a new hire did their best to pour”

X post from user @yurushosho depicting a beer that's almost entirely foam. Japanese text: 新入社員が頑張って注いだビール
ALT text detailsX post from user @yurushosho depicting a beer that's almost entirely foam. Japanese text: 新入社員が頑張って注いだビール
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Ginza Cozy Corner has announced it'll start selling a sweet cream custard used in cream puffs but packaged as a mayonnaise bottle, laying the groundwork for some truly disgusting culinary incidents to occur. The faux mayo goes on sale April 4th.

Cozy Corner mayonnaise bottle cream custard
ALT text detailsCozy Corner mayonnaise bottle cream custard
Cozy Corner mayonnaise bottle cream being applied to a dessert
ALT text detailsCozy Corner mayonnaise bottle cream being applied to a dessert
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Hanazakari - Avenue of Cherry Trees in Full Bloom (1935)

Artist: Hiroshi Yoshida

www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/new

Tall cherry trees, their branches full of pink blossoms, line a narrow avenue somewhere in Japan. Merchants have set up small stalls on either side of the lane; on the right, a pair of female figures in kimono pause before one stall to shop. Screened by the cherry blossoms, the sky above is overcast, the clouds a dull milky colour.
ALT text detailsTall cherry trees, their branches full of pink blossoms, line a narrow avenue somewhere in Japan. Merchants have set up small stalls on either side of the lane; on the right, a pair of female figures in kimono pause before one stall to shop. Screened by the cherry blossoms, the sky above is overcast, the clouds a dull milky colour.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Hanazakari - Avenue of Cherry Trees in Full Bloom (1935)

Artist: Hiroshi Yoshida

www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/new

Tall cherry trees, their branches full of pink blossoms, line a narrow avenue somewhere in Japan. Merchants have set up small stalls on either side of the lane; on the right, a pair of female figures in kimono pause before one stall to shop. Screened by the cherry blossoms, the sky above is overcast, the clouds a dull milky colour.
ALT text detailsTall cherry trees, their branches full of pink blossoms, line a narrow avenue somewhere in Japan. Merchants have set up small stalls on either side of the lane; on the right, a pair of female figures in kimono pause before one stall to shop. Screened by the cherry blossoms, the sky above is overcast, the clouds a dull milky colour.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

They’re critical points of transit for hundreds of thousands of people every day in Tokyo. So why are Shibuya and Shinjuku Stations so dang hard to use? A recent deep dive into the station’s evolution says you can blame it on history and necessity.

unseen-japan.com/shibuya-shinj

Shinjuku Station
ALT text detailsShinjuku Station
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japanese food etiquette has a series of dos and don'ts. But one etiquette expert says even most Japanese people get these things wrong. Here's how to level-up your food manners game in Japan.

unseen-japan.com/japanese-food

Woman holding up a "no" sign (sign with a blue X) as people appear to pass food to each other using chopsticks
ALT text detailsWoman holding up a "no" sign (sign with a blue X) as people appear to pass food to each other using chopsticks
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dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

The way home with cherry blossoms. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

World Expo 2025 is set to open in Osaka this month. However, the event continues to be plagued by an overwhelming lack of interest - and food prices that are raising some netizens’ eyebrows.

unseen-japan.com/osaka-world-e

Eki soba from Maneki Shokuhin
ALT text detailsEki soba from Maneki Shokuhin
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dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Everyday life of snow in Kyoto. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Jason's avatar
Jason

@Lewishamdreamer@pixelfed.social

Temple Life

The insanity at the Senso-Ji Temple was a real wake up call to the scope of #Tokyo, not just in the number of people but the number of spiritual spaces.

#travel #japan #travelling #temple
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Everyday life of snow in Kyoto. #photography #streetphotography #japan
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Midnight in Osaka Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Midnight in Osaka Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Musashino Higashi Gakuen is one of Japan's few schools that are supportive of autistic kids. However, ever since a new chairman took the reins, parents say the environment has become increasingly hostile & unsafe for students, parents & teachers alike.

unseen-japan.com/musashino-hig

Musashino Higashi Gakuen
ALT text detailsMusashino Higashi Gakuen
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

45.8% of Japanese people in a recent survey said they have refused to speak with someone in English, with 76.5% citing a "lack of confidence." By contrast, 70% of foreign visitors said they found English speakers in Japan easy to understand. What explains the gap?

unseen-japan.com/japanese-engl

Man holding his hand up to his ear while an unintelligible stream of Latin characters enters it
ALT text detailsMan holding his hand up to his ear while an unintelligible stream of Latin characters enters it
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Racism mars a popular Japanese late-night program, Sukiya closes most stores, Osaka Expo's expensive food, and where to live for cheap in Tokyo and still get a train to work - this & more in our roundup of the week's best content in the Unseen Japan Newsletter.

us20.campaign-archive.com/?u=e

Picture of a Sukiya restaurant sign in Tokyo, Japan
ALT text detailsPicture of a Sukiya restaurant sign in Tokyo, Japan
Monday Late Show (Getsuyou Kara no Yofukashi) - Chinese woman speaking about crows in Japan
ALT text detailsMonday Late Show (Getsuyou Kara no Yofukashi) - Chinese woman speaking about crows in Japan
Woman holding up a set of keys in front of you while smiling
ALT text detailsWoman holding up a set of keys in front of you while smiling
Eki soba from Maneki Shokuhin
ALT text detailsEki soba from Maneki Shokuhin
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

From the years 1920 to 1929, the modern girl and modern boy were the main stars in Japan’s own Roaring 20s. Much as the new woman reigned in the 1910s, the modern girl, or moga for short, took on a larger life thanks to mass media and academic discourse.

unseen-japan.com/mobo-moga-mod

Modern Girl of the Taisho Era (drawing of a stylish woman with short hair wearing a kimono)
ALT text detailsModern Girl of the Taisho Era (drawing of a stylish woman with short hair wearing a kimono)
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

We’ve been producing Unseen Japan for almost seven years now. During that time, the country’s changed a lot – and continues to evolve. Here are a few of the most prominent myths we've spotted, as well as some things that are slowly changing.

buff.ly/WPb7Yax

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

It’s supposed to be fun, people. Unfortunately, a piano meant to be open for the public became a point of controversy when the company that owns it made it clear that only good players were allowed.

unseen-japan.com/osaka-street-

Kid plays on a piano while a woman plugs her ears in horror
ALT text detailsKid plays on a piano while a woman plugs her ears in horror
Hokkaido Market ☑️'s avatar
Hokkaido Market ☑️

@hokkaidomarket@famichiki.jp

We visited Soundo, a cozy bookshop cafe in Matsumoto City Nagano. Recommended!

dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Daily night in Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Daily night in Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Last year, JP Post's April Fools joke was to announce a "Yu-Pack" (ゆうぱっく) face mask ( ゆうパック is the name of their parcel service). This April 1st, they're...actually selling it?! It's available for a limited time at 10 locations in Tokyo.

news.livedoor.com/article/deta

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

A multinational group of experts advocating a world without nuclear weapons has outlined several principles in its call for urgent action to prevent a nuclear war. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/04/

The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

A multinational group of experts advocating a world without nuclear weapons has outlined several principles in its call for urgent action to prevent a nuclear war. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/04/

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

“Sure, it’s been fun covering stories about the lack of women in elected government positions and how not everyone in Japan actually watches anime,” publisher Jay Allen said of the rebrand before he paused and continued, “Actually, it’s been real f*cking depressing."

unseen-japan.com/unseen-japan-

Seen Japan - banner featuring a white woman on a suitcase with a background of stereotypical Japan stuff
ALT text detailsSeen Japan - banner featuring a white woman on a suitcase with a background of stereotypical Japan stuff
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Midnight rain in Tokyo. #photography #streetphotography #japan
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Midnight rain in Tokyo. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The independent committee investigating ex-SMAP member Nakai Masahiro for sexual assault revealed he didn't want his victim breaking their privacy agreement - and was relieved when she quit the station. This and more in our exhaustive summary of the report.

unseen-japan.com/nakai-masahir

Fuji independent committee press conference
ALT text detailsFuji independent committee press conference
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

"I screamed - thought these were towns I'd never heard of"

Sign shows a train bound for Shizuoka and Tokyo, but the names are meant to be read left-to-right. Reading down - which is still standard in Japanese print media - produces "Shizuto" and "Okakyo."

Post by X user @raata045. Japanese text: 知らない街かと思って叫んじゃった。
ALT text detailsPost by X user @raata045. Japanese text: 知らない街かと思って叫んじゃった。
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Police have arrested the ex-husband of a snack bar owner, 37-year-old Tokuyama Tomomi, who was murdered in her store in Nishitokyo. Reports say the 41-year-old man had just been released from jail for his *previous* assault on his ex-wife.

unseen-japan.com/snack-bar-mur

Snack Kasumi in Nishitokyo
ALT text detailsSnack Kasumi in Nishitokyo
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

"I asked why foreigners go out of their way to study Japanese and was told 'because it's Otaku Latin' and I get it now. Otaku Latin is the best mother tongue"

X post from @azamin1029. Japanese text: どうして外国人がわざわざ日本語を勉強したいのか聞いたら、 「日本語はオタクのラテン語だからだ」 という返しをされて納得した。 オタクのラテン語が母国語は最強…✨
ALT text detailsX post from @azamin1029. Japanese text: どうして外国人がわざわざ日本語を勉強したいのか聞いたら、 「日本語はオタクのラテン語だからだ」 という返しをされて納得した。 オタクのラテン語が母国語は最強…✨
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: The Beginning of Spring (1964)

Artist: Kasamatsu Shiro

asahi.com/ajw/articles/15689989

A view of the front door of a Japanese-style house on a bright sunny day in early spring. Snow is piled up at the doorstep, while snow melts and and drips as it slides off the roof above. The sliding front door is slightly ajar. A rectangular birdcage is suspended from a bamboo pole just outside the door; a small bird is inside the cage, getting some sunshine and fresh air.
ALT text detailsA view of the front door of a Japanese-style house on a bright sunny day in early spring. Snow is piled up at the doorstep, while snow melts and and drips as it slides off the roof above. The sliding front door is slightly ajar. A rectangular birdcage is suspended from a bamboo pole just outside the door; a small bird is inside the cage, getting some sunshine and fresh air.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: The Beginning of Spring (1964)

Artist: Kasamatsu Shiro

asahi.com/ajw/articles/15689989

A view of the front door of a Japanese-style house on a bright sunny day in early spring. Snow is piled up at the doorstep, while snow melts and and drips as it slides off the roof above. The sliding front door is slightly ajar. A rectangular birdcage is suspended from a bamboo pole just outside the door; a small bird is inside the cage, getting some sunshine and fresh air.
ALT text detailsA view of the front door of a Japanese-style house on a bright sunny day in early spring. Snow is piled up at the doorstep, while snow melts and and drips as it slides off the roof above. The sliding front door is slightly ajar. A rectangular birdcage is suspended from a bamboo pole just outside the door; a small bird is inside the cage, getting some sunshine and fresh air.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Traditionally, formality is everything in the Japanese underworld. However, the guard is changing as police crack down on yakuza families. That old formality is something the new generation of gangsters, the so-called “hangure,” are casting aside.

unseen-japan.com/hangure-japan

Man with no shirt and arms folded, both arms tattooed and kanji written down his chest
ALT text detailsMan with no shirt and arms folded, both arms tattooed and kanji written down his chest
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Parents in Japan often knock the country for not providing enough support for raising children. However, one aquarium in Hokkaido is finding that good intentions aren’t always rewarded with good behavior.

unseen-japan.com/hokkaido-baby

Baby stroller superimposed over a picture of a display inside an aquarium
ALT text detailsBaby stroller superimposed over a picture of a display inside an aquarium
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Tokyo snowy night. #photography #streetphotography #japan
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Tokyo snowy night. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Bad tourist behavior has drawn a lot of media attention in Japan recently. Now, one shrine in Nagasaki Prefecture has banned any tourism – from inside or outside of Japan – in a bid to protect its grounds.

unseen-japan.com/watadzumi-shr

Picture of a white Shinto torii gate facing a lake of water. Watazumi Shrine, Nagasaki Prefecture
ALT text detailsPicture of a white Shinto torii gate facing a lake of water. Watazumi Shrine, Nagasaki Prefecture
noco｜Flower Photographer's avatar
noco｜Flower Photographer

@noco3n_com@mstdn.jp

Cherry blossom trees.

noco｜Flower Photographer's avatar
noco｜Flower Photographer

@noco3n_com@mstdn.jp

Cherry blossom trees.

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

An independent commission looking into allegations that Nakai Masahiro sexually assaulted a former Fuji TV announcer confirmed the assault in its findings today. They also found it was directly connected to the station's management.

buff.ly/o7e5wRF

Article from Asahi Shimbun. JP title: フジ第三者委、中居正広さんから女性への「性暴力があった」と認定
ALT text detailsArticle from Asahi Shimbun. JP title: フジ第三者委、中居正広さんから女性への「性暴力があった」と認定
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

With the resignation of Fuji Media Holding's Hieda Hisashi, the Nakai Masahiro scandal is now the most impactful media event in decades, writes Jake Adelstein: "This isn’t the West exporting protest. This is Japan evolving—painfully, publicly, and irrevocably."

unseen-japan.com/nakai-masahir

Fuji TV building in background with pictures of both Nakai Masahiro and Hieda Hisashi in the foreground
ALT text detailsFuji TV building in background with pictures of both Nakai Masahiro and Hieda Hisashi in the foreground
Crystal Huff (they/them)'s avatar
Crystal Huff (they/them)

@crystalvisits@wrong.tools

Woah. Woah.
Japan investigated the murder of Shinzo Abe and discovered that the killer was completely correct in accusing Abe of ruining his family's fortunes and his life?? So now Japan is dismantling the church and ordering restitution to families impacted? WOAH!

nytimes.com/2025/03/25/world/a

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

With the resignation of Fuji Media Holding's Hieda Hisashi, the Nakai Masahiro scandal is now the most impactful media event in decades, writes Jake Adelstein: "This isn’t the West exporting protest. This is Japan evolving—painfully, publicly, and irrevocably."

unseen-japan.com/nakai-masahir

Fuji TV building in background with pictures of both Nakai Masahiro and Hieda Hisashi in the foreground
ALT text detailsFuji TV building in background with pictures of both Nakai Masahiro and Hieda Hisashi in the foreground
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

One company looked at how cheap you can live in Tokyo while still being close to a train station so you can get around easily. Here are the stations where you can live nearby for as low as 65,000 yen ($350) a month.

unseen-japan.com/cheapest-trai

Kami-Igusa Station in Suginami City
ALT text detailsKami-Igusa Station in Suginami City
Horikiri Station in Adachi City
ALT text detailsHorikiri Station in Adachi City
Kajiwara Station in Kita City
ALT text detailsKajiwara Station in Kita City
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A new Japanese website purports to deliver just that in the form of a sex offender map. That’s sparked a debate over whether the service is legal under existing Japanese law. At least one expert says it may not be - and could get its owner in hot water.

unseen-japan.com/sex-offender-

Sex offender registry in Japan - picture of map of sex offenders plotted across Japan on the left. On the right, a figure of Lady Justice holding scales is peeking at Japan while prying up one side of her blindfold
ALT text detailsSex offender registry in Japan - picture of map of sex offenders plotted across Japan on the left. On the right, a figure of Lady Justice holding scales is peeking at Japan while prying up one side of her blindfold
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Snowy day in Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Snowy day in Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Go to a Japanese restaurant these days, and odds are 50/50 you won’t see a paper menu. Instead, you’re given a QR code you can use to order from your own smartphone. While restaurants love it, some Japanese customers resent the impersonal trend.

unseen-japan.com/qr-code-resta

Woman ordering food from her smartphone
ALT text detailsWoman ordering food from her smartphone
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Yukihito Ono

@onotch@mstdn.tokyocameraclub.com

The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Japanese municipalities helped to light up the recent Taiwan Lantern Festival, which showcased Taiwanese culture and traditions from close neighbors. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/03/

The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Japanese municipalities helped to light up the recent Taiwan Lantern Festival, which showcased Taiwanese culture and traditions from close neighbors. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/03/

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

One important rule to obey when bicycling in Japan is the hook turn rule. To turn right at a signal, you need to go straight ahead through the crosswalk, turn to the right, and go straight when the light turns again. I.e., you do NOT use the right-turn lane that cars use.

unseen-japan.com/bicycling-in-

Diagram showing hook turn right: go straight and then go right at the next crosswalk.
ALT text detailsDiagram showing hook turn right: go straight and then go right at the next crosswalk.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

After a second major contamination incident, Japanese beef bowl chain Sukiya says it'll close most stores nationwide for four days to ensure adequate hygiene. It's bad news for Sukiya fans - including one guy who's become famous by eating at the chain daily for years.

unseen-japan.com/sukiya-store-

Picture of a Sukiya restaurant sign in Tokyo, Japan
ALT text detailsPicture of a Sukiya restaurant sign in Tokyo, Japan
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japanese society has grown more attentive to women’s rights in recent years. However, institutions can be slow to catch up. In the latest positive development, Japan’s National Police Agency is taking a leap forward by updating its fashions for female police officers.

unseen-japan.com/japan-nationa

Female police officer wearing skirt
ALT text detailsFemale police officer wearing skirt
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japan is struggling to counteract a rapidly declining and aging population. A new survey shows that, if trends continue, the country won’t be able to depend on its youth to rescue it – at least, unless both economic and working conditions in Japan improve.

unseen-japan.com/japan-youth-n

Young people walking in a crowd on the sidewalk towards the camera
ALT text detailsYoung people walking in a crowd on the sidewalk towards the camera
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Tanuki.no.mori

@tanukinomori_jp@pixelfed.social

Spring has come in Kyoto, Weeping cherry tree in full bloom 🌸

📸 03/29/2025
📍 Sakyo ward, Kyoto

#photography #japan #cherryblossoms #kyoto
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Tanuki.no.mori

@tanukinomori_jp@pixelfed.social

Spring has come in Kyoto, Weeping cherry tree in full bloom 🌸

📸 03/29/2025
📍 Sakyo ward, Kyoto

#photography #japan #cherryblossoms #kyoto
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Want a taste of Japan you can eat during a natural disaster? You're in luck! Onisi Shokuhin makes "travel onigiri" that keep for five years and rehydrate with hot water in 15min (cold in 60). The question is: Do they taste any good? We put them to the test.

unseen-japan.com/travel-onigir

Hiker standing on cliff and looking at Onisi Onigiri
ALT text detailsHiker standing on cliff and looking at Onisi Onigiri
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dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Daily life in Osaka Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
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dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Daily life in Osaka Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japan is grappling w/ increasing complaints from parents about pornographic ads being shown online to kids - even on school-issued tablets. However, both Japan's Children & Families Agency and its Digital Agency say the issue isn't within their jurisdictions.

buff.ly/RCggCXG

Picture of kid's hands using smartphone
ALT text detailsPicture of kid's hands using smartphone
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japan's MHLW released final data showing the number of suicides among schoolkids in Japan hit 529 last year - a new high. The number one cited reason was issues at school. Gov officials say they are evolving new strategies to address the rising epidemic.

news.yahoo.co.jp/articles/89fd

Picture of empty seats in a classroom
ALT text detailsPicture of empty seats in a classroom
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A snack bar owner was found dead in her business in Nishitokyo, her ex-husband injured and unconscious nearby. What happened is still murky. However, the story emerging shows a familiar pattern of escalating abuse unchecked by the police until it was too late.

unseen-japan.com/snack-bar-own

Woman pouring a drink at a snack bar from a bottle of whisky
ALT text detailsWoman pouring a drink at a snack bar from a bottle of whisky
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Walking around Tokyo can sap your energy. Finding a place to rest can also be a challenge. Fortunately, Tokyo is home to many great cafes, kissa, and junkissa where you can kick up your feet, enjoy a beverage, and even sometimes grab a full meal.

unseen-japan.com/cafes-kissa-j

A plastic display showing a number of parfaits and drinks available in a kissa in Tokyo
ALT text detailsA plastic display showing a number of parfaits and drinks available in a kissa in Tokyo
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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

The Alien Enemies Act was deployed to imprison both citizens and noncitizens during World War II. Survivors have a few things to say about Trump’s abuse of it now. japantimes.co.jp/commentary/20

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Language is wonderful. As the constantly evolving product of the minds of millions or billions of people, there’s no way to predict when – and how – it’s going to change. Look no further than what the youth of Japan have done to the word egui (エグい).

unseen-japan.com/egui-japanese

Egui vs. Egui - mother using hiragana version of the word and daughter using katakana version
ALT text detailsEgui vs. Egui - mother using hiragana version of the word and daughter using katakana version
The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

The Alien Enemies Act was deployed to imprison both citizens and noncitizens during World War II. Survivors have a few things to say about Trump’s abuse of it now. japantimes.co.jp/commentary/20

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Sudelsurium

@sudelsurium@troet.cafe

🔴 Da muss ich hin:

🌊 Die Bayerische Staatsbibliothek zeigt mehr als 130 Exponate aus ihrer großartigen Sammlung japanischer Farbholzschnitte. Auch Hokusais „Große Welle” ist dabei.

🌊 Vom 27. März bis 6. Juli 2025 ist die Ausstellung „Farben Japans – Holzschnitte aus der Sammlung der Bayerischen Staatsbibliothek” in zu sehen.

🌊 Eintritt frei. Samstags und an Feiertagen geschlossen.

bsb-muenchen.de/ueber-uns/arti

noco｜Flower Photographer's avatar
noco｜Flower Photographer

@noco3n_com@mstdn.jp

peace of spring.

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noco｜Flower Photographer

@noco3n_com@mstdn.jp

peace of spring.

Sudelsurium's avatar
Sudelsurium

@sudelsurium@troet.cafe

🔴 Da muss ich hin:

🌊 Die Bayerische Staatsbibliothek zeigt mehr als 130 Exponate aus ihrer großartigen Sammlung japanischer Farbholzschnitte. Auch Hokusais „Große Welle” ist dabei.

🌊 Vom 27. März bis 6. Juli 2025 ist die Ausstellung „Farben Japans – Holzschnitte aus der Sammlung der Bayerischen Staatsbibliothek” in zu sehen.

🌊 Eintritt frei. Samstags und an Feiertagen geschlossen.

bsb-muenchen.de/ueber-uns/arti

atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Snowy Garden, Urayasu (1932)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

douglasbrooksboatbuilding.com/

A dim, snowy night in Urayasu, Chiba. On the right, a simple bamboo fence leans at an angle, protecting what may be the garden of the title from the worst of the falling snow. Nearby, a trio of 'bekabune' type boats rest tied up along one side of a narrow canal. Just beyond, a figure warms themselves by a fire in front of a pair of dark buildings, possibly warehouses. Further on, a river separates this area from houses lined up on the far shore. Heavy snow continues to fall from a dark, overcast sky.
ALT text detailsA dim, snowy night in Urayasu, Chiba. On the right, a simple bamboo fence leans at an angle, protecting what may be the garden of the title from the worst of the falling snow. Nearby, a trio of 'bekabune' type boats rest tied up along one side of a narrow canal. Just beyond, a figure warms themselves by a fire in front of a pair of dark buildings, possibly warehouses. Further on, a river separates this area from houses lined up on the far shore. Heavy snow continues to fall from a dark, overcast sky.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Somehow, Osaka World Expo has found itself with *another* controversy. This one comes from illustrator Aoyama Kunihiko, who drew a "future city" for the guidebook - but he says the Expo printed a preliminary smartphone pic he'd taken of his work instead of the final product.

X post from user @aoyamakunihiko. Text in Japanese: 前代未聞な事が起きました！ 「大阪・関西万博 公式ガイドブック」で未来都市のイラストを描きましたが、完成品ではなく、制作途中でレイアウト検討のために必要と言われスマホで撮って編集部に送ったものがそのまま載ってました！ こんな事30年描いてきて初めてです！
ALT text detailsX post from user @aoyamakunihiko. Text in Japanese: 前代未聞な事が起きました！ 「大阪・関西万博 公式ガイドブック」で未来都市のイラストを描きましたが、完成品ではなく、制作途中でレイアウト検討のために必要と言われスマホで撮って編集部に送ったものがそのまま載ってました！ こんな事30年描いてきて初めてです！
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Lost in Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Lost in Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Snowy Garden, Urayasu (1932)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

douglasbrooksboatbuilding.com/

A dim, snowy night in Urayasu, Chiba. On the right, a simple bamboo fence leans at an angle, protecting what may be the garden of the title from the worst of the falling snow. Nearby, a trio of 'bekabune' type boats rest tied up along one side of a narrow canal. Just beyond, a figure warms themselves by a fire in front of a pair of dark buildings, possibly warehouses. Further on, a river separates this area from houses lined up on the far shore. Heavy snow continues to fall from a dark, overcast sky.
ALT text detailsA dim, snowy night in Urayasu, Chiba. On the right, a simple bamboo fence leans at an angle, protecting what may be the garden of the title from the worst of the falling snow. Nearby, a trio of 'bekabune' type boats rest tied up along one side of a narrow canal. Just beyond, a figure warms themselves by a fire in front of a pair of dark buildings, possibly warehouses. Further on, a river separates this area from houses lined up on the far shore. Heavy snow continues to fall from a dark, overcast sky.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

With rice & utility costs skyrocketing in Japan, Chinese restaurants specializing in fried rice (chaahan) are sweating. Many will need to raise prices to stay afloat - but, like with ramen, many say they can't break the "1000 yen wall" ($6.60) w/o driving off customers.

buff.ly/0E7wVwP

Plate of fried rice
ALT text detailsPlate of fried rice
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japanese TV show Monday Late Show (Getsuyou Kara Yofukashi), starring Matsuko Deluxe, apologized for a clip in which a Chinese woman appears to say there are few crows in China because everyone eats them. The show admits that staff deceptively edited the segment.

unseen-japan.com/matsuko-delux

Monday Late Show (Getsuyou Kara no Yofukashi) - Chinese woman speaking about crows in Japan
ALT text detailsMonday Late Show (Getsuyou Kara no Yofukashi) - Chinese woman speaking about crows in Japan
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Once a year, Japan’s many gods hold an annual conference – the Kamihakari (神議り) – to discuss matters such as agriculture and marriage. Their gathering place? The awe-inspiring Izumo Grand Shrine in Shimane Prefecture. Here's why you should visit.

unseen-japan.com/izumo-taisha-

Izumo Taisha, Izumo, Shimane Prefecture
ALT text detailsIzumo Taisha, Izumo, Shimane Prefecture
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Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

Dainichi Nyorai Statue, Enjo-ji, . The earliest work of the sculptor Unkei. Unkei's style is characterized by strong, masculine facial expressions, but because the main image was created when he was 20 years old, his facial expressions are not fully original. This work gives us a glimpse of the conflict between following the traditional style of the period or pursuing an original path.

Dainichi Nyorai Statue, Enjo-ji, #Japan. The earliest work of the #Buddhist sculptor Unkei. Unkei's style is characterized by strong, masculine facial expressions, but because the main image was created when he was 20 years old, his facial expressions are not fully original. This work gives us a glimpse of the conflict between following the traditional style of the #Heian period or pursuing an original path. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsDainichi Nyorai Statue, Enjo-ji, #Japan. The earliest work of the #Buddhist sculptor Unkei. Unkei's style is characterized by strong, masculine facial expressions, but because the main image was created when he was 20 years old, his facial expressions are not fully original. This work gives us a glimpse of the conflict between following the traditional style of the #Heian period or pursuing an original path. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Legend tells how warrior monk Benkei stood tall so his master could flee. It’s the epilogue to the greatest war story in Japanese history.

There’s only one problem: in all likelihood, it never happened.

unseen-japan.com/benkei-warrio

Picture of Benkei statue with the words "Benkei: Fact vs. Fiction"
ALT text detailsPicture of Benkei statue with the words "Benkei: Fact vs. Fiction"
Buddhist Art's avatar
Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

Dainichi Nyorai Statue, Enjo-ji, . The earliest work of the sculptor Unkei. Unkei's style is characterized by strong, masculine facial expressions, but because the main image was created when he was 20 years old, his facial expressions are not fully original. This work gives us a glimpse of the conflict between following the traditional style of the period or pursuing an original path.

Dainichi Nyorai Statue, Enjo-ji, #Japan. The earliest work of the #Buddhist sculptor Unkei. Unkei's style is characterized by strong, masculine facial expressions, but because the main image was created when he was 20 years old, his facial expressions are not fully original. This work gives us a glimpse of the conflict between following the traditional style of the #Heian period or pursuing an original path. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsDainichi Nyorai Statue, Enjo-ji, #Japan. The earliest work of the #Buddhist sculptor Unkei. Unkei's style is characterized by strong, masculine facial expressions, but because the main image was created when he was 20 years old, his facial expressions are not fully original. This work gives us a glimpse of the conflict between following the traditional style of the #Heian period or pursuing an original path. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The Nakai Masahiro scandal at Fuji TV has effectively crippled the station. After a string of high-profile resignations, new reports in Japanese media are wondering whether it’s also causing the station to lose some of its top female talent.

unseen-japan.com/fuji-tv-femal

Woman escaping Fuji TV
ALT text detailsWoman escaping Fuji TV
noco｜Flower Photographer's avatar
noco｜Flower Photographer

@noco3n_com@mstdn.jp

cloudy weather.

Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Covering 86641m2, Maruyama-kōen (円山公園) is the oldest and most popular of Kyōto’s parks.

Officially opened in 1886, from 1912 Ogawa Jihei (小川治兵衛 d.1933) landscaped the park into a pond and stroll garden (池泉回遊式庭園) over 3 years.

Maruyama Park illuminated for hanami.
ALT text detailsMaruyama Park illuminated for hanami.
Yakasa Pagoda at night.
ALT text detailsYakasa Pagoda at night.
Maruyama Park illuminated for hanami.
ALT text detailsMaruyama Park illuminated for hanami.
Nao-san on Ninenzaka at eventide.
ALT text detailsNao-san on Ninenzaka at eventide.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Covering 86641m2, Maruyama-kōen (円山公園) is the oldest and most popular of Kyōto’s parks.

Officially opened in 1886, from 1912 Ogawa Jihei (小川治兵衛 d.1933) landscaped the park into a pond and stroll garden (池泉回遊式庭園) over 3 years.

Maruyama Park illuminated for hanami.
ALT text detailsMaruyama Park illuminated for hanami.
Yakasa Pagoda at night.
ALT text detailsYakasa Pagoda at night.
Maruyama Park illuminated for hanami.
ALT text detailsMaruyama Park illuminated for hanami.
Nao-san on Ninenzaka at eventide.
ALT text detailsNao-san on Ninenzaka at eventide.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

'Wildfires continue to spread in western Japan, with no signs of being brought under control', 'expanding in Ehime and Okayama prefectures, while a new wildfire broke out in Miyazaki Prefecture'

www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/new

The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Wildfires that began on Sunday in Ehime and Okayama prefectures in western Japan have burned through over 900 hectares of land. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/03/

The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Wildfires that began on Sunday in Ehime and Okayama prefectures in western Japan have burned through over 900 hectares of land. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/03/

atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

'Wildfires continue to spread in western Japan, with no signs of being brought under control', 'expanding in Ehime and Okayama prefectures, while a new wildfire broke out in Miyazaki Prefecture'

www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/new

Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Maruyama-kōen's (円山公園) famous 70-year old shidare-zakura (枝垂桜 'weeping cherry') is one of the city's most recognizable trees.

The original tree was 200 years old when it withered in 1947. In 1949 Sano Tōemon (佐野藤右衛門) planted the tree we see today.

Maruyama Park's 70 year old shidare-zakura is one of the city's most well known.
ALT text detailsMaruyama Park's 70 year old shidare-zakura is one of the city's most well known.
Maruyama Park's great weeping cherry tree in full bloom.
ALT text detailsMaruyama Park's great weeping cherry tree in full bloom.
Maruyama Park's great weeping cherry tree in full bloom.
ALT text detailsMaruyama Park's great weeping cherry tree in full bloom.
Maruyama Park's great weeping cherry tree in full bloom.
ALT text detailsMaruyama Park's great weeping cherry tree in full bloom.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

...to night🌝

The great weeping cherry at Maruyama Park illuminated for hanami.
ALT text detailsThe great weeping cherry at Maruyama Park illuminated for hanami.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

From day...

Maruyama Park's famous weeping cherry tree.
ALT text detailsMaruyama Park's famous weeping cherry tree.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social

🌝🌸PEAK PETALS🌸🍡

Nao-san is your guide as we take a wander around Maruyama Park (円山公園) and Gion Shirakawa (祇園白川), neighbourhoods close to our Camellia Flower Teahouse (カメリアフラワー).

Pour a drink, pick a sweet, and get comfortable...let's celebrate the blossoms🙌

The great weeping cherry tree of Maruyama Park.
ALT text detailsThe great weeping cherry tree of Maruyama Park.
Nao-san poses in front of Maruyama Park's famous cherry tree. This time of year is peak hay fever season. As the air is also filled with fine sand blown from the mainland, you will see many people wearing masks to save themselves from allergies.
ALT text detailsNao-san poses in front of Maruyama Park's famous cherry tree. This time of year is peak hay fever season. As the air is also filled with fine sand blown from the mainland, you will see many people wearing masks to save themselves from allergies.
Blossoms illuminated beside the Shirakawa River.
ALT text detailsBlossoms illuminated beside the Shirakawa River.
The great weeping cherry tree of Maruyama Park at night.
ALT text detailsThe great weeping cherry tree of Maruyama Park at night.
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

After Snowing in Tokyo. #photography #streetphotography #japan
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

After Snowing in Tokyo. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

In what is surely a bad sign for the summer to come, Japan yesterday saw temperatures of 30C (86F) - the first time Japan has seen 真夏日 (manatsubi), or a day 30C or over, in March in 26 years.

news.yahoo.co.jp/articles/7c90

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Sekino Ryusuke of Karuizawa, Nagano Prefecture was born in 2018 a mere 258 grams (.56 lbs) - the smallest recorded birth ever. It took half a year until he could leave the hospital. Today, he's doing very well and, at age 6, has just graduated from kindergarten.

youtube.com/watch?v=mVmrAilfJp

Sekino Ryusuke at age 6
ALT text detailsSekino Ryusuke at age 6
Ryusuke graduating from kindergarten
ALT text detailsRyusuke graduating from kindergarten
Ryusuke at birth
ALT text detailsRyusuke at birth
Kids looking in on Ryusuke as his mom holds him up to a window
ALT text detailsKids looking in on Ryusuke as his mom holds him up to a window
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Want to travel Japan in style? You’ll have more choices come 2027, as JR Tokai has announced it’ll add a new “half-private” type luxury seat with plenty of space and a nice view. Learn more about this and other new Shinkansen travel options below.

unseen-japan.com/tokaido-shink

Shinkansen passing by Mt. Fuji
ALT text detailsShinkansen passing by Mt. Fuji
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Among Japan’s most dedicated tea producers, Honda Mohei from Mohei Tea works as a guardian of Japan's tea culture. Rooted in the tea-rich region of Shizuoka, Mohei continues the expertise of generations past, balancing traditional techniques with modern innovation.

unseen-japan.com/mohei-tea-loc

Shot of tea fields in Shizuoka with Mt. Fuji in the background
ALT text detailsShot of tea fields in Shizuoka with Mt. Fuji in the background
Zen in Color's avatar
Zen in Color

@zencolor@mastodon.art

Nishino Yoichi aka 西野陽一 aka Yoichi Nishino (, b. 1954, , ) - Unknown Title Ink and Color on Paper.

Nishino Yoichi aka 西野陽一 aka Yoichi Nishino (#Japanese, b. 1954, #Kyōto, #Japan) - Unknown Title Ink and Color on Paper.
ALT text detailsNishino Yoichi aka 西野陽一 aka Yoichi Nishino (#Japanese, b. 1954, #Kyōto, #Japan) - Unknown Title Ink and Color on Paper.
Zen in Color's avatar
Zen in Color

@zencolor@mastodon.art

Nishino Yoichi aka 西野陽一 aka Yoichi Nishino (, b. 1954, , ) - Unknown Title Ink and Color on Paper.

Nishino Yoichi aka 西野陽一 aka Yoichi Nishino (#Japanese, b. 1954, #Kyōto, #Japan) - Unknown Title Ink and Color on Paper.
ALT text detailsNishino Yoichi aka 西野陽一 aka Yoichi Nishino (#Japanese, b. 1954, #Kyōto, #Japan) - Unknown Title Ink and Color on Paper.
The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

The EU and Japan both fret about a world without the U.S. security umbrella. They could ease their fears by moving closer together. japantimes.co.jp/commentary/20

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The Japan Times

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A memorial ceremony was held in an Okinawa Prefecture village on Wednesday, the 80th anniversary of the U.S. military's landing on the Kerama Islands, which preceded fierce ground battles during World War II. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/03/

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

The EU and Japan both fret about a world without the U.S. security umbrella. They could ease their fears by moving closer together. japantimes.co.jp/commentary/20

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

A memorial ceremony was held in an Okinawa Prefecture village on Wednesday, the 80th anniversary of the U.S. military's landing on the Kerama Islands, which preceded fierce ground battles during World War II. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/03/

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dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Night in Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
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Weather Mizu

@mizu@mastodon.social

Hot weather in Miyazaki and Kagoshima. 30.1C (86.2F) was observed in Saito, Miyazaki, at 1.10pm. It's the second time a temperature of over 30C has been recorded in March.

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dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Night in Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

"This photo never fails to invoke a certain je ne sais quoi"

Post on X by arinaariri. Original Japanese: 何回みても味がするこの写真
ALT text detailsPost on X by arinaariri. Original Japanese: 何回みても味がするこの写真
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Folks in Japan are talking about Akihabara's new Dr. Pepper-only vending machine, located near the JR Akiba Electric Town exit. DP (you know what I mean, pervs) has been sold in Japan since 1973, but its unique taste has limited its appeal to Tokyo, Shizuoka, and Okinawa.

X post about the Dr. Pepper vending machine by @Bashamichi_H. Japanese text: これがいま秋葉原界隈で話題のドクターペッパー専用自販機です。
ALT text detailsX post about the Dr. Pepper vending machine by @Bashamichi_H. Japanese text: これがいま秋葉原界隈で話題のドクターペッパー専用自販機です。
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Alo Japan

@alojapan@channels.im

alojapan.com/1226121/video-che VIDEO: Cherry blossom season starts in Tokyo – KIRO Seattle VIDEO: Cherry blossom season starts in Tokyo  KIRO SeattleJapan’s cherry blossom season begins as first blooms appear in Tokyo  The Associated PressCherry blossoms begin blooming in Washington, DC: See photos of ‘puffy white’ flowers  USA TODAYThis Mountain National Park Is Japan’s Best Cherry…

VIDEO: Cherry blossom season starts in Tokyo - KIRO Seattle
ALT text detailsVIDEO: Cherry blossom season starts in Tokyo - KIRO Seattle
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Alo Japan

@alojapan@channels.im

alojapan.com/1226121/video-che VIDEO: Cherry blossom season starts in Tokyo – KIRO Seattle VIDEO: Cherry blossom season starts in Tokyo  KIRO SeattleJapan’s cherry blossom season begins as first blooms appear in Tokyo  The Associated PressCherry blossoms begin blooming in Washington, DC: See photos of ‘puffy white’ flowers  USA TODAYThis Mountain National Park Is Japan’s Best Cherry…

VIDEO: Cherry blossom season starts in Tokyo - KIRO Seattle
ALT text detailsVIDEO: Cherry blossom season starts in Tokyo - KIRO Seattle
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

52% of Japanese youth don't want kids, mouso soup, incels disrespect dead woman, and book cafes around Tokyo - this and more in this week's Unseen Japan Newsletter.

mailchi.mp/95a10b39f1d5/mouse-

Young people walking in a crowd on the sidewalk towards the camera
ALT text detailsYoung people walking in a crowd on the sidewalk towards the camera
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A "street piano" in a food court in Osaka is no more. The piano's management company has removed it after it ignited a firestorm of online controversy by telling bad piano players to stay away and to practice at home until they git gud.

buff.ly/EHkbVSF

Kid plays on a piano while a woman plugs her ears in horror
ALT text detailsKid plays on a piano while a woman plugs her ears in horror
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Thai authorities arrested and extradited Fujinuma Tomu (29), who allegedly met a teenage boy in Miyagi Prefecture on an online game & lured him into working for a fraud ring in Myanmar, where the young man was forced to scam people until recently rescued.

youtube.com/watch?v=axThLyzP78

Picture of Fujinuma Tomu being arrested by Thai authorities
ALT text detailsPicture of Fujinuma Tomu being arrested by Thai authorities
Picture of Fujinuma Tomu being told by Thai police how absolutely fucked he is
ALT text detailsPicture of Fujinuma Tomu being told by Thai police how absolutely fucked he is
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

"There's no feminism in Japan!!" claim dudes on their fourth anime waifu body pillow. That's not true. It's so not true, in fact, that we wrote a three-part series detailing extremely how not true it is. Learn more about feminism in Japan from Meiji to today.

unseen-japan.com/feminist-move

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

"There's no feminism in Japan!!" claim dudes on their fourth anime waifu body pillow. That's not true. It's so not true, in fact, that we wrote a three-part series detailing extremely how not true it is. Learn more about feminism in Japan from Meiji to today.

unseen-japan.com/feminist-move

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Beyond providing a sense of purification and relaxation, Japanese onsen (hot springs) offer a unique opportunity to reconnect with nature. However, some “hidden onsen” excel in this regard more profoundly than others. Here are some of Japan's best hidden gems (shhh).

unseen-japan.com/hidden-onsen-

Woman in onsen holding water in her hands
ALT text detailsWoman in onsen holding water in her hands
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Mori no Tosyo Shitsu, or the Forest Library, is where you’d least expect to find it: Center Gai, right next to the Shibuya Scramble. Like many small Tokyo shops, if you don’t know it’s there, you’ll likely never run across it.

Forest Library (Mori no Tosyo Shitsu) in Shibuya - people sitting and reading at tables. Bookshelves full of books line the walls.
ALT text detailsForest Library (Mori no Tosyo Shitsu) in Shibuya - people sitting and reading at tables. Bookshelves full of books line the walls.
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Mike Edwards

@mike_edwards@mas.to · Reply to Mike Edwards's post

After the museum, we headed out of downtown Takamatsu to the east, where there are tons of workshops and other art stops. It's a really nice tramway that connects everything together, both quaint and efficient

View from the tram from Takamatsu to the workshops east of town
ALT text detailsView from the tram from Takamatsu to the workshops east of town
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Mike Edwards

@mike_edwards@mas.to · Reply to Mike Edwards's post

After the museum, we headed out of downtown Takamatsu to the east, where there are tons of workshops and other art stops. It's a really nice tramway that connects everything together, both quaint and efficient

View from the tram from Takamatsu to the workshops east of town
ALT text detailsView from the tram from Takamatsu to the workshops east of town
Mike Edwards's avatar
Mike Edwards

@mike_edwards@mas.to · Reply to Mike Edwards's post

My kid noticed this set, and I couldn't believe it. At a high angle, you see the black and gold motif. But if you bend down to kid height, it reveals another pattern hidden in the light, which are inverse images of the phases of the moon, different on each lacquerware plate. Unreal.

At a high angle, lacquer plates with a delicate gold and black motif, but...
ALT text detailsAt a high angle, lacquer plates with a delicate gold and black motif, but...
At a low angle, it reveals a white and black inverse of the phases of the moon on each plate
ALT text detailsAt a low angle, it reveals a white and black inverse of the phases of the moon on each plate
Mike Edwards's avatar
Mike Edwards

@mike_edwards@mas.to · Reply to Mike Edwards's post

Believe it or not, these aren't even the best lacquerware pieces, although they're amazing—I just wasn't allowed to photograph the choshitsu work in the adjoining room that would blow your mind. Even so, these are so gorgeous it makes my heart hurt.

Black and gold lacquer container with bird design on top
ALT text detailsBlack and gold lacquer container with bird design on top
Golden lacquer container with mother of pearl squirrel and acorn inlay
ALT text detailsGolden lacquer container with mother of pearl squirrel and acorn inlay
Abstract black lacquer box with iridescent thin striped inlay
ALT text detailsAbstract black lacquer box with iridescent thin striped inlay
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Mike Edwards

@mike_edwards@mas.to

Lacquer, Wood, and Stone in Kagawa Prefecture

There are tons of craftspeople and artists in and around Takamatsu. We started our day here at the Takamatsu Art Museum, which is winding down a really incredible exhibit on urushi, Japanese lacquerware.

(BTW, if you're ever in Seoul instead, their craft museum has an amazing exhibit on the lacquer process for Korean lacquerware that is not to be missed.)

Green and yellow striped lacquerware bowl
ALT text detailsGreen and yellow striped lacquerware bowl
Green and blue ocean-patterned lacquerware bowl
ALT text detailsGreen and blue ocean-patterned lacquerware bowl
Orange and black lacquerware bowl
ALT text detailsOrange and black lacquerware bowl
iridescent lacquerware bowl
ALT text detailsiridescent lacquerware bowl
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dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

riverside rain in Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
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Fedify: ActivityPub server framework

@fedify@hollo.social

Excited to see the ( Linux Users Group) in organizing a reading club for our Creating your own federated microblog tutorial! 🎉 Their first session is coming up, where participants will work through creating their own -compatible microblog using . Thanks for spreading the word about Fedify in Japan! :fedify: 🇯🇵

Check out their event on Connpass!

https://msky.ospn.jp/notes/a5re87hzi7s80062

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Fediverse Linux Users Group

@fedilug@msky.ospn.jp

【輪読会試験開催のお知らせ】
本日、 ​:fedilug:​ 輪読会📖第0弾として
「〜自分でActivityPub対応SNSを作ってみよう〜『自分だけのフェディバースのマイクロブログを作ろう！』輪読会」
https://github.com/dahlia/fedify-microblog-tutorial-ja

を行います！申し込みは以下からできます！ぜひ参加してフィードバックをください！！
https://fedilug.connpass.com/event/348240/

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Fedify: ActivityPub server framework

@fedify@hollo.social

Excited to see the ( Linux Users Group) in organizing a reading club for our Creating your own federated microblog tutorial! 🎉 Their first session is coming up, where participants will work through creating their own -compatible microblog using . Thanks for spreading the word about Fedify in Japan! :fedify: 🇯🇵

Check out their event on Connpass!

https://msky.ospn.jp/notes/a5re87hzi7s80062

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Fediverse Linux Users Group

@fedilug@msky.ospn.jp

【輪読会試験開催のお知らせ】
本日、 ​:fedilug:​ 輪読会📖第0弾として
「〜自分でActivityPub対応SNSを作ってみよう〜『自分だけのフェディバースのマイクロブログを作ろう！』輪読会」
https://github.com/dahlia/fedify-microblog-tutorial-ja

を行います！申し込みは以下からできます！ぜひ参加してフィードバックをください！！
https://fedilug.connpass.com/event/348240/

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Fedify: ActivityPub server framework

@fedify@hollo.social

Excited to see the ( Linux Users Group) in organizing a reading club for our Creating your own federated microblog tutorial! 🎉 Their first session is coming up, where participants will work through creating their own -compatible microblog using . Thanks for spreading the word about Fedify in Japan! :fedify: 🇯🇵

Check out their event on Connpass!

https://msky.ospn.jp/notes/a5re87hzi7s80062

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Fediverse Linux Users Group

@fedilug@msky.ospn.jp

【輪読会試験開催のお知らせ】
本日、 ​:fedilug:​ 輪読会📖第0弾として
「〜自分でActivityPub対応SNSを作ってみよう〜『自分だけのフェディバースのマイクロブログを作ろう！』輪読会」
https://github.com/dahlia/fedify-microblog-tutorial-ja

を行います！申し込みは以下からできます！ぜひ参加してフィードバックをください！！
https://fedilug.connpass.com/event/348240/

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dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

riverside rain in Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
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Fedify: ActivityPub server framework

@fedify@hollo.social

Excited to see the ( Linux Users Group) in organizing a reading club for our Creating your own federated microblog tutorial! 🎉 Their first session is coming up, where participants will work through creating their own -compatible microblog using . Thanks for spreading the word about Fedify in Japan! :fedify: 🇯🇵

Check out their event on Connpass!

https://msky.ospn.jp/notes/a5re87hzi7s80062

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Fediverse Linux Users Group

@fedilug@msky.ospn.jp

【輪読会試験開催のお知らせ】
本日、 ​:fedilug:​ 輪読会📖第0弾として
「〜自分でActivityPub対応SNSを作ってみよう〜『自分だけのフェディバースのマイクロブログを作ろう！』輪読会」
https://github.com/dahlia/fedify-microblog-tutorial-ja

を行います！申し込みは以下からできます！ぜひ参加してフィードバックをください！！
https://fedilug.connpass.com/event/348240/

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Fedify: ActivityPub server framework

@fedify@hollo.social

Excited to see the ( Linux Users Group) in organizing a reading club for our Creating your own federated microblog tutorial! 🎉 Their first session is coming up, where participants will work through creating their own -compatible microblog using . Thanks for spreading the word about Fedify in Japan! :fedify: 🇯🇵

Check out their event on Connpass!

https://msky.ospn.jp/notes/a5re87hzi7s80062

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Fediverse Linux Users Group

@fedilug@msky.ospn.jp

【輪読会試験開催のお知らせ】
本日、 ​:fedilug:​ 輪読会📖第0弾として
「〜自分でActivityPub対応SNSを作ってみよう〜『自分だけのフェディバースのマイクロブログを作ろう！』輪読会」
https://github.com/dahlia/fedify-microblog-tutorial-ja

を行います！申し込みは以下からできます！ぜひ参加してフィードバックをください！！
https://fedilug.connpass.com/event/348240/

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The cost of rice is continuing to skyrocket in Japan. The average price over one week from March 10th has risen to 4,172 yen (USD $27.60) for a 5kg bag. That's a rise of 2,126 yen over the same period last year & the 11th week straight it's gone up.

fnn.jp/articles/-/847194

It's rice
ALT text detailsIt's rice
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The Osaka High Court has just found that refusing to acknowledge same-sex marriage in Japan is unconstitutional. This overturns an initial ruling in the case brought by three couples across Japan & marks the 5th time a high court has made such a ruling.

jiji.com/jc/article?k=20250325

Picture outside of Osaka High Court
ALT text detailsPicture outside of Osaka High Court
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japan's gov and National Police Agency may pursue asking banks to limit ATM withdrawals for those ages 75 and over to 300K yen ($1,990)/day. The move would limit rising theft by fraud groups that trick seniors into giving them cash. 45% of such victims are over 75.

news.yahoo.co.jp/articles/cd3f

Picture of National Police Agency sign
ALT text detailsPicture of National Police Agency sign
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Fedify: ActivityPub server framework

@fedify@hollo.social

Excited to see the ( Linux Users Group) in organizing a reading club for our Creating your own federated microblog tutorial! 🎉 Their first session is coming up, where participants will work through creating their own -compatible microblog using . Thanks for spreading the word about Fedify in Japan! :fedify: 🇯🇵

Check out their event on Connpass!

https://msky.ospn.jp/notes/a5re87hzi7s80062

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Fediverse Linux Users Group

@fedilug@msky.ospn.jp

【輪読会試験開催のお知らせ】
本日、 ​:fedilug:​ 輪読会📖第0弾として
「〜自分でActivityPub対応SNSを作ってみよう〜『自分だけのフェディバースのマイクロブログを作ろう！』輪読会」
https://github.com/dahlia/fedify-microblog-tutorial-ja

を行います！申し込みは以下からできます！ぜひ参加してフィードバックをください！！
https://fedilug.connpass.com/event/348240/

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Fedify: ActivityPub server framework

@fedify@hollo.social

Excited to see the ( Linux Users Group) in organizing a reading club for our Creating your own federated microblog tutorial! 🎉 Their first session is coming up, where participants will work through creating their own -compatible microblog using . Thanks for spreading the word about Fedify in Japan! :fedify: 🇯🇵

Check out their event on Connpass!

https://msky.ospn.jp/notes/a5re87hzi7s80062

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Fediverse Linux Users Group

@fedilug@msky.ospn.jp

【輪読会試験開催のお知らせ】
本日、 ​:fedilug:​ 輪読会📖第0弾として
「〜自分でActivityPub対応SNSを作ってみよう〜『自分だけのフェディバースのマイクロブログを作ろう！』輪読会」
https://github.com/dahlia/fedify-microblog-tutorial-ja

を行います！申し込みは以下からできます！ぜひ参加してフィードバックをください！！
https://fedilug.connpass.com/event/348240/

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Fedify: ActivityPub server framework

@fedify@hollo.social

Excited to see the ( Linux Users Group) in organizing a reading club for our Creating your own federated microblog tutorial! 🎉 Their first session is coming up, where participants will work through creating their own -compatible microblog using . Thanks for spreading the word about Fedify in Japan! :fedify: 🇯🇵

Check out their event on Connpass!

https://msky.ospn.jp/notes/a5re87hzi7s80062

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Fediverse Linux Users Group

@fedilug@msky.ospn.jp

【輪読会試験開催のお知らせ】
本日、 ​:fedilug:​ 輪読会📖第0弾として
「〜自分でActivityPub対応SNSを作ってみよう〜『自分だけのフェディバースのマイクロブログを作ろう！』輪読会」
https://github.com/dahlia/fedify-microblog-tutorial-ja

を行います！申し込みは以下からできます！ぜひ参加してフィードバックをください！！
https://fedilug.connpass.com/event/348240/

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dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

riverside rain in Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
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Fedify: ActivityPub server framework

@fedify@hollo.social

Excited to see the ( Linux Users Group) in organizing a reading club for our Creating your own federated microblog tutorial! 🎉 Their first session is coming up, where participants will work through creating their own -compatible microblog using . Thanks for spreading the word about Fedify in Japan! :fedify: 🇯🇵

Check out their event on Connpass!

https://msky.ospn.jp/notes/a5re87hzi7s80062

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Fediverse Linux Users Group

@fedilug@msky.ospn.jp

【輪読会試験開催のお知らせ】
本日、 ​:fedilug:​ 輪読会📖第0弾として
「〜自分でActivityPub対応SNSを作ってみよう〜『自分だけのフェディバースのマイクロブログを作ろう！』輪読会」
https://github.com/dahlia/fedify-microblog-tutorial-ja

を行います！申し込みは以下からできます！ぜひ参加してフィードバックをください！！
https://fedilug.connpass.com/event/348240/

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Fedify: ActivityPub server framework

@fedify@hollo.social

Excited to see the ( Linux Users Group) in organizing a reading club for our Creating your own federated microblog tutorial! 🎉 Their first session is coming up, where participants will work through creating their own -compatible microblog using . Thanks for spreading the word about Fedify in Japan! :fedify: 🇯🇵

Check out their event on Connpass!

https://msky.ospn.jp/notes/a5re87hzi7s80062

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Fediverse Linux Users Group

@fedilug@msky.ospn.jp

【輪読会試験開催のお知らせ】
本日、 ​:fedilug:​ 輪読会📖第0弾として
「〜自分でActivityPub対応SNSを作ってみよう〜『自分だけのフェディバースのマイクロブログを作ろう！』輪読会」
https://github.com/dahlia/fedify-microblog-tutorial-ja

を行います！申し込みは以下からできます！ぜひ参加してフィードバックをください！！
https://fedilug.connpass.com/event/348240/

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Fedify: ActivityPub server framework

@fedify@hollo.social

Excited to see the ( Linux Users Group) in organizing a reading club for our Creating your own federated microblog tutorial! 🎉 Their first session is coming up, where participants will work through creating their own -compatible microblog using . Thanks for spreading the word about Fedify in Japan! :fedify: 🇯🇵

Check out their event on Connpass!

https://msky.ospn.jp/notes/a5re87hzi7s80062

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Fediverse Linux Users Group

@fedilug@msky.ospn.jp

【輪読会試験開催のお知らせ】
本日、 ​:fedilug:​ 輪読会📖第0弾として
「〜自分でActivityPub対応SNSを作ってみよう〜『自分だけのフェディバースのマイクロブログを作ろう！』輪読会」
https://github.com/dahlia/fedify-microblog-tutorial-ja

を行います！申し込みは以下からできます！ぜひ参加してフィードバックをください！！
https://fedilug.connpass.com/event/348240/

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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

From ancient times cherry blossoms were revered, deeply connected to 'Konohanasakuya-hime' (木花咲耶姫), the goddess of Mt. Fuji and volcanoes.

As the 'Cherry Tree Blossom Blooming Princess' she symbolizes how delicate life on earth is, and *importantly* keeps Mt. Fuji dormant.

Sakura with a snow capped Mt Fuji in the background.
ALT text detailsSakura with a snow capped Mt Fuji in the background.
'Konohanasakuya-hime', the goddess of Mt. Fuji and volcanoes.
ALT text details'Konohanasakuya-hime', the goddess of Mt. Fuji and volcanoes.
'Konohanasakuya-hime', the goddess of Mt. Fuji and volcanoes.
ALT text details'Konohanasakuya-hime', the goddess of Mt. Fuji and volcanoes.
Sakura with a snow capped Mt Fuji in the background.
ALT text detailsSakura with a snow capped Mt Fuji in the background.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Otaru Aquarium in Hokkaido lends baby strollers - some costing up to 70K yen (USD $460) - for free to visitors. Two have now "gone missing," and it's begging for them back. Netizens are criticizing the aquarium for being naive & not collecting a deposit or even an address.

unseen-japan.com/hokkaido-baby

Post by Otaru Aquarium on X. Japanese text: お知らせ 当館にて無料でお貸出しているベビーカーが2/4（日）と3/17（月）に2台が相次いで行方不明になりました。 このような事が続きますと、今後の貸出について考えなければなりません。 ご来館時、ベビーカーなどを使用された場合、正面入口へご返却をお願い致します。
ALT text detailsPost by Otaru Aquarium on X. Japanese text: お知らせ 当館にて無料でお貸出しているベビーカーが2/4（日）と3/17（月）に2台が相次いで行方不明になりました。 このような事が続きますと、今後の貸出について考えなければなりません。 ご来館時、ベビーカーなどを使用された場合、正面入口へご返却をお願い致します。
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japanese netizens are expressing concern for supermodel Rola after she used what some say is a weird kanji. Find out why, along with more news & commentary, in our next issue of Unseen Japan Insider, going out Tuesday am (US) to all subscribers.

unseen-japan.com/support/

Text from clipping: If you know Japan, you likely know Rola (ローラ). The Japanese supermodel - who’s of Japanese, Russian, and Bangladeshi descent - was born in Tokyo’s Tama City and spent many years of her childhood moving between Bangladesh and Japan. Today, she lives a jet-setting life as an international model based out of Los Angeles. For her entire career, Rola’s been known simply as “Rola.” Last week, however, she made a big reveal on her Instagram, announcing that her full name is Sato Eri (佐藤えり). Rola also revealed she’d be traveling regularly to Niigata, where her Sato ancestors rest, to learn farming.
ALT text detailsText from clipping: If you know Japan, you likely know Rola (ローラ). The Japanese supermodel - who’s of Japanese, Russian, and Bangladeshi descent - was born in Tokyo’s Tama City and spent many years of her childhood moving between Bangladesh and Japan. Today, she lives a jet-setting life as an international model based out of Los Angeles. For her entire career, Rola’s been known simply as “Rola.” Last week, however, she made a big reveal on her Instagram, announcing that her full name is Sato Eri (佐藤えり). Rola also revealed she’d be traveling regularly to Niigata, where her Sato ancestors rest, to learn farming.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A Shinto shrine in Tsushima (yes, that Tsushima) has declared its grounds off-limits to both foreign and domestic tourists after an "unforgivable act of disrespect." The controversial shrine has previously banned all foreigners & once banned Korean tourists.

buff.ly/oyzNeGt

Picture of a white Shinto torii gate facing a lake of water. Watazumi Shrine, Nagasaki Prefecture
ALT text detailsPicture of a white Shinto torii gate facing a lake of water. Watazumi Shrine, Nagasaki Prefecture
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

We still have a few slots left for April for guided touring! Let Unseen Japan show you around the cherry blossoms, educate you on the culture and history of famous locations, and act as your interpreters to bridge the language gap with locals.

unseen-japan.com/unseen-japan-

A geisha standing in the middle of a street that looks like Gion in Kyoto. To her left is a Western woman in kimono and to her right is an Asian woman in kimono.
ALT text detailsA geisha standing in the middle of a street that looks like Gion in Kyoto. To her left is a Western woman in kimono and to her right is an Asian woman in kimono.
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Kagi HQ

@kagihq@mastodon.social

From April 21-25, Kagi's team (including CEO Vlad) is heading to Tokyo 🇯🇵 to meet companies interested in our advanced translation solutions.

We'd also love to meet our local user community while we're there! If you're based in Tokyo and interested, please reach out to gillian[at]kagi.com to arrange.

Illustration of a happy dog sitting in front of a traditional Japanese torii gate. The torii is bright orange with a black top and features a "g" logo at the center. Green bamboo plants are on both sides of the dog.
ALT text detailsIllustration of a happy dog sitting in front of a traditional Japanese torii gate. The torii is bright orange with a black top and features a "g" logo at the center. Green bamboo plants are on both sides of the dog.
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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Two separate wildfires in Okayama and Ehime prefectures that started over the weekend continue to blaze, having destroyed at least 370 hectares of land between them as firefighters tried to put them out. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/03/

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

One thing that could help cut down the burden of housework for Japanese women (who do their unfair share) is a piece of technology that’s ubiquitous in America. Here's why the modern dishwasher still has yet to make a dent in most Japanese homes.

unseen-japan.com/dishwashers-j

Picture of an open dishwasher with a nice living room visible in the background
ALT text detailsPicture of an open dishwasher with a nice living room visible in the background
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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Two separate wildfires in Okayama and Ehime prefectures that started over the weekend continue to blaze, having destroyed at least 370 hectares of land between them as firefighters tried to put them out. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/03/

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

22-year-old livestreamer Mogami Ai, real name Sato Airi, was murdered in cold blood by 42-year-old Takano Kenichi. Not content to let her rest in peace, some incels are going so far as to pay their final disrespects at the scene where she died.

unseen-japan.com/mogami-ai-mem

Picture of Takadanobaba with Mogami Ai's pic in an inset frame on the lower right hand side
ALT text detailsPicture of Takadanobaba with Mogami Ai's pic in an inset frame on the lower right hand side
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Mike Edwards

@mike_edwards@mas.to

Go on about your business, Ghibli koi. And free my sister/uncle/grandparents from your alternate dimensional prison, please

Magical orange white and black koi starts to swim away. To concoct a new plan, probably
ALT text detailsMagical orange white and black koi starts to swim away. To concoct a new plan, probably
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dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Night life in Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
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Solar Tokyo

@solar_tokyo@mas.to

The sun will rise in tomorrow at 5:38, 86 seconds earlier than the day before.
It will set at 17:56, 49 seconds later than the day before.

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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Farmers would originally begin planting rice when the cherry blossoms bloomed, for it was at this time that the 'god of grain' came down from her mountain abode.

The word 'sakura' was initially formed from the characters 'sa' (神 'god') & 'kura' (座 'stand for divine offerings').

Woodblock print of women enjoying the sakura. Image thanks - https://ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of women enjoying the sakura. Image thanks - https://ukiyo-e.org/
Woodblock print of people picnicking and enjoying cherry blossoms. Image thanks - https://ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of people picnicking and enjoying cherry blossoms. Image thanks - https://ukiyo-e.org/
Woodblock print of the blossoms at Ninna-ji. Image thanks - https://ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of the blossoms at Ninna-ji. Image thanks - https://ukiyo-e.org/
Woodblock print of people picnicking and enjoying cherry blossoms. Image thanks - https://ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of people picnicking and enjoying cherry blossoms. Image thanks - https://ukiyo-e.org/
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

🌸HANAMI🍡

'Hanami' (花見), literally 'flower viewing', nowadays mostly refers to the enjoyment of sakura.
People gather to drink and eat beneath the cherry blossoms, either during the day or for evening light-up events known as 'yozakura' (夜桜 'night sakura').

Inari-zushi for hanami, each with cute expressions from cut pieces of dried seaweed and carrots.
ALT text detailsInari-zushi for hanami, each with cute expressions from cut pieces of dried seaweed and carrots.
Hanami parties along the Kamogawa in Kyoto. The river is lined with sakura trees making it a popular destination in the spring.
ALT text detailsHanami parties along the Kamogawa in Kyoto. The river is lined with sakura trees making it a popular destination in the spring.
Sweets for an impromptu outdoor tea ceremony beneath the sakura.
ALT text detailsSweets for an impromptu outdoor tea ceremony beneath the sakura.
Yozakura 'night sakura' is a popular time to feast beneath the blossoms.
ALT text detailsYozakura 'night sakura' is a popular time to feast beneath the blossoms.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social

👣🌸THE SAKURA COMETH🌸🤳

And just like that Kyōto enters sakura season...

a straight line
all the way to Kyoto...
umbrella-hatted blossom viewers
京迄は一筋道ぞ花見笠
-Kobayashi Issa (小林一茶), 1822.
Trans. David Lanoue.

An explosion of sakura brightens up this pedestrian crossing signal.
ALT text detailsAn explosion of sakura brightens up this pedestrian crossing signal.
An explosion of sakura brightens up this pedestrian crossing signal.
ALT text detailsAn explosion of sakura brightens up this pedestrian crossing signal.
The cherry trees at Ichijo Modori-bashi are some of the earliest in Kyoto to bloom.
ALT text detailsThe cherry trees at Ichijo Modori-bashi are some of the earliest in Kyoto to bloom.
The cherry trees at Ichijo Modori-bashi are some of the earliest in Kyoto to bloom.
ALT text detailsThe cherry trees at Ichijo Modori-bashi are some of the earliest in Kyoto to bloom.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

It's often difficult to gauge when to start celebrating the various blossoms...but this isn't a problem inside the teahouse😋🌸

a bevy of teahouses
suddenly!
cherry blossoms
茶屋村の出現したるさくらかな
-Kobayashi Issa (小林一茶), 1819.

Delicate glass-like aruheito candy in the shape of sakura blossoms and leaves.
ALT text detailsDelicate glass-like aruheito candy in the shape of sakura blossoms and leaves.
A wafer sweet beautiful decorated with icing in the shape of cherry blossoms.
ALT text detailsA wafer sweet beautiful decorated with icing in the shape of cherry blossoms.
Sweet rice crackers flavoured with sakura and dyed pink for the blossom season.
ALT text detailsSweet rice crackers flavoured with sakura and dyed pink for the blossom season.
An unusual sakura-mochi with fresh sakura leaves (not edible).
ALT text detailsAn unusual sakura-mochi with fresh sakura leaves (not edible).
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Spring's arrival in Kyōto is marked by the blooming of the sakura tree at Modori-bashi, the 'Resurrection Bridge'.

It's early flowering blossoms are some of the first to appear, and can gather quite the crowd😅

Admiring the blossoms at Ichijo Modori-bashi, some of the earliest cherry blossoms to bloom in Kyoto,
ALT text detailsAdmiring the blossoms at Ichijo Modori-bashi, some of the earliest cherry blossoms to bloom in Kyoto,
Cherry blossoms at Ichijo Modori-bashi.
ALT text detailsCherry blossoms at Ichijo Modori-bashi.
Replica of the old Modori-bashi bridge in the grounds of Seimei-jinja. The bridge has played host to many miraculous stories, and became deeply connected to resurrection thanks to a holy man who managed to revive his father on the bridge. Stopping the funeral procession his father awoke long enough to say goodbye, and then passed away once more.
ALT text detailsReplica of the old Modori-bashi bridge in the grounds of Seimei-jinja. The bridge has played host to many miraculous stories, and became deeply connected to resurrection thanks to a holy man who managed to revive his father on the bridge. Stopping the funeral procession his father awoke long enough to say goodbye, and then passed away once more.
Admiring the blossoms at Ichijo Modori-bashi, some of the earliest cherry blossoms to bloom in Kyoto,
ALT text detailsAdmiring the blossoms at Ichijo Modori-bashi, some of the earliest cherry blossoms to bloom in Kyoto,
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social

👣🌸THE SAKURA COMETH🌸🤳

And just like that Kyōto enters sakura season...

a straight line
all the way to Kyoto...
umbrella-hatted blossom viewers
京迄は一筋道ぞ花見笠
-Kobayashi Issa (小林一茶), 1822.
Trans. David Lanoue.

An explosion of sakura brightens up this pedestrian crossing signal.
ALT text detailsAn explosion of sakura brightens up this pedestrian crossing signal.
An explosion of sakura brightens up this pedestrian crossing signal.
ALT text detailsAn explosion of sakura brightens up this pedestrian crossing signal.
The cherry trees at Ichijo Modori-bashi are some of the earliest in Kyoto to bloom.
ALT text detailsThe cherry trees at Ichijo Modori-bashi are some of the earliest in Kyoto to bloom.
The cherry trees at Ichijo Modori-bashi are some of the earliest in Kyoto to bloom.
ALT text detailsThe cherry trees at Ichijo Modori-bashi are some of the earliest in Kyoto to bloom.
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dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Night life in Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Wanna live in Tokyo for cheap - but don't wanna live so far out that you can't catch a train to the heart of the city? A Japanese real estate website listed the 50 stations where average rents for one person come in below 75K yen (USD $500) - here's what they found.

unseen-japan.com/cheapest-trai

Woman holding up a set of keys in front of you while smiling
ALT text detailsWoman holding up a set of keys in front of you while smiling
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japanese politician Tachibana Takashi made the news after someone decided to cross the line from political disagreement to political violence. The attack was apparently motivated by his involvement in a scandal in Hyogo Prefecture.

buff.ly/yiD6J6X

Tachibana Takashi looking at camera, picture imposed in front of the Ministry of Finance building
ALT text detailsTachibana Takashi looking at camera, picture imposed in front of the Ministry of Finance building
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Bad tourist behavior has made headlines in Japan as the country plans to welcome 40 million visitors next year. However, a recent spate of headlines shows bad traveler behavior is something of a global epidemic.

unseen-japan.com/japanese-tour

Great Wall of China with a picture of the moon in the upper left hand corner
ALT text detailsGreat Wall of China with a picture of the moon in the upper left hand corner
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Jake Adelstein, a regular contributor to Unseen Japan, will be speaking at the Foreign Correspondents’ Club of Japan (FCCJ) on March 31, 2025, about his latest book, The Last Yakuza: A Life in the Japanese Underworld. Learn more below.

buff.ly/ggWleaN

A copy of Jake Adelstein's The Last Yakuza superimposed over the tattooed torso of a yakuza gangster.
ALT text detailsA copy of Jake Adelstein's The Last Yakuza superimposed over the tattooed torso of a yakuza gangster.
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Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:

@norbertwoehnl@famichiki.jp

Good morning from Tokyo on a lovely Sunday! Today, my wife will participate in a singing event in Yokohama, so I'll go out later to cheer her on. Here she is a couple of years ago, sat in a tatami room at Kenninji Temple in Kyoto.

At Kenninji Temple in Kyoto, Japan, a woman is sitting on a tatami floor and looking through opened sliding doors at at Japanese garden. Autumn sunlight fills the room.
ALT text detailsAt Kenninji Temple in Kyoto, Japan, a woman is sitting on a tatami floor and looking through opened sliding doors at at Japanese garden. Autumn sunlight fills the room.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

While it's working to launch one in 2026, Japan still has no official sexual offender database. A small group of individuals just launched one as both a free and a paid service - but some experts say, under current Japanese law, it may very well be illegal.

unseen-japan.com/sex-offender-

Sex offender registry in Japan - picture of map of sex offenders plotted across Japan on the left. On the right, a figure of Lady Justice holding scales is peeking at Japan while prying up one side of her blindfold
ALT text detailsSex offender registry in Japan - picture of map of sex offenders plotted across Japan on the left. On the right, a figure of Lady Justice holding scales is peeking at Japan while prying up one side of her blindfold
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Go to a restaurant in Japan these days, & odds are 50/50 they'll ask you to scan a QR code to order. While restaurants love these cheap, labor-saving systems, some Japanese customers say they resent the "free ride" on their bandwidth and battery.

buff.ly/rYNlu0p

Woman ordering food from her smartphone
ALT text detailsWoman ordering food from her smartphone
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japanese beef bowl chain Sukiya has confirmed that a customer at a store in Tottori Prefecture was served a bowl of miso soup containing a whole mouse carcass. JP net users are lambasting the company for staying silent about the 2-month-old hygiene violation.

unseen-japan.com/sukiya-mouse-

Mouse Miso - picture of a bowl of miso soup with a drawing of a mouse overlaid on it
ALT text detailsMouse Miso - picture of a bowl of miso soup with a drawing of a mouse overlaid on it
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

It’s something a lot of people both in – and out – of Japan – do on the regular: putting wasabi in their soy sauce. Some traditionalists will tell you that mixing the two is the work of the devil. But what do people on Japanese social media think?

unseen-japan.com/wasabi-soy-sa

Freshly grated wasabi on a wooden block
ALT text detailsFreshly grated wasabi on a wooden block
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

"We are conditioned to question ourselves. Anytime women try to carve out a safe space, we tend to over-explain and beg for understanding—despite our real, firsthand experiences that made it necessary in the first place." - Japanese comedian Yuki Nivez

Yuki Nivez on stage at a Tokyo comedy show.
ALT text detailsYuki Nivez on stage at a Tokyo comedy show.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japan’s population is both aging and becoming more single. That means many senior citizens won’t have family who will follow them into the afterlife. In response, one organization is helping seniors find friends who’ll accompany them into the Grave Beyond.

unseen-japan.com/grave-friends

Grave friends story - picture of three older women with arms interlocked and smiling and waving to the camera. Behind them is a cemetery.
ALT text detailsGrave friends story - picture of three older women with arms interlocked and smiling and waving to the camera. Behind them is a cemetery.
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chuls

@chuls@mastodon.world

Thinking rethinking

A photo taken at night in front of a Japanese izakaya, a lantern in front of the signage
ALT text detailsA photo taken at night in front of a Japanese izakaya, a lantern in front of the signage
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dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Rainy night in Osaka Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
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dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Rainy night in Osaka Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

In a bold move pulling Japan into the 21st century, the National Police Agency is eliminating skirts for the nation's 20K+ female officers from its uniform guidelines. The fashion choice dates back to an era when women on the force were largely relegated to traffic control.

unseen-japan.com/japan-nationa

Female police officer wearing skirt
ALT text detailsFemale police officer wearing skirt
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

As Japan's population continues to shrink, a new survey finds that 52% of Japanese people ages 15 to 39 say they neither have nor want children. The survey also shows many facing economic challenges, with 11.2% saying they had trouble in the past year even buying food.

unseen-japan.com/japan-youth-n

Young people walking in a crowd on the sidewalk towards the camera
ALT text detailsYoung people walking in a crowd on the sidewalk towards the camera
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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

For the first time, the government has released specific guidelines on how people should act in the event of an eruption of Mount Fuji, recommending residents stay at home to prevent panic. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/03/

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

For the first time, the government has released specific guidelines on how people should act in the event of an eruption of Mount Fuji, recommending residents stay at home to prevent panic. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/03/

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Sukyo Mahikari, a Japanese new religious movement, purports to seek true happiness through the practice of universal principles (崇教; sukyo), as well as the salvation of both this world and the astral world. However, say critics, the group isn't all harmony and light.

unseen-japan.com/sukyo-mahikar

Sukyo Mahikari World Shrine
ALT text detailsSukyo Mahikari World Shrine
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Nipponia is a unique hotel company that doesn’t build new facilities but instead repurposes historic buildings as accommodations for domestic and inbound tourists. TIME magazine recently lauded the Nipponia in Sado, which opened last year and is built in a restored merchant’s house.

Nipponia Sado Aikawa
ALT text detailsNipponia Sado Aikawa
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

In Japan Post's controversial ad spot, a company package courier tries to deliver a package to a woman at her home. The post is titled, “The woman who positively doesn’t wanna be seen without makeup vs. the delivery person who somehow has to get her signature.”

“The woman who positively doesn’t wanna be seen without makeup vs. the delivery person who somehow has to get her signature.” - X post from JapanPostHD_PR
ALT text details“The woman who positively doesn’t wanna be seen without makeup vs. the delivery person who somehow has to get her signature.” - X post from JapanPostHD_PR
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dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Everyday life in Osaka Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
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dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Everyday life in Osaka Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japanese politician Tamaki Yuichiro of the Democratic Party for the People recently claimed foreign residents can get reimbursed for high-cost health care after only three months here. Theoretically, he's correct. But here's why the data shows this is a made-up problem.

unseen-japan.com/high-cost-hea

Picture of a piggy bank, yen bills, a calculator, and a stethoscope
ALT text detailsPicture of a piggy bank, yen bills, a calculator, and a stethoscope
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The subway systems in Japan’s major cities are very convenient for getting around. Sometimes, however, you just wanna hail a ride back to your hotel. Fortunately, various Japan taxi services now make it easier not only to get a ride but even communicate with your driver.

unseen-japan.com/japan-taxi-se

Japan taxi services - female taxi driver in white gloves and a blue vest standing in front of a green taxi
ALT text detailsJapan taxi services - female taxi driver in white gloves and a blue vest standing in front of a green taxi
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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Japan marked the 30th anniversary on Thursday of the 1995 Tokyo subway sarin gas attack by the Aum Shinrikyo doomsday cult, which killed 14 people and injured over 6,000. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/03/

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Japan marked the 30th anniversary on Thursday of the 1995 Tokyo subway sarin gas attack by the Aum Shinrikyo doomsday cult, which killed 14 people and injured over 6,000. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/03/

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Takano Kenichi told a friend he lent Mogami Ai (Sato Airi) over 2.5 million yen ($16,850). He said he’d taken out loans of 1M yen to cover it, somehow believing that the (at the time of the below message) 20-year-old livestreamer and cabaret club hostess was good for it.

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

A former National Police Agency executive has expressed regret for failing to raid Aum Shinrikyo bases before the doomsday cult mounted its sarin nerve gas attack in the Tokyo subway system. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/03/

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Thirty years ago, the religious cult Aum Shinrikyo brought terror to Tokyo. In the years that followed, authorities set out to make the morning commute as safe as possible. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/03/

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Thirty years after a sarin attack on Tokyo's subway system, a former emergency room physician describes the terror of treating large numbers of patients without initially knowing what happened to them. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/03/

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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Offerings of ume trees were made throughout the centuries.

The scholar Motoori Norinaga (本居宣長 1730-1801) included this poem with his gift...

may a plum be planted,
nay, may a thousand
or eight thousand be planted
so that seen from afar
they appear as a sacred shrine fence.

Variegated plum blossoms.
ALT text detailsVariegated plum blossoms.
A single ume blossom pops up from a mossy tree trunk.
ALT text detailsA single ume blossom pops up from a mossy tree trunk.
The main shrine of Umenomiya Taisha.
ALT text detailsThe main shrine of Umenomiya Taisha.
Pink plum blossoms on a cloudy day.
ALT text detailsPink plum blossoms on a cloudy day.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

It is the goddess of childbirth that we have to thank for the many plum trees growing in the grounds of Umenomiya Taisha.

The word for 'giving birth' (umu 産む) and 'plum' (ume 梅) sound similar, and as ume are some of the first trees to bloom after the winter they have come to symbolise new life.

Bright pink ume blossoms.
ALT text detailsBright pink ume blossoms.
A white cat lazes at Umenomiya Taisha.
ALT text detailsA white cat lazes at Umenomiya Taisha.
The main gate of Umenomiya Taisha.
ALT text detailsThe main gate of Umenomiya Taisha.
White plum blossoms.
ALT text detailsWhite plum blossoms.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social

🌸PLUM BLOSSOM PALACE🐈‍⬛

Umenomiya Taisha (梅宮大社), familiarly known as Ume-no-miya (梅宮 the 'Plum Blossom Palace'), enshrines the 'god of saké', Ōyamatsumi (大山祇神), and his daughter, 'god of easy childbirth', Konohanasakuya-hime (木花咲耶姫).
It's also known for its cats😸

Umenomiya Taisha is famed for its seasonal flowers, including plum blossoms, irises, hydrangea, and spider lilies.
ALT text detailsUmenomiya Taisha is famed for its seasonal flowers, including plum blossoms, irises, hydrangea, and spider lilies.
Although now named after plum blossoms, the shrine most likely takes its name from the Japanese word for birth as the goddess of childbirth is enshrined here.
ALT text detailsAlthough now named after plum blossoms, the shrine most likely takes its name from the Japanese word for birth as the goddess of childbirth is enshrined here.
In recent years Umenomiya Taisha has become well know for its resident cats.
ALT text detailsIn recent years Umenomiya Taisha has become well know for its resident cats.
Vivid pink plum blossoms.
ALT text detailsVivid pink plum blossoms.
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dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Osaka rainy night. #photography #streetphotography #japan
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dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Osaka rainy night. #photography #streetphotography #japan
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Fedi.Garden 🌱

@FediGarden@social.growyourown.services

Sakurajima.moe is an inclusive non-toxic Glitch Mastodon server for anyone interested in Japanese anime, manga, games, media etc. The server is highly moderated to provide a safe environment.

:Fediverse: sakurajima.moe

Members of this server can post with a 3000 character limit.

You can find out more about the server at sakurajima.moe/about or contact the admin @sakurajima

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Want to travel Japan in style? JR Tokai announced it'll be adding more luxury options to its Tokaido line between Tokyo and Shin-Osaka. On top of full private rooms coming in 2026, it says it'll introduce six "half-private" seats on some Tokaido trains in 2027 (pricing TBD).

unseen-japan.com/tokaido-shink

Shinkansen passing by Mt. Fuji
ALT text detailsShinkansen passing by Mt. Fuji
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Fedi.Garden 🌱

@FediGarden@social.growyourown.services

Sakurajima.moe is an inclusive non-toxic Glitch Mastodon server for anyone interested in Japanese anime, manga, games, media etc. The server is highly moderated to provide a safe environment.

:Fediverse: sakurajima.moe

Members of this server can post with a 3000 character limit.

You can find out more about the server at sakurajima.moe/about or contact the admin @sakurajima

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japanese books have achieved newfound acclaim and popularity in recent years. But only a fraction of what gets published in Japan gets translated into English. Here’s what doesn’t get translated – and why.

unseen-japan.com/japanese-book

Picture of a library full of books split across two levels. Words "Which Books Get Translated from Japanese" point to one shelf of books on the left. The words "(and which don't)" point to a shelf on the right
ALT text detailsPicture of a library full of books split across two levels. Words "Which Books Get Translated from Japanese" point to one shelf of books on the left. The words "(and which don't)" point to a shelf on the right
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japan has contributed, and continues to contribute, many wonderful innovations to the world in a variety of fields. Unfortunately, sometimes Japan’s good ideas have trouble escaping the country. That's what many here call the Galapagos effect.

unseen-japan.com/galapagos-eff

Picture of a map of Japan with a Suica card and an old flip phone (Garakei) imposed over it
ALT text detailsPicture of a map of Japan with a Suica card and an old flip phone (Garakei) imposed over it
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Unseen Japan runs thanks to our supporters. If you love our in-depth coverage of Japanese news, history, and social issues, consider making a contribution to the Unseen Japan Journalism Fund.

unseen-japan.com/support/

Unseen Japan logo - woman in a kimono walking a shiba-inu down a traditiona Showa era-style commercial district with signs for karaoke, udon, and other stores and restaurants
ALT text detailsUnseen Japan logo - woman in a kimono walking a shiba-inu down a traditiona Showa era-style commercial district with signs for karaoke, udon, and other stores and restaurants
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

“[Japanese men] always tell me it’s so cool that they’re with a foreigner or that I speak English,” Kane says. “A lot of times you meet people and they say let’s go to a hotel, let’s go have fun. They say western women have a reputation for being easy.”

unseen-japan.com/gaijin-hunter

Two people holding hands
ALT text detailsTwo people holding hands
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dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Snowy niight in Tokyo. #photography #streetphotography #japan
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dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Snowy niight in Tokyo. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

"I learned C to remove the😼pixelation in erotic titles and before I knew it, I'd started making games"

X post from @takeshi16628. Japanese text: エロゲーでまんこのモザイクとる為に C言語勉強してたのに気がついたら ゲーム作り始めてた
ALT text detailsX post from @takeshi16628. Japanese text: エロゲーでまんこのモザイクとる為に C言語勉強してたのに気がついたら ゲーム作り始めてた
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Love books? Looking for a place to hang out in Tokyo that's quiet and puts your book-loving heart at ease? Good news: book cafes in Tokyo are the new black (coffee). Here are a few of our favorites in great neighborhoods with unique concepts.

unseen-japan.com/book-cafes-to

White cup of coffee with a saucer on table, blur bookstore background
ALT text detailsWhite cup of coffee with a saucer on table, blur bookstore background
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Kyle Gaywood

@Plasticbluemusic@mastodon.social

While I’m waiting for my instagram to finish importing, here’s ‘s in . I can’t wait to go back in October.
---
pixelfed.social/p/Plasticbluem

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

As costs rise and consumer tastes shift towards coffee and other beverages, Japan's small tea growers are struggling to stay afloat. Here's how one company is connecting tea lovers worldwide with artisanal Japanese producers steeped in tradition.

unseen-japan.com/mohei-tea-loc

Shot of tea fields in Shizuoka with Mt. Fuji in the background
ALT text detailsShot of tea fields in Shizuoka with Mt. Fuji in the background
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Hokkaido, now considered so indisputably and integrally Japanese, has only truly been part of the Japanese mainland for the past 150 years. Who lived there before its colonization by the Japanese? And how do the island’s indigenous people, the Ainu, fare today?

unseen-japan.com/colonization-

Picture of a lake in Hokkaido
ALT text detailsPicture of a lake in Hokkaido
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Hokkaido, now considered so indisputably and integrally Japanese, has only truly been part of the Japanese mainland for the past 150 years. Who lived there before its colonization by the Japanese? And how do the island’s indigenous people, the Ainu, fare today?

unseen-japan.com/colonization-

Picture of a lake in Hokkaido
ALT text detailsPicture of a lake in Hokkaido
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

If there’s one thing true about the modern Japanese light novel, or ranobe, it’s that many of their authors are fond of stupidly long titles. It didn’t always used to be like that, though. When did it change? And – more elusively – why?

unseen-japan.com/light-novels-

Sadly, I’m a Male High School Student and Bestselling Light Novel Author Who’s Being Strangled By My Younger Classmate, The Voice Actress was passed over for the Nobel Prize in Literature. It was, however, one of the longest light novel titles of 2014.
ALT text detailsSadly, I’m a Male High School Student and Bestselling Light Novel Author Who’s Being Strangled By My Younger Classmate, The Voice Actress was passed over for the Nobel Prize in Literature. It was, however, one of the longest light novel titles of 2014.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The Japanese government is finally preparing to ditch its old romanization system for the Japanese language in favor of the de facto international standard – and the standard that, in reality, most of the government actually uses.

unseen-japan.com/japan-hepburn

Hepburn Romanization- woman in front of a picture of downtown Shinjuku thinking it could be spelled "Sinzyuku" but changing her mind
ALT text detailsHepburn Romanization- woman in front of a picture of downtown Shinjuku thinking it could be spelled "Sinzyuku" but changing her mind
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The Japanese government is finally preparing to ditch its old romanization system for the Japanese language in favor of the de facto international standard – and the standard that, in reality, most of the government actually uses.

unseen-japan.com/japan-hepburn

Hepburn Romanization- woman in front of a picture of downtown Shinjuku thinking it could be spelled "Sinzyuku" but changing her mind
ALT text detailsHepburn Romanization- woman in front of a picture of downtown Shinjuku thinking it could be spelled "Sinzyuku" but changing her mind
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japan Post says one of their delivery people in Yokohama was delivering while drunk. The employee - who ran at least one red light - had been drinking seven hours before and was driving around with a plastic bottle of wine. They still had a BAC of up to 0.06% post deliveries.

buff.ly/Gy0Hh9T

Clip from article. Headline in Japanese: 横浜・戸塚郵便局、配達員が飲酒し集配車運転　無事故も信号無視など交通違反発覚　車内で白ワインも
ALT text detailsClip from article. Headline in Japanese: 横浜・戸塚郵便局、配達員が飲酒し集配車運転　無事故も信号無視など交通違反発覚　車内で白ワインも
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Everyday life in Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Everyday life in Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Thirty years after a sarin attack on Tokyo's subway system, a former emergency room physician describes the terror of treating large numbers of patients without initially knowing what happened to them. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/03/

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Most married, working women in Japan are stuck with an unfair share of housework - including dishes. So why aren't dishwashers more prevalent in Japanese kitchens? Here's why one critic blames the male-dominated real estate industry for keeping kitchens tiny.

unseen-japan.com/dishwashers-j

Picture of an open dishwasher with a nice living room visible in the background
ALT text detailsPicture of an open dishwasher with a nice living room visible in the background
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Misogyny has people sympathizing with a murderer, no more Sinzyuku, where to ditch your kids in Tokyo, and dead Japanese words - that and more on this week's round-up of our best content in the Unseen Japan Newsletter.

buff.ly/5JOtUic

Sato Airi (aka Mogami Ai) in front of a picture of Takadanobaba Station
ALT text detailsSato Airi (aka Mogami Ai) in front of a picture of Takadanobaba Station
Hepburn Romanization- woman in front of a picture of downtown Shinjuku thinking it could be spelled "Sinzyuku" but changing her mind
ALT text detailsHepburn Romanization- woman in front of a picture of downtown Shinjuku thinking it could be spelled "Sinzyuku" but changing her mind
Ano Ne Childcare Service - picture of kids running up a large set of stairs
ALT text detailsAno Ne Childcare Service - picture of kids running up a large set of stairs
Dead Japanese Words - pictures of a furoshiki, hangers and coats, and a couple holding hands
ALT text detailsDead Japanese Words - pictures of a furoshiki, hangers and coats, and a couple holding hands
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Snow at Sekiguchi (1932)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

tokyocheapo.com/locations/nort

Snow falls on industrial buildings on the banks of Tokyo's Kanda River, on a dim winter evening. A layer of fresh snow lies across the rooftops of buildings crowded near the water's edge; in the center of the image, the wheel of a watermill is still, its blades gathering snow. A single light shines in one window, but the scene is quiet and deserted.
ALT text detailsSnow falls on industrial buildings on the banks of Tokyo's Kanda River, on a dim winter evening. A layer of fresh snow lies across the rooftops of buildings crowded near the water's edge; in the center of the image, the wheel of a watermill is still, its blades gathering snow. A single light shines in one window, but the scene is quiet and deserted.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Snow at Sekiguchi (1932)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

tokyocheapo.com/locations/nort

Snow falls on industrial buildings on the banks of Tokyo's Kanda River, on a dim winter evening. A layer of fresh snow lies across the rooftops of buildings crowded near the water's edge; in the center of the image, the wheel of a watermill is still, its blades gathering snow. A single light shines in one window, but the scene is quiet and deserted.
ALT text detailsSnow falls on industrial buildings on the banks of Tokyo's Kanda River, on a dim winter evening. A layer of fresh snow lies across the rooftops of buildings crowded near the water's edge; in the center of the image, the wheel of a watermill is still, its blades gathering snow. A single light shines in one window, but the scene is quiet and deserted.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Traveling with kids can create a wonderful experience for your children. However, it can also leave you feeling like you have no time for yourself. A new daytime childcare service aims to help parents visiting Japan bring some balance to their time in Tokyo.

unseen-japan.com/tokyo-new-chi

Ano Ne Childcare Service - picture of kids running up a large set of stairs
ALT text detailsAno Ne Childcare Service - picture of kids running up a large set of stairs
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Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

Nyoirin , late 13th-early 14th century, .

Nyoirin #Kannon, late 13th-early 14th century, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsNyoirin #Kannon, late 13th-early 14th century, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Go to any “tourist-y” location in Tokyo these days and, depending on the day and time, you’re bound to find yourself stuck in pedestrian traffic jams and long cafe lines. That’s not true, however, of a relatively new tourist trap located near the Toyosu fish market.

unseen-japan.com/senkyaku-banr

Picture of the outdoor aisle in Senkyaku Banrai
ALT text detailsPicture of the outdoor aisle in Senkyaku Banrai
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Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

Nyoirin , late 13th-early 14th century, .

Nyoirin #Kannon, late 13th-early 14th century, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsNyoirin #Kannon, late 13th-early 14th century, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
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dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Rainy night in Osaka Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Craft beer is finally making itself known throughout Japan. Amongst this trend, Sakamichi has staked out its place amongst the best local beers in Tokyo – even if you’ll have to take a train out west to sample it.

unseen-japan.com/sakamichi-bre

A glass of “No Rest for the Wicked,” Sakamichi’s 9.0% Cherry Chocolate Imperial Stout.
ALT text detailsA glass of “No Rest for the Wicked,” Sakamichi’s 9.0% Cherry Chocolate Imperial Stout.
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dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Rainy night in Osaka Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Thirty years ago, the religious cult Aum Shinrikyo brought terror to Tokyo. In the years that followed, authorities set out to make the morning commute as safe as possible. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/03/

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

People have been leaving flowers at the site where streamer Mogami Ai (Sato Airi) was murdered by a man to whom she owed money. Others have disrespected or trashed the site, showing some men will go to great lengths to hate women - even after they're dead.

unseen-japan.com/mogami-ai-mem

Picture of Takadanobaba with Mogami Ai's pic in an inset frame on the lower right hand side
ALT text detailsPicture of Takadanobaba with Mogami Ai's pic in an inset frame on the lower right hand side
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Mera.tabi

@mera.tabi@pixelfed.social

Grace and tradition among the vibrant red torii of Fushimi Inari.

#japan #fushimiinaritaisha #fushimiinari #kyoto #photography #travel #日本　#京都　#伏見稲荷大社　#tokyocameraclub
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Mera.tabi

@mera.tabi@pixelfed.social

Grace and tradition among the vibrant red torii of Fushimi Inari.

#japan #fushimiinaritaisha #fushimiinari #kyoto #photography #travel #日本　#京都　#伏見稲荷大社　#tokyocameraclub
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japan’s experienced a spike in recent years of young people – particularly teen girls – overdosing on prescription or over-the-counter meds. To counter this, the government released a new PR campaign that was so roundly booed they deleted it days later.

unseen-japan.com/anti-overdose

Don't OD, SD! - poster showing a sheep holding a pill bottle in one hand and a cell phone in another
ALT text detailsDon't OD, SD! - poster showing a sheep holding a pill bottle in one hand and a cell phone in another
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

“It’s one hell of a weird scene,” one X user wrote. “Nothing but old men….this is why Japan is flailing.” Learn more about how Japanese social media users lambasted Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru for posting a pic of a room full of men...on International Women's Day.

unseen-japan.com/ldp-leadershi

Post from user @miyoshiiii criticizing Ishiba (translation in post)
ALT text detailsPost from user @miyoshiiii criticizing Ishiba (translation in post)
pixelglade's avatar
pixelglade

@pixelglade@pixelfed.social

My latest artwork is a shinto shrine inspired by the town of Sawara, Japan. Also, the first pixel art I've made in Krita on Linux! I could never get Clip Studio Paint to work with Lutris so knowing I can transfer this workflow is awesome.

Long image description (with some anatomy of a shrine type terminology) on my site gallery: https://pixelglade.net/artwork/pixelart.html#pixelart-shinto-shrine-sawara

#pixelart #pixelartist #commsopen #commissionsopen #openforcommissions #opencommissions #ドット絵 #illustration #pc98 #retrodev #retrogames #retrogaming #videogames #gamedev #pixelartist #1990s #digitalart #MastoArt #gameart #visualnovel #backgroundart #1980s #80s #80saesthetic #80svideogames #snes #gba #animeart #anime #pixels #shrine #japan #krita #kritaart #kritaartist #pc98
A winding path leads to the steps of a shrine in the woods with a sacred tree by the entrance.
ALT text detailsA winding path leads to the steps of a shrine in the woods with a sacred tree by the entrance.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Tachibana Takashi, the controversial head of Japan's Protect The People From the NHK Party, survived a blade attack. The attacker says he was upset over what he saw as Tachibana's role in a Hyogo Prefectural politician's suicide.

unseen-japan.com/tachibana-tak

Tachibana Takashi looking at camera, picture imposed in front of the Ministry of Finance building
ALT text detailsTachibana Takashi looking at camera, picture imposed in front of the Ministry of Finance building
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Raymond Larabie

@typodermic@mastodon.social

A van, perfectly slotted into its designated van-shaped void, contemplating its next mission. 🚐⬛

バンがバン用の穴にぴったり収まり、次の出動を静かに待つ。 🏢🚗

A boxy white van sits snugly inside a corrugated metal garage, half in shadow, half illuminated by the afternoon sun. To its right, an unassuming side door, perhaps leading to an office or workshop, stands quietly, bearing a single sheet of paper—its message unreadable from this distance. Above, shadows from unseen cables and poles crisscross the rippling façade, adding texture to the scene.
ALT text detailsA boxy white van sits snugly inside a corrugated metal garage, half in shadow, half illuminated by the afternoon sun. To its right, an unassuming side door, perhaps leading to an office or workshop, stands quietly, bearing a single sheet of paper—its message unreadable from this distance. Above, shadows from unseen cables and poles crisscross the rippling façade, adding texture to the scene.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

This week's Unseen Japan Insider newsletter features a write-up on Seki Hei (石平; Shí Píng) & how the anti-immigration immigrant's planned run for Japan's Diet crashed when it ran up against the very xenophobia he encourages. That & more commentary and news going out to all Insiders on Monday.

Text in post: Have you heard of Seki Hei (石平; Shí Píng)? He’s a conservative political commentator originally born in China, but who took Japanese citizenship in 2007. He’s been considering a run for political office in this year’s upcoming Upper House election as a member of the Innovation Party, the Kansai region-centric party that’s been trying (with little success lately) to elevate itself into a national party.
ALT text detailsText in post: Have you heard of Seki Hei (石平; Shí Píng)? He’s a conservative political commentator originally born in China, but who took Japanese citizenship in 2007. He’s been considering a run for political office in this year’s upcoming Upper House election as a member of the Innovation Party, the Kansai region-centric party that’s been trying (with little success lately) to elevate itself into a national party.
The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

A former National Police Agency executive has expressed regret for failing to raid Aum Shinrikyo bases before the doomsday cult mounted its sarin nerve gas attack in the Tokyo subway system. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/03/

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

An incident involving Japanese travelers in China shows that tourist idiocy is universal. It came out this week that a Japanese man and woman were arrested - and subsequently deported - in January after he pulled down his trousers at the Great Wall while she recorded it.

unseen-japan.com/japanese-tour

Great Wall of China with a picture of the moon in the upper left hand corner
ALT text detailsGreat Wall of China with a picture of the moon in the upper left hand corner
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Emon-kake. Uba-guruma. Chombo. These and other words used to be common parlance. Use them now and people will just think you're old as dirt. Here are some popular Japanese words that have fallen by the wayside - and the words that have replaced them.

unseen-japan.com/dead-japanese

Dead Japanese Words - pictures of a furoshiki, hangers and coats, and a couple holding hands
ALT text detailsDead Japanese Words - pictures of a furoshiki, hangers and coats, and a couple holding hands
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The village of Shirakawa has long been a worldwide tourist attraction. It’s gotten even busier as Japan prepares to welcome 40 million tourists in 2025. In response, the tiny village says it’ll greatly increase parking fees starting in October.

unseen-japan.com/shirakawa-par

Shirakawa-go gassho-zukuri buildings in winter
ALT text detailsShirakawa-go gassho-zukuri buildings in winter
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

While Kurosawa Akira loved and respected Shakespeare, his western literary influence didn't end there. From a young age, Kurosawa obsessed over the works of the Russian literary giants - Dostoevsky, Gogol, Tolstoy, and many others.

That love would save his life.

youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&

Drawing of Kurosawa (by Illumiknobi) with the words Kurosawa and the Kremlin written on the left and a hammer and sickle above them
ALT text detailsDrawing of Kurosawa (by Illumiknobi) with the words Kurosawa and the Kremlin written on the left and a hammer and sickle above them
SakuraSubnet 🥙's avatar
SakuraSubnet 🥙

@sakurasubnet@bumscode.com

Dicks

Today I attended the honen matsuri, the for fertility (colloquially called the penis festival). The location is the tagata shrine in , which has a big collection of phallus statues. At the time of the festival, there are a lot of food stands selling dick shaped street food. Was a very fun experience! Unfortunately due to the heavy rain, I decided to leave early and skip the main act of the day, the procession where a gigantic wooden phallus is carried around.

Shrine with a big wooden phallus figure, where different food as sacrificial offerings is laying in front of.
ALT text detailsShrine with a big wooden phallus figure, where different food as sacrificial offerings is laying in front of.
A small shrine made out of stone. It has a small coin box, two big balls made of marble which can be touched to get a blessing for good fertility. Surrounded by penis statues.
ALT text detailsA small shrine made out of stone. It has a small coin box, two big balls made of marble which can be touched to get a blessing for good fertility. Surrounded by penis statues.
A pink chocolate coated banana on a stick, where two mashmallows form a scrotum, so this sweet treat does also look like a penis. It has sprinkles!
ALT text detailsA pink chocolate coated banana on a stick, where two mashmallows form a scrotum, so this sweet treat does also look like a penis. It has sprinkles!
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

A rainy night story in Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
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dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

A rainy night story in Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

A rainy night story in Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Winter Moon Over Toyama (1931)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

lemonde.fr/en/science/article/

A bright full moon shines in a starless night sky; below, mist collects around the trunks of tall leafless trees. Beyond, among the shadows of a distant forest, a handful of lights shine, presumably marking country houses.
ALT text detailsA bright full moon shines in a starless night sky; below, mist collects around the trunks of tall leafless trees. Beyond, among the shadows of a distant forest, a handful of lights shine, presumably marking country houses.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Winter Moon Over Toyama (1931)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

lemonde.fr/en/science/article/

A bright full moon shines in a starless night sky; below, mist collects around the trunks of tall leafless trees. Beyond, among the shadows of a distant forest, a handful of lights shine, presumably marking country houses.
ALT text detailsA bright full moon shines in a starless night sky; below, mist collects around the trunks of tall leafless trees. Beyond, among the shadows of a distant forest, a handful of lights shine, presumably marking country houses.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Advocates for marriage equality in Japan won another victory recently. The High Court of Nagoya sided with plaintiffs in ruling Japan’s refusal to recognize same-sex marriages as unconstitutional.

unseen-japan.com/marriage-equa

Two women in white wedding dresses walking towards the ocean on the beach, their backs to the cameras
ALT text detailsTwo women in white wedding dresses walking towards the ocean on the beach, their backs to the cameras
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japan wants its people to have more kids. The problem is that, if they did, women would end up doing most of the work. Women in Japan have long complained – and statistics have proven – that they do most of the chores in their homes on top of working full-time jobs.

unseen-japan.com/housework-jap

Wife washing ditches looks scornfully at husband sitting at kitchen table and playing on his smartphone
ALT text detailsWife washing ditches looks scornfully at husband sitting at kitchen table and playing on his smartphone
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The trend of stupid-ass YouTubers being offensive idiots in Japan continues unabated. Fortunately, in the latest case, local authorities put a stop to it swiftly, denying a group of nuisance streamers permission to board a ferry in Kagoshima.

unseen-japan.com/streamer-kago

Ice Poseidon being refused boarding on a boat in Kagoshima
ALT text detailsIce Poseidon being refused boarding on a boat in Kagoshima
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noco｜Flower Photographer

@noco3n_com@mstdn.jp

cloudy weather.

Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:'s avatar
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:

@norbertwoehnl@famichiki.jp

Good morning and happy Friday from Japan! This morning, I have a set of four doors — or rather, three doors and a questionable ascent to one more door, from Koenji in Tokyo.

In the Koenji area of Tokyo, Japan, a white-grayish building has two very colorful doors. On the left, a wine-red door covered by a faded blue sun roof, and on the left, a bright yellow door as part of a bigger yellow facade with a window.
ALT text detailsIn the Koenji area of Tokyo, Japan, a white-grayish building has two very colorful doors. On the left, a wine-red door covered by a faded blue sun roof, and on the left, a bright yellow door as part of a bigger yellow facade with a window.
In the Koenji area of Tokyo, Japan, this photo shows a patchwork-looking door that is the entrance to a bar named "Moss Light". To the left of the door is a "Closed" sign and a sprayed black wall graffiti of a black cube with a question mark inside.
ALT text detailsIn the Koenji area of Tokyo, Japan, this photo shows a patchwork-looking door that is the entrance to a bar named "Moss Light". To the left of the door is a "Closed" sign and a sprayed black wall graffiti of a black cube with a question mark inside.
In the Koenji area of Tokyo, Japan, this photo shows an elegant-looking brown residential entrance door. To its right is a shop sign that says "Hige Oyaji", which roughly translates to "old man with beard".
ALT text detailsIn the Koenji area of Tokyo, Japan, this photo shows an elegant-looking brown residential entrance door. To its right is a shop sign that says "Hige Oyaji", which roughly translates to "old man with beard".
In the Koenji area of Tokyo, Japan, this photo shows a very dilapidated and unsafe-looking ascending flock of stairs. The stairs are uneven in shape and size, and on the adjacent wall is an indescribable mixture of wires, cables and pipes. Someone manually painted "Watch your step" on the upper part of the stairs.
ALT text detailsIn the Koenji area of Tokyo, Japan, this photo shows a very dilapidated and unsafe-looking ascending flock of stairs. The stairs are uneven in shape and size, and on the adjacent wall is an indescribable mixture of wires, cables and pipes. Someone manually painted "Watch your step" on the upper part of the stairs.
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Spring in Tokyo Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Spring in Tokyo Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:'s avatar
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:

@norbertwoehnl@famichiki.jp

Good morning and happy Friday from Japan! This morning, I have a set of four doors — or rather, three doors and a questionable ascent to one more door, from Koenji in Tokyo.

In the Koenji area of Tokyo, Japan, a white-grayish building has two very colorful doors. On the left, a wine-red door covered by a faded blue sun roof, and on the left, a bright yellow door as part of a bigger yellow facade with a window.
ALT text detailsIn the Koenji area of Tokyo, Japan, a white-grayish building has two very colorful doors. On the left, a wine-red door covered by a faded blue sun roof, and on the left, a bright yellow door as part of a bigger yellow facade with a window.
In the Koenji area of Tokyo, Japan, this photo shows a patchwork-looking door that is the entrance to a bar named "Moss Light". To the left of the door is a "Closed" sign and a sprayed black wall graffiti of a black cube with a question mark inside.
ALT text detailsIn the Koenji area of Tokyo, Japan, this photo shows a patchwork-looking door that is the entrance to a bar named "Moss Light". To the left of the door is a "Closed" sign and a sprayed black wall graffiti of a black cube with a question mark inside.
In the Koenji area of Tokyo, Japan, this photo shows an elegant-looking brown residential entrance door. To its right is a shop sign that says "Hige Oyaji", which roughly translates to "old man with beard".
ALT text detailsIn the Koenji area of Tokyo, Japan, this photo shows an elegant-looking brown residential entrance door. To its right is a shop sign that says "Hige Oyaji", which roughly translates to "old man with beard".
In the Koenji area of Tokyo, Japan, this photo shows a very dilapidated and unsafe-looking ascending flock of stairs. The stairs are uneven in shape and size, and on the adjacent wall is an indescribable mixture of wires, cables and pipes. Someone manually painted "Watch your step" on the upper part of the stairs.
ALT text detailsIn the Koenji area of Tokyo, Japan, this photo shows a very dilapidated and unsafe-looking ascending flock of stairs. The stairs are uneven in shape and size, and on the adjacent wall is an indescribable mixture of wires, cables and pipes. Someone manually painted "Watch your step" on the upper part of the stairs.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Murdered 22yo livestreamer Sato Airi (Mogami Ai) was also apparently a single mother. Court records in suspect Takano Kenichi's lawsuit against her reveal she gave birth at 18 & in 2023 was in a shelter for single moms that also houses women fleeing violent partners.

Headline from News Post Seven. JP title: 〈シンママとして経済的に困窮か〉女性ライバー “最上あい”さん（22）、高野容疑者（42）と出会った頃の「生活事情」　供述した“借金251万円”の裁判資料で判明した「2人の関係」【高田馬場・刺殺事件】
ALT text detailsHeadline from News Post Seven. JP title: 〈シンママとして経済的に困窮か〉女性ライバー “最上あい”さん（22）、高野容疑者（42）と出会った頃の「生活事情」　供述した“借金251万円”の裁判資料で判明した「2人の関係」【高田馬場・刺殺事件】
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Want to take your next Japan trip to the next level? TIME Magazine just announced its 100 great places to visit around the world - and four spots in Japan made the list. Check out their picks, as well as some of our past Japan travel recs, in our latest.

unseen-japan.com/worlds-greate

Torii gate with a mountain looming in the background and sun rays shining through
ALT text detailsTorii gate with a mountain looming in the background and sun rays shining through
Raymond Larabie's avatar
Raymond Larabie

@typodermic@mastodon.social

The cold sun pierces through the machinery, as if trying to thaw the steel. ☀️🔩

冷たい太陽が建設機械の隙間から差し込み、鉄を温めようとしているかのよう。 🌞🛠️

A rugged piece of construction equipment sits atop a battered truck bed, its hydraulic arm standing tall against the morning light. The sun bursts through the gaps, casting sharp flares across the frame, but the metal remains unmoved—thick with grime, hardened by labor.
ALT text detailsA rugged piece of construction equipment sits atop a battered truck bed, its hydraulic arm standing tall against the morning light. The sun bursts through the gaps, casting sharp flares across the frame, but the metal remains unmoved—thick with grime, hardened by labor.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Legislators in Japan want to crack down on host clubs. Their latest proposal would forbid hosts from using romantic entanglements to entice customers into spending money. It would also prevent them from pressuring customers or trying to lure them into sex work.

unseen-japan.com/host-clubs-ne

Picture of numerous host club billboards in Tokyo's Kabukicho neighborhood, where they're a dime a dozen
ALT text detailsPicture of numerous host club billboards in Tokyo's Kabukicho neighborhood, where they're a dime a dozen
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The first verdict is in over the vicious murder of a 17-year-old girl in Asahikawa, Hokkaido, with a then-19-year-old attacker being sentenced to 23 years in prison. The victim’s family, however, said the sentence feels “light” for the crime.

unseen-japan.com/konishi-yuka-

Asahikawa Station in Awahikawa, Hokkaido - view from the outside
ALT text detailsAsahikawa Station in Awahikawa, Hokkaido - view from the outside
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

It’s a crime to be poor in Hokkaido, it seems. A 33-year-old man in the city of Asahikawa is under arrest. His grave sin? Asking for money.

unseen-japan.com/hokkaido-asah

Asahikawa, Hokkaido, Japan skyline in the winter.
ALT text detailsAsahikawa, Hokkaido, Japan skyline in the winter.
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Early morning rain in Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Early morning rain in Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

22yo Sato Airi, a livestreamer who went by Mogami Ai, was brutally murdered on March 11th in Shinjuku City's Takadanobaba. So why are so many people on Japanese social media expressing sympathy for her murderer? (Spoiler alert: it's misogyny.)

unseen-japan.com/mogami-ai-sat

Sato Airi (aka Mogami Ai) in front of a picture of Takadanobaba Station
ALT text detailsSato Airi (aka Mogami Ai) in front of a picture of Takadanobaba Station
brendan (ジャンク品)'s avatar
brendan (ジャンク品)

@bnys@lasersword.club

the collection has grown…

Stack of Hu card games for the pc engine in jewel cases with a fanned out set of hucards without cases in front. The titles of the games in Japanese are visible along the spines of the cases, I can’t list them all here but there’s a bunch of em
ALT text detailsStack of Hu card games for the pc engine in jewel cases with a fanned out set of hucards without cases in front. The titles of the games in Japanese are visible along the spines of the cases, I can’t list them all here but there’s a bunch of em
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A Meiji-era law requires Japanese couples to choose a single last name. As legislators in Japan debate repealing it, a new poll shows that a majority of women wish they had had the choice to keep their maiden names when getting married.

unseen-japan.com/poll-separate

Picture of silhouette of a woman and a man in red against a thumbs up/thumbs down backdrop. The woman is labeled "Sato" and the man is labeled "Suzuki," two different Japanese last names
ALT text detailsPicture of silhouette of a woman and a man in red against a thumbs up/thumbs down backdrop. The woman is labeled "Sato" and the man is labeled "Suzuki," two different Japanese last names
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A man dared a hostess in Tokyo to a drinking game. She died several hours later. The story demonstrates how obscenely wealthy men use their power to take advantage of economically disadvantaged women for nothing but the sake of their own amusement.

buff.ly/ihxKbnI

Tequila is poured from a bottle into a glass. Tequila with salt and lime slices on a background of sunset.
ALT text detailsTequila is poured from a bottle into a glass. Tequila with salt and lime slices on a background of sunset.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Ito Shiori’s film about her sexual assault, Black Box Diaries, didn’t win the Academy Award for Best Documentary. The journalist and first-time director, however, say she’s not fazed and is focused on a larger goal: getting her Oscar-nominated film to screen in her own country.

unseen-japan.com/ito-shiori-bl

Ito Shiori speaking at a press conference for her book BLACK BOX
ALT text detailsIto Shiori speaking at a press conference for her book BLACK BOX
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Sunset, Minakami (1958)

Artist: Kasamatsu Shiro

tokyocowboy.co/articles/minaka

A view looking down a narrow lane in Minakami on a snowy winter's day. Tall stone foundations create a wall on our left; the blank side of a building stands on our right. The lane is deserted, but a rough track cleared in the snow on the ground tells of earlier foot traffic. Up ahead, more snow covers the rooftops of other buildings, and warm light glows in their windows. Beyond, snowy tree-covered mountains rise toward a dim, overcast sky. Snow continues to fall across the scene.
ALT text detailsA view looking down a narrow lane in Minakami on a snowy winter's day. Tall stone foundations create a wall on our left; the blank side of a building stands on our right. The lane is deserted, but a rough track cleared in the snow on the ground tells of earlier foot traffic. Up ahead, more snow covers the rooftops of other buildings, and warm light glows in their windows. Beyond, snowy tree-covered mountains rise toward a dim, overcast sky. Snow continues to fall across the scene.
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Midnight rain in Osaka Japan. #photpography #streetphotography #japan
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Midnight rain in Osaka Japan. #photpography #streetphotography #japan
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Sunset, Minakami (1958)

Artist: Kasamatsu Shiro

tokyocowboy.co/articles/minaka

A view looking down a narrow lane in Minakami on a snowy winter's day. Tall stone foundations create a wall on our left; the blank side of a building stands on our right. The lane is deserted, but a rough track cleared in the snow on the ground tells of earlier foot traffic. Up ahead, more snow covers the rooftops of other buildings, and warm light glows in their windows. Beyond, snowy tree-covered mountains rise toward a dim, overcast sky. Snow continues to fall across the scene.
ALT text detailsA view looking down a narrow lane in Minakami on a snowy winter's day. Tall stone foundations create a wall on our left; the blank side of a building stands on our right. The lane is deserted, but a rough track cleared in the snow on the ground tells of earlier foot traffic. Up ahead, more snow covers the rooftops of other buildings, and warm light glows in their windows. Beyond, snowy tree-covered mountains rise toward a dim, overcast sky. Snow continues to fall across the scene.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japanese light novel titles used to be a handful of words - or even a single word. Now, it's not uncommon to see titles topping almost 100 kanji and kana characters. When did people start writing such ridiculously long ranobe titles? And - more elusively - why?

unseen-japan.com/light-novels-

hesselschut's avatar
hesselschut

@hesselschut@pixelfed.social

Singularity Express

Video of a train passing at a crossing near Shinagawa railway station. Video processed through an algorithm where a rectangular volume of pixels (x, y, t) is transformed to a sphere. Made with Python and OpenCV. - Tokyo, Japan, January 2025

#railwaycrossing #videoprocessing #train #video #urbanphotography #computationalart #tokyo #shinagawa #japan #digitalart #railway #keikyuhonsen
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Even as costs rise, many ramen shops in Japan are afraid to transcend the so-called “1,000 yen wall” (around USD $6.70) or fear of driving away customers. So some have found a workaround: keep serving noodles …and only noodles.

unseen-japan.com/noodle-only-r

Glistening pile of ramen noodles in a white bowl
ALT text detailsGlistening pile of ramen noodles in a white bowl
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japan’s relationship with coffee is relatively shallow, dating back in earnest only about 150 years. But that hasn’t stopped it from becoming one of the country’s most popular beverages. Here’s the history behind how it happened and how coffee in Japan has evolved.

unseen-japan.com/coffee-in-jap

Woman drinking from a takeout coffee cup and looking hopefully towards the future
ALT text detailsWoman drinking from a takeout coffee cup and looking hopefully towards the future
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Hong Kong media has reported that police have arrested a member of a Japanese boy band on charges of sexual assault. In a fast and appropriate (but also somewhat weird) response, the group’s management company says it’s already dropped him from the team.

unseen-japan.com/kenshin-one-n

KENSHIN booted after Hong Kong assault picture of Hong Kong night skyline in the background and KENSHIN (from the One 'N Only site before they took it down) on the right
ALT text detailsKENSHIN booted after Hong Kong assault picture of Hong Kong night skyline in the background and KENSHIN (from the One 'N Only site before they took it down) on the right
Rhandos's avatar
Rhandos

@rhandos@chaos.social

One of my favorite souvenirs from : A bookmark that looks like a circuit board at first glance - it's actually a map of the Metro! 🚇

Photo of a bookmark made of dark green plastic with gold plated „circuits“. It looks like a circuit board and has and letter abbreviations at the intersections. At second glance one can recognize a train station map. The bookmark lies on a book cover with light pink background and a light blue glove printed on it. Title and author are partially obstructed.
ALT text detailsPhoto of a bookmark made of dark green plastic with gold plated „circuits“. It looks like a circuit board and has and letter abbreviations at the intersections. At second glance one can recognize a train station map. The bookmark lies on a book cover with light pink background and a light blue glove printed on it. Title and author are partially obstructed.
The same photo but the bookmark is flipped. It has a gold „connection“ at the lower and and the print „RoHs compliant“
ALT text detailsThe same photo but the bookmark is flipped. It has a gold „connection“ at the lower and and the print „RoHs compliant“
Rhandos's avatar
Rhandos

@rhandos@chaos.social

One of my favorite souvenirs from : A bookmark that looks like a circuit board at first glance - it's actually a map of the Metro! 🚇

Photo of a bookmark made of dark green plastic with gold plated „circuits“. It looks like a circuit board and has and letter abbreviations at the intersections. At second glance one can recognize a train station map. The bookmark lies on a book cover with light pink background and a light blue glove printed on it. Title and author are partially obstructed.
ALT text detailsPhoto of a bookmark made of dark green plastic with gold plated „circuits“. It looks like a circuit board and has and letter abbreviations at the intersections. At second glance one can recognize a train station map. The bookmark lies on a book cover with light pink background and a light blue glove printed on it. Title and author are partially obstructed.
The same photo but the bookmark is flipped. It has a gold „connection“ at the lower and and the print „RoHs compliant“
ALT text detailsThe same photo but the bookmark is flipped. It has a gold „connection“ at the lower and and the print „RoHs compliant“
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

That escalated quickly. Yesterday, we wrote about how Japan's MHLW posted a widely-mocked video urging young people, "don’t OD (overdose) – SD (相談; soudan, talk to someone) instead." Today, the gov deleted its X post and also removed the web page hosting the commercial.

unseen-japan.com/anti-overdose

Don't OD, SD! - poster showing a sheep holding a pill bottle in one hand and a cell phone in another
ALT text detailsDon't OD, SD! - poster showing a sheep holding a pill bottle in one hand and a cell phone in another
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Traveling to Tokyo? Need a break from your kids? Traveling with young ones can be stressful and exhausting - which is why a new service in Yurakucho, ANO NE Kids Club, is giving children a chance to play in a kid-friendly two-floor space while their parents see the sights.

unseen-japan.com/tokyo-new-chi

Ano Ne Childcare Service - picture of kids running up a large set of stairs
ALT text detailsAno Ne Childcare Service - picture of kids running up a large set of stairs
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Japan in the rain. #photography #streetphotography #japan
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Japan in the rain. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Achim Klüppelberg's avatar
Achim Klüppelberg

@Achim@social.anoxinon.de

14 years later and we are still remembering !

achimklueppelberg.com/2025/03/

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A US soldier breaks the rules in Fukuoka, a nuisance YouTuber's booted from a boat in Kagoshima, a boy band member's out after crimes in Hong Kong, and the prince is an otaku - this and more in this week's Unseen Japan Newsletter.

us20.campaign-archive.com/?u=e

Fukuoka City at night
ALT text detailsFukuoka City at night
YouTuber Ice Poseidon being told he can't board a boat
ALT text detailsYouTuber Ice Poseidon being told he can't board a boat
KENSHIN, formerly of the group ONE N' ONLY, against a backdrop of the night sky of Hong Kong
ALT text detailsKENSHIN, formerly of the group ONE N' ONLY, against a backdrop of the night sky of Hong Kong
Prince Hisahito with a bunch of light novel covers in the background
ALT text detailsPrince Hisahito with a bunch of light novel covers in the background
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The only son of Japan’s Crown Prince Fumihito – and the second in line to the throne after his father – held his first press conference recently. But another tidbit’s come out about the young prince that’s sure to endear him to geeks around the world.

unseen-japan.com/hisahito-ligh

Hitosato Loves Light Novels - picture of Hisahito in the lower right with pictures of several light novels, including Too Many Losing Heroines and There's No Freaking Way I'll be Your Lover! Unless...
ALT text detailsHitosato Loves Light Novels - picture of Hisahito in the lower right with pictures of several light novels, including Too Many Losing Heroines and There's No Freaking Way I'll be Your Lover! Unless...
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

When is a Japanese combini not a combini? When it's a port store. Here's what's up with those "fake"-looking Lawson and Family Mart stores you might see around the Tokyo Bay area. (Long story short: They're a good thing.)

unseen-japan.com/port-store-to

White silhouette figure in front of a Family Mart named a port store with a question mark thought bubble coming from its head
ALT text detailsWhite silhouette figure in front of a Family Mart named a port store with a question mark thought bubble coming from its head
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Foreigners aren’t the only ones with issues renting housing in Japan. One survey found 60.4% of disadvantaged people as such – including the elderly, single mothers, LGBTQ couples, and disabled people – said they’ve encountered discrimination in the housing process.

unseen-japan.com/housing-discr

Tokyo skyline with a number of upraised hands in front of it
ALT text detailsTokyo skyline with a number of upraised hands in front of it
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Heavy rain in Osaka Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A new ad from Japan's government meant to curb a rising trend in overdoses among the country's young instead led to harsh criticism online, with some saying the cringe 30-second spot featuring animated sheep just gives people advice they've already tried.

unseen-japan.com/anti-overdose

Don't OD, SD - poster showing a sheep holding a pill bottle in one hand and a cell phone in another saying, "Don't OD - SD (soudan, talk to someone) instead"
ALT text detailsDon't OD, SD - poster showing a sheep holding a pill bottle in one hand and a cell phone in another saying, "Don't OD - SD (soudan, talk to someone) instead"
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Heavy rain in Osaka Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

To celebrate International Women's Day, Japan's Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru posted a picture from an LDP leadership meeting showing a room full of old men. Social media users have bashed the post, saying Japan's once-powerful ruling party is male, frail, and out of touch.

unseen-japan.com/ldp-leadershi

Post fro muser miyoshiiii showing Ishiba Shigeru's post that depicts all male leaders in the LDP. Miyoshi's comment: ""It's one hell of a weird scene. Nothing but old men....this is why Japan is flailing."
ALT text detailsPost fro muser miyoshiiii showing Ishiba Shigeru's post that depicts all male leaders in the LDP. Miyoshi's comment: ""It's one hell of a weird scene. Nothing but old men....this is why Japan is flailing."
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Language evolves quickly. Japanese is no exception, with a slew of words that were commonplace just a half-century ago falling by the wayside. Here are a slew of words you may hear or see in print but you'll rarely hear fall from a young Japanese person's lips.

unseen-japan.com/dead-japanese

Dead Japanese Words - pictures of a furoshiki, hangers and coats, and a couple holding hands
ALT text detailsDead Japanese Words - pictures of a furoshiki, hangers and coats, and a couple holding hands
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The village of Shirakawa, home to tourist draw Shirakawa-go, will hike parking rates to help it manage traffic. In October, parking for cars near Shirakawa-go will go from 1K to 2K yen (USD $13.50), with tour bus charges going from 3K yen all the way up to 10K yen ($67).

unseen-japan.com/shirakawa-par

Shirakawa-go gassho-zukuri buildings in winter
ALT text detailsShirakawa-go gassho-zukuri buildings in winter
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Did you know you can write "concrete" in Japanese (usually just コンクリート) in kanji? There are actually two ways to do it - and one of them (below) is fairly cursed. Here are other Japanese words you can (theoretically) write in kanji if you want people to hate you.

buff.ly/5uSYVjc

X post showing "concrete" written with コンクリ over the character 土
ALT text detailsX post showing "concrete" written with コンクリ over the character 土
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

More foreigners - even foreign tourists - are getting Japanese driver's licenses than ever before. Some in Japan say that's making Japanese roads less safe. However, Japan's government said it's not seeing any signs in the data that that's true.

unseen-japan.com/japanese-driv

Driver's license while staying in hotel room - pictrure of woman in a car showing beginning driver's sticker superimposed against the picture of an inside of a hotel room
ALT text detailsDriver's license while staying in hotel room - pictrure of woman in a car showing beginning driver's sticker superimposed against the picture of an inside of a hotel room
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Rather than heaped on a plate, Morioka's wanko soba is served in bite-sized portions in small bowls. Restaurants will serve a number of these bowls at a time. When you’ve finished your first set, you can ask for more by saying "hai, jan-jan!" "hai, don-don!"

Wanko soba - soba divided into bowls
ALT text detailsWanko soba - soba divided into bowls
キク's avatar
キク

@kiqu.bsky.social@bsky.brid.gy

#photography #博物館 #Museum #ナウマンゾウ #Elephant #japan #osaka #大阪市立自然史博物館 2025/03/08 @bskyphotos.bsky.social

キク's avatar
キク

@kiqu.bsky.social@bsky.brid.gy

#photography #博物館 #Museum #ナウマンゾウ #Elephant #japan #osaka #大阪市立自然史博物館 2025/03/08 @bskyphotos.bsky.social

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A Japanese woman wrote to a forum with a burning problem: she'd just found out that her boyfriend was...an otaku. Should I dump him? she asked. The consensus answer: it's probably fine - but if he does otaku dances or owns an itasha, you best run.

unseen-japan.com/help-my-boyfr

An itasha - a car adorned with anime or virtual idol decals (in this caese, Hatsune Miku)
ALT text detailsAn itasha - a car adorned with anime or virtual idol decals (in this caese, Hatsune Miku)
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The Nagoya High Court in Japan ruled this past week that the country's lack of support for same-sex marriage is unconstitutional. It's the fourth such verdict in recent years. The court, however, stopped short of awarding damages to the couple that sued.

unseen-japan.com/marriage-equa

Two women in white wedding dresses walking towards the ocean on the beach, their backs to the cameras
ALT text detailsTwo women in white wedding dresses walking towards the ocean on the beach, their backs to the cameras
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

In a corner of Akihabara, you’ll find a strange battery of vending machines hidden in a building alcove. The most intriguing item for sale might be this rotary phone. The labels, written in Japanese and (for some reason) romaji, read, “This is 110 [the emergency line].”

110 rotary phone in Akihabara
ALT text details110 rotary phone in Akihabara
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Lately, more people on Japanese social media are commenting on how Akihabara has changed – and not for the better. Experts say the rise of smartphone games and social media platform gaming, social media, and the diffusion of otaku culture all play a factor.

buff.ly/FU0YKck

Picture of Akihabara at night
ALT text detailsPicture of Akihabara at night
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A recent survey asked Kagoshima residents if they thought men and women should share housework equally. The good news is that 78% said yes. The bad news? 88% said that, in reality, women end up doing most of the work.

unseen-japan.com/housework-jap

Wife washing ditches looks scornfully at husband sitting at kitchen table and playing on his smartphone
ALT text detailsWife washing ditches looks scornfully at husband sitting at kitchen table and playing on his smartphone
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Influencers in Japan love creating reaction videos of themselves trying Isoyama Corporation's spicy "R18" for the first time. Hikakin, one of Japan’s most well-known YouTubers, tried both the chips and the chocolate in 2016…much to his chagrin.

The moment the pain kicked in for Hikakin after eating just three chips.
ALT text detailsThe moment the pain kicked in for Hikakin after eating just three chips.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

How much would Hokkaido residents make if they were paid to shovel snow? Estimating an hourly wage of 1,675.1 yen ($11.18, a pretty damn good hourly wage for Japan), one think tank calculated it'd come out to a total of 53.4 billion yen, or USD $356M.

Blue Pond, Shirokane, Biei, Hokkaido
ALT text detailsBlue Pond, Shirokane, Biei, Hokkaido
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Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

A sculpted image of Kongōsatta (金剛薩埵菩薩) dating to the 9th century at the Lecture Hall of Tōji Temple (東寺) in , .

A sculpted image of Kongōsatta #Bodhisattva (金剛薩埵菩薩) dating to the 9th century at the Lecture Hall of Tōji Temple (東寺) in #Kyoto, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsA sculpted image of Kongōsatta #Bodhisattva (金剛薩埵菩薩) dating to the 9th century at the Lecture Hall of Tōji Temple (東寺) in #Kyoto, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
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J. Martin

@gyokusai@mastodon.social

I uploaded a new album on Flickr: Fujisan II: Azagawa (17 images, CC BY-NC-SA 4.0)

flickr.com/photos/oculardrafts

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J. Martin

@gyokusai@mastodon.social

I uploaded a new album on Flickr: Fujisan II: Azagawa (17 images, CC BY-NC-SA 4.0)

flickr.com/photos/oculardrafts

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Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

A sculpted image of Kongōsatta (金剛薩埵菩薩) dating to the 9th century at the Lecture Hall of Tōji Temple (東寺) in , .

A sculpted image of Kongōsatta #Bodhisattva (金剛薩埵菩薩) dating to the 9th century at the Lecture Hall of Tōji Temple (東寺) in #Kyoto, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsA sculpted image of Kongōsatta #Bodhisattva (金剛薩埵菩薩) dating to the 9th century at the Lecture Hall of Tōji Temple (東寺) in #Kyoto, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Preliminary numbers from Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (MHLW) show the country’s number of births dropped to 729,880 in 2024. That’s a dip of 37,643 from the previous year, or a full 5%.

Woman holding two wedding rings with a man holding her hand underneath
ALT text detailsWoman holding two wedding rings with a man holding her hand underneath
ねじまき🏳️‍🌈's avatar
ねじまき🏳️‍🌈

@nejimaki@mstdn.jp

Japanese Photographer Takumi Matsuo Captures Tokyo’s Streets Through Minimalist Photography - 121clicks.com/inspirations/tok

ねじまき🏳️‍🌈's avatar
ねじまき🏳️‍🌈

@nejimaki@mstdn.jp

Japanese Photographer Takumi Matsuo Captures Tokyo’s Streets Through Minimalist Photography - 121clicks.com/inspirations/tok

dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Everyday life in Kyoto Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
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dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Everyday life in Kyoto Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A nuisance streamer has made headlines with his antics in Japan. Fortunately, his bad behavior caught up with him and a Coast Guard director in Kagoshima denied him and his group entrance to a ferry. Japanese commenters are heaping praise on the officer.

unseen-japan.com/streamer-kago

Ice Poseidon - a.k.a. Paul Denino - being refused boarding on a boat in Kagoshima
ALT text detailsIce Poseidon - a.k.a. Paul Denino - being refused boarding on a boat in Kagoshima
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Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:

@norbertwoehnl@famichiki.jp

Happy weekend from Japan! My "On the Town" series continues with a special "Windows" edition for / - all shots taken on a walk with my mate @alfiegoodrich around Bakurocho & Nihonbashi in Tokyo. Details in ALT texts.

On an early evening in the Nihonbashi area of Tokyo, a woman working as a fortune teller is sitting at a tiny table on the sidewalk, opposite a big circular window that is illuminated from the inside of the building to which it belongs.
ALT text detailsOn an early evening in the Nihonbashi area of Tokyo, a woman working as a fortune teller is sitting at a tiny table on the sidewalk, opposite a big circular window that is illuminated from the inside of the building to which it belongs.
In the Nihonbashi area of Tokyo on an early evening, a black taxi is waiting opposite the modern glass architecture of the Artizon Museum. There are many reflections and light effects coming from inside the building as well as from the surroundings.
ALT text detailsIn the Nihonbashi area of Tokyo on an early evening, a black taxi is waiting opposite the modern glass architecture of the Artizon Museum. There are many reflections and light effects coming from inside the building as well as from the surroundings.
In the Horidomecho area of Nihonbashi in Toko, an older red building and its distinctively shaped windows are reflected off a modern building's glass facade. The glass facade is staggered towards the background in multiple steps, resulting in an interesting layering of the red building's reflection into different stages.
ALT text detailsIn the Horidomecho area of Nihonbashi in Toko, an older red building and its distinctively shaped windows are reflected off a modern building's glass facade. The glass facade is staggered towards the background in multiple steps, resulting in an interesting layering of the red building's reflection into different stages.
In the Nihonbashi-Yokoyamacho area of Tokyo, a window reflection of a leather ware store shows a rather crisp image of the adjacent shopping street, with various colorful buildings, signs and pedestrian traffic.
ALT text detailsIn the Nihonbashi-Yokoyamacho area of Tokyo, a window reflection of a leather ware store shows a rather crisp image of the adjacent shopping street, with various colorful buildings, signs and pedestrian traffic.
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:'s avatar
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:

@norbertwoehnl@famichiki.jp

Happy weekend from Japan! My "On the Town" series continues with a special "Windows" edition for / - all shots taken on a walk with my mate @alfiegoodrich around Bakurocho & Nihonbashi in Tokyo. Details in ALT texts.

On an early evening in the Nihonbashi area of Tokyo, a woman working as a fortune teller is sitting at a tiny table on the sidewalk, opposite a big circular window that is illuminated from the inside of the building to which it belongs.
ALT text detailsOn an early evening in the Nihonbashi area of Tokyo, a woman working as a fortune teller is sitting at a tiny table on the sidewalk, opposite a big circular window that is illuminated from the inside of the building to which it belongs.
In the Nihonbashi area of Tokyo on an early evening, a black taxi is waiting opposite the modern glass architecture of the Artizon Museum. There are many reflections and light effects coming from inside the building as well as from the surroundings.
ALT text detailsIn the Nihonbashi area of Tokyo on an early evening, a black taxi is waiting opposite the modern glass architecture of the Artizon Museum. There are many reflections and light effects coming from inside the building as well as from the surroundings.
In the Horidomecho area of Nihonbashi in Toko, an older red building and its distinctively shaped windows are reflected off a modern building's glass facade. The glass facade is staggered towards the background in multiple steps, resulting in an interesting layering of the red building's reflection into different stages.
ALT text detailsIn the Horidomecho area of Nihonbashi in Toko, an older red building and its distinctively shaped windows are reflected off a modern building's glass facade. The glass facade is staggered towards the background in multiple steps, resulting in an interesting layering of the red building's reflection into different stages.
In the Nihonbashi-Yokoyamacho area of Tokyo, a window reflection of a leather ware store shows a rather crisp image of the adjacent shopping street, with various colorful buildings, signs and pedestrian traffic.
ALT text detailsIn the Nihonbashi-Yokoyamacho area of Tokyo, a window reflection of a leather ware store shows a rather crisp image of the adjacent shopping street, with various colorful buildings, signs and pedestrian traffic.
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:'s avatar
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:

@norbertwoehnl@famichiki.jp

Happy weekend from Japan! My "On the Town" series continues with a special "Windows" edition for / - all shots taken on a walk with my mate @alfiegoodrich around Bakurocho & Nihonbashi in Tokyo. Details in ALT texts.

On an early evening in the Nihonbashi area of Tokyo, a woman working as a fortune teller is sitting at a tiny table on the sidewalk, opposite a big circular window that is illuminated from the inside of the building to which it belongs.
ALT text detailsOn an early evening in the Nihonbashi area of Tokyo, a woman working as a fortune teller is sitting at a tiny table on the sidewalk, opposite a big circular window that is illuminated from the inside of the building to which it belongs.
In the Nihonbashi area of Tokyo on an early evening, a black taxi is waiting opposite the modern glass architecture of the Artizon Museum. There are many reflections and light effects coming from inside the building as well as from the surroundings.
ALT text detailsIn the Nihonbashi area of Tokyo on an early evening, a black taxi is waiting opposite the modern glass architecture of the Artizon Museum. There are many reflections and light effects coming from inside the building as well as from the surroundings.
In the Horidomecho area of Nihonbashi in Toko, an older red building and its distinctively shaped windows are reflected off a modern building's glass facade. The glass facade is staggered towards the background in multiple steps, resulting in an interesting layering of the red building's reflection into different stages.
ALT text detailsIn the Horidomecho area of Nihonbashi in Toko, an older red building and its distinctively shaped windows are reflected off a modern building's glass facade. The glass facade is staggered towards the background in multiple steps, resulting in an interesting layering of the red building's reflection into different stages.
In the Nihonbashi-Yokoyamacho area of Tokyo, a window reflection of a leather ware store shows a rather crisp image of the adjacent shopping street, with various colorful buildings, signs and pedestrian traffic.
ALT text detailsIn the Nihonbashi-Yokoyamacho area of Tokyo, a window reflection of a leather ware store shows a rather crisp image of the adjacent shopping street, with various colorful buildings, signs and pedestrian traffic.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japan's gov has approved a set of proposed new regulations for Japan's host clubs. If made law, hosts and host clubs that use romance and threats to force indebted female customers into prostitution and adult video work would face massive fines and jail time.

unseen-japan.com/host-clubs-ne

Picture of numerous host club billboards in Tokyo's Kabukicho neighborhood, where they're a dime a dozen
ALT text detailsPicture of numerous host club billboards in Tokyo's Kabukicho neighborhood, where they're a dime a dozen
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Five Egrets Descending in Snow (1920)

Artist: Ohara Koson

english.kyodonews.net/news/202

A string of five white egrets spread their wings as they descend through falling snow out of a dim, overcast sky. In the foreground, brown and frost-bitten marsh reeds sag under the weight of snow.
ALT text detailsA string of five white egrets spread their wings as they descend through falling snow out of a dim, overcast sky. In the foreground, brown and frost-bitten marsh reeds sag under the weight of snow.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

"If they don't pay, I'm not going to defend them."

Looks like Trump may be lining up an attack on once he finds a window in his packed schedule of attacks on , , , etc etc...

www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/new

atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

"If they don't pay, I'm not going to defend them."

Looks like Trump may be lining up an attack on once he finds a window in his packed schedule of attacks on , , , etc etc...

www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/new

atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

"If they don't pay, I'm not going to defend them."

Looks like Trump may be lining up an attack on once he finds a window in his packed schedule of attacks on , , , etc etc...

www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/new

atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Five Egrets Descending in Snow (1920)

Artist: Ohara Koson

english.kyodonews.net/news/202

A string of five white egrets spread their wings as they descend through falling snow out of a dim, overcast sky. In the foreground, brown and frost-bitten marsh reeds sag under the weight of snow.
ALT text detailsA string of five white egrets spread their wings as they descend through falling snow out of a dim, overcast sky. In the foreground, brown and frost-bitten marsh reeds sag under the weight of snow.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Police arrested a 33-year-old man at a convenience store in Hokkaido. He didn't have a weapon, didn't threaten anyone, and wasn't intoxicated. His crime? Asking a clerk for money. Police charged him w/ trespassing because being poor in Hokkaido is apparently a crime now.

unseen-japan.com/hokkaido-asah

Asahikawa, Hokkaido, Japan skyline in the winter.
ALT text detailsAsahikawa, Hokkaido, Japan skyline in the winter.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A recent social media post has started a debate over the proper use of smartphones on trains in Japan – particularly when you’re near a seat reserved for those with extra needs. Should you or shouldn't you check your email near a priority seat? Learn more below.

unseen-japan.com/japan-priorit

Priority Seat sign in Japan asking passengers to turn off their signs when near the seat
ALT text detailsPriority Seat sign in Japan asking passengers to turn off their signs when near the seat
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japanese companies and even some government agencies have jumped – for better or worse – on the Artificial Intelligence (AI) bandwagon. Unfortunately, not all of these attempts to “do more with less” are panning out. That could put children – and others – at risk.

unseen-japan.com/japan-child-a

An AI-ish style white HUD-like display superimposed on a picture of a young Asian girl in profile looking to the right
ALT text detailsAn AI-ish style white HUD-like display superimposed on a picture of a young Asian girl in profile looking to the right
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:'s avatar
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:

@norbertwoehnl@famichiki.jp

Given my recent streak of Tokyo night photos, I feel a bit weird to not have any new ones at the moment - but on my camera roll, I found this one taken last year from Ochanomizu Bridge along the Kanda River, looking towards Akihabara.

Night photograph from Tokyo. We are looking over Ochanomizu Station and the Kanda River in the direction of Akihabara.
ALT text detailsNight photograph from Tokyo. We are looking over Ochanomizu Station and the Kanda River in the direction of Akihabara.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japan continues to crack down on host clubs – particularly, on hosts who connive to earn money by hook or by crook. The latest arrest is reminiscent of an earlier case where a host encouraged a customer to defraud other men so she could give him more money.

unseen-japan.com/japan-host-fr

Picture of Ibuki Reno from his Instagram
ALT text detailsPicture of Ibuki Reno from his Instagram
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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

A movement calling for women's clothing to include pockets is gaining traction in Japan, prompting a change in the apparel industry. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/03/

atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Snow at Shinkawabata, Handa, Bishu (1935)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

asahi.com/ajw/articles/15657355

A snowy evening by a canal in a Japanese town. On the left, the water in the canal is blue and calm; on the right, a row of industrial-looking buildings, probably warehouses, line up along the water. Between the two, a figure in dark clothing and a little dog walk along a track worn by foot traffic in the snow. The figure carries an umbrella over their head as protection from the weather. Above, the sky is dim and overcast, and snow continues to fall across the scene.
ALT text detailsA snowy evening by a canal in a Japanese town. On the left, the water in the canal is blue and calm; on the right, a row of industrial-looking buildings, probably warehouses, line up along the water. Between the two, a figure in dark clothing and a little dog walk along a track worn by foot traffic in the snow. The figure carries an umbrella over their head as protection from the weather. Above, the sky is dim and overcast, and snow continues to fall across the scene.
The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

A movement calling for women's clothing to include pockets is gaining traction in Japan, prompting a change in the apparel industry. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/03/

dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

A night in Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

A night in Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Politicians in Japan are still debating whether to change an over 100-year-old law that requires Japanese spouses to have the same last name. As the debate rages, a new survey shows over half of married women wish they'd had the choice to keep their maiden names.

unseen-japan.com/poll-separate

Picture of silhouette of a woman and a man in red against a thumbs up/thumbs down backdrop. The woman is labeled "Sato" and the man is labeled "Suzuki," two different Japanese last names
ALT text detailsPicture of silhouette of a woman and a man in red against a thumbs up/thumbs down backdrop. The woman is labeled "Sato" and the man is labeled "Suzuki," two different Japanese last names
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Ito Shiori's documentary BLACK BOX DIARIES made history as the first documentary nominated for an Oscar by a Japanese director. The journalist and activist say she has a new goal: getting her acclaimed film to screen in Japan, where it's still in release limbo.

unseen-japan.com/ito-shiori-bl

Ito Shiori speaking at a press conference for her book BLACK BOX
ALT text detailsIto Shiori speaking at a press conference for her book BLACK BOX
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Snow at Shinkawabata, Handa, Bishu (1935)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

asahi.com/ajw/articles/15657355

A snowy evening by a canal in a Japanese town. On the left, the water in the canal is blue and calm; on the right, a row of industrial-looking buildings, probably warehouses, line up along the water. Between the two, a figure in dark clothing and a little dog walk along a track worn by foot traffic in the snow. The figure carries an umbrella over their head as protection from the weather. Above, the sky is dim and overcast, and snow continues to fall across the scene.
ALT text detailsA snowy evening by a canal in a Japanese town. On the left, the water in the canal is blue and calm; on the right, a row of industrial-looking buildings, probably warehouses, line up along the water. Between the two, a figure in dark clothing and a little dog walk along a track worn by foot traffic in the snow. The figure carries an umbrella over their head as protection from the weather. Above, the sky is dim and overcast, and snow continues to fall across the scene.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A producer on the famous anime Your Name got his day in court. However, some are calling the sentence light given the scope of his sexual predation. Learn more about the sentence and the backlash below.

unseen-japan.com/your-name-pro

On left: Poster for Your Name. On right: Man in suit in background reaches out his hands to foreground to try and grab silhouette figures of four women
ALT text detailsOn left: Poster for Your Name. On right: Man in suit in background reaches out his hands to foreground to try and grab silhouette figures of four women
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A popular photo of a barn owl running across a lawn just got the ultimate honor: it’s been immortalized by Japan’s premier royalty-free illustration site. Learn more about why and how to use it in your own work below.

unseen-japan.com/hannie-heere-

Hannie Heere owl from Irasutoya - a white owl smiling as it runs across green grass with turquoise light painting the background
ALT text detailsHannie Heere owl from Irasutoya - a white owl smiling as it runs across green grass with turquoise light painting the background
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Americans don’t have the best reputation in the world right now. They’ve always had a rocky reputation in Japan, particularly due to behavior by US military personnel. For some reason, some dumbass decided to make the situation even worse.

unseen-japan.com/us-navy-sailo

Fukuoka City - view of night skyline from Fukuoka Tower
ALT text detailsFukuoka City - view of night skyline from Fukuoka Tower
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Rainy night in Akihabara Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Rainy night in Akihabara Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

A group of Japanese high school students called for the abolition of nuclear weapons Wednesday in New York, where a meeting of signatories to the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons is underway. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/03/

The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

A group of Japanese high school students called for the abolition of nuclear weapons Wednesday in New York, where a meeting of signatories to the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons is underway. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/03/

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Want some ramen and broth - and nothing else? As prices of nearly everything in Japan spike and ramen shops remain afraid of scaling the "1,000 yen wall," some stores are offering nothin' but noodles for customers who are tightening their belts.

unseen-japan.com/noodle-only-r

Glistening pile of ramen noodles in a white bowl
ALT text detailsGlistening pile of ramen noodles in a white bowl
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Hong Police police have arrested rapper & dancer KENSHIN (Kamimura Kenshin) after he allegedly sexually assaulted an interpreter. The group's dropped him & canceled his contract - a sign that Japanese companies are taking crimes against women more seriously.

unseen-japan.com/kenshin-one-n

KENSHIN booted after Hong Kong assault picture of Hong Kong night skyline in the background and KENSHIN (from the One 'N Only site before they took it down) on the right
ALT text detailsKENSHIN booted after Hong Kong assault picture of Hong Kong night skyline in the background and KENSHIN (from the One 'N Only site before they took it down) on the right
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A member of Japan's Conservative Party demanded the government close a loophole that allows Chinese tourists to get a Japanese driver's license using a hotel address, saying it endangers Japanese citizens. The government responded that, frankly, it doesn't see a problem.

unseen-japan.com/japanese-driv

Driver's license while staying in hotel room - pictrure of woman in a car showing beginning driver's sticker superimposed against the picture of an inside of a hotel room
ALT text detailsDriver's license while staying in hotel room - pictrure of woman in a car showing beginning driver's sticker superimposed against the picture of an inside of a hotel room
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Every week brings new stories of celebrities who’ve been caught engaging in illegal online gambling in Japan. The growth in online casino use has authorities considering a ban on even accessing such sites from within the country’s borders.

unseen-japan.com/online-casino

Online casino blocking - picture of a hand on the left with the word "stop" written on it. To the right, various symbols of glambling, including a slot machine, cards, and a roulette wheel
ALT text detailsOnline casino blocking - picture of a hand on the left with the word "stop" written on it. To the right, various symbols of glambling, including a slot machine, cards, and a roulette wheel
JoeJoeTom (aka Eerie Tom)'s avatar
JoeJoeTom (aka Eerie Tom)

@joejoetom@famichiki.jp

1/2 Question for non-Japanese living long term in . My hubby and I are thinking of living there, but we are, I believe, *not* eligible for work, cultural, artist, etc. visas. We could probably get a 6-month tourist , but how often can we renew it? We are concerned that we would move all out stuff there, only to be told a year (or even 2 or 3 or 5 years) later that it's time to get out. If we were just going to rent an apartment that might be okay, but we'd really like to buy a house.

Buddhist Art's avatar
Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

Nio statue at the Daimon gate of Seiso-ji, .

Nio statue at the Daimon gate of Seiso-ji, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsNio statue at the Daimon gate of Seiso-ji, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A large quantity of personal items and baggage mysteriously remained. To Japanese detectives, it seemed more than clear. Murder had taken place amongst the revolutionaries of the United Red Army.

And yet, where were the bodies?

unseen-japan.com/united-red-ar

Picture of a blood splatter on snow
ALT text detailsPicture of a blood splatter on snow
Buddhist Art's avatar
Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

Nio statue at the Daimon gate of Seiso-ji, .

Nio statue at the Daimon gate of Seiso-ji, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsNio statue at the Daimon gate of Seiso-ji, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Many ramen places in Japan are struggling to stay afloat. However, one unexpected chain is apparently making a killing with its latest ramen offering – and it’s breaking the so-called “1,000 yen wall” at the same time. Welcome to...Denny's?

unseen-japan.com/japan-ramen-d

Advertisement from Denny's Japan web site for its ramen offering
ALT text detailsAdvertisement from Denny's Japan web site for its ramen offering
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

In a rare good sentence in Japan, an Osaka court sentenced 28-year-old Yanagimoto Tomoya to life in prison for stalking, threatening, & sexually assaulting 10 elementary schoolgirls between 2016 and 2022, calling his crimes "the height of viciousness." Yanagimoto's appealing.

buff.ly/9iWM9bV

Headline from LiveDoor news. JP text: 【速報】小学生女児10人に性的暴行　男が「無期懲役」判決を不服として控訴　犯行前に念入りに尾行や見張り　カッターナイフで脅すなどして犯行　大阪地裁判決は「卑劣・悪質の極み」と糾弾
ALT text detailsHeadline from LiveDoor news. JP text: 【速報】小学生女児10人に性的暴行　男が「無期懲役」判決を不服として控訴　犯行前に念入りに尾行や見張り　カッターナイフで脅すなどして犯行　大阪地裁判決は「卑劣・悪質の極み」と糾弾
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dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Snowy night in Shibuya Tokyo. #photography #streetphotography #japan
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dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Snowy night in Shibuya Tokyo. #photography #streetphotography #japan
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dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Snowy night in Shibuya Tokyo. #photography #streetphotography #japan
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Thanks to climate change, there's less snow to shovel in Hokkaido than ever - but still enough that, according to Dogin Regional Research Institute, residents would earn a collective 53.4 billion yen (USD $356M) if compensated for their unpaid shoveling labor.

unseen-japan.com/hokkaido-snow

Amazing sculpture at the Sapporo Snow Festival
ALT text detailsAmazing sculpture at the Sapporo Snow Festival
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

(Former) Japan Communist Party Member and (former) Tsushima City legislator Matsui Yumiko, 48, has formally been charged in the assault that tanked her career. Matsui resigned after getting smashed as a mom's get-together, collapsing on the road, & then attacking hospital staff.

Article from Chunichi TV. Japanese headline: 酒に酔い看護師らに“暴行”　けがをさせた疑い　元津島市議を書類送検　愛知県警
ALT text detailsArticle from Chunichi TV. Japanese headline: 酒に酔い看護師らに“暴行”　けがをさせた疑い　元津島市議を書類送検　愛知県警
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japan's Minister of Internal Affairs, Murakami Seiichiro, was jeered when he bolted from the Diet during an opposition politician's speech. His presence was required and his absence stopped the proceedings. Arriving back, he told the room, "Nature calls me. All apologies."

news.yahoo.co.jp/articles/a394

Headline from Mainichi Shimbun. Japanese text: 村上総務相、トイレで衆院本会議を突然退席　議事が一時中断、陳謝
ALT text detailsHeadline from Mainichi Shimbun. Japanese text: 村上総務相、トイレで衆院本会議を突然退席　議事が一時中断、陳謝
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japan's yearly birth rate continues to plummet and may dip below 700,000 next year. Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru says the problem is that people just don't have the chance to meet like they used to - calling out in particular the drop in omiai, or traditional matchmaking services.

unseen-japan.com/birth-rate-ja

Man and a woman having a coffee date, picture taken of their backs as they look at each other
ALT text detailsMan and a woman having a coffee date, picture taken of their backs as they look at each other
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A new report from the Japan Tourism Agency shows tourists are spending more time out of Japan's big cities, with the share of regional hotel stays climbing to 34%. The big winner? Gifu Prefecture, which saw stays increase by 118.9% year over year. Miyazaki Prefecture came in 2nd.

Chart showing number of people staying in regions of Japan outside of the major three cities climbing by 32.5% relative to 2023.
ALT text detailsChart showing number of people staying in regions of Japan outside of the major three cities climbing by 32.5% relative to 2023.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A new report from the Japan Tourism Agency shows tourists are spending more time out of Japan's big cities, with the share of regional hotel stays climbing to 34%. The big winner? Gifu Prefecture, which saw stays increase by 118.9% year over year. Miyazaki Prefecture came in 2nd.

Chart showing number of people staying in regions of Japan outside of the major three cities climbing by 32.5% relative to 2023.
ALT text detailsChart showing number of people staying in regions of Japan outside of the major three cities climbing by 32.5% relative to 2023.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The Liberal Democratic Party (LDP)'s Yamada Kenji is unhappy that Japan's new plan to make high school course fees free includes a group he apparently despises: foreigners. He's demanding the benefit not go to foreign residents, who pay taxes just like everyone else.

ANN News headline about Yamada's request. JP text: 高校授業料無償化　外国人を対象としないよう要求
ALT text detailsANN News headline about Yamada's request. JP text: 高校授業料無償化　外国人を対象としないよう要求
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Want a little more UJ? Donors paying $5/mo. ($60 one-time donation) can join Unseen Japan Insider and get a special newsletter filled with bonus content, the ability to ask us anything about Japan, and a voice in our future editorial direction.

unseen-japan.com/support/

UJ logo of a woman in kimono walking a shiba inu with the phrase "Become an Insider" and a Join Now button
ALT text detailsUJ logo of a woman in kimono walking a shiba inu with the phrase "Become an Insider" and a Join Now button
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Across the islands, Okinawans are reconnecting with their languages. Traditional dance, theater, and music are blossoming. And now, as knowledge of the separate history of Ryukyu spreads, so too does the story of the hajichi tattoos.

youtu.be/dHOOkwaLKdQ

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Ukraine War Bulletins and News

@SocraticEthics@mastodon.online

🇰🇷🇺🇦South Korea has no intention of changing Ukraine aid policy (more) ukrinform.net/rubric-polytics/

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Cherry blossom season is arriving in Japan. Here are Japan’s top five festivals where you can get an eyeful of some of the most gorgeous cherry blossom leaves the country has to offer. These contain some hidden surprises, even for frequent tourists!

unseen-japan.com/japan-cherry-

Cherry Blossom Festivals Around Japan - theee-part picture of different pink scenes
ALT text detailsCherry Blossom Festivals Around Japan - theee-part picture of different pink scenes
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noco｜Flower Photographer

@noco3n_com@mstdn.jp

Look up at the sky.

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noco｜Flower Photographer

@noco3n_com@mstdn.jp

Look up at the sky.

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Want to go to a Tokyo cafe that's truly bewitched? Cafe Juju is a new joint in Suginami City, Tokyo that has a cute & innocent 1st floor with a 2nd floor full of (reputedly) cursed objects, with occasional spiritual and occult "performances." Oh, and they sell parfaits too.

Cafe Juju - exterior, white, plain looking, door has red trim, window has blue trim
ALT text detailsCafe Juju - exterior, white, plain looking, door has red trim, window has blue trim
The inside of Juju Cafe, which is darked and haunted. Picture shows a female doll with one eye.
ALT text detailsThe inside of Juju Cafe, which is darked and haunted. Picture shows a female doll with one eye.
Another creepy doll, this one in a grene vest and bow tie with a knit hat staring down at you.
ALT text detailsAnother creepy doll, this one in a grene vest and bow tie with a knit hat staring down at you.
Ice cream and chocolate parfait
ALT text detailsIce cream and chocolate parfait
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dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Rainy night in Osaka Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Nearly all trains in Japan ask passengers to turn off their smartphones near priority seats to avoid potentially disrupting pacemakers. A social media post about the rule, however, has many pointing out it has no basis in scientific fact, with some even calling it an urban legend.

unseen-japan.com/japan-priorit

Woman using her smartphone on a train
ALT text detailsWoman using her smartphone on a train
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dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Rainy night in Osaka Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japan's hidden travel gems, themed Tokyo cafes, a higher departure tax, and Navy sailors wilding in Fukuoka - all that and more in this week's roundup of our best content in the Unseen Japan Newsletter.

us20.campaign-archive.com/?u=e

Old Castle Alice in Ikebukuro - left: a chandelier-shaped table with a Hearts gard standing in front of it; right - a delicious fruit and ice cream parfait
ALT text detailsOld Castle Alice in Ikebukuro - left: a chandelier-shaped table with a Hearts gard standing in front of it; right - a delicious fruit and ice cream parfait
Picture of two stone rabbits running on their hind legs like humans
ALT text detailsPicture of two stone rabbits running on their hind legs like humans
Narita Airport at night
ALT text detailsNarita Airport at night
Fukuoka City - view of night skyline from Fukuoka Tower
ALT text detailsFukuoka City - view of night skyline from Fukuoka Tower
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

US President and would-be dictator Donald Trump is threatening Japan over its weak yen policy. Asahi says he announced at a press conference that if the country didn't abandon pursuing a weak yen by keeping interest rates low, it'd "raise tariffs a little" to "balance" things out.

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A woman working construction on site at Expo 2025's Pavilion complained to the Osaka gov that there are "no women's toilets" there & she has to go 11 hours between bathroom breaks. Contacted by press, the Expo Committee insisted there are - but couldn't say where or how many.

Article in Mainichi Shimbun. JP headline: 万博工事で女性用トイレの設置要望　「切実なお願い」協会知らず
ALT text detailsArticle in Mainichi Shimbun. JP headline: 万博工事で女性用トイレの設置要望　「切実なお願い」協会知らず
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Starbucks Japan will have a female CEO, as Morii Hisae takes control from Mizuguchi Takafumi next month. The move is good news for working women in Japan, where women are severely underrepresented in the upper ranks of the country's corporate world.

TBS News Dig article. JP headline: スターバックス　来月から森井久恵氏がCEOに 日本人女性初
ALT text detailsTBS News Dig article. JP headline: スターバックス　来月から森井久恵氏がCEOに 日本人女性初
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japan's Children & Families Agency spent 1 billion yen on developing a Machine Learning system to detect risk of child abuse based on data. It's now abandoning the project after a test run produced a 62% failure rate. Experts say fixing the system's issues would be "difficult."

unseen-japan.com/japan-child-a

An AI-ish style white HUD-like display superimposed on a picture of a young Asian girl in profile looking to the right
ALT text detailsAn AI-ish style white HUD-like display superimposed on a picture of a young Asian girl in profile looking to the right
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atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Snow at Kiyomizu Hall, Ueno (1929)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

asahi.com/ajw/articles/15652549

Heavy snow falls at Kiyomizu Hall in Ueno, Tokyo. A solitary visitor to the temple holds a bamboo umbrella over her head as she climbs stone steps leading up to the entrance to the red-lacquered building; the umbrella is little protection from the weather, and her robes are whipped about her by the wind. Fresh snow sticks to a leafless tree standing in the foreground, covers the temple rooftop, and gathers in drifts across the ground. Above, the sky is dark and overcast.
ALT text detailsHeavy snow falls at Kiyomizu Hall in Ueno, Tokyo. A solitary visitor to the temple holds a bamboo umbrella over her head as she climbs stone steps leading up to the entrance to the red-lacquered building; the umbrella is little protection from the weather, and her robes are whipped about her by the wind. Fresh snow sticks to a leafless tree standing in the foreground, covers the temple rooftop, and gathers in drifts across the ground. Above, the sky is dark and overcast.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

One of Kyōto's most photographed pieces of scenery is a stretch of garden behind Jōnan-gū's (城南宮) main shrine. Here winter and spring collide with plum blossoms cascading over fallen camellia flowers...bright dots in a verdant green carpet.

Winter and spring collide at Jonan-gu, with weeping plum blossoms blooming above fallen camellia flowers on a bed of moss.
ALT text detailsWinter and spring collide at Jonan-gu, with weeping plum blossoms blooming above fallen camellia flowers on a bed of moss.
Winter and spring collide at Jonan-gu, with weeping plum blossoms blooming above fallen camellia flowers on a bed of moss.
ALT text detailsWinter and spring collide at Jonan-gu, with weeping plum blossoms blooming above fallen camellia flowers on a bed of moss.
Winter and spring collide at Jonan-gu, with weeping plum blossoms blooming above fallen camellia flowers on a bed of moss.
ALT text detailsWinter and spring collide at Jonan-gu, with weeping plum blossoms blooming above fallen camellia flowers on a bed of moss.
Winter and spring collide at Jonan-gu, with weeping plum blossoms blooming above fallen camellia flowers on a bed of moss.
ALT text detailsWinter and spring collide at Jonan-gu, with weeping plum blossoms blooming above fallen camellia flowers on a bed of moss.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Blok M is one of the few places frequented by Japanese immigrants in Jakarta. Entrepreneurs purposefully built Japanese-style businesses in Blok M to attract the Japanese community; this area is now what’s considered Little Tokyo.

unseen-japan.com/jakarta-littl

Kira Kira Ginza, in Blok M, South Jakarta. Photograph by author.
ALT text detailsKira Kira Ginza, in Blok M, South Jakarta. Photograph by author.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: It’s one thing when tourists in a foreign country behave badly and bring shame and dishonor down on their fellow countrypeople. It’s another when they put their lives in actual, physical danger. Unfortunately, the latter seems to be an increasing trend in Japan.

unseen-japan.com/hokkaido-abas

Ice flows on the Sea of Okhotsk
ALT text detailsIce flows on the Sea of Okhotsk
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Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

statue, Museum, .

#Buddha statue, #Tokyo Museum, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text details#Buddha statue, #Tokyo Museum, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
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Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

statue, Museum, .

#Buddha statue, #Tokyo Museum, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text details#Buddha statue, #Tokyo Museum, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A 16-year-old rescued from scammers in Myanmar said he was forced to work until he paid the group 1 million yen (USD $6,715). In another story reported by NHK, he says that on days he didn’t make his quota, his captors would shock him with a stun gun.

Scammer at work - man with face obscured by jacket hood typing on laptop computer on a desk; picture is dimly lift blacks and greys
ALT text detailsScammer at work - man with face obscured by jacket hood typing on laptop computer on a desk; picture is dimly lift blacks and greys
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Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:

@norbertwoehnl@famichiki.jp

Season 10 of backstreet night photos from Itabashi ward in Tokyo - shot last Wednesday - continues:

“Itabashi Nights”
Season 10, Episode 4
“That I Would Be Good”

iPhone 15 Pro, night mode.

Night photograph of a quiet residential backstreet in the Maenocho district of Itabashi Ward in Tokyo, Japan.
ALT text detailsNight photograph of a quiet residential backstreet in the Maenocho district of Itabashi Ward in Tokyo, Japan.
Night photograph of an old barbershop adjacent to a weathered building in the Maenocho district of Itabashi Ward in Tokyo, Japan.
ALT text detailsNight photograph of an old barbershop adjacent to a weathered building in the Maenocho district of Itabashi Ward in Tokyo, Japan.
Night photograph of a quiet residential backstreet in the Maenocho district of Itabashi Ward in Tokyo, Japan.
ALT text detailsNight photograph of a quiet residential backstreet in the Maenocho district of Itabashi Ward in Tokyo, Japan.
Night photograph of a quiet residential backstreet in the Maenocho district of Itabashi Ward in Tokyo, Japan.
ALT text detailsNight photograph of a quiet residential backstreet in the Maenocho district of Itabashi Ward in Tokyo, Japan.
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:'s avatar
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:

@norbertwoehnl@famichiki.jp

Season 10 of backstreet night photos from Itabashi ward in Tokyo - shot last Wednesday - continues:

“Itabashi Nights”
Season 10, Episode 4
“That I Would Be Good”

iPhone 15 Pro, night mode.

Night photograph of a quiet residential backstreet in the Maenocho district of Itabashi Ward in Tokyo, Japan.
ALT text detailsNight photograph of a quiet residential backstreet in the Maenocho district of Itabashi Ward in Tokyo, Japan.
Night photograph of an old barbershop adjacent to a weathered building in the Maenocho district of Itabashi Ward in Tokyo, Japan.
ALT text detailsNight photograph of an old barbershop adjacent to a weathered building in the Maenocho district of Itabashi Ward in Tokyo, Japan.
Night photograph of a quiet residential backstreet in the Maenocho district of Itabashi Ward in Tokyo, Japan.
ALT text detailsNight photograph of a quiet residential backstreet in the Maenocho district of Itabashi Ward in Tokyo, Japan.
Night photograph of a quiet residential backstreet in the Maenocho district of Itabashi Ward in Tokyo, Japan.
ALT text detailsNight photograph of a quiet residential backstreet in the Maenocho district of Itabashi Ward in Tokyo, Japan.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

"Whoever posts a sadder picture than this wins"

Sign reads "Today's penguin feeding time: TBD"

X post by user @LImo400. Original Japanese: こいつよりさびしい画像出したら優勝
ALT text detailsX post by user @LImo400. Original Japanese: こいつよりさびしい画像出したら優勝
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

One of Kyōto's most photographed pieces of scenery is a stretch of garden behind Jōnan-gū's (城南宮) main shrine. Here winter and spring collide with plum blossoms cascading over fallen camellia flowers...bright dots in a verdant green carpet.

Winter and spring collide at Jonan-gu, with weeping plum blossoms blooming above fallen camellia flowers on a bed of moss.
ALT text detailsWinter and spring collide at Jonan-gu, with weeping plum blossoms blooming above fallen camellia flowers on a bed of moss.
Winter and spring collide at Jonan-gu, with weeping plum blossoms blooming above fallen camellia flowers on a bed of moss.
ALT text detailsWinter and spring collide at Jonan-gu, with weeping plum blossoms blooming above fallen camellia flowers on a bed of moss.
Winter and spring collide at Jonan-gu, with weeping plum blossoms blooming above fallen camellia flowers on a bed of moss.
ALT text detailsWinter and spring collide at Jonan-gu, with weeping plum blossoms blooming above fallen camellia flowers on a bed of moss.
Winter and spring collide at Jonan-gu, with weeping plum blossoms blooming above fallen camellia flowers on a bed of moss.
ALT text detailsWinter and spring collide at Jonan-gu, with weeping plum blossoms blooming above fallen camellia flowers on a bed of moss.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social

🗺️🤔SOUTH OF THE CAPITAL🧭🌸

Second only to Kitano Tenmangū as the go-to destination for plum blossoms, Jōnan-gū's "Spring Mountain" (春の山) reimagines a Heian-period style garden.

even the mean monks
come to eat rice cakes-
God of Jōnan
腹あしき僧も餅くへ城南神
-Yosa-no-Buson.

Weeping plum blossoms at Jonan-gu.
ALT text detailsWeeping plum blossoms at Jonan-gu.
Jonan-gu's 'Spring Mountain' garden recreates the aesthetics of the Heian period.
ALT text detailsJonan-gu's 'Spring Mountain' garden recreates the aesthetics of the Heian period.
Pink plum blossoms cascading down 'weeping ume' branches.
ALT text detailsPink plum blossoms cascading down 'weeping ume' branches.
Nao-san admires the plum blossoms at Jonan-gu.
ALT text detailsNao-san admires the plum blossoms at Jonan-gu.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A popular photo has been immortalized as a fun illustration thanks to Japan's premier free stock illustration site after suddenly going viral on Japanese social media. Irasutoya has offered its own version of Hannie Heere's famous pic of a young barn owl jogging across a lawn.

unseen-japan.com/hannie-heere-

Hannie Heere owl from Irasutoya - a white barn owl smiling as it runs across green grass with turquoise light painting the background
ALT text detailsHannie Heere owl from Irasutoya - a white barn owl smiling as it runs across green grass with turquoise light painting the background
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japanese police continue to crack down on host club hosts who encourage resorting to crime to pay off debts. "Eternally 16-year-old" Kanai Yasutoshi (age 35) took 1.5M yen ($9.9K) that a customer obtained through fraud - and bragged to a friend that he wouldn't get caught.

unseen-japan.com/japan-host-fr

Picture of Ibuki Reno from his Instagram
ALT text detailsPicture of Ibuki Reno from his Instagram
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

53-year-old Ito Koichiro, a producer on popular anime Your Name, admitted in court to paying for sex from at least 11 minor girls. His sentence? A mere four years - over half that of Watanabe Mai, a woman convicted of defrauding men to pay off her host club debt.

unseen-japan.com/your-name-pro

On left: Poster for Your Name. On right: Man in suit in background reaches out his hands to foreground to try and grab silhouette figures of four women
ALT text detailsOn left: Poster for Your Name. On right: Man in suit in background reaches out his hands to foreground to try and grab silhouette figures of four women
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japan was rumored to be the home of tens of thousands of castles under the Tokugawa shogunate (1603-1868). In this era, over 3,000 castles blossomed nationwide, tactically crafted to shield the ruling family from potential uprisings by feudal lords (daimyo).

Ise Azuchi Castle, Ise, Mie Prefecture
ALT text detailsIse Azuchi Castle, Ise, Mie Prefecture
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The Tantei (Detective) Cafe in Ikebukuro is a bar/cafe with a whodunnit feel. During their bar time, they also offer a host of detective-related activities, such as a wiretapping kit, a fingerprinting kit, and a memorial photograph in the bar’s body outline.

Tantei (Detective) Bar showing a line of bar stools by the bar and a body outline on the floor to the left. Behind the outline is a female mannequin in a detective's coat and hat.
ALT text detailsTantei (Detective) Bar showing a line of bar stools by the bar and a body outline on the floor to the left. Behind the outline is a female mannequin in a detective's coat and hat.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Some in Japan think they can recreate the yakiniku restaurant experience at home with an aluminum duct and some elbow grease. The Tokyo Fire Department has a message for those people: please don’t.

unseen-japan.com/diy-yakiniku-

X post from @Tokyo_Fire_D. Original Japanese text: 【DIYに潜む火災危険！】 SNSでは、DIYのダクトで焼肉を楽しむ動画が多数紹介されています。 しかし… 実際に自作したダクトで焼肉中に、肉の脂から上がった炎が、ダクトの凹凸部分にたまった油脂に着火し火災となっています。 取扱いには十分注意してください。
ALT text detailsX post from @Tokyo_Fire_D. Original Japanese text: 【DIYに潜む火災危険！】 SNSでは、DIYのダクトで焼肉を楽しむ動画が多数紹介されています。 しかし… 実際に自作したダクトで焼肉中に、肉の脂から上がった炎が、ダクトの凹凸部分にたまった油脂に着火し火災となっています。 取扱いには十分注意してください。
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

'Shinjuku ALTA meetup spot in Tokyo closes after 45 years'

asahi.com/ajw/articles/15650423

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SeanBreslin

@SeanBreslin@famichiki.jp

1/2: These lot making a right racket right above my house a couple of hours ago.

The Blue Impulse of the Japan Air Force.

The Blue Impulse from the Japan Air Force.
ALT text detailsThe Blue Impulse from the Japan Air Force.
The Blue Impulse from the Japan Air Force.
ALT text detailsThe Blue Impulse from the Japan Air Force.
The Blue Impulse from the Japan Air Force.
ALT text detailsThe Blue Impulse from the Japan Air Force.
The Blue Impulse from the Japan Air Force.
ALT text detailsThe Blue Impulse from the Japan Air Force.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

'Shinjuku ALTA meetup spot in Tokyo closes after 45 years'

asahi.com/ajw/articles/15650423

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SakuraSubnet 🥙

@sakurasubnet@bumscode.com

Caught a warbling white-eye (if my research is correct) enjoying a cut in a half orange in the tree of somebody's backyard. What a cutie ☺️

A small light green bird sitting on a cutted in half orange somebody attached to a tree. Around his eyes it has a white circles.
ALT text detailsA small light green bird sitting on a cutted in half orange somebody attached to a tree. Around his eyes it has a white circles.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

"People out here saying you can tell if it's a girl's first time having sex but you can't tell if it's a guy's. Dontcha know when a virgin sticks his penis in there's a flourish of trumpets and his balls crack open dangling a 'Happy Graduation' banner lolololol"

X post by user @pp1_yp. Japanese text: SEX、 ｢女の初めては分かるけど男は初めてか分からない｣って言ってる人いて草 童貞はちんこ入れた時ファンファーレが流れてきて金玉がパカッと割れて｢🎊㊗卒業✨｣の垂れ幕が降りてくること知らないんだwwwwww
ALT text detailsX post by user @pp1_yp. Japanese text: SEX、 ｢女の初めては分かるけど男は初めてか分からない｣って言ってる人いて草 童貞はちんこ入れた時ファンファーレが流れてきて金玉がパカッと割れて｢🎊㊗卒業✨｣の垂れ幕が降りてくること知らないんだwwwwww
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A popular photo has been immortalized as a fun illustration thanks to Japan's premier free stock illustration site after suddenly going viral on Japanese social media. Irasutoya has offered its own version of Hannie Heere's famous pic of a young barn owl jogging across a lawn.

(Note: No pic attached b/c Mastodon server seems to be going through some stuff)

unseen-japan.com/hannie-heere-

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

US military personnel don't have the best reputation in Japan. A 24-year-old US Navy sailor decided to make that worse after a bar in Fukuoka refused him service b/c it was closing time. The sailor responded by smashing a beer stein on some college kid's head.

unseen-japan.com/us-navy-sailo

Fukuoka City - view of night skyline from Fukuoka Tower
ALT text detailsFukuoka City - view of night skyline from Fukuoka Tower
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Recent reports reveal that multiple Japanese entertainers and pro baseball players have made a habit of visiting online casinos, which are illegal to use in Japan. The rapid growth in online casino usage has the government considering whether it should block access.

unseen-japan.com/online-casino

Online casino blocking - picture of a hand on the left with the word "stop" written on it. To the right, various symbols of glambling, including a slot machine, cards, and a roulette wheel
ALT text detailsOnline casino blocking - picture of a hand on the left with the word "stop" written on it. To the right, various symbols of glambling, including a slot machine, cards, and a roulette wheel
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

From the 1880s, a growing movement in Japan began targeting the consumption and selling of alcohol. The Japanese Temperance Movement had been born, and a path toward Prohibition was being constructed with sober determination.

A Japanese anti-alcohol poster, likely Taisho-era.
ALT text detailsA Japanese anti-alcohol poster, likely Taisho-era.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Baumkuchen, which began its life in Europe, has risen to become one of the most popular desserts in Japan. The story of baumkuchen’s arrival in Japan is one of creativity and industry flourishing even during the darkest of times.

unseen-japan.com/baumkuchen-ja

Picture of baumkuchen
ALT text detailsPicture of baumkuchen
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Baumkuchen, which began its life in Europe, has risen to become one of the most popular desserts in Japan. The story of baumkuchen’s arrival in Japan is one of creativity and industry flourishing even during the darkest of times.

unseen-japan.com/baumkuchen-ja

Picture of baumkuchen
ALT text detailsPicture of baumkuchen
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: Japan’s ruling political parties earned criticism from far-right circles with their plan to lower the cost of high school for all students in the nation. Various polls, however, show a majority support the measure.

unseen-japan.com/free-high-sch

Four high school students running towards the left, staggered from left to right with two boys in back and two girls in front
ALT text detailsFour high school students running towards the left, staggered from left to right with two boys in back and two girls in front
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A Japanese man in his 30s was "rescued" from a scammer group based out of Malaysia. However, he insists he doesn't want to go home to Japan. With good reason: Hokkaido police say they have a warrant out for his arrest on charges of theft.

Article on Japanese man found in Myanmar in scammer group. Title in JP: ミャンマー東部で見つかったとされる日本人 “帰りたくない”
ALT text detailsArticle on Japanese man found in Myanmar in scammer group. Title in JP: ミャンマー東部で見つかったとされる日本人 “帰りたくない”
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Ukraine War Bulletins and News

@SocraticEthics@mastodon.online

t.me/liveukraine_media/29327
🇪🇸🇺🇦🇫🇷 Presdenty Emmanuel Macron and Pedro Sánchez reacted to the conversation between Trump and President Zelensky. “There is an aggressor, which is Russia, and a people who have suffered aggression, which is Ukraine. We must respect (more)

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Ukraine War Bulletins and News

@SocraticEthics@mastodon.online

t.me/liveukraine_media/29327
🇪🇸🇺🇦🇫🇷 Presdenty Emmanuel Macron and Pedro Sánchez reacted to the conversation between Trump and President Zelensky. “There is an aggressor, which is Russia, and a people who have suffered aggression, which is Ukraine. We must respect (more)

atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

raging in 's Iwate Prefecture:

- one person has been killed
- 800+ people sheltering in evacuation centers
- 80+ buildings damaged
- power outages, schools closed
- firefighters still trying to contain the fires

www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/new

atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

raging in 's Iwate Prefecture:

- one person has been killed
- 800+ people sheltering in evacuation centers
- 80+ buildings damaged
- power outages, schools closed
- firefighters still trying to contain the fires

www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/new

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Hentai first drew attention during anime’s nascent international boom in the 1990s thanks to the manga-turned-anime Urotsukidoji (超神伝説うろつき童子, Chōjin Densetsu Urotsukidōji), whose use of tentacles introduced many people to a fetish they never knew they had.

unseen-japan.com/hentai-platfo

Cover art for Legend of the Overfiend
ALT text detailsCover art for Legend of the Overfiend
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: With more tourists visiting Japan than ever, the usual spots in Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto are crowded as heck. Japan's encouraging more visitors to spread their wings and see more of the country. Which raises the question: Where should you go?

unseen-japan.com/five-hidden-t

Picture of two stone rabbits running on their hind legs like humans
ALT text detailsPicture of two stone rabbits running on their hind legs like humans
Kingu's avatar
Kingu

@kingu@lor.sh

Today is !!!

The theme for today is

Show me the best Japanese electro music you know of!!

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

As women in Japan demand more participation from their husbands, men are finding ways to avoid their spouse’s demand for greater participation in their home life. For example, by refusing to head home when the work day’s done.

unseen-japan.com/furarimen-jap

Furariimen - Japanese man in business suit lying face-down drunk on bar
ALT text detailsFurariimen - Japanese man in business suit lying face-down drunk on bar
Kingu's avatar
Kingu

@kingu@lor.sh

Today is !!!

The theme for today is

Show me the best Japanese electro music you know of!!

Rouge - Pictures of Japan's avatar
Rouge - Pictures of Japan

@Blanche@photog.social

in Shikanoshima, Fukuoka

In a Japanese temple complex, a stone lantern on a pillar stands in a soil covered in lush green moss. Trees and the roof of a temple are in the background.
ALT text detailsIn a Japanese temple complex, a stone lantern on a pillar stands in a soil covered in lush green moss. Trees and the roof of a temple are in the background.
Closeup of the top of the stone lantern, which is also covered with a thick layer of green moss.
ALT text detailsCloseup of the top of the stone lantern, which is also covered with a thick layer of green moss.
The moss-covered ground, with wooden temples and a large tree in the background.
ALT text detailsThe moss-covered ground, with wooden temples and a large tree in the background.
Closeup of another side of the stone lantern, with stringy moss lit by the sunlight.
ALT text detailsCloseup of another side of the stone lantern, with stringy moss lit by the sunlight.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Want to eat some of Japan's best ramen? Well now you can - at Denny's Japan, of all places. The chain is re-releasing its collaboration with popular ramen maker Iida Shoten with an offering that breaks the country's so-called "1,000 yen well" for the iconic noodle dish.

unseen-japan.com/japan-ramen-d

Advertisement from Denny's Japan web site for its ramen offering
ALT text detailsAdvertisement from Denny's Japan web site for its ramen offering
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Daily life in Osaka Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Daily life in Osaka Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

It could soon cost more to leave Japan. To help fund overtourism countermeasures, Japan's gov might raise the country's departure tax from 1K yen (USD $6.67) to as much as 5K yen ($33). However, some Japanese citizens are angry the tax would apply to *them* as well.

unseen-japan.com/japan-departu

Narita Airport at night
ALT text detailsNarita Airport at night
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: Wedding days can be a giant ball of stress that feels like it’s rolling down a hill like an avalanche. For 180 couples in Japan, that avalanche feeling must have skyrocketed this month when they learned their weddings were in jeopardy.

unseen-japan.com/hotel-gajoen-

Hotel Gajoen, Meguro, Tokyo - view of hallways with small trees tinted red and yellow
ALT text detailsHotel Gajoen, Meguro, Tokyo - view of hallways with small trees tinted red and yellow
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: An udon commercial in Japan recently came under fire for what some called excessive sexualization of women. However, it also drew an equally worse accusation: that it was created using Generative AI.

unseen-japan.com/maruchan-udon

Maruchan ad - scene showing the woman eating udon from the side. The table on which her udon rests appears to be missing its left side legs.
ALT text detailsMaruchan ad - scene showing the woman eating udon from the side. The table on which her udon rests appears to be missing its left side legs.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: Those of us living in Japan are watching as the price of everything seems to go up month after month. The latest price spike, however, is really hitting home. Rice, a staple of Japanese eating, has skyrocketed by 90% in the past five months.

unseen-japan.com/rice-90-perce

Current price of rice at a local supermarket with a picture of a woman looking shocked
ALT text detailsCurrent price of rice at a local supermarket with a picture of a woman looking shocked
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noco｜Flower Photographer

@noco3n_com@mstdn.jp

Thinking of spring.

dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Rainy night in Osaka Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Rainy night in Osaka Japan. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Cherry blossom season will be in full swing in Japan soon. Where can you see the most vibrant displays across the country? Here are the festivals with the most vibrant flowers - including several you might not otherwise have considered.

unseen-japan.com/japan-cherry-

Cherry Blossom Festivals Around Japan - triptych showing three different scenes discussed in the article
ALT text detailsCherry Blossom Festivals Around Japan - triptych showing three different scenes discussed in the article
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

“This is the parking lot outside the bank, I suspect there’s a master phantom thief inside”

X post by @yskglo. Japanese text: これ銀行の駐車場なんだけど たぶん中に大怪盗がいる
ALT text detailsX post by @yskglo. Japanese text: これ銀行の駐車場なんだけど たぶん中に大怪盗がいる
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

“This is the parking lot outside the bank, I suspect there’s a master phantom thief inside”

X post by @yskglo. Japanese text: これ銀行の駐車場なんだけど たぶん中に大怪盗がいる
ALT text detailsX post by @yskglo. Japanese text: これ銀行の駐車場なんだけど たぶん中に大怪盗がいる
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Filled with izakayas, clubs, and restaurants serving authentic Japanese cuisine, this enclave offers a slice of Japan in the heart of Indonesia’s largest metropolis. Join us for a tour of Jakarta’s Little Tokyo, along with a look into its history and evolution.

unseen-japan.com/jakarta-littl

Picture of Little Tokyo in Jakarta - a small torii gate in fromt of a restaurant named Yagiya
ALT text detailsPicture of Little Tokyo in Jakarta - a small torii gate in fromt of a restaurant named Yagiya
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: A record number of kids in Japan are deciding they need to take a break from school life. For some, the break is a permanent one. Here's why kids are refusing to go to school - and how schools are responding.

unseen-japan.com/school-refusa

Kid with a randoseru style Japanese backpack sitting in a field with his back to the camera and looking very depressed
ALT text detailsKid with a randoseru style Japanese backpack sitting in a field with his back to the camera and looking very depressed
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: While the rest of the world is praising Ito Shiori's courage in standing up for herself and other rape victims, she has been subject to petty and vicious attacks by many in Japan. When you know her story, it’s easier to understand why.

unseen-japan.com/ito-shiori-be

Ito Shiori looking at the camera
ALT text detailsIto Shiori looking at the camera
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

It's become one of the Japanese language's most versatile words. As shown below, it can mean just about everything. But some say it degrades and cheapens the language. Find out more about why some people think the overuse of "yabai" is...well, yabai.

unseen-japan.com/yabai-meaning

An English-language version of @kenlife202010’s yabai chart. Translation by Noah Oskow.
ALT text detailsAn English-language version of @kenlife202010’s yabai chart. Translation by Noah Oskow.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social

👣KYŌTO'S BLOOD CEILINGS🩸

The rear portion of the ceiling in Genkō-an's (源光庵) main hall is stained with what at first glance looks like water damage...
...but soon a footprint emerges on the rust coloured wood, the shape of a doll, shadowy fingertips, the fold of a kimono!

A footprint can be seen on the ceiling boards of Genko-an's main hall. Once floorboards in part of Fushimi Castle, these blood stains are a grisly reminder of a last stand by those trying to hold the fortress.
ALT text detailsA footprint can be seen on the ceiling boards of Genko-an's main hall. Once floorboards in part of Fushimi Castle, these blood stains are a grisly reminder of a last stand by those trying to hold the fortress.
The stained ceiling of Genko-san, originally floor boards in Fushimi Castle that were drenched in blood. They were gifted to temples as a prayer to soothe the souls that died during a battle at the castle.
ALT text detailsThe stained ceiling of Genko-san, originally floor boards in Fushimi Castle that were drenched in blood. They were gifted to temples as a prayer to soothe the souls that died during a battle at the castle.
The main gate of Genko-an.
ALT text detailsThe main gate of Genko-an.
Many shapes can be seen in the stains on the ceiling boards of Genko-an's main hall. Here you can make out what is likely folds of clothing.
ALT text detailsMany shapes can be seen in the stains on the ceiling boards of Genko-an's main hall. Here you can make out what is likely folds of clothing.
Nice Gear Games's avatar
Nice Gear Games

@nicegeargames@mastodon.gamedev.place

Hello GameDev.Place!!! 👋

We are an dev team comprised of Daikon (Japanese speaker, main dev) and Renkon (English speaker, posts at @renkotsuban and runs this account). You can find our work on and !

nicegear.games/
nicegeargames.itch.io/

We also run a blog and digital that highlights indie games and developers from ! You can read games profiles and interviews over at @indietsushin:

indietsushin.net

よろしくおねがいします！ 🙇

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Hokkaido is one of Japan's premier winter destinations. Unfortunately, some tourists in one city who gather to see its beautiful sea are walking on thin ice - literally. It's the latest example of travelers to Japan putting themselves in physical danger.

unseen-japan.com/hokkaido-abas

Ice flows on the Sea of Okhotsk
ALT text detailsIce flows on the Sea of Okhotsk
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The betrayal of Ito Shiori, horny udon, physical Suica cards are so back baby, and 180 weddings canceled - this and more in our weekly roundup of top stories in the Unseen Japan Newsletter.

us20.campaign-archive.com/?u=e

Ito Shiori looking at the camera
ALT text detailsIto Shiori looking at the camera
Maru-chan Akai Kitsune Udon commercial - animation of young woman eating udon with a flushed face
ALT text detailsMaru-chan Akai Kitsune Udon commercial - animation of young woman eating udon with a flushed face
PASMO card - picture of a hand holding a silver PASMO card with pink text against a blue background
ALT text detailsPASMO card - picture of a hand holding a silver PASMO card with pink text against a blue background
Hotel Gajoen, Meguro, Tokyo - view of hallways with small trees tinted red and yellow
ALT text detailsHotel Gajoen, Meguro, Tokyo - view of hallways with small trees tinted red and yellow
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Two Japanese teenagers, ages 16 and 17, were recently rescued from scam groups who set up operations in a lawless part of Myanmar. How did the two boys end up there? One was lured through a growing recruitment avenue: online games such as Fortnite.

unseen-japan.com/japanese-teen

Scammers in Myanmar - picture of Shwe in Bin Monastery in Mandalay in the background, a scammer in a mask on a computer on the left, and a video game controller on the right
ALT text detailsScammers in Myanmar - picture of Shwe in Bin Monastery in Mandalay in the background, a scammer in a mask on a computer on the left, and a video game controller on the right
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Snowy night in Tokyo. #photography #streetphotography #japan
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Snowy night in Tokyo. #photography #streetphotography #japan
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:'s avatar
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:

@norbertwoehnl@famichiki.jp

Good Morning from Tokyo on this Wednesday! ☀️

Moving on to the 5th part of my "Taito Life" series with street photography rom Taito Ward. Details in ALT texts.

A street photo from Taito Ward in Tokyo, Japan. We see some very dated and weathered building facades, in front of which there is a bright splash of greenery provided by some potted plants.
ALT text detailsA street photo from Taito Ward in Tokyo, Japan. We see some very dated and weathered building facades, in front of which there is a bright splash of greenery provided by some potted plants.
A street photo from Taito Ward in Tokyo, Japan. We see a perspective along a street with a green coin phone in the foreground, and a mom-and-pop store displaying all kinds of merchandise behind that.
ALT text detailsA street photo from Taito Ward in Tokyo, Japan. We see a perspective along a street with a green coin phone in the foreground, and a mom-and-pop store displaying all kinds of merchandise behind that.
A street photo from Taito Ward in Tokyo, Japan. We see a drink vending machine and some dustbins and cleaning brushes beside.
ALT text detailsA street photo from Taito Ward in Tokyo, Japan. We see a drink vending machine and some dustbins and cleaning brushes beside.
A street photo from Taito Ward in Tokyo, Japan. A deep perspective along a typical street with mixed use residential and commercial buildings.
ALT text detailsA street photo from Taito Ward in Tokyo, Japan. A deep perspective along a typical street with mixed use residential and commercial buildings.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

One of Kanazawa's top attractions, the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, will close from May 2027 to March 2028 for much-needed repairs. The facility was already aging, and it also sustained damage during last year's Noto Peninsula earthquake.

Article from Kyodo. JP headline: 金沢21世紀美術館、長期休業へ　27年度、大規模修繕工事
ALT text detailsArticle from Kyodo. JP headline: 金沢21世紀美術館、長期休業へ　27年度、大規模修繕工事
Raymond Larabie's avatar
Raymond Larabie

@typodermic@mastodon.social

A garage packed with tools, gloves, and enough wires to make you question if this is car maintenance or a mad scientist’s side project. 🧤🔧

工具や手袋、謎の配線が所狭しと並ぶガレージ。軽バンの整備場か、それとも科学者の秘密基地か？ 🧤🚐

On one side, shelves and hooks hold an eclectic mix of wrenches, pliers, gloves, and cables—all organized with a method only the owner understands. A patterned cloth with a retro floral design hangs like a decorative afterthought.
ALT text detailsOn one side, shelves and hooks hold an eclectic mix of wrenches, pliers, gloves, and cables—all organized with a method only the owner understands. A patterned cloth with a retro floral design hangs like a decorative afterthought.
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:'s avatar
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:

@norbertwoehnl@famichiki.jp

Good Morning from Tokyo on this Wednesday! ☀️

Moving on to the 5th part of my "Taito Life" series with street photography rom Taito Ward. Details in ALT texts.

A street photo from Taito Ward in Tokyo, Japan. We see some very dated and weathered building facades, in front of which there is a bright splash of greenery provided by some potted plants.
ALT text detailsA street photo from Taito Ward in Tokyo, Japan. We see some very dated and weathered building facades, in front of which there is a bright splash of greenery provided by some potted plants.
A street photo from Taito Ward in Tokyo, Japan. We see a perspective along a street with a green coin phone in the foreground, and a mom-and-pop store displaying all kinds of merchandise behind that.
ALT text detailsA street photo from Taito Ward in Tokyo, Japan. We see a perspective along a street with a green coin phone in the foreground, and a mom-and-pop store displaying all kinds of merchandise behind that.
A street photo from Taito Ward in Tokyo, Japan. We see a drink vending machine and some dustbins and cleaning brushes beside.
ALT text detailsA street photo from Taito Ward in Tokyo, Japan. We see a drink vending machine and some dustbins and cleaning brushes beside.
A street photo from Taito Ward in Tokyo, Japan. A deep perspective along a typical street with mixed use residential and commercial buildings.
ALT text detailsA street photo from Taito Ward in Tokyo, Japan. A deep perspective along a typical street with mixed use residential and commercial buildings.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japanese social media users are back to debating the age-old question: Is it good manners to wear your backpack on a crowded train on your chest or back? In FNN's poll of 50 ppl on the street, 39 said chest is best. (Five said keep it on your back, four said the floor.)

Article from FNN. Title in Japanese: 満員電車での“リュックの前抱え”もマナー違反との声　「かばんなどを背中に背負う」が迷惑行為1位も　「スマホ持って肘を張るのが邪魔」など
ALT text detailsArticle from FNN. Title in Japanese: 満員電車での“リュックの前抱え”もマナー違反との声　「かばんなどを背中に背負う」が迷惑行為1位も　「スマホ持って肘を張るのが邪魔」など
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japanese prosecutors thought they had Sudo Saki dead to rights for her husband's murder. Instead, she became part of that rare 0.1% of Japanese defendants who are found not guilty. It was a shaky case from the start – and as the trial proceeded, it only got worse for the state.

unseen-japan.com/sudo-saki-don

Picture of Sudo Saki on left with, on right, the word 無罪 (Not Guilty) being held up in black and white by a lawyer in a courtroom
ALT text detailsPicture of Sudo Saki on left with, on right, the word 無罪 (Not Guilty) being held up in black and white by a lawyer in a courtroom
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Do you have to have a tour guide in Japan? Not for your entire trip, for sure. But having a guide for a few days can open you up to a world of experiences you might not otherwise have, especially if you don't speak Japanese.

unseen-japan.com/japan-tour-gu

Japanese woman (right) pointing something out to a happy but confused foreign tourist (left)
ALT text detailsJapanese woman (right) pointing something out to a happy but confused foreign tourist (left)
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: Another case of friction between tourists and a tourist hot spot is making headlines in Japan. A social media post from a Buddhist temple in Kyoto made waves when the frustrated head priest declared getting along with foreign tourists an impossibility.

unseen-japan.com/kyoto-temple-

Kodaiji - picture of temple building on the left, beautiful pink tree on the right, and raked stones with colored stripes in the foreground
ALT text detailsKodaiji - picture of temple building on the left, beautiful pink tree on the right, and raked stones with colored stripes in the foreground
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: A “please” can go a long way. Kyoto schools have recently changed their PA announcements, moving away from bossy exam time announcements in favor of politeness. The goal is to prevent students from becoming more stressed than they already are.

unseen-japan.com/kyoto-schools

Picture of two aisles of students bowing to a teacher. The picture is taken from behind the students and at the end of the row, you can see a male teacher standing behind a podium and making his own small bow.
ALT text detailsPicture of two aisles of students bowing to a teacher. The picture is taken from behind the students and at the end of the row, you can see a male teacher standing behind a podium and making his own small bow.
Ashraya 🪔🪷's avatar
Ashraya 🪔🪷

@ashraya@mastodon.ie

🌌 timings for ,

• MahaShivratri is Wednesday Feb. 26

• begins 2:38pm Feb. 26, ends 12:24pm Feb. 27
• Nishita kaal begins 11:28pm Feb. 26, ends 12:19am Feb. 27

• Pratah 1: 5:33pm Feb. 26 to 8:44pm
• Pratah 2: 8:44pm to 11:54pm
• Pratah 3: 11:54pm to 3:04am Feb. 27
• Pratah 4: 3:04am to 6:14am

• Parana: 6:14am to 12:24pm

🧿✨🙏

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noco｜Flower Photographer

@noco3n_com@mstdn.jp

Thinking of spring.

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Weather Mizu

@mizu@mastodon.social

JMA released the trend forecast for this summer - Another scorching days may come🥵

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

TV Asahi head Shinozuka Hiroshi criticized sister station ABEMA News for airing a false X post about a man who said he was reported for rape after using an AED to save a woman's life. The report, he said, could dissuade men from helping in an emergency.

Article from Sponichi Annex. Japanese title: ABEMAで「AED」報道巡りデマ疑惑　「SNSの極端な意見を拡散している」指摘に…テレ朝社長が見解
ALT text detailsArticle from Sponichi Annex. Japanese title: ABEMAで「AED」報道巡りデマ疑惑　「SNSの極端な意見を拡散している」指摘に…テレ朝社長が見解
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

International Ninja Day falls on December 5th, but the old ninja strongholds of Iga (in Mie Prefecture) and Kōka (in Shiga Prefecture), and the 'Japan Ninja Council' (日本忍者協議会) have promoted February 2nd-22nd as a celebration of everything ninja since 2015.

Practicing throwing shuriken.
ALT text detailsPracticing throwing shuriken.
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Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:

@norbertwoehnl@famichiki.jp

Good Morning from Tokyo on this Tuesday! ☀️

Moving on to the 4th part of my "Taito Life" series with street photography from Taito Ward. Details in ALT texts.

A street photo from Taito Ward in Tokyo, Japan. At a street corner, we see a fairly weathered building with a fading red-painted facade. On the ground floor is a shop named "Hot Stuff".
ALT text detailsA street photo from Taito Ward in Tokyo, Japan. At a street corner, we see a fairly weathered building with a fading red-painted facade. On the ground floor is a shop named "Hot Stuff".
A street photo from Taito Ward in Tokyo, Japan. A big window at a street corner reflects the surrounding scenery, includind pedestrians, bicycles and some mixed-use buildings.
ALT text detailsA street photo from Taito Ward in Tokyo, Japan. A big window at a street corner reflects the surrounding scenery, includind pedestrians, bicycles and some mixed-use buildings.
A street photo from Taito Ward in Tokyo, Japan. It is a detail study of a rusted door hinge on an old building, and some stickers and plaques that have been attached to the door over the course of many years.
ALT text detailsA street photo from Taito Ward in Tokyo, Japan. It is a detail study of a rusted door hinge on an old building, and some stickers and plaques that have been attached to the door over the course of many years.
A street photo from Taito Ward in Tokyo, Japan. On a hot summer afternoon, a group of people are seated on camping chairs outside a building and having a chat. In the background, we can see signage and an entrance of an old restaurant.
ALT text detailsA street photo from Taito Ward in Tokyo, Japan. On a hot summer afternoon, a group of people are seated on camping chairs outside a building and having a chat. In the background, we can see signage and an entrance of an old restaurant.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

For Cat Day (Neko no Hi), which was on 2/22, the Japan Automobile Federation tweeted a warning to drivers to make sure their engine hoods are shut & they don't hear any cat sounds from their cars. It says it received 28 requests in Oct 2024 for help rescuing cats who'd crawled into engines.

Tweet from @jaf_jp. Japanese text: 明日2月22日は、#猫の日🐈 2024年10月の1ヵ月間で「猫がクルマに入り込んだ😱」という救援要請は28件ありました🦺 猫の命を守るためにも、乗車の前はボンネットなどエンジンルーム付近をやさしく叩くことを実践しましょう⚠️ ▼詳しくはこちら
ALT text detailsTweet from @jaf_jp. Japanese text: 明日2月22日は、#猫の日🐈 2024年10月の1ヵ月間で「猫がクルマに入り込んだ😱」という救援要請は28件ありました🦺 猫の命を守るためにも、乗車の前はボンネットなどエンジンルーム付近をやさしく叩くことを実践しましょう⚠️ ▼詳しくはこちら
Graphic warning of a cartoon cat with advice to make sure your cat hood is clearly shut and there are no cat sounds coming from it
ALT text detailsGraphic warning of a cartoon cat with advice to make sure your cat hood is clearly shut and there are no cat sounds coming from it
Cat sitting in a car engine
ALT text detailsCat sitting in a car engine
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A new Sankei/FNN poll shows Japan's once-dominant Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) possibly losing even more ground. It shows the Democratic Party for the People (DPFP) leading polls among people in their 30s, with Reiwa Shinsengumi coming in 2nd - and the LDP third.

Article from Sankei Shimbun. Japanese headline: 30代の支持率、自民が3番手に転落　国民民主、れいわの後塵拝す
ALT text detailsArticle from Sankei Shimbun. Japanese headline: 30代の支持率、自民が3番手に転落　国民民主、れいわの後塵拝す
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Looking for a cafe in Tokyo that offers something a little different? We take you inside one cafe hidden in Ikebukuro and introduce five other cafes across the city that give you both a place to hang out and a great spot to snap some cool photos on your Japan trip.

unseen-japan.com/uniquely-them

Old Castle Alice in Ikebukuro - left: a chandelier-shaped table with a Hearts gard standing in front of it; right - a delicious fruit and ice cream parfait
ALT text detailsOld Castle Alice in Ikebukuro - left: a chandelier-shaped table with a Hearts gard standing in front of it; right - a delicious fruit and ice cream parfait
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Albert Wu

@randombullet@pixelfed.de

Senbon Torii, Fushimi Ward, Kyoto, Japan

#SenbonTorii #Senbon #Torii #Fushimi #Kyoto #Honshu #Japan #TravelJapan #JapanEndlessDiscovery #Landscape #Photography #Nikon #NikonZII #ZII #Travel
Two women wearing traditional kimonos walk through a tunnel of vermillion torii gates. Their backs are turned to the camera, and they are surrounded by other visitors in modern clothing. The intricate patterns on their garments and the floral hair ornaments contrast with the linear repetition of the gates.
ALT text detailsTwo women wearing traditional kimonos walk through a tunnel of vermillion torii gates. Their backs are turned to the camera, and they are surrounded by other visitors in modern clothing. The intricate patterns on their garments and the floral hair ornaments contrast with the linear repetition of the gates.
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Albert Wu

@randombullet@pixelfed.de

Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, Japan

#ArashiyamaBambooForest #Arashiyama #Bamboo #Forest #Ukyo #Kyoto #Honshu #Japan #TravelJapan #JapanEndlessDiscovery #Landscape #Photography #Nikon #NikonZII #ZII #Travel
This image captures a serene path through a bamboo forest, with the dense bamboo stalks creating a natural tunnel. The light filtering through the leaves adds a soft glow to the scene, while the pathway, lined with grass, draws the viewer’s eye towards the vanishing point in the distance.
ALT text detailsThis image captures a serene path through a bamboo forest, with the dense bamboo stalks creating a natural tunnel. The light filtering through the leaves adds a soft glow to the scene, while the pathway, lined with grass, draws the viewer’s eye towards the vanishing point in the distance.
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Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

The cosmic Dainichi Nyorai (大日如来) by the artist Kimura Buzan (木村武山), 1935, at Kongōbu-ji (金剛峯寺) on Mount Kōya (高野山) in Wakayama Prefecture, #.

The cosmic #buddha Dainichi Nyorai (大日如来) by the artist Kimura Buzan (木村武山), 1935, at Kongōbu-ji (金剛峯寺) on Mount Kōya (高野山) in Wakayama Prefecture, ##Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsThe cosmic #buddha Dainichi Nyorai (大日如来) by the artist Kimura Buzan (木村武山), 1935, at Kongōbu-ji (金剛峯寺) on Mount Kōya (高野山) in Wakayama Prefecture, ##Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
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Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

Oni Mask, .

Oni Mask, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsOni Mask, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
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Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

Chion-in, : View of Isshinin Buddhist temple from the garden.

Chion-in, #Japan: View of Isshinin Buddhist temple from the garden. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsChion-in, #Japan: View of Isshinin Buddhist temple from the garden. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
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Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

Engyo-ji, .

Engyo-ji, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsEngyo-ji, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
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Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

, or the art of repairing broken pottery, .

#Kintsugi, or the art of repairing broken pottery, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text details#Kintsugi, or the art of repairing broken pottery, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
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Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

A painted image of Thousand-Armed (千手観音菩薩) by Tenjin Hoshin'nō (天真法親王), 1689. Hanging scroll in the collection of Rinnōäji (輪王寺) in Nikkō, Tochigi Prefecture, .

A painted image of Thousand-Armed #Kannon #Bodhisattva (千手観音菩薩) by Tenjin Hoshin'nō (天真法親王), 1689. Hanging scroll in the collection of Rinnōäji (輪王寺) in Nikkō, Tochigi Prefecture, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsA painted image of Thousand-Armed #Kannon #Bodhisattva (千手観音菩薩) by Tenjin Hoshin'nō (天真法親王), 1689. Hanging scroll in the collection of Rinnōäji (輪王寺) in Nikkō, Tochigi Prefecture, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: It’s been a beloved brand in Japan for years. However, due to licensing issues, it’s slated to disappear from the local market. In reaction, some resellers are hoarding it – and selling it off at premium prices.

unseen-japan.com/viennetta-ice

Viennetta - Japanese packaging from Morinaga for its 40th anniversary. Shows a picture of the cake, which is a white ice creame shaped in folds with a chocolate sauce on top and chocolate in-between each fold
ALT text detailsViennetta - Japanese packaging from Morinaga for its 40th anniversary. Shows a picture of the cake, which is a white ice creame shaped in folds with a chocolate sauce on top and chocolate in-between each fold
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: Want a souvenir of your Japan trip to take home with you? Good news: you’ll be able to buy a physical transportation card in Japan’s Kanto region again after a long dry spell.

unseen-japan.com/suica-pasmo-p

PASMO card - picture of a hand holding a silver PASMO card with pink text against a blue background
ALT text detailsPASMO card - picture of a hand holding a silver PASMO card with pink text against a blue background
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: Starting in May 2025, Taiwanese citizens who marry a Japanese citizen can elect to identify their nationality as “Taiwan” on their spouse’s family registry (戸籍; koseki). The document is Japan’s primary method of identifying citizens and their familial relations.

unseen-japan.com/japan-family-

Ministry of Justice stone carving sign in Tokyo, Japan
ALT text detailsMinistry of Justice stone carving sign in Tokyo, Japan
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

International Ninja Day falls on December 5th, but the old ninja strongholds of Iga (in Mie Prefecture) and Kōka (in Shiga Prefecture), and the 'Japan Ninja Council' (日本忍者協議会) have promoted February 2nd-22nd as a celebration of everything ninja since 2015.

Practicing throwing shuriken.
ALT text detailsPracticing throwing shuriken.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

🥷NINJA DAY🥷

So it turns out that February 22nd is not only 'Cat Day', but is also celebrated as 'Ninja Day' (忍者の日)🤯

Again it is thanks to word play.
22.2 = 'ni ni ni', a shortening of 'nin(ja) nin nin' (忍者 にん にん), the sound ninja make when striking a pose.

Woodblock print of a ninja climbing a rope. Image thanks🙇‍♂️-https://ukiyo-e.org
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of a ninja climbing a rope. Image thanks🙇‍♂️-https://ukiyo-e.org
Woodblock print of a kabuki actor portraying a samurai in ninja pose. Image thanks🙇‍♂️-https://ukiyo-e.org
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of a kabuki actor portraying a samurai in ninja pose. Image thanks🙇‍♂️-https://ukiyo-e.org
Woodblock kabuki print of a samurai under attack from ninja. Image thanks🙇‍♂️-https://ukiyo-e.org
ALT text detailsWoodblock kabuki print of a samurai under attack from ninja. Image thanks🙇‍♂️-https://ukiyo-e.org
Woodblock kabuki print of a ninja about to strike down a man playing the koto. Image thanks🙇‍♂️-https://ukiyo-e.org
ALT text detailsWoodblock kabuki print of a ninja about to strike down a man playing the koto. Image thanks🙇‍♂️-https://ukiyo-e.org
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Happy 'Cat Day' from Percy (パーシー) and Hogarth (ホガース)🐈‍⬛🐈‍⬛🍰🥳

My micro-panthers have their own Insta account...
instagram.com/hog_and_percy

As you would expect, it's just photos of them...but if black cats are your thing then please take a look🙇‍♂️

Thank you🐾

A young Percy the cat curled up in a cat food box.
ALT text detailsA young Percy the cat curled up in a cat food box.
Hogarth the cat poses for his portrait.
ALT text detailsHogarth the cat poses for his portrait.
Percy sticking out his tongue.
ALT text detailsPercy sticking out his tongue.
Seeing double...Hogarth and Percy the black cats (brothers) waiting for treats.
ALT text detailsSeeing double...Hogarth and Percy the black cats (brothers) waiting for treats.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Tourists beware: Police in Fukuoka arrested a 39yo Japanese man, Fujino Takahiro, for trying to take an upskirt pic of a 16yo Korean girl who was visiting Japan with her family. Good news: he was caught by another man & held at the scene by multiple men until police arrived.

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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

The date of National Cat Day is different for each country. In Japan the 'Executive Cat Day Committee' selected February 22nd in 1978🐈‍⬛🐈🐾

Image thanks🙇‍♂️-ukiyo-e.org

Woodblock print of a cat looking out of a window with Mt Fuji in the background. Image thanks🙇‍♂️-https://ukiyo-e.org
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of a cat looking out of a window with Mt Fuji in the background. Image thanks🙇‍♂️-https://ukiyo-e.org
Woodblock print of cats (one wearing kimono!). Image thanks🙇‍♂️-https://ukiyo-e.org
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of cats (one wearing kimono!). Image thanks🙇‍♂️-https://ukiyo-e.org
Woodblock print of ladies building a giant cat out of snow. Image thanks🙇‍♂️-https://ukiyo-e.org
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of ladies building a giant cat out of snow. Image thanks🙇‍♂️-https://ukiyo-e.org
Woodblock print of a sleeping cat. Image thanks🙇‍♂️-https://ukiyo-e.org
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of a sleeping cat. Image thanks🙇‍♂️-https://ukiyo-e.org
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social

🐱SUPER CATS, NINJA, & THE EMPEROR'S BIRTHDAY🥷

February 22nd is 'Cat Day' (ねこの日/ニャンの日 'Neko-no-hi' or 'Nyan-no-hi')!😺🥳

'Meow' in Japanese is 'nya-' (にゃー)...
...as February 22nd (22.2 'ni ni ni') sounds a little like "nya nya nya", the day is devoted to our feline friends.

A monaka (wafer) in the shape of a curled up cat.
ALT text detailsA monaka (wafer) in the shape of a curled up cat.
Hogarth the cat goes in for his close up.
ALT text detailsHogarth the cat goes in for his close up.
A magnificent ginger cat atop a stone lantern.
ALT text detailsA magnificent ginger cat atop a stone lantern.
Tea and adorable cat shaped sweet (with branded lines to give it stripes).
ALT text detailsTea and adorable cat shaped sweet (with branded lines to give it stripes).
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Is there anything more sad - and, I'll admit, darkly entertaining - than an American burning their home down by deep-frying a turkey? How about burning it down with a DIY yakiniku vent? Why the Tokyo Fire Department is warning Japanese foodies against this social media trend.

unseen-japan.com/diy-yakiniku-

DIY yakiniku duct - drawing of a duct extending from a table to the traditional smoke outlet installed above gas burners in Japanese kitchens
ALT text detailsDIY yakiniku duct - drawing of a duct extending from a table to the traditional smoke outlet installed above gas burners in Japanese kitchens
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

As of April, Japan will make high school free for all with a budget revision that lifts income limits on subsidies to pay school course fees. Japan's far right is lambasting the move as a waste of taxpayer money. However, public opinion polls show fairly broad support.

unseen-japan.com/free-high-sch

Four high school students running towards the left, staggered from left to right with two boys in back and two girls in front
ALT text detailsFour high school students running towards the left, staggered from left to right with two boys in back and two girls in front
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Albert Wu

@randombullet@pixelfed.de

Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto, Japan

#ArashiyamaBambooForest #Arashiyama #Bamboo #Forest #Ukyo #Kyoto #Honshu #Japan #TravelJapan #JapanEndlessDiscovery #Landscape #Photography #Nikon #NikonZII #ZII #Travel
This image captures a serene path through a bamboo forest, with the dense bamboo stalks creating a natural tunnel. The light filtering through the leaves adds a soft glow to the scene, while the pathway, lined with grass, draws the viewer’s eye towards the vanishing point in the distance.
ALT text detailsThis image captures a serene path through a bamboo forest, with the dense bamboo stalks creating a natural tunnel. The light filtering through the leaves adds a soft glow to the scene, while the pathway, lined with grass, draws the viewer’s eye towards the vanishing point in the distance.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

To address Japan's paucity of women pilots, the Ministry of Transportation says it's repealing a height rule that requires entrants to pilot school to be at least 158cm (5'2"). Only 1.9% of Japan's 7270 pro pilots are female, way lower than the already low world average of 4.7%. The gov is aiming to grow that to 10% in 10 years.

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: Controversial anime is nothing new in Japan. But it’s rare for a commercial to become a subject of debate. A new spot for a packaged udon has some people asking how an ad for a seemingly simple product came out so…well, horny.

unseen-japan.com/maruchan-kits

Maru-chan Akai Kitsune Udon commercial - animation of young woman eating udon with a flushed face
ALT text detailsMaru-chan Akai Kitsune Udon commercial - animation of young woman eating udon with a flushed face
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Need more Japanese reading practice? Trying to understand newspaper-level Japanese? For the most part, it requires a lot of immersive reading. But there are some tools you can use to help give you a leg up.

unseen-japan.com/japanese-read

Amber lights coming up off a book lying flat and open on a table
ALT text detailsAmber lights coming up off a book lying flat and open on a table
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: What’s wrong with a little barbeque? Nothing! At least for most people. However, a recent viral thread on a Chinese social media site had a Chinese resident of Japan scratching their head, wondering what they’d done wrong.

unseen-japan.com/chinese-resid

Picture of outdoor barbeque
ALT text detailsPicture of outdoor barbeque
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Airports Bot

@airports_bot@mastodon.world

Kansai International Airport - Osaka, Japan

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kansai_I
openstreetmap.org/#map=13/34.4

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Airports Bot

@airports_bot@mastodon.world

Kansai International Airport - Osaka, Japan

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kansai_I
openstreetmap.org/#map=13/34.4

Albert Wu's avatar
Albert Wu

@randombullet@pixelfed.de

Senbon Torii, Fushimi Ward, Kyoto, Japan

#SenbonTorii #Senbon #Torii #Fushimi #Kyoto #Honshu #Japan #TravelJapan #JapanEndlessDiscovery #Landscape #Photography #Nikon #NikonZII #ZII #Travel
Two women wearing traditional kimonos walk through a tunnel of vermillion torii gates. Their backs are turned to the camera, and they are surrounded by other visitors in modern clothing. The intricate patterns on their garments and the floral hair ornaments contrast with the linear repetition of the gates.
ALT text detailsTwo women wearing traditional kimonos walk through a tunnel of vermillion torii gates. Their backs are turned to the camera, and they are surrounded by other visitors in modern clothing. The intricate patterns on their garments and the floral hair ornaments contrast with the linear repetition of the gates.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Want to get away from the crowds for a spell while visiting Japan? Looking for a fun domestic trip? One travel website recommends these five cities as up-and-comers that are still relatively low on tourists' radars.

unseen-japan.com/five-hidden-t

Picture of two stone rabbits running on their hind legs like humans
ALT text detailsPicture of two stone rabbits running on their hind legs like humans
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: Some men oppose stricter enforcement of sexual assault laws on the grounds they will lead to more false accusations against them. A recent social media post in Japan shot heroin into the veins of this propaganda.

unseen-japan.com/aed-false-rap

Person delivering CPR on a resuscitation dummy, with an AED device attached via pads and the device itself set above the dummy's head to the right
ALT text detailsPerson delivering CPR on a resuscitation dummy, with an AED device attached via pads and the device itself set above the dummy's head to the right
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

"Ito Shiori's former lawyers have lost the plot. Worse, they’ve done something far more damaging: they have publicly undermined their own ex-client, reinforcing the very systems of intimidation and isolation that make sexual violence cases nearly impossible to prosecute."

unseen-japan.com/ito-shiori-be

Cover of Black Box, Ito Shiori's book about her sexual assault
ALT text detailsCover of Black Box, Ito Shiori's book about her sexual assault
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: As soon as one popular location in Japan fills up, tourists find another. That’s happening currently in the city of Furano in Hokkaido, where some residents say they hardly recognize the place they grew up.

unseen-japan.com/furano-hokkai

Furano, Hokkaido - picture off lavender field, half of it a scrolling array of purple flowers, alongside to the left with other flowers in different colors (red, white, green, orange, pink)
ALT text detailsFurano, Hokkaido - picture off lavender field, half of it a scrolling array of purple flowers, alongside to the left with other flowers in different colors (red, white, green, orange, pink)
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dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Daily life in Japan.
#photography #streetphotography #japan
Dotoonbori Osaka Japan.
ALT text detailsDotoonbori Osaka Japan.
dystronix's avatar
dystronix

@Dystronix@pixelfed.social

Daily life in Japan.
#photography #streetphotography #japan
Dotoonbori Osaka Japan.
ALT text detailsDotoonbori Osaka Japan.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Hi all - if you tried to support UJ's work recently via the UJ Journalism Fund, you may have encountered a payment error. It should be fixed, so please try again if you've tried to make a recurring or one-time donation recently (& pls let us know if it's still borked). Thanks!

unseen-japan.com/support/

Unseen Japan banner showing a woman in a kimono walking her shibainu down a traditional shopping district in a Japanese city please donate writing good ALT text takes time
ALT text detailsUnseen Japan banner showing a woman in a kimono walking her shibainu down a traditional shopping district in a Japanese city please donate writing good ALT text takes time
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

180 couples in Tokyo are freaking tf out after Hotel Gajoen, Japan's first-ever full-service wedding venue, suddenly announced it's closing in October and canceling all booked weddings. The hotel says it accepted bookings despite knowing its lease would soon be up.

unseen-japan.com/hotel-gajoen-

Hotel Gajoen, Meguro, Tokyo - view of hallways with small trees tinted red and yellow
ALT text detailsHotel Gajoen, Meguro, Tokyo - view of hallways with small trees tinted red and yellow
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Planning a longer-term stay in Japan? Some hotels can get expensive, while others are specifically designed with short-term visitors in mind. Luckily, today, there are tons of options - from capsule hotels to Airbnb to share house programs and even homestays.

unseen-japan.com/the-best-plac

Picture of two beds plus two loft beds in a hotel in Japan with a window in the background showing a city skyline
ALT text detailsPicture of two beds plus two loft beds in a hotel in Japan with a window in the background showing a city skyline
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: An Internet trend that started last year in Japan has encouraged people to self-identify themselves as part of the “bathing cancel clique.” Experts say that depression may be driving the trend – fueled, perhaps, by overuse of smartphones.

unseen-japan.com/idol-bathing-

Baths canceled - blue-hued picture of a woman laying back in a tub with a "canceled" logo imposed over it
ALT text detailsBaths canceled - blue-hued picture of a woman laying back in a tub with a "canceled" logo imposed over it
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

"It's no secret that sexual assault cases in Japan are a nightmare to prosecute. The reason Itō’s Shiori’s Black Box Diaries matters is because it rips the lid off this system, exposing its failures and demanding accountability."

unseen-japan.com/ito-shiori-be

Poster for Black Box Diaries - Ito Shiori behind what appears to be a rain streaked pane of glass with the words of the film in white text
ALT text detailsPoster for Black Box Diaries - Ito Shiori behind what appears to be a rain streaked pane of glass with the words of the film in white text
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

"It's no secret that sexual assault cases in Japan are a nightmare to prosecute. The reason Itō’s Shiori’s Black Box Diaries matters is because it rips the lid off this system, exposing its failures and demanding accountability."

unseen-japan.com/ito-shiori-be

Poster for Black Box Diaries - Ito Shiori behind what appears to be a rain streaked pane of glass with the words of the film in white text
ALT text detailsPoster for Black Box Diaries - Ito Shiori behind what appears to be a rain streaked pane of glass with the words of the film in white text
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: A man who was supposed to help youth in danger turned out to be the danger himself. Saitama Prefectural police say they have arrested the former head of an organization whose mission was protecting youth in Tokyo's Kabukicho.

unseen-japan.com/toyoko-kids-m

Toyoko, Kabukicho - shot of the area standing in front looking towards Toho Cinemas, Multiple visitors are walking and standing around on the brightly-lit neon street. You can see the Toho Godzilla in the background peering over the Hotel Gracery.
ALT text detailsToyoko, Kabukicho - shot of the area standing in front looking towards Toho Cinemas, Multiple visitors are walking and standing around on the brightly-lit neon street. You can see the Toho Godzilla in the background peering over the Hotel Gracery.
noco｜Flower Photographer's avatar
noco｜Flower Photographer

@noco3n_com@mstdn.jp

Starlight.

noco｜Flower Photographer's avatar
noco｜Flower Photographer

@noco3n_com@mstdn.jp

Starlight.

Minoru Saba's avatar
Minoru Saba

@minorusaba@toad.social

Am in two minds as to whether the media in is just being disingenuous or really haven't done their homework before reporting on matters home and abroad.

2nd definition of "disingenuous" by Wordnik: "Pretending to be unaware or unsophisticated; faux-naïf"
Probably more charitable than the 1st: "...insincere or calculating"
wordnik.com/words/disingenuous
Pretending to be a frog in a well knowing nothing about the great sea (井の中の蛙大海を知らず) isn't any better than the homework-eating dog excuse.😡

Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

🌸Sakura (桜)-
Individual flowers grow from longer stems, generally in clusters. The oval petals typically have an indent at the tip.

cherry blossoms fall-
come out and play
devil in me!
散る桜心の鬼も出て遊べ
-Kobayashi Issa.
Trans. David Lanoue.

Vivid pink sakura blossoms.
ALT text detailsVivid pink sakura blossoms.
There are many species of sakura, and some of the most unusual flowers are coloured yellow and green.
ALT text detailsThere are many species of sakura, and some of the most unusual flowers are coloured yellow and green.
Sakura-mochi, a popular sweet during cherry blossom season. An edible sakura leaf is wrapped around the sweet.
ALT text detailsSakura-mochi, a popular sweet during cherry blossom season. An edible sakura leaf is wrapped around the sweet.
Fugen-zakura...a particularly gorgeous and multi-layered species of cherry blossom.
ALT text detailsFugen-zakura...a particularly gorgeous and multi-layered species of cherry blossom.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

🍑Momo (桃の花)-
Flowers bloom in pairs from short stems (petals are always pink, and diamond in shape).

my mean peach tree
nice and chubby
with blossoms
苦桃の花のほちゃほちゃ咲にけり
-Kobayashi Issa, 1809.
Trans. David Lanoue.

Peach blossoms.
ALT text detailsPeach blossoms.
A traditional sweet in the shape of peach shaped bell.
ALT text detailsA traditional sweet in the shape of peach shaped bell.
Shaved ice covered in a thick peach syrup and real pieces of peach.
ALT text detailsShaved ice covered in a thick peach syrup and real pieces of peach.
Peach blossoms.
ALT text detailsPeach blossoms.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

🔍THINGS TO LOOK OUT FOR👀

🎎 Ume (梅の花)-
Flowers grow directly from the branch and have no stem.

are the sparrows too
having a private party?
plum blossoms
雀らも身祝するか梅の花
-Kobayashi Issa (小林一茶), 1804.
Trans. David G. Lanoue.

Vibrant red ume blossoms.
ALT text detailsVibrant red ume blossoms.
White ume blossoms under a clear blue sky.
ALT text detailsWhite ume blossoms under a clear blue sky.
A traditional sweet inspired by a red ume blossom.
ALT text detailsA traditional sweet inspired by a red ume blossom.
A pink ume blossom, with its distinctive round petals.
ALT text detailsA pink ume blossom, with its distinctive round petals.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Snow at Hie Shrine (1931)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/new

Snow falls at Tokyo's Hie Shrine. A pair of female figures in kimono, geta and traditional hairstyles carry bamboo umbrellas over their heads as they approach the shrine. Up ahead, tall trees crowd close to the red-lacquered shrine building; above, the sky is grey and overcast. Snow continues falling across the scene.
ALT text detailsSnow falls at Tokyo's Hie Shrine. A pair of female figures in kimono, geta and traditional hairstyles carry bamboo umbrellas over their heads as they approach the shrine. Up ahead, tall trees crowd close to the red-lacquered shrine building; above, the sky is grey and overcast. Snow continues falling across the scene.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social

🍑🌸BEWILDERING BLOSSOMS🌰🍊

Spring's great conundrum...which blossom is which?🤔

There comes a period in the year when species of ume, quince, peach, cherry and almond trees can all be seen in bloom🔍😵‍💫

In spring a great variety of trees flower at the same time, making it more than a little confusing which types of blossom you are looking at.
ALT text detailsIn spring a great variety of trees flower at the same time, making it more than a little confusing which types of blossom you are looking at.
In spring a great variety of trees flower at the same time, making it more than a little confusing which types of blossom you are looking at.
ALT text detailsIn spring a great variety of trees flower at the same time, making it more than a little confusing which types of blossom you are looking at.
In spring a great variety of trees flower at the same time, making it more than a little confusing which types of blossom you are looking at.
ALT text detailsIn spring a great variety of trees flower at the same time, making it more than a little confusing which types of blossom you are looking at.
In spring a great variety of trees flower at the same time, making it more than a little confusing which types of blossom you are looking at.
ALT text detailsIn spring a great variety of trees flower at the same time, making it more than a little confusing which types of blossom you are looking at.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Rising prices are making it harder to live in Japan. Rice, a staple food, has nearly doubled, with a 5kg bag now selling for an average of 3,829 yen (USD $25) - 1,811 yen ($12) more than last year. Will a release of strategic reserves be enough to bring the cost down?

unseen-japan.com/rice-90-perce

Current price of rice at a local supermarket with a picture of a woman looking shocked
ALT text detailsCurrent price of rice at a local supermarket with a picture of a woman looking shocked
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japan's Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT) found 346,482 cases of school refusal in 2023 - a record number. Why are more Japanese kids refusing to go to school even as cases of bullying are on the decline?

unseen-japan.com/school-refusa

Kid with a randoseru style Japanese backpack sitting in a field with his back to the camera and looking very depressed
ALT text detailsKid with a randoseru style Japanese backpack sitting in a field with his back to the camera and looking very depressed
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Itō Shiori's award-winning documentary BLACK BOX DIARIES still can't be screened in Japan. A group of lawyers - Itō's former attorneys - say she didn't get permission for some of the footage. But is that true? Why are attorneys undermining their own former client?

unseen-japan.com/ito-shiori-be

Ito Shiori in a black t-shirt sitting at a cafe with her hair tied back and looking into the camera, right hand held up to her chin
ALT text detailsIto Shiori in a black t-shirt sitting at a cafe with her hair tied back and looking into the camera, right hand held up to her chin
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: If you watch Beat Takeshi's new film BROKEN RAGE for the deadpan but reflective Kitano crime flicks of yore, prepare for disappointment. But, if you’re willing to be surprised, you’ll likely have a good time. And the less you know, the more fun you may have.

unseen-japan.com/broken-rage-k

Promo for Broken Rage showing a height chart in the background and two Kinatos - one on the left in casual clothes with a hat and a bloody tissue in his noise, and one on the right wearing a suit and sunglasses. Both are wearing placards with the number 5 on them.
ALT text detailsPromo for Broken Rage showing a height chart in the background and two Kinatos - one on the left in casual clothes with a hat and a bloody tissue in his noise, and one on the right wearing a suit and sunglasses. Both are wearing placards with the number 5 on them.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Where once there might have been silence, the voices of the benshi rang out in the cinemas of early 20th-century Japan. Find out more about who the benshi were and what they brought to the movies before the advent of talking pictures.

unseen-japan.com/benshi-japan-

Picture of man narrating a silent film, standing at a podium on the left while looking at the film on the right. On the right lower side of the picture is a strip of film with the words "Benshi: The Voice and Color of Japanese Silent Cinema" in black and white superimposed upon it.
ALT text detailsPicture of man narrating a silent film, standing at a podium on the left while looking at the film on the right. On the right lower side of the picture is a strip of film with the words "Benshi: The Voice and Color of Japanese Silent Cinema" in black and white superimposed upon it.
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Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

A painted image of Thousand-Armed (千手観音菩薩) by Tenjin Hoshin'nō (天真法親王), 1689. Hanging scroll in the collection of Rinnōäji (輪王寺) in Nikkō, Tochigi Prefecture, .

A painted image of Thousand-Armed #Kannon #Bodhisattva (千手観音菩薩) by Tenjin Hoshin'nō (天真法親王), 1689. Hanging scroll in the collection of Rinnōäji (輪王寺) in Nikkō, Tochigi Prefecture, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsA painted image of Thousand-Armed #Kannon #Bodhisattva (千手観音菩薩) by Tenjin Hoshin'nō (天真法親王), 1689. Hanging scroll in the collection of Rinnōäji (輪王寺) in Nikkō, Tochigi Prefecture, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Would you pay to buy books? A lot of people in Tokyo would, it seems - which is why this bookstore in Roppongi has taken off. Learn how it started, why it's charming customers, and what you can expect for your yen.

unseen-japan.com/tokyo-bunkits

Glass front door of Bunkissa in Roppongi, Tokyo
ALT text detailsGlass front door of Bunkissa in Roppongi, Tokyo
noco｜Flower Photographer's avatar
noco｜Flower Photographer

@noco3n_com@mstdn.jp

儚さとは、美しさ。

noco｜Flower Photographer's avatar
noco｜Flower Photographer

@noco3n_com@mstdn.jp

儚さとは、美しさ。

Albert Wu's avatar
Albert Wu

@randombullet@pixelfed.de

Yasaka Pagoda, Kyoto, Japan

#YasakaPagoda #Yasaka #Pagoda #Kyoto #Honshu #Japan #TravelJapan #JapanEndlessDiscovery #Landscape #Photography #Nikon #NikonZII #ZII #Travel
This image showcases a stunning pagoda, likely part of Kiyomizu-dera in Kyoto, with its vibrant vermillion and intricate architectural details standing out against the subdued sky. The framing with bare branches and lush greenery adds depth, enhancing the traditional and serene atmosphere.
ALT text detailsThis image showcases a stunning pagoda, likely part of Kiyomizu-dera in Kyoto, with its vibrant vermillion and intricate architectural details standing out against the subdued sky. The framing with bare branches and lush greenery adds depth, enhancing the traditional and serene atmosphere.
Albert Wu's avatar
Albert Wu

@randombullet@pixelfed.de

Yasaka Pagoda, Kyoto, Japan

#YasakaPagoda #Yasaka #Pagoda #Kyoto #Honshu #Japan #TravelJapan #JapanEndlessDiscovery #Landscape #Photography #Nikon #NikonZII #ZII #Travel
This image beautifully captures a traditional street in Kyoto, likely Ninenzaka or Sannenzaka, with the Yasaka Pagoda standing tall in the background. The warm glow of streetlights contrasts with the cool tones of the sky, creating a serene twilight atmosphere. The lone figure with a white parasol adds a timeless and elegant touch, enhancing the nostalgic feel of the scene.
ALT text detailsThis image beautifully captures a traditional street in Kyoto, likely Ninenzaka or Sannenzaka, with the Yasaka Pagoda standing tall in the background. The warm glow of streetlights contrasts with the cool tones of the sky, creating a serene twilight atmosphere. The lone figure with a white parasol adds a timeless and elegant touch, enhancing the nostalgic feel of the scene.
Albert Wu's avatar
Albert Wu

@randombullet@pixelfed.de

Yasaka Pagoda, Kyoto, Japan

#YasakaPagoda #Yasaka #Pagoda #Kyoto #Honshu #Japan #TravelJapan #JapanEndlessDiscovery #Landscape #Photography #Nikon #NikonZII #ZII #Travel
This image showcases a stunning pagoda, likely part of Kiyomizu-dera in Kyoto, with its vibrant vermillion and intricate architectural details standing out against the subdued sky. The framing with bare branches and lush greenery adds depth, enhancing the traditional and serene atmosphere.
ALT text detailsThis image showcases a stunning pagoda, likely part of Kiyomizu-dera in Kyoto, with its vibrant vermillion and intricate architectural details standing out against the subdued sky. The framing with bare branches and lush greenery adds depth, enhancing the traditional and serene atmosphere.
Albert Wu's avatar
Albert Wu

@randombullet@pixelfed.de

Yasaka Pagoda, Kyoto, Japan

#YasakaPagoda #Yasaka #Pagoda #Kyoto #Honshu #Japan #TravelJapan #JapanEndlessDiscovery #Landscape #Photography #Nikon #NikonZII #ZII #Travel
This image beautifully captures a traditional street in Kyoto, likely Ninenzaka or Sannenzaka, with the Yasaka Pagoda standing tall in the background. The warm glow of streetlights contrasts with the cool tones of the sky, creating a serene twilight atmosphere. The lone figure with a white parasol adds a timeless and elegant touch, enhancing the nostalgic feel of the scene.
ALT text detailsThis image beautifully captures a traditional street in Kyoto, likely Ninenzaka or Sannenzaka, with the Yasaka Pagoda standing tall in the background. The warm glow of streetlights contrasts with the cool tones of the sky, creating a serene twilight atmosphere. The lone figure with a white parasol adds a timeless and elegant touch, enhancing the nostalgic feel of the scene.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The chief priest of Kodaiji Buddhist temple in Kyoto recently vented his frustrations after he was threatened by a tourist, declaring co-existence with foreign tourists "impossible." He later suggested that Japan educate travelers on manners before letting them visit.

unseen-japan.com/kyoto-temple-

Kodaiji - picture of temple building on the left, beautiful pink tree on the right, and raked stones with colored stripes in the foreground
ALT text detailsKodaiji - picture of temple building on the left, beautiful pink tree on the right, and raked stones with colored stripes in the foreground
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

OP says they missed the news (as did we!) that Japan's Children & Families Agency updated its Maternity Mark to include twins & triplets. The move reflects an increase in multiple births in the last several decades due to the growing use of infertility treatments.

Original X post from @ddtwin_0728. Text in Japanese: え！？マタニティマークって公式で多胎が出てたのか…！！ どうも3ヶ月前に出たみたい。 私も使いたかったーーーー！！！！😂 マタニティマークに多胎児版、双子と三つ子のデザイン追加
ALT text detailsOriginal X post from @ddtwin_0728. Text in Japanese: え！？マタニティマークって公式で多胎が出てたのか…！！ どうも3ヶ月前に出たみたい。 私も使いたかったーーーー！！！！😂 マタニティマークに多胎児版、双子と三つ子のデザイン追加
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

”This is no ordinary white rice. I worked overtime & came home late, so my oldest boy (11) looked up how to cook rice & made it for me, making it the world's most delicious white rice."

X post from @R453374510. Original Japanese: これはただの白米ではありません 私が残業で帰りが遅くなったため 長男（11）が自ら炊き方を調べて 炊いてくれた世界一美味しい白米です
ALT text detailsX post from @R453374510. Original Japanese: これはただの白米ではありません 私が残業で帰りが遅くなったため 長男（11）が自ら炊き方を調べて 炊いてくれた世界一美味しい白米です
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Move over, Hachiko - Fukuoka is hoping this Minecraft-ass tree in the Tenjin neighborhood will become the city's hot new meeting spot. The "pixel tree" stands six meters tall and is made up of over 2,000 blocks to make it look like it popped out of an eight-bit video game.

Green pixellated tree in front of large buildings with a person standing off to the left side who's about 1/3rd of the tree's height
ALT text detailsGreen pixellated tree in front of large buildings with a person standing off to the left side who's about 1/3rd of the tree's height
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: One of the things that can suck about being a parent is feeling like you have no time for yourself. One rock band in Japan decided recently to do what it could to help out.

unseen-japan.com/luna-sea-rock

Picture of a rock concert (glowing lights on a center stage, fans shouting all around) with a drawing of a day care worker holding the hands of two kids, a boy on the left and a girl on the right, in the foreground
ALT text detailsPicture of a rock concert (glowing lights on a center stage, fans shouting all around) with a drawing of a day care worker holding the hands of two kids, a boy on the left and a girl on the right, in the foreground
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Many of the most popular and beloved Japanese anime have explicit political ideologies. Sometimes, they’re expressed overtly. Other times they lurk beneath the surface. One thing's for sure: anime, like most art, is almost always political.

unseen-japan.com/anime-politic

Anime Left and Right: Picture of one of the giants from Attack on Titan (skin stripped so musculature is showing) peering over a wall
ALT text detailsAnime Left and Right: Picture of one of the giants from Attack on Titan (skin stripped so musculature is showing) peering over a wall
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

What's the most-used service at a Japanese convenience store? What do most Japanese residents buy there? Read our comprehensive look at how combini have become - and remain - an essential part of everyday life in Japan.

unseen-japan.com/combini-in-ja

Picture of a Lawson convenience store with a paint effect applied
ALT text detailsPicture of a Lawson convenience store with a paint effect applied
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:'s avatar
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:

@norbertwoehnl@famichiki.jp

Season 8 of backstreet night photos from Itabashi ward in Tokyo - all shot last week - is far from over. Today's episode:

“Itabashi Nights”
Season 8, Episode 6
“Interactions in Isolation”

iPhone 15 Pro, night mode.

Night photograph taken at Shimura Daisan Park in the Shimura District of Itabashi Ward in Tokyo, Japan. The stairs are a passageway to another small park and playground.
ALT text detailsNight photograph taken at Shimura Daisan Park in the Shimura District of Itabashi Ward in Tokyo, Japan. The stairs are a passageway to another small park and playground.
Night photograph of a quiet residential street in the Shimura District of Itabashi Ward in Tokyo, Japan.
ALT text detailsNight photograph of a quiet residential street in the Shimura District of Itabashi Ward in Tokyo, Japan.
Night photograph of a quiet and steep residential street adjacent to a park in the Shimura District of Itabashi Ward in Tokyo, Japan.
ALT text detailsNight photograph of a quiet and steep residential street adjacent to a park in the Shimura District of Itabashi Ward in Tokyo, Japan.
Night photograph of a quiet residential street in the Shimura District of Itabashi Ward in Tokyo, Japan.
ALT text detailsNight photograph of a quiet residential street in the Shimura District of Itabashi Ward in Tokyo, Japan.
noco｜Flower Photographer's avatar
noco｜Flower Photographer

@noco3n_com@mstdn.jp

emotional.

noco｜Flower Photographer's avatar
noco｜Flower Photographer

@noco3n_com@mstdn.jp

emotional.

atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Snow at Mukojima (1931)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/new

Snow falls on the banks of Tokyo's Sumida River. In the foreground, small open boats have been drawn up to the docks and partially covered with tarps. Just beyond, a single pilot launches a small ferry boat, their a solitary passenger sheltering under a bamboo umbrella. Out on the river, another small boat makes its way along the water; on the opposite bank, houses are dark and still under a layer of snow. The sky above is gloomy and overcast, and snow continues falling across the scene.
ALT text detailsSnow falls on the banks of Tokyo's Sumida River. In the foreground, small open boats have been drawn up to the docks and partially covered with tarps. Just beyond, a single pilot launches a small ferry boat, their a solitary passenger sheltering under a bamboo umbrella. Out on the river, another small boat makes its way along the water; on the opposite bank, houses are dark and still under a layer of snow. The sky above is gloomy and overcast, and snow continues falling across the scene.
Alfie Goodrich's avatar
Alfie Goodrich

@alfiegoodrich@photog.social

Nothing quite like having one foot on the skid of the chopper and hanging out the door to get a shot. I was fully harnessed, of course.

Was a December evening. Cold AF but we were wrapped up warm and it's the best time to fly. Crystal clear skies.

Hasselblad H4D-40 and 80mm lens.

An aerial photo of the Tokyo Tower from fairly low. We were just abovethe man road from Tamachi through to Kamiyacho. It7s dusk. Blue hour. The city is all cool tones, contrasting with the red of the Tokyo Tower.
ALT text detailsAn aerial photo of the Tokyo Tower from fairly low. We were just abovethe man road from Tamachi through to Kamiyacho. It7s dusk. Blue hour. The city is all cool tones, contrasting with the red of the Tokyo Tower.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

More new company recruits in Japan are bombing out in their first three years of work. According to gov stats, the turnover rate for hires fresh out of college is up to 34.9% - a 15-year high. Rates have spiked despite multiple efforts to improve both hiring & management practices.

Article from Nikkei; Headline: 新卒の3年内離職率35%　学生は就活の質を高めよう
ALT text detailsArticle from Nikkei; Headline: 新卒の3年内離職率35%　学生は就活の質を高めよう
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The Japan Sports Agency, part of MEXT, is criticizing the city of Takizawa, Iwate Prefecture, for doing away with middle school swimming. The city says pools in its six schools are old & they fear kids dropping from the heat. MEXT says it's unprecedented & the city should reconsider.

LiveDoor article headline. JP title: 岩手県滝沢市が中学プール授業を廃止へ…老朽化・欠席者増が要因、スポーツ庁は批判「続けるべき」
ALT text detailsLiveDoor article headline. JP title: 岩手県滝沢市が中学プール授業を廃止へ…老朽化・欠席者増が要因、スポーツ庁は批判「続けるべき」
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Snow at Mukojima (1931)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/new

Snow falls on the banks of Tokyo's Sumida River. In the foreground, small open boats have been drawn up to the docks and partially covered with tarps. Just beyond, a single pilot launches a small ferry boat, their a solitary passenger sheltering under a bamboo umbrella. Out on the river, another small boat makes its way along the water; on the opposite bank, houses are dark and still under a layer of snow. The sky above is gloomy and overcast, and snow continues falling across the scene.
ALT text detailsSnow falls on the banks of Tokyo's Sumida River. In the foreground, small open boats have been drawn up to the docks and partially covered with tarps. Just beyond, a single pilot launches a small ferry boat, their a solitary passenger sheltering under a bamboo umbrella. Out on the river, another small boat makes its way along the water; on the opposite bank, houses are dark and still under a layer of snow. The sky above is gloomy and overcast, and snow continues falling across the scene.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Ieyasu ordered the remains of Momoyama Castle dismantled. Many of the buildings were moved to new homes and reconstructed.

Ishin Sūden (以心崇伝 1569–1633/金地院庭園), abbot of Nanzen-ji (南禅寺) and close advisor to Ieyasu, was put in charge of the bloody floorboards.

Konchi-in, a sub-temple of Nanzen-ji, was home to Ishin Suden (abbot of Nanzen-ji and close adviser to Tokugawa Ieyasu). It is here that the bloody floorboards from Fushimi Castle were stored for many years. Cut down to size they were eventually distributed to temples across the city.
ALT text detailsKonchi-in, a sub-temple of Nanzen-ji, was home to Ishin Suden (abbot of Nanzen-ji and close adviser to Tokugawa Ieyasu). It is here that the bloody floorboards from Fushimi Castle were stored for many years. Cut down to size they were eventually distributed to temples across the city.
Konchi-in's famous 'Crane and Turtle Garden'.
ALT text detailsKonchi-in's famous 'Crane and Turtle Garden'.
Gate at Konchi-in funded by Akechi Mitsuhide.
ALT text detailsGate at Konchi-in funded by Akechi Mitsuhide.
Main Hall of Konchi-in.
ALT text detailsMain Hall of Konchi-in.
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Alfie Goodrich

@alfiegoodrich@photog.social

Nothing quite like having one foot on the skid of the chopper and hanging out the door to get a shot. I was fully harnessed, of course.

Was a December evening. Cold AF but we were wrapped up warm and it's the best time to fly. Crystal clear skies.

Hasselblad H4D-40 and 80mm lens.

An aerial photo of the Tokyo Tower from fairly low. We were just abovethe man road from Tamachi through to Kamiyacho. It7s dusk. Blue hour. The city is all cool tones, contrasting with the red of the Tokyo Tower.
ALT text detailsAn aerial photo of the Tokyo Tower from fairly low. We were just abovethe man road from Tamachi through to Kamiyacho. It7s dusk. Blue hour. The city is all cool tones, contrasting with the red of the Tokyo Tower.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Kyoto schools have decided that a "please" can go a long way. The prefecture's changing exam announcements from using imperative-form verbs (-しなさい, shinasai) to polite requests (-してください, shite kudasai) so as not to add additional stress to already stressed-out students.

unseen-japan.com/kyoto-schools

Picture of two aisles of students bowing to a teacher. The picture is taken from behind the students and at the end of the row, you can see a male teacher standing behind a podium and making his own small bow.
ALT text detailsPicture of two aisles of students bowing to a teacher. The picture is taken from behind the students and at the end of the row, you can see a male teacher standing behind a podium and making his own small bow.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

British brand Unilever's Viennetta ice cream cake has long been a cult favorite in Japan. However, it's disappearing from the local market in March, as maker Morinaga has lost its license. Some are now trying to profit off of a shortage by reselling it at ridiculous prices.

unseen-japan.com/viennetta-ice

Viennetta - Japanese packaging from Morinaga for its 40th anniversary. Shows a picture of the cake, which is a white ice creame shaped in folds with a chocolate sauce on top and chocolate in-between each fold
ALT text detailsViennetta - Japanese packaging from Morinaga for its 40th anniversary. Shows a picture of the cake, which is a white ice creame shaped in folds with a chocolate sauce on top and chocolate in-between each fold
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Bummed that you haven't been able to buy a physical Suica or PASMO card? Good news! Both JR East and PASMO Corp have deemed the IC chip crisis over. The companies say they'll resume selling anonymous IC cards as of March 1st.

unseen-japan.com/suica-pasmo-p

PASMO card - picture of a hand holding a silver PASMO card with pink text against a blue background
ALT text detailsPASMO card - picture of a hand holding a silver PASMO card with pink text against a blue background
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Nagano Kohei, the mayor of Kishiwada in Osaka who refused to step down after reports that he settled a lawsuit over a sexual assault, is out of a job after a second unanimous no-confidence vote. An undeterred Nagano says he's considering running in the replacement election.

Asahi Shimbun article on Nagano's no confidence vote. JP headline: 岸和田市長2度目の不信任で失職決まる　市長選出馬「前向きに検討」
ALT text detailsAsahi Shimbun article on Nagano's no confidence vote. JP headline: 岸和田市長2度目の不信任で失職決まる　市長選出馬「前向きに検討」
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japan's MHLW has certified advertising firm Dentsu as an "easy place for women to work." The designation comes 10 years after 24yo Takahashi Matsuri killed herself due to overwork. An investigation later discovered Dentsu had been falsifying time reports to stay below legal overtime caps.

Yahoo! News post on Dentsu. Japanese headline: 電通を「女性に働きやすい企業」、厚労省が認定…高橋まつりさんの母「全社員守る緊張感を」
ALT text detailsYahoo! News post on Dentsu. Japanese headline: 電通を「女性に働きやすい企業」、厚労省が認定…高橋まつりさんの母「全社員守る緊張感を」
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: It’s really cold across Japan right now. However, thanks to archaic rules, some school students in primary and secondary education can’t bundle up to stay warm.

unseen-japan.com/japan-winter-

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: Ramen shops in Japan are feeling the squeeze recently. Despite this, the dish remains one of the country’s most beloved fast food meals. That’s reflected in an annual report of who eats what – and where – when they dine out in Japan.

unseen-japan.com/ramen-capital

A bowl of ramen neatly arranged on a brown wooden tray with a set of chopsticks set near the bottom of the bowl
ALT text detailsA bowl of ramen neatly arranged on a brown wooden tray with a set of chopsticks set near the bottom of the bowl
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: A new article says Japanese residents & retail workers are fed up with various etiquette faux pas witnessed among foreign tourists to Japan. E.g., one female customer in her 30s complains that foreign tourists spend an inordinate time in changing rooms.

unseen-japan.com/japan-tourist

Woman trying on new blouse steps out of a changing room to show it to her friend
ALT text detailsWoman trying on new blouse steps out of a changing room to show it to her friend
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japan has seen its fair share of anime tie-up controversies. Campaigns involving Norin and Uzaki-chan Wants to Hang Out have brought accusations of excessive public sexualization of women. A campaign involving Love Live! even brought charges of child exploitation.

unseen-japan.com/maruchan-kits

The city of Minokamo in Gifu Prefecture had teamed up with ecchi-adjacent anime Norin (のうりん). Its first posters featured one of the series’ most sexualized characters, Yoshida Kocho ( 良田胡蝶), in a pose where she’s partially exposing and pushing up her breasts. The city eventually replaced the poster with a different version.
ALT text detailsThe city of Minokamo in Gifu Prefecture had teamed up with ecchi-adjacent anime Norin (のうりん). Its first posters featured one of the series’ most sexualized characters, Yoshida Kocho ( 良田胡蝶), in a pose where she’s partially exposing and pushing up her breasts. The city eventually replaced the poster with a different version.
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noco｜Flower Photographer

@noco3n_com@mstdn.jp

ephemeral.

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Right-wing Japanese celebrity Dewi Sukarno wants to protect dogs and cats with her new political party, 12 (Wan-Nyan) Heiwa-To. However, she's come under fire from critics for only protecting some animals while making a fashion accessory out of others.

unseen-japan.com/dewi-sukarno-

Dewi Sukarno in a TV segment with her expensive fur coat that she claims a hotel ruined
ALT text detailsDewi Sukarno in a TV segment with her expensive fur coat that she claims a hotel ruined
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Starting in May 2025, people from Taiwan who marry a Japanese citizen or naturalize will be able to identify "Taiwan" as their birthplace in the country's family registry system. Japan also plans to change the name of the relevant column from "nationality" to "nationality/region."

unseen-japan.com/japan-family-

Ministry of Justice stone carving sign in Tokyo, Japan
ALT text detailsMinistry of Justice stone carving sign in Tokyo, Japan
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Archaic school rules make Japanese students freeze, a victim of domestic violence ignored, Japanese restaurants vs. Chinese tourists, and bathing is canceled - this and more in our round-up of most popular stories in this week's Unseen Japan Newsletter.

us20.campaign-archive.com/?u=e

Young woman listening to mislc in the snow wearing a heavy blue winter coat and a tan scarf, with her hands held up to her chin while she looks off-camera to the right
ALT text detailsYoung woman listening to mislc in the snow wearing a heavy blue winter coat and a tan scarf, with her hands held up to her chin while she looks off-camera to the right
Budapest, Hungary
ALT text detailsBudapest, Hungary
Female restaurant server holding tray and looking worried
ALT text detailsFemale restaurant server holding tray and looking worried
Baths canceled - blue-hued picture of a woman laying back in a tub with a "canceled" logo imposed over it
ALT text detailsBaths canceled - blue-hued picture of a woman laying back in a tub with a "canceled" logo imposed over it
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Should an udon commercial be excessively horny? That's the debate over a new spot for a Maruchan instant noodle product. Some feminists in Japan say it's nearly pornographic; others say it's sweet & innocent; and a third group argues that it's just very poorly animated.

unseen-japan.com/maruchan-kits

Maru-chan Akai Kitsune Udon commercial - animation of young woman eating udon with a flushed face
ALT text detailsMaru-chan Akai Kitsune Udon commercial - animation of young woman eating udon with a flushed face
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atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Hataori in Shiobara (1946)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

asahi.com/ajw/articles/1562916

Evening, as blizzard conditions descend on a street in Shiobara, Japan. Layers of fresh snow cover the ground and the rooftops of the buildings. Warm lights glow in a few windows, but there is no other sign of human activity. The evening gloom and the wind-driven snow reduce the buildings to blocky silhouettes; there are shadowy hints of mountains in the distance beyond, but the details are obscured.
ALT text detailsEvening, as blizzard conditions descend on a street in Shiobara, Japan. Layers of fresh snow cover the ground and the rooftops of the buildings. Warm lights glow in a few windows, but there is no other sign of human activity. The evening gloom and the wind-driven snow reduce the buildings to blocky silhouettes; there are shadowy hints of mountains in the distance beyond, but the details are obscured.
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atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Hataori in Shiobara (1946)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

asahi.com/ajw/articles/1562916

Evening, as blizzard conditions descend on a street in Shiobara, Japan. Layers of fresh snow cover the ground and the rooftops of the buildings. Warm lights glow in a few windows, but there is no other sign of human activity. The evening gloom and the wind-driven snow reduce the buildings to blocky silhouettes; there are shadowy hints of mountains in the distance beyond, but the details are obscured.
ALT text detailsEvening, as blizzard conditions descend on a street in Shiobara, Japan. Layers of fresh snow cover the ground and the rooftops of the buildings. Warm lights glow in a few windows, but there is no other sign of human activity. The evening gloom and the wind-driven snow reduce the buildings to blocky silhouettes; there are shadowy hints of mountains in the distance beyond, but the details are obscured.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Thinking of getting a JR Pass while in Japan? It's not really the deal it once was. Before you buy, consider the new rates and your expected usage - and whether you'd just be better off buying tickets as you need them.

unseen-japan.com/incoming-jr-p

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Outside of the major metropolises and iconic landmarks in Japan, like Mt. Fuji, are a dizzying wealth of beautiful nature spots. And, like elsewhere in the country, they’re seeing an unprecedented influx of tourists. Here are the most popular right now.

unseen-japan.com/japan-best-na

Kumano Hongu Taisha
ALT text detailsKumano Hongu Taisha
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A guy on X drew raised eyebrows when he claimed he'd been accused of sexual assault for saving a woman's life with an AED. Further sleuthing revealed he had a penchant for telling tall tales, such as claiming he'd once discovered a case for an assassin's rifle on a rooftop.

Tweets from X user Hamagawa Masto claiming he'd once discovered a case for an assassin's rifle and also been stabbed and dumped on the train tracks at Okayama Station. He even used the AED story once in 2018.
ALT text detailsTweets from X user Hamagawa Masto claiming he'd once discovered a case for an assassin's rifle and also been stabbed and dumped on the train tracks at Okayama Station. He even used the AED story once in 2018.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Why is it so hard to find a space in Tokyo to sit? As cafes fill up due to remote workers and tourists, locals complain that the public spaces they had grown used to relaxing in seem to be disappearing.

unseen-japan.com/tokyo-disappe

Two benches by a lake with price tags on them
ALT text detailsTwo benches by a lake with price tags on them
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Ieyasu had lost this particular battle but won the war, and Mototada's name would be used thereafter as the perfect example of samurai loyalty and bravery.

It was some time before the bodies were cleared. By then the blood and gore were deep stains in the wood.

The blood ceiling at Genko-an.
ALT text detailsThe blood ceiling at Genko-an.
The blood ceiling at Genko-an.
ALT text detailsThe blood ceiling at Genko-an.
The blood ceiling at Genko-an.
ALT text detailsThe blood ceiling at Genko-an.
The blood ceiling at Genko-an.
ALT text detailsThe blood ceiling at Genko-an.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

On August 27th 1600 an assault was launched by Ishida Mitsunari (石田三成 1559-1600), representing the Western coalition of domains loyal to the ruling Toyotomi clan, against the 6 year old Fushimi Castle, held by Torii Mototada (鳥居元忠 1539-1600).

Fushimi Momoyama Castle during cherry blossom season.
ALT text detailsFushimi Momoyama Castle during cherry blossom season.
Ishida Mitsunari, supporter of the 'ruling' Toyotomi Family in the Battle of Sekigahara.
ALT text detailsIshida Mitsunari, supporter of the 'ruling' Toyotomi Family in the Battle of Sekigahara.
Torii Mototada, holder of Fushimi Castle when it was besieged in 1600.
ALT text detailsTorii Mototada, holder of Fushimi Castle when it was besieged in 1600.
Remnants of the original Fushimi Castle can be found in various places across Kyoto...such as the Kara-mon of Toyokuni-jinja.
ALT text detailsRemnants of the original Fushimi Castle can be found in various places across Kyoto...such as the Kara-mon of Toyokuni-jinja.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

The 8 temples:

🩸Yōgen-in 南叡山養源院
🩸Hōsen-in 魚山寶泉院
🩸Shōden-ji 吉祥山正伝寺（吉祥山正傳護國禪寺)
🩸Genkō-an 鷹峰山寶樹林源光庵
🩸Kōshō-ji 佛德山興聖寺
🩸Tenkyū-in 天球院（Myōshin-ji sub-temple 妙心禪寺の塔頭)
🩸Shinnō-ji 絲杉山神應寺 (Yawata 八幡)
🩸Eishun-ji 指心庵栄春寺（泰澄山榮春寺 - Fushimi 伏見)

The garden at Shōden-ji (a temple popularized by David Bowie).
ALT text detailsThe garden at Shōden-ji (a temple popularized by David Bowie).
Entrance to Yōgen-in, 1 of the 8 'blood ceiling' temples.
ALT text detailsEntrance to Yōgen-in, 1 of the 8 'blood ceiling' temples.
Garden in the sprawling grounds of Hōsen-in.
ALT text detailsGarden in the sprawling grounds of Hōsen-in.
Hōsen-in's famous 700 year old white pine tree.
ALT text detailsHōsen-in's famous 700 year old white pine tree.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Genkō-an is 1 of 8 temples that claim to have received bloody floorboards from Fushimi Momoyama Castle (伏見城/桃山城).

These were incorporated as ceilings into the temple worship halls, in order to pray for the souls sacrificed during the Siege of Fushimi (伏見城の戦い) in 1600 (in some cases many decades after the event).

A bloody footprint on Genko-an's ceiling.
ALT text detailsA bloody footprint on Genko-an's ceiling.
Replica of Fushimi Momoyama Castle, built as part of a theme park in the mid-20thC but now closed to the public.
ALT text detailsReplica of Fushimi Momoyama Castle, built as part of a theme park in the mid-20thC but now closed to the public.
Closer view of the replica of Fushimi Momoyama Castle, constructed in 1964 close to its original site (now taken up by the mausoleum of Emperor Meiji).
ALT text detailsCloser view of the replica of Fushimi Momoyama Castle, constructed in 1964 close to its original site (now taken up by the mausoleum of Emperor Meiji).
What appears to be the stains of bloody clothing on the ceiling of Genko-an.
ALT text detailsWhat appears to be the stains of bloody clothing on the ceiling of Genko-an.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social

👣KYŌTO'S BLOOD CEILINGS🩸

The rear portion of the ceiling in Genkō-an's (源光庵) main hall is stained with what at first glance looks like water damage...
...but soon a footprint emerges on the rust coloured wood, the shape of a doll, shadowy fingertips, the fold of a kimono!

A footprint can be seen on the ceiling boards of Genko-an's main hall. Once floorboards in part of Fushimi Castle, these blood stains are a grisly reminder of a last stand by those trying to hold the fortress.
ALT text detailsA footprint can be seen on the ceiling boards of Genko-an's main hall. Once floorboards in part of Fushimi Castle, these blood stains are a grisly reminder of a last stand by those trying to hold the fortress.
The stained ceiling of Genko-san, originally floor boards in Fushimi Castle that were drenched in blood. They were gifted to temples as a prayer to soothe the souls that died during a battle at the castle.
ALT text detailsThe stained ceiling of Genko-san, originally floor boards in Fushimi Castle that were drenched in blood. They were gifted to temples as a prayer to soothe the souls that died during a battle at the castle.
The main gate of Genko-an.
ALT text detailsThe main gate of Genko-an.
Many shapes can be seen in the stains on the ceiling boards of Genko-an's main hall. Here you can make out what is likely folds of clothing.
ALT text detailsMany shapes can be seen in the stains on the ceiling boards of Genko-an's main hall. Here you can make out what is likely folds of clothing.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Can you BBQ in your backyard in Japan? Legally, the answer is generally "yes." But, as one Chinese resident of the country learned recently, your neighbors might not like it - and they could even call the cops.

unseen-japan.com/chinese-resid

Picture of outdoor barbeque - various meats, yellow pepper, red pepper, onions, green pepper, onions - as someone turns food with tongs
ALT text detailsPicture of outdoor barbeque - various meats, yellow pepper, red pepper, onions, green pepper, onions - as someone turns food with tongs
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A man in Japan claimed on social media he'd been accused of sexual assault after saving a woman's life with an AED. A major media outlet echoed his story. The problem? It was a total lie - one that medical experts say further hurts women who are already at risk.

unseen-japan.com/aed-false-rap

Person delivering CPR on a resuscitation dummy, with an AED device attached via pads and the device itself set above the dummy's head to the right
ALT text detailsPerson delivering CPR on a resuscitation dummy, with an AED device attached via pads and the device itself set above the dummy's head to the right
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Going to the gym isn’t always fun. But what if there was one where the music always rocks and you could participate in workouts specifically tailored to your interests? Enter Clara, a Japanese gym that specifically targets otaku women.

unseen-japan.com/clara-otaku-w

Clara founder Sakuta Yoko, also known as SAKU, wearing a green shirt and holding weights in each hand. Behind her are a bunch of plastic figures from various anime
ALT text detailsClara founder Sakuta Yoko, also known as SAKU, wearing a green shirt and holding weights in each hand. Behind her are a bunch of plastic figures from various anime
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: Some Chinese tourists to Japan feel like some restaurants in the country aren't welcoming them with open arms. There's a reason for that, one Chinese user said in a recent social media thread that generated a lot of discussion within the mainland.

unseen-japan.com/japanese-rest

Female server in a white shirt and grey apron holding a serving board in her right arm and worringly holding her left hand up to her chin
ALT text detailsFemale server in a white shirt and grey apron holding a serving board in her right arm and worringly holding her left hand up to her chin
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salguod, man 🍂🍁 lazysupper

@lazysupper@famichiki.jp

Japanese castles are the perfect place to go in the event of a zombie apocalypse. Blow up or block all but one of the bridges and your pretty much protected. Just take lots of seeds and soil and gardening supplies and your set.

I've never seen any Japanese zombie movies but if one of them employs this strategy, I'd like to watch it.

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

As Japan continues to see record travel numbers, some towns and cities in the country are struggling to keep up. The latest example is Hokkaido's Furano, where booming business is offset by rising property prices and tourists who don't know how to sort their garbage.

unseen-japan.com/furano-hokkai

Furano, Hokkaido - rolling purple lavender field striped with flowers of other colors (red, yellow, white, green, pink)
ALT text detailsFurano, Hokkaido - rolling purple lavender field striped with flowers of other colors (red, yellow, white, green, pink)
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noco｜Flower Photographer

@noco3n_com@mstdn.jp

Flowers are an illusion.

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: Japan has had a problem with food waste for a while. However, it’s also one of the countries that’s most aggressively tackled the problem. Now, Japan’s government has announced it’ll take the next step in its battle by changing its approach to food expiration dates.

unseen-japan.com/japan-food-wa

Expiration date labes on eggs
ALT text detailsExpiration date labes on eggs
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: Costco has proven pretty popular in Japan. It’s so popular, in fact, that some stores have created an entire business out of reselling products purchased there. However, according to some reports, it’s easier to start one of these stores than it is to keep it going.

unseen-japan.com/costco-japan-

Kirkland Signature coffee beans on sale at a Costco resale shop in Tokyo
ALT text detailsKirkland Signature coffee beans on sale at a Costco resale shop in Tokyo
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: Sanrio Entertainment investigated what appeared to be an outage for the Puroland website recently. IT personnel discovered that the site had been hacked and infected with ransomware - and that customers' personal data may have been leaked.

unseen-japan.com/puroland-rans

Sanrio Puroland entrance
ALT text detailsSanrio Puroland entrance
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noco｜Flower Photographer

@noco3n_com@mstdn.jp

ephemeral.

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Some only do it once every four days. Some are going a full month without it. We are, unfortunately, talking about bathing. How a recent social media trend in Japan has young people declaring cleanliness too much of a hassle to bother with.

unseen-japan.com/idol-bathing-

Baths canceled - blue-hued picture of a woman laying back in a tub with a "canceled" logo imposed over it
ALT text detailsBaths canceled - blue-hued picture of a woman laying back in a tub with a "canceled" logo imposed over it
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

43-year-old Makino Masayuki founded a group that "rescues" at-risk youth from the streets of Tokyo's Kabukicho. Saitama police just arrested him on charges of raping a 17-year-old girl. The case raises alarming questions about who's running these shady "support" groups.

unseen-japan.com/toyoko-kids-m

Toyoko, Kabukicho - shot of the area standing in front looking towards Toho Cinemas, Multiple visitors are walking and standing around on the brightly-lit neon street. You can see the Toho Godzilla in the background peering over the Hotel Gracery.
ALT text detailsToyoko, Kabukicho - shot of the area standing in front looking towards Toho Cinemas, Multiple visitors are walking and standing around on the brightly-lit neon street. You can see the Toho Godzilla in the background peering over the Hotel Gracery.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: The feud between Chiitan and the city of Susaki in Kochi Prefecture goes all the way back to 2018. Their rivalry ended up back in court in Tokyo. Learn why the court sided with Chiitan.

unseen-japan.com/chiitan-court

Chiitan wins court verdict against city - picture of a judge banging a gavel with Susaki City mascot Shinjo-kun standing on the left and Chiitan on the right
ALT text detailsChiitan wins court verdict against city - picture of a judge banging a gavel with Susaki City mascot Shinjo-kun standing on the left and Chiitan on the right
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: Japan Railways East is fighting to keep its Suica transportation card relevant in the modern age. In its latest gambit, it’s promising to implement a new “subscription” system by 2028, complete with store discount coupons and other benefits.

unseen-japan.com/japan-suica-s

Someone scanning a Suica card on an IC card reader
ALT text detailsSomeone scanning a Suica card on an IC card reader
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David :SetouchiExplorer:

@David@setouchi.social

So you may know that in Japan for Valentine's Day, it's the woman who buys chocolate to her loved ones.
My wife always does it. But there's a twist, she's also the one who eats most of it.

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Do you love Japanese food? Wish you could cook more of it at home? One good way to perfect your Japanese cooking shops is to learn from someone who cooks it daily. Here’s why, next time you’re in Japan, you should consider taking a cooking class.

unseen-japan.com/tokyo-cooking

Japanese chef showing tourists how to make maki-zushi
ALT text detailsJapanese chef showing tourists how to make maki-zushi
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Raymond Larabie

@typodermic@mastodon.social

Sometimes, it's the quiet geometry of a place that demands attention. The layers of old wood, fogged glass, and makeshift repairs form an abstract patchwork of rectangles, each telling its own slow story of weather and time. 🏚️📏

時々、静かな幾何学が目を奪う。古びた木材、曇ったガラス、即席の修繕が織りなす長方形のパッチワーク。それぞれが、時間と風雨に晒された物語を語っている。📐🪵

A close-up of an old window and wooden fence, weathered and patched together over the years. The frosted glass softens whatever lies beyond, while the slats of wood below show signs of countless repairs.
ALT text detailsA close-up of an old window and wooden fence, weathered and patched together over the years. The frosted glass softens whatever lies beyond, while the slats of wood below show signs of countless repairs.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Four days ago, Ichijo Miki took to Instagram and X to announce she was the “Grand Prix winner” of the “first-ever” Miss Kyodai Contest for Kyoto University. Which is weird, because there already *was* a Miss Kyodai Contest - and the university canceled it last year.

unseen-japan.com/miss-kyodai-b

X post from Ichijo Miki announcing she had won the Grand Prix for the Kyoto U Miss Contest
ALT text detailsX post from Ichijo Miki announcing she had won the Grand Prix for the Kyoto U Miss Contest
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japanese rock band LUNA SEA is receiving near-universal praise for announcing it'll sponsor a daycare for its fans at its upcoming Tokyo Dome concerts - a welcome move in a country that wants more kids but, some say, often doesn't accommodate them.

unseen-japan.com/luna-sea-rock

Picture of a rock concert (glowing lights on a center stage, fans shouting all around) with a drawing of a day care worker holding the hands of two kids, a boy on the left and a girl on the right, in the foreground
ALT text detailsPicture of a rock concert (glowing lights on a center stage, fans shouting all around) with a drawing of a day care worker holding the hands of two kids, a boy on the left and a girl on the right, in the foreground
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japanese rock band LUNA SEA is receiving near-universal praise for announcing it'll sponsor a daycare for its fans at its upcoming Tokyo Dome concerts - a welcome move in a country that wants more kids but, some say, often doesn't accommodate them.

unseen-japan.com/luna-sea-rock

Picture of a rock concert (glowing lights on a center stage, fans shouting all around) with a drawing of a day care worker holding the hands of two kids, a boy on the left and a girl on the right, in the foreground
ALT text detailsPicture of a rock concert (glowing lights on a center stage, fans shouting all around) with a drawing of a day care worker holding the hands of two kids, a boy on the left and a girl on the right, in the foreground
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japanese rock band LUNA SEA is receiving near-universal praise for announcing it'll sponsor a daycare for its fans at its upcoming Tokyo Dome concerts - a welcome move in a country that wants more kids but, some say, often doesn't accommodate them.

unseen-japan.com/luna-sea-rock

Picture of a rock concert (glowing lights on a center stage, fans shouting all around) with a drawing of a day care worker holding the hands of two kids, a boy on the left and a girl on the right, in the foreground
ALT text detailsPicture of a rock concert (glowing lights on a center stage, fans shouting all around) with a drawing of a day care worker holding the hands of two kids, a boy on the left and a girl on the right, in the foreground
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A sweet story: 5 young men visit a cafe in Hokkaido, ordering from the Korean menu. 1 spills a drink, which the store refills for free. The men leave & the store finds they left a note in Japanese - "Sorry! The coffee was really delicious" - along with 600 yen for the refill.

X post from HKD_sakuraya146. Original Japanese text: 5人でご来店の韓国メニュー使用の青年達の1人が冷たいドリンクをテーブルの下にほぼ全てこぼしてしまいました。 お店側としてはほぼ飲んていなかったので新しいドリンクを提供させて頂きました 普通にお会計してお帰りになっ後のテーブルの上にこんなものが (リプ欄に続く)
ALT text detailsX post from HKD_sakuraya146. Original Japanese text: 5人でご来店の韓国メニュー使用の青年達の1人が冷たいドリンクをテーブルの下にほぼ全てこぼしてしまいました。 お店側としてはほぼ飲んていなかったので新しいドリンクを提供させて頂きました 普通にお会計してお帰りになっ後のテーブルの上にこんなものが (リプ欄に続く)
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: A city in Japan has a new plan to counteract declining birth rates by making it easier for couples to get married. The twist? It’s become the first local government whose financial incentives are inclusive of LGBTQ couples.

unseen-japan.com/ichikawa-city

Train passing over the Edo River in Ichikawa with cherry blossoms in the foreground
ALT text detailsTrain passing over the Edo River in Ichikawa with cherry blossoms in the foreground
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: A poor crop and rising prices for vegetables here have sent the price of cabbage in Japan skyrocketing. That’s driven supermarket chains to do something that would have been unthinkable just months ago: importing more cabbage from China.

unseen-japan.com/chinese-cabba

Knife slicing into a head of cabbage
ALT text detailsKnife slicing into a head of cabbage
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

As an American, I’m used to people getting rid of stuff by throwing crap on their lawns and sticking a big old “free” sign on it. So I was a little surprised when I read that someone in Japan tried to do just that recently – and that a neighbor laid into them.

unseen-japan.com/tv-recycling-

Older TV with a "free!" sticker superimposed on it
ALT text detailsOlder TV with a "free!" sticker superimposed on it
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Ukraine War Bulletins and News

@SocraticEthics@mastodon.online

🖕🇺🇸Traitor Trump announces first meeting with War Criminal Putin to take place in Saudi Arabia (more) kyivindependent.com/trump-anno

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A woman is claiming online she's the Grand Prix Winner of the Kyoto University Miss Contest 2024 beauty pageant. There are two problems with her claim. First, there were apparently only two competitors. Second, Kyoto U canceled the contest last year.

unseen-japan.com/miss-kyodai-b

Miss Kyodai Controversy - picture of Kyoto University in the backgorund and of "Miss Kyodai Contest" winner Ichijo Miki in the foreground holding a trophy
ALT text detailsMiss Kyodai Controversy - picture of Kyoto University in the backgorund and of "Miss Kyodai Contest" winner Ichijo Miki in the foreground holding a trophy
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: Japan’s Foreign Minister defended the actions of the Japanese Embassy in Hungary, which helped lead to the woman’s death. Meanwhile, Hungary is moving to address the growing outcry over the crime.

unseen-japan.com/hungary-dv-mu

Budapest, Hungary - picture of a bus driving past historic old buildings
ALT text detailsBudapest, Hungary - picture of a bus driving past historic old buildings
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japan Foreign Minister Iwaya Takeshi commented on the case of a 43yo woman murdered by her ex-husband in Hungary, saying the JP Embassy refused to re-issue passports to her kids out of joint custody concerns - despite her filing a domestic violence complaint 3 years prior.

unseen-japan.com/hungary-dv-mu

Budapest, Hungary - picture of a bus driving past historic old buildings
ALT text detailsBudapest, Hungary - picture of a bus driving past historic old buildings
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: It’s a new month, which means it’s time yet again for a pizza chain to unleash a new and, possibly, edible pizza upon an unsuspecting Japanese public. Is Pizza Hut Japan’s new Shoyu Ramen Pizza a must-eat – or another awful gimmick?

unseen-japan.com/pizza-hut-sho

Tokyo Vice creator and reporter Jake Adelstein struggling to find something good to say about the Shoyu ramen pizza
ALT text detailsTokyo Vice creator and reporter Jake Adelstein struggling to find something good to say about the Shoyu ramen pizza
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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Japan will send one of its Mogami-class frigates to Australia for joint military exercises, Defense Ministry Gen Nakatani said, as Tokyo vies for a lucrative contract to build new frigates for Canberra. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/02/

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: We’ve warned before about the dangers of barkers in Kabukicho. They’re doubly dangerous when the activity they’re pushing is illegal. Case in point: the men who just got busted for trying to prostitute Japanese women to foreigners in the first case of its kind in Japan.

unseen-japan.com/kabukicho-for

Entrance to Kabukicho's Sakura-dori Street
ALT text detailsEntrance to Kabukicho's Sakura-dori Street
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

“Foreigners apply perfume more heavily than Japanese people do,” one woman who works in fashion retail says. “It fills the changing room with the smell to the point we get complaints from Japanese customers.” She says the smell also gets into the clothes.

unseen-japan.com/japan-tourist

Woman smiling as she poses holding a blouse up to her torso in a clothing store
ALT text detailsWoman smiling as she poses holding a blouse up to her torso in a clothing store
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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Japan will send one of its Mogami-class frigates to Australia for joint military exercises, Defense Ministry Gen Nakatani said, as Tokyo vies for a lucrative contract to build new frigates for Canberra. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/02/

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Tokyo has a ton of train stations - including some that barely anyone ever uses. Why do these stations exist? How do they keep going? Learn about Toyko's "ghost train" stations below.

unseen-japan.com/tokyo-least-u

Woman looking aghast at a sign for Horikiri Station
ALT text detailsWoman looking aghast at a sign for Horikiri Station
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Both Nagoya and Aichi Prefecture are working to raise the city’s profile. Aichi’s new tourist strategy for 2024-2026 includes promoting distinctive Nagoya sites and cuisine, using popular Japan travel influencers to get the word out online.

unseen-japan.com/nagoya-poor-t

Picture of Oasis21 in Nagoya, with an "@NAGOYA" sign monument in the foreground
ALT text detailsPicture of Oasis21 in Nagoya, with an "@NAGOYA" sign monument in the foreground
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noco｜Flower Photographer

@noco3n_com@mstdn.jp

Flowers are an illusion.

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natronics :tokyo:

@natronics@famichiki.jp

Tower watch 🗼

Photograph of the Tokyo skyline in the distance. The distinctive red Tokyo Tower is centered in the frame with a silhouetted figure looking outward in the foreground.
ALT text detailsPhotograph of the Tokyo skyline in the distance. The distinctive red Tokyo Tower is centered in the frame with a silhouetted figure looking outward in the foreground.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Train subscriptions, Sazae-san has no sponsors, tourism drives up Japanese wages (and employers hate it), and Tokyo's "cafe refugees" search for a seat - that and more in our round-up of our most popular stories last week in the Unseen Japan Newsletter.

us20.campaign-archive.com/?u=e

https://us20.campaign-archive.com/?u=e9c0d2fc400d4b96cabfca61a&id=f1b99d5903
ALT text detailshttps://us20.campaign-archive.com/?u=e9c0d2fc400d4b96cabfca61a&id=f1b99d5903
Fuji TV - Sazae-san and Chibi Maruko-chan
ALT text detailsFuji TV - Sazae-san and Chibi Maruko-chan
Niseko, Hirafu area with snow all around a paved street
ALT text detailsNiseko, Hirafu area with snow all around a paved street
Woman working on her laptop at a cafe
ALT text detailsWoman working on her laptop at a cafe
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

It's cold in Japan - yet some schools, enforcing outdated regulations, are making students suck it up with little protection. Japanese parents are complaining online that their kids are forbidden from wearing scarves, down jackets, and - in one extreme case - even socks.

unseen-japan.com/japan-winter-

Young woman listening to mislc in the snow wearing a heavy blue winter coat and a tan scarf, with her hands held up to her chin while she looks off-camera to the right
ALT text detailsYoung woman listening to mislc in the snow wearing a heavy blue winter coat and a tan scarf, with her hands held up to her chin while she looks off-camera to the right
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Everyone in Japan loves ramen. But some cities REALLY love ramen. A report from Japan's Ministry of Internal Affairs & Communications says this city in the country's Tohoku region has eaten the most ramen per capita for the third year running.

unseen-japan.com/ramen-capital

A bowl of ramen neatly arranged on a brown wooden tray with a set of chopsticks set near the bottom of the bowl
ALT text detailsA bowl of ramen neatly arranged on a brown wooden tray with a set of chopsticks set near the bottom of the bowl
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Are you minding your manners when you try on clothes in Japan? Local media says that some clothing store customers and employees are frustrated by "rude" tourist changing room behavior - from not removing shoes to trying on clothes while slathered in perfume.

unseen-japan.com/japan-tourist

Woman trying on new blouse steps out of a changing room to show it to her friend
ALT text detailsWoman trying on new blouse steps out of a changing room to show it to her friend
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Screaming Crow (c.1912)

Artist: Ohara Koson

asahi.com/ajw/articles/1560610

A large black crow sits on a leafless, frosty tree branch; the bird seems to be looking out at the viewer with one yellow-rimmed eye, and is depicted in mid-caw, its beak wide open. Other thin branches droop around the bird, weighed down by frost. Beyond, the background is dim and indistinct.
ALT text detailsA large black crow sits on a leafless, frosty tree branch; the bird seems to be looking out at the viewer with one yellow-rimmed eye, and is depicted in mid-caw, its beak wide open. Other thin branches droop around the bird, weighed down by frost. Beyond, the background is dim and indistinct.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

My new favorite genre of Japanese article is posts about the app Tsuita (対多), a Japanese message board that only allows kanji, whose headlines only use kanji. Referring to the Apple App Store as 林檎携帯店 (ringo keitaiten)? Just perfect.

Nikkei article on Tsuita. JP title: 偽中国語掲示板「対多」驚愕繁盛　林檎携帯店降下数一位
ALT text detailsNikkei article on Tsuita. JP title: 偽中国語掲示板「対多」驚愕繁盛　林檎携帯店降下数一位
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Screaming Crow (c.1912)

Artist: Ohara Koson

asahi.com/ajw/articles/1560610

A large black crow sits on a leafless, frosty tree branch; the bird seems to be looking out at the viewer with one yellow-rimmed eye, and is depicted in mid-caw, its beak wide open. Other thin branches droop around the bird, weighed down by frost. Beyond, the background is dim and indistinct.
ALT text detailsA large black crow sits on a leafless, frosty tree branch; the bird seems to be looking out at the viewer with one yellow-rimmed eye, and is depicted in mid-caw, its beak wide open. Other thin branches droop around the bird, weighed down by frost. Beyond, the background is dim and indistinct.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Want more independent media with values? Unseen Japan keeps going thanks to the generosity of our readers. Make a recurring or one-time donation to UJ today to help us create more of the Japan you don't learn about in anime.

unseen-japan.com/support/

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: It’s a two-room toilet. It’s barrier-free. It has baby changing tables. It is, by all appearances, a regular-ass public bathroom. That’s left many locals asking: why the f*!@ did it cost so much?

unseen-japan.com/million-dolla

Gold toilet superimposed on a map of the village of Mitsue
ALT text detailsGold toilet superimposed on a map of the village of Mitsue
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Kiyomizu Temple in the Snow (1932)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/new

A view of Kyoto's Kiyomizu-Dera on a snowy winter's day. Two female figures, dressed for the cold weather and holding bamboo umbrellas over their heads, pause on the stage behind the main hall of the temple. Apart from these two, the area is deserted, and has collected a layer of fresh undisturbed snow. Below them, the branches of leafless trees are rimed with frost, while beyond, the main temple hall and buildings appear dark and deserted. In the distance, the shadow of a mountain crosses the horizon, and snow continues to fall across the scene.
ALT text detailsA view of Kyoto's Kiyomizu-Dera on a snowy winter's day. Two female figures, dressed for the cold weather and holding bamboo umbrellas over their heads, pause on the stage behind the main hall of the temple. Apart from these two, the area is deserted, and has collected a layer of fresh undisturbed snow. Below them, the branches of leafless trees are rimed with frost, while beyond, the main temple hall and buildings appear dark and deserted. In the distance, the shadow of a mountain crosses the horizon, and snow continues to fall across the scene.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

See the area in the image above around the 27:00 mark:

youtube.com/watch?v=bpYtm-f-at

atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

See the area in the image above around the 27:00 mark:

youtube.com/watch?v=bpYtm-f-at

atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Kiyomizu Temple in the Snow (1932)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/new

A view of Kyoto's Kiyomizu-Dera on a snowy winter's day. Two female figures, dressed for the cold weather and holding bamboo umbrellas over their heads, pause on the stage behind the main hall of the temple. Apart from these two, the area is deserted, and has collected a layer of fresh undisturbed snow. Below them, the branches of leafless trees are rimed with frost, while beyond, the main temple hall and buildings appear dark and deserted. In the distance, the shadow of a mountain crosses the horizon, and snow continues to fall across the scene.
ALT text detailsA view of Kyoto's Kiyomizu-Dera on a snowy winter's day. Two female figures, dressed for the cold weather and holding bamboo umbrellas over their heads, pause on the stage behind the main hall of the temple. Apart from these two, the area is deserted, and has collected a layer of fresh undisturbed snow. Below them, the branches of leafless trees are rimed with frost, while beyond, the main temple hall and buildings appear dark and deserted. In the distance, the shadow of a mountain crosses the horizon, and snow continues to fall across the scene.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Yamamoto Yae was more than a warrior. Trained in both traditional and modern weaponry, she helped defend Aizuwakamatsu Castle against rebel forces. But she also co-founded a university and a girl’s school & pushed for modern reforms in nursing.

unseen-japan.com/yamamoto-yae/

Yamamoto Yae
ALT text detailsYamamoto Yae
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The man who murdered his Japanese ex-wife in Hungary appeared to have kept a “kill list” of people who’d crossed him. The list included his own parents, who were trying to help his ex-wife escape his brutality.

unseen-japan.com/hungary-japan

Budapest, Hungary
ALT text detailsBudapest, Hungary
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

With international travel once again A Thing, more people from Japan are traveling abroad. Unfortunately, some young Japanese women who try and take vacations to the United States – especially solo – are finding themselves turned back at the border.

unseen-japan.com/japanese-wome

Doll with suitcase trying to enter US but a hand with a stop symbol dangling off of the wrist is stopping her
ALT text detailsDoll with suitcase trying to enter US but a hand with a stop symbol dangling off of the wrist is stopping her
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The first ever Costco retail store was stockmart in Tokyo’s Shimokitazawa, which opened in 2020. stockmart opened a second Tokyo store in the city of Fuchuu in 2022 – which saw 300 people on its first day and had to close after it ran out of stock.

unseen-japan.com/costco-japan-

Instagram page for stockmart in Tokyo
ALT text detailsInstagram page for stockmart in Tokyo
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

As far as anyone can tell, "pien" as a word came into fashion among middle and high schoolers around 2018. It took off in popularity around that time. According to Google Trends, it hit its peak Internet usage around 2020 and has since leveled out.

unseen-japan.com/pien-japanese

Pien - jirai-kei fashion woman standing in front of Kabukicho with a pien emoji over her face
ALT text detailsPien - jirai-kei fashion woman standing in front of Kabukicho with a pien emoji over her face
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:'s avatar
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:

@norbertwoehnl@famichiki.jp

Continuing my series of new backstreet night photos from Itabashi ward in Tokyo, all shot last week.

“Itabashi Nights”
Season 7, Episode 5
“To The Place Between The Twilight And The Dawn”

iPhone 15 Pro, night mode.

Night photograph of a quiet residential street in the Yamatocho District of Itabashi Ward in Tokyo, Japan.
ALT text detailsNight photograph of a quiet residential street in the Yamatocho District of Itabashi Ward in Tokyo, Japan.
Night photograph of a quiet residential street in the Yamatocho District of Itabashi Ward in Tokyo, Japan.
ALT text detailsNight photograph of a quiet residential street in the Yamatocho District of Itabashi Ward in Tokyo, Japan.
Night photograph of a quiet residential street in the Yamatocho District of Itabashi Ward in Tokyo, Japan.
ALT text detailsNight photograph of a quiet residential street in the Yamatocho District of Itabashi Ward in Tokyo, Japan.
Night photograph of a quiet residential street in the Yamatocho District of Itabashi Ward in Tokyo, Japan.
ALT text detailsNight photograph of a quiet residential street in the Yamatocho District of Itabashi Ward in Tokyo, Japan.
Weather Mizu's avatar
Weather Mizu

@mizu@mastodon.social

JMA forecasts another cold spell next week (from Feb 18 to 22).

Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:'s avatar
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:

@norbertwoehnl@famichiki.jp

Continuing my series of new backstreet night photos from Itabashi ward in Tokyo, all shot last week.

“Itabashi Nights”
Season 7, Episode 5
“To The Place Between The Twilight And The Dawn”

iPhone 15 Pro, night mode.

Night photograph of a quiet residential street in the Yamatocho District of Itabashi Ward in Tokyo, Japan.
ALT text detailsNight photograph of a quiet residential street in the Yamatocho District of Itabashi Ward in Tokyo, Japan.
Night photograph of a quiet residential street in the Yamatocho District of Itabashi Ward in Tokyo, Japan.
ALT text detailsNight photograph of a quiet residential street in the Yamatocho District of Itabashi Ward in Tokyo, Japan.
Night photograph of a quiet residential street in the Yamatocho District of Itabashi Ward in Tokyo, Japan.
ALT text detailsNight photograph of a quiet residential street in the Yamatocho District of Itabashi Ward in Tokyo, Japan.
Night photograph of a quiet residential street in the Yamatocho District of Itabashi Ward in Tokyo, Japan.
ALT text detailsNight photograph of a quiet residential street in the Yamatocho District of Itabashi Ward in Tokyo, Japan.
noco｜Flower Photographer's avatar
noco｜Flower Photographer

@noco3n_com@mstdn.jp

Blue flower fantasy world.

noco｜Flower Photographer's avatar
noco｜Flower Photographer

@noco3n_com@mstdn.jp

Blue flower fantasy world.

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Bad news for fans of Morinaga’s Viennetta ice cream cake: the company will stop selling it in Japan on March 31st. Sold since 1983, Morinaga says its contract with license holder Unilever is expiring and isn’t being renewed.

Morinaga Viennetta ice cream cake
ALT text detailsMorinaga Viennetta ice cream cake
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Researchers at Japan’s Okayama University have found a new insecticide: a strong cup of coffee. The team found that mixing caffeine into a sugar solution fed to flies induced death within seven days. They say more research is needed to nail down fundamentals and perfect its usage.

Article from Yahoo! News JP. Japanese title: 「濃いカフェイン」はハエの寿命を著しく減少させる?!「カフェインの殺虫効果」岡山大学が研究で実証　
ALT text detailsArticle from Yahoo! News JP. Japanese title: 「濃いカフェイン」はハエの寿命を著しく減少させる?!「カフェインの殺虫効果」岡山大学が研究で実証　
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Considering a stop in Nagoya on your trip to Japan? Yeah...most other tourists aren't, either. Despite being Japan's fourth-largest city, the Aichi Prefecture location sees a fraction of Tokyo and Osaka's tourists. That raises the question: is there really so little to do there?

unseen-japan.com/nagoya-poor-t

Woman (an Irasuto illustration) looking at Nagoya Castle to the left, with cherry blossoms on her right, asking, "Is that all?"
ALT text detailsWoman (an Irasuto illustration) looking at Nagoya Castle to the left, with cherry blossoms on her right, asking, "Is that all?"
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Is there any value at all in using AI to practice Japanese speaking? You probably already know the answer, but we decided to try and test it out for ourselves. (Spoiler alert: it's as bad as you think.)

unseen-japan.com/ai-japanese-s

Don't Learn Japanese Using AI: A picture of an anime style young woman on the left and a real live human being on the right with a Japanese flag and pagoda in the background
ALT text detailsDon't Learn Japanese Using AI: A picture of an anime style young woman on the left and a real live human being on the right with a Japanese flag and pagoda in the background
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

It's still a ways off - but if you're a frequent Japan traveler, be ready for a major change coming to the country's duty free system in 2026. Learn how things will change and what you'll have to do going forward to get your consumption tax back.

unseen-japan.com/japan-duty-fr

Duty free Akihabara shop in airport
ALT text detailsDuty free Akihabara shop in airport
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Costco is popular in Japan. Maybe a little too popular. When the first-ever store in Okinawa opened last year, it was so busy that some customers had to wait four and a half hours to get in. Which explains the popularity of the country's Costco resale stores.

unseen-japan.com/costco-japan-

Inside a Costco resale store in Tokyo
ALT text detailsInside a Costco resale store in Tokyo
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: The scandal surrounding ex-SMAP member Nakai Masahiro has renewed discussion about sexual harassment in the Japanese workplace. Women are taking to social media to share stories of how abuse and creepy behavior have pushed them out of their jobs.

unseen-japan.com/sexual-harass

Man touching woman on her shoulder as she looks appropriately perturbed
ALT text detailsMan touching woman on her shoulder as she looks appropriately perturbed
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Solar Tokyo

@solar_tokyo@mas.to

The sun will rise in tomorrow at 6:33, 57 seconds earlier than the day before.
It will set at 17:17, 61 seconds later than the day before.

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FediFollows

@FediFollows@social.growyourown.services

🌤️ Weather forecast accounts for

Follow an account to see forecasts for that town or city. All these accounts are in Japanese.

@akita
@aomori
@asahikawa
@chiba
@fukui
@fukuoka
@fukushima
@funabashi
@gifu
@hamamatsu
@himeji
@hiroshima
@kagoshima
@kanazawa
@kawasaki
@kitakyushu
@kobe
@kofu
@koriyama
@kumamoto
@kyoto
@matsue
@matsumoto
@matsuyama
@miyazaki
@nagasaki
@nagoya
@naha
@nara
@niigata
@oita
@okayama
@osaka
@sagamihara
@saitama
@sakai
@sapporo
@sendai
@shizuoka
@takamatsu

🧵 1/2

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Chiitan, a genderless fairy baby otter, has a worldwide following, with over two million followers on social media site X. The character has received a lot of support and love in particular from the LGBTQ community after coming out affirmatively for transgender rights.

Tweet from Chiitan: I'm chiitan.Japanese crazy mascot☺️ For example, even if negative opinions are expressed, Chiitan will respond to them with love. The most important thing Chiitan needs to avoid is becoming extreme or spreading hate. Chiitan is non-binary. She is an ally and family to all transgender people. The walls of the world are still high for transgender people, but let's all climb to the top together. And when we reach it, let's all share in the joy together. I love you all. Chiitan needs your support to continue her activities, so please lend me your strength.
ALT text detailsTweet from Chiitan: I'm chiitan.Japanese crazy mascot☺️ For example, even if negative opinions are expressed, Chiitan will respond to them with love. The most important thing Chiitan needs to avoid is becoming extreme or spreading hate. Chiitan is non-binary. She is an ally and family to all transgender people. The walls of the world are still high for transgender people, but let's all climb to the top together. And when we reach it, let's all share in the joy together. I love you all. Chiitan needs your support to continue her activities, so please lend me your strength.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

It's a common trope among some in Japan that Chinese tourists are ill-mannered. A recent post on social media app RED had many Chinese users agreeing with the charge after someone shared why some Japanese restaurants aren't welcoming of Chinese tourists.

unseen-japan.com/japanese-rest

Female server in a white shirt and grey apron holding a serving board in her right arm and worringly holding her left hand up to her chin
ALT text detailsFemale server in a white shirt and grey apron holding a serving board in her right arm and worringly holding her left hand up to her chin
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japan’s oldest person is now a 115-year-old woman in Gifu Prefecture. She was born in 1909 (Meiji 42) - the same year as famous (and much shorter-lived) Japanese author Dazai Osamu.

www3.nhk.or.jp/news/html/20250

Article from NHK. JP headline: 岐阜 土岐 115歳の女性が国内最高齢に 明治42年生まれ
ALT text detailsArticle from NHK. JP headline: 岐阜 土岐 115歳の女性が国内最高齢に 明治42年生まれ
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

41yo Kitani Hiroyuki in Fujisawa, Kanagawa Prefecture tried to pay for a combini purchase using cigarettes. When the clerk refused, he reportedly became violent and broke the register's LED display. Police chased him down and arrested him immediately.

newsdig.tbs.co.jp/articles/-/1

Article from TBS News Dig. Japanese title: コンビニエンスストア内のレジで商品の支払いを「たばこ」でしようとし拒否されレジの液晶画面をたたいて壊した40代男を逮捕　神奈川・藤沢市
ALT text detailsArticle from TBS News Dig. Japanese title: コンビニエンスストア内のレジで商品の支払いを「たばこ」でしようとし拒否されレジの液晶画面をたたいて壊した40代男を逮捕　神奈川・藤沢市
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

There are only 36 Costcos in Japan - but there are nearly three times as many stores whose whole business is reselling the company's products. Learn what they offer, why they're popular, and why some are struggling to stay in business while others are thriving.

unseen-japan.com/costco-japan-

E-Cost - Costco reseller in Hiroo, Tokyo
ALT text detailsE-Cost - Costco reseller in Hiroo, Tokyo
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japanese is hard. But the good news is that, if you know at least some basic Japanese, picking up what you need to order at a restaurant isn’t an ordeal. Use this short guide to get you in the door and get food in your belly.

unseen-japan.com/japanese-rest

Woman in a restaurant holding a tray with two glasses and a large bottle of beer
ALT text detailsWoman in a restaurant holding a tray with two glasses and a large bottle of beer
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

One machine in Akihabara's most insane vending machine corner sports several canned goods, such as a can of chicken yakitori with a five-year expiration date; a can of oden,(veggies and meats boiled in a dashi soup); and a taped-over jar of what looks like plastic bugs.

A can of chicken yakitori with a five-year expiration date; a can of oden,(veggies and meats boiled in a dashi soup); and a taped-over jar of what looks like plastic bugs.
ALT text detailsA can of chicken yakitori with a five-year expiration date; a can of oden,(veggies and meats boiled in a dashi soup); and a taped-over jar of what looks like plastic bugs.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Chiitan, a genderless fairy baby otter, has a worldwide following, with over two million followers on social media site X. The character has received a lot of support and love in particular from the LGBTQ community after coming out affirmatively for transgender rights.

Tweet from Chiitan: I'm chiitan.Japanese crazy mascot☺️ For example, even if negative opinions are expressed, Chiitan will respond to them with love. The most important thing Chiitan needs to avoid is becoming extreme or spreading hate. Chiitan is non-binary. She is an ally and family to all transgender people. The walls of the world are still high for transgender people, but let's all climb to the top together. And when we reach it, let's all share in the joy together. I love you all. Chiitan needs your support to continue her activities, so please lend me your strength.
ALT text detailsTweet from Chiitan: I'm chiitan.Japanese crazy mascot☺️ For example, even if negative opinions are expressed, Chiitan will respond to them with love. The most important thing Chiitan needs to avoid is becoming extreme or spreading hate. Chiitan is non-binary. She is an ally and family to all transgender people. The walls of the world are still high for transgender people, but let's all climb to the top together. And when we reach it, let's all share in the joy together. I love you all. Chiitan needs your support to continue her activities, so please lend me your strength.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: There are an endless number of stupid ways to get arrested as a tourist in Japan. But a British man found a unique new way to get arrested: failing to pay for a plastic bag from a convenience store. (Well, okay - there was also the assault...)

unseen-japan.com/british-touri

Plastic bag against blue background
ALT text detailsPlastic bag against blue background
noco｜Flower Photographer's avatar
noco｜Flower Photographer

@noco3n_com@mstdn.jp

The weeping cherry tree that lives with the city.

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noco｜Flower Photographer

@noco3n_com@mstdn.jp

The weeping cherry tree that lives with the city.

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Are you a member of the Puroland Club or the holder of a yearly passport? If so, bad news. Sanrio Entertainment has announced it's been the victim of a ransomware attack, with up to 2 million names & addresses (but no financial data) potentially leaked.

unseen-japan.com/puroland-rans

Picture of Puroland in Tama City
ALT text detailsPicture of Puroland in Tama City
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Score one for everyone's favorite 0-year-old baby fairy otter. Reports say Chiitan's management company has won a defamation suit against Susaki City in Kochi Prefecture, saying claims of copyright infringement by the city damaged Chiitan's reputation.

unseen-japan.com/chiitan-court

A background of a judge banging a gavel. Shinjo-kun stands on the left and Chiitan on the right
ALT text detailsA background of a judge banging a gavel. Shinjo-kun stands on the left and Chiitan on the right
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: The scandal surrounding Fuji TV in the wake of allegations against ex-SMAP member Nakai Masahiro shows no signs of abating. Social media users were shocked this past week when the station aired its two most famous anime without any sponsor support.

unseen-japan.com/fuji-tv-sazae

Sazae-san and Chibi Maruko-chan standing in front of Fuji TV building
ALT text detailsSazae-san and Chibi Maruko-chan standing in front of Fuji TV building
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: It’s hard to find a place to sit and rest in Tokyo for free. However, it’s even getting harder to find a place to sit and rest if you’re willing to pay. The change in cafe usage in Japan is prompting businesses to manage more closely how long people sit and dawdle.

unseen-japan.com/tokyo-cafe-re

Woman drinking coffee in a cafe and working on her laptop
ALT text detailsWoman drinking coffee in a cafe and working on her laptop
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: It’s a hot trend in China – and a nuisance in Japan. Japanese airport officials are asking visitors to watch their suitcase manners - particularly when it comes to suitcases of the mobile variety.

unseen-japan.com/electric-suit

Narita Airport
ALT text detailsNarita Airport
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Would you buy a subscription to ride the train? JR East is hoping you will - and hoping the plan saves its Suica card from extinction. The 3000 yen/mo. subscriptions will reportedly include half-price rides from stations near your home as well as in-station store discounts.

unseen-japan.com/japan-suica-s

Suica card being used on a card reader
ALT text detailsSuica card being used on a card reader
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Shinagawa City in Tokyo will become the first city in the metropolis to make school uniforms for public middle school students free regardless of income level. The change, starting in 2026, will reduce the financial burden of schooling, particularly for families on assistance.

Article about Shinagawa City making school uniforms free from Asahi Shimbun. Japanese text of headline: 中学校の制服を所得制限なしで無償化へ　東京・品川区、23区で初
ALT text detailsArticle about Shinagawa City making school uniforms free from Asahi Shimbun. Japanese text of headline: 中学校の制服を所得制限なしで無償化へ　東京・品川区、23区で初
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Another stunning case of nonconsensual photography in Japan: 37yo Nakatsuka Kiyoto admitted in court to installing cameras in several high school changing rooms around Kobe. Authorities retrieved TB of data showing images of some 20,000 victims.

Asahi Shimbun article. Title: のべ2万人が盗撮されたか　ハンガー型カメラ、複数の高校の更衣室に
ALT text detailsAsahi Shimbun article. Title: のべ2万人が盗撮されたか　ハンガー型カメラ、複数の高校の更衣室に
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Ichikawa City in Chiba Prefecture announced that a new program giving rent subsidies to newly married couples will also be open to LGBTQ couples. It's the first time such a program in Japan has recognized sexual and gender minorities.

unseen-japan.com/ichikawa-city

Train passing over the sea-blue Edo River in Ichikawa City with pink cherry blossoms in the foreground
ALT text detailsTrain passing over the sea-blue Edo River in Ichikawa City with pink cherry blossoms in the foreground
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

High cabbage prices in Japan show no sign of abating. That's led supermarkets to get desperate. And by "desperate," we mean relying on China. Experts predict imports of Chinese cabbage will rise to 19 times what they were last year thanks to climate change.

unseen-japan.com/chinese-cabba

Knife cutting into cabbage
ALT text detailsKnife cutting into cabbage
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: Lines for women’s public restrooms in Japan can be excruciating. They bothered one Japanese woman so much that she went on a quest to figure out why. Her research is renewing a debate over what constitutes Restroom Equality.

unseen-japan.com/womens-toilet

Woman standing in line and stretching
ALT text detailsWoman standing in line and stretching
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: Wages in Japan have remained stagnant for decades. But they're going up in areas of Japan such as Niseko, Hakone, and other heavy tourist draws. However, one group of people isn’t happy about the development: employers.

unseen-japan.com/japan-tourism

Niseko's snow-lined streets
ALT text detailsNiseko's snow-lined streets
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Kinkakuji in Snow (1922)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/new

Heavy snow falls at Kyoto's Kinkakuji Temple. The temple building and the nearby trees are covered in a layer of fresh snow; the surface of the pond before the temple is still. Tall, snow-covered trees crowd the view beyond the water. Overhead, the sky is overcast, and heavy snow continues to fall across the scene. This image is an aizuri-e print, rendered in shades of blue.
ALT text detailsHeavy snow falls at Kyoto's Kinkakuji Temple. The temple building and the nearby trees are covered in a layer of fresh snow; the surface of the pond before the temple is still. Tall, snow-covered trees crowd the view beyond the water. Overhead, the sky is overcast, and heavy snow continues to fall across the scene. This image is an aizuri-e print, rendered in shades of blue.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Kinkakuji in Snow (1922)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/new

Heavy snow falls at Kyoto's Kinkakuji Temple. The temple building and the nearby trees are covered in a layer of fresh snow; the surface of the pond before the temple is still. Tall, snow-covered trees crowd the view beyond the water. Overhead, the sky is overcast, and heavy snow continues to fall across the scene. This image is an aizuri-e print, rendered in shades of blue.
ALT text detailsHeavy snow falls at Kyoto's Kinkakuji Temple. The temple building and the nearby trees are covered in a layer of fresh snow; the surface of the pond before the temple is still. Tall, snow-covered trees crowd the view beyond the water. Overhead, the sky is overcast, and heavy snow continues to fall across the scene. This image is an aizuri-e print, rendered in shades of blue.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Kinkakuji in Snow (1922)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/new

Heavy snow falls at Kyoto's Kinkakuji Temple. The temple building and the nearby trees are covered in a layer of fresh snow; the surface of the pond before the temple is still. Tall, snow-covered trees crowd the view beyond the water. Overhead, the sky is overcast, and heavy snow continues to fall across the scene. This image is an aizuri-e print, rendered in shades of blue.
ALT text detailsHeavy snow falls at Kyoto's Kinkakuji Temple. The temple building and the nearby trees are covered in a layer of fresh snow; the surface of the pond before the temple is still. Tall, snow-covered trees crowd the view beyond the water. Overhead, the sky is overcast, and heavy snow continues to fall across the scene. This image is an aizuri-e print, rendered in shades of blue.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Want to recycle a TV in Japan? Think you can leave it out with a giant "free" sign on it until someone takes it? Well, think again. A Japanese legal site recently explained why this amounts to illegal disposal & could carry whopping fines - and even prison time.

unseen-japan.com/tv-recycling-

Large TV with a "free" sticker plastered on it
ALT text detailsLarge TV with a "free" sticker plastered on it
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

What's it like eating a pizza with a bowl of ramen poured on top of it? Several UJ writers, including Tokyo Vice creator Jake Adelstein, decided to find out by trying Pizza Hut Japan's latest marketing gimmick. Check out our verdict below.

unseen-japan.com/pizza-hut-sho

Pizza Hut Japan Shoyu ramen pizza ad
ALT text detailsPizza Hut Japan Shoyu ramen pizza ad
Pizza Hut Japan Shoyu ramen pizza - a picture of the actual pizza
ALT text detailsPizza Hut Japan Shoyu ramen pizza - a picture of the actual pizza
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: As businesses in Japan continue to stay they’re too short-staffed to meet market demands, immigration to Japan is accelerating. Despite the weak yen, more foreigners are now working here than ever before.

unseen-japan.com/japan-immigra

Road work in Japan
ALT text detailsRoad work in Japan
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noco｜Flower Photographer

@noco3n_com@mstdn.jp

A picture of cherry blossoms that looks like an ink painting.

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noco｜Flower Photographer

@noco3n_com@mstdn.jp

A picture of cherry blossoms that looks like an ink painting.

Mika's avatar
Mika

@irfan@sakurajima.social

🥳

I'm a /. I'm most fluent in , have some basics in and , but I'm also taking up new languages like and others in my eternal journey of getting better and minimising the impostor syndrome that befalls pretty much all programmers (I feel). I'm also very experienced in / technologies, and have been the one devising solutions and maintaining infrastructure in a fast-paced startup environment in my previous employment.

I'm passionate in what I do and those that know me here or IRL would know that I'm always yapping about the things I'm learning or working on - I love discussing them, and I love helping people out - esp those on the same boat as me.

This passion has led me into writing and maintaining tons of projects like Mango: a content distribution framework based on for and that powers various bots of mine like @lowyat@mastodon.social and @waktusolat@mastodon.social, Charts: a chart repository for an easy and reproducible deployment strategy for all my projects and everything else I self-host on my , and Orked: O-tomated distribution, a collection of scripts I wrote that are comprehensively documented to enable everyone to self-host a production-grade cluster for absolutely free in their homes.

I'm based in Malaysia, but I'm open to just about any on-site, hybrid, or remote job opportunities anywhere. In the meantime though, I'm actively looking for a job in countries like and , in a bid for a desperate lifestyle change. I've linked below my Portfolio (which you too, could self-host your own!), for those who'd wish to connect/learn more of me. Thank you ❤️

🔗 https://l.irfanhak.im/resume

Alfie Goodrich's avatar
Alfie Goodrich

@alfiegoodrich@photog.social

Good morning to you all from sunny Tokyo.

Hope all is well with you, wherever you are. Hugs, good vibes and encouragement to everyone having a tough time right now.

Here's a couple of monochrome studies of "the everyday".

Making the ordinary feel extraordinary is my fave thing.

Luv&peace
❤️ 🙌

A black and white photograph of a gas meter and aircon unit on a wall in Tokyo. What I like to call a study of "the beauty in the mundane". The darker lines of the walls, the white lines of the pipes and wires. All acting out a scene of contrast, shape and form.
ALT text detailsA black and white photograph of a gas meter and aircon unit on a wall in Tokyo. What I like to call a study of "the beauty in the mundane". The darker lines of the walls, the white lines of the pipes and wires. All acting out a scene of contrast, shape and form.
A black and white photograph of a bicycle covered with a silvery fabric cover, outside someone's front door in Tokyo. What I like to call a study of "the beauty in the mundane".
ALT text detailsA black and white photograph of a bicycle covered with a silvery fabric cover, outside someone's front door in Tokyo. What I like to call a study of "the beauty in the mundane".
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

In the first case of its kind, seven men were busted in Kabukicho for promoting prostitution to foreign tourists. 54-year-old Sudo Kazuki admitted he specifically marketed "cheap sex with Japanese women" to inbound travelers at his two stores.

unseen-japan.com/kabukicho-for

Kabukicho Sakura-dori Street entrance
ALT text detailsKabukicho Sakura-dori Street entrance
Alfie Goodrich's avatar
Alfie Goodrich

@alfiegoodrich@photog.social

Good morning to you all from sunny Tokyo.

Hope all is well with you, wherever you are. Hugs, good vibes and encouragement to everyone having a tough time right now.

Here's a couple of monochrome studies of "the everyday".

Making the ordinary feel extraordinary is my fave thing.

Luv&peace
❤️ 🙌

A black and white photograph of a gas meter and aircon unit on a wall in Tokyo. What I like to call a study of "the beauty in the mundane". The darker lines of the walls, the white lines of the pipes and wires. All acting out a scene of contrast, shape and form.
ALT text detailsA black and white photograph of a gas meter and aircon unit on a wall in Tokyo. What I like to call a study of "the beauty in the mundane". The darker lines of the walls, the white lines of the pipes and wires. All acting out a scene of contrast, shape and form.
A black and white photograph of a bicycle covered with a silvery fabric cover, outside someone's front door in Tokyo. What I like to call a study of "the beauty in the mundane".
ALT text detailsA black and white photograph of a bicycle covered with a silvery fabric cover, outside someone's front door in Tokyo. What I like to call a study of "the beauty in the mundane".
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

"My old bosses made me clean the dirty bathroom every day, and when I said we should take turns, they bullied me for pushing ‘women’s work’ on them and drove me to resign. When I was having trouble finding a new job, a male relative said..." 1/2

X post from user @mGQ4U9JtfqLlE8O. Japanese text: #私が退職した本当の理由 年寄り上司達が汚く使ったトイレ掃除を毎日させられたから掃除は当番制にして欲しいと言ったら女の仕事を押し付けるなと嫌がらせされて自主退職に追い込まれた。転職活動が難航すると「面接官が男なら体使えば楽勝だから女はいいよね」と親族男性から言われた。
ALT text detailsX post from user @mGQ4U9JtfqLlE8O. Japanese text: #私が退職した本当の理由 年寄り上司達が汚く使ったトイレ掃除を毎日させられたから掃除は当番制にして欲しいと言ったら女の仕事を押し付けるなと嫌がらせされて自主退職に追い込まれた。転職活動が難航すると「面接官が男なら体使えば楽勝だから女はいいよね」と親族男性から言われた。
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

"My old bosses made me clean the dirty bathroom every day, and when I said we should take turns, they bullied me for pushing ‘women’s work’ on them and drove me to resign. When I was having trouble finding a new job, a male relative said..." 1/2

X post from user @mGQ4U9JtfqLlE8O. Japanese text: #私が退職した本当の理由 年寄り上司達が汚く使ったトイレ掃除を毎日させられたから掃除は当番制にして欲しいと言ったら女の仕事を押し付けるなと嫌がらせされて自主退職に追い込まれた。転職活動が難航すると「面接官が男なら体使えば楽勝だから女はいいよね」と親族男性から言われた。
ALT text detailsX post from user @mGQ4U9JtfqLlE8O. Japanese text: #私が退職した本当の理由 年寄り上司達が汚く使ったトイレ掃除を毎日させられたから掃除は当番制にして欲しいと言ったら女の仕事を押し付けるなと嫌がらせされて自主退職に追い込まれた。転職活動が難航すると「面接官が男なら体使えば楽勝だから女はいいよね」と親族男性から言われた。
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Residents of the 1,300-member village of Mitsue in Nara Prefecture are scratching their heads as to why a new public restroom cost nearly 100 million yen (USD $650K). The mayor defends the expense - but some online commenters say the whole thing feels fishy.

unseen-japan.com/million-dolla

Picture of golden toilet superimposed on a map showing the village of Mitsue
ALT text detailsPicture of golden toilet superimposed on a map showing the village of Mitsue
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: The influx of tourists to Japan means there aren’t enough taxis to go around for everyone. That’s leading authorities around areas such as Hyogo Prefecture’s Himeji Castle to issue warnings to tourists about so-called “white taxis,” or unlicensed taxi services.

unseen-japan.com/white-taxis-h

Flier warning tourists about white taxis
ALT text detailsFlier warning tourists about white taxis
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

In the mid-1980s, a Japanese salaryman declared himself the reincarnation of Buddha and Hermes. Now, his religious organization claims millions of adherents - and even after its death, it continues to push a far-right agenda onto Japan.

unseen-japan.com/happy-science

Okawa Ryuho, founder of Happy Science
ALT text detailsOkawa Ryuho, founder of Happy Science
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Looking for a beautiful home in Japan by the ocean? Well, this one at least fits two out of those three criteria. Japanese social media users reacted recently to the sale of a condo unit that looks like it might be a seafloor home by year's end.

unseen-japan.com/hiroshima-con

Cartoon woman reacts to a decrepit building
ALT text detailsCartoon woman reacts to a decrepit building
Mika's avatar
Mika

@irfan@sakurajima.social

🥳

I'm a /. I'm most fluent in , have some basics in and , but I'm also taking up new languages like and others in my eternal journey of getting better and minimising the impostor syndrome that befalls pretty much all programmers (I feel). I'm also very experienced in / technologies, and have been the one devising solutions and maintaining infrastructure in a fast-paced startup environment in my previous employment.

I'm passionate in what I do and those that know me here or IRL would know that I'm always yapping about the things I'm learning or working on - I love discussing them, and I love helping people out - esp those on the same boat as me.

This passion has led me into writing and maintaining tons of projects like Mango: a content distribution framework based on for and that powers various bots of mine like @lowyat@mastodon.social and @waktusolat@mastodon.social, Charts: a chart repository for an easy and reproducible deployment strategy for all my projects and everything else I self-host on my , and Orked: O-tomated distribution, a collection of scripts I wrote that are comprehensively documented to enable everyone to self-host a production-grade cluster for absolutely free in their homes.

I'm based in Malaysia, but I'm open to just about any on-site, hybrid, or remote job opportunities anywhere. In the meantime though, I'm actively looking for a job in countries like and , in a bid for a desperate lifestyle change. I've linked below my Portfolio (which you too, could self-host your own!), for those who'd wish to connect/learn more of me. Thank you ❤️

🔗 https://l.irfanhak.im/resume

Solar Tokyo's avatar
Solar Tokyo

@solar_tokyo@mas.to

The sun will rise in tomorrow at 6:38, 50 seconds earlier than the day before.
It will set at 17:11, 62 seconds later than the day before.

Nice Gear Games's avatar
Nice Gear Games

@nicegeargames@peoplemaking.games

Hello to everyone on PeopleMaking.Games! 👋

We are an dev team comprised of Daikon (Japanese speaker, main dev) and Renkon (English speaker, posts at @renkotsuban and runs this account). You can find our work on and !

nicegear.games/
nicegeargames.itch.io/

We also run a blog and digital that highlights indie games and developers from ! You can read games profiles and interviews over at @indietsushin:

indietsushin.net

よろしくおねがいします！ 🙇

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Toilet queues, Kyoto's Culture of Rude, long lines at Shibuya Station, and graphics card riots - check out our most-read stories from the past week in the latest Unseen Japan Newsletter.

buff.ly/4aJUiLA

Woman stretching as she waits in a line of women for the restroom
ALT text detailsWoman stretching as she waits in a line of women for the restroom
Shop proprietoress touching hands to the floor in greeting
ALT text detailsShop proprietoress touching hands to the floor in greeting
Crowds at Shibuya Station's Hachiko Gate
ALT text detailsCrowds at Shibuya Station's Hachiko Gate
Akihabara with an NVIDIA RTC 5090 GPU superimposed on it
ALT text detailsAkihabara with an NVIDIA RTC 5090 GPU superimposed on it
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: For years, Japan’s suicide rate among adults has been dropping. And that trend, fortunately, continues. Unfortunately, suicide rates for kids are higher than they’ve ever been, leaving authorities struggling to find solutions.

unseen-japan.com/japan-child-s

School with a cherry blossom tree in front
ALT text detailsSchool with a cherry blossom tree in front
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Sazae-san, a show about an idealized Japanese family, isn’t just any anime. While not well-watched by many Western anime fans, it’s a national treasure in Japan, one of the country’s most-watched anime, and the world’s longest-running animated show.

Sazae-san (Fuji TV) - picture of the title card of the show showing the entire Sazae clan in front of their home
ALT text detailsSazae-san (Fuji TV) - picture of the title card of the show showing the entire Sazae clan in front of their home
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: This is why we can’t have nice things. A toy museum in Niigata Prefecture is closing in February because its owner says customers can’t help themselves from breaking stuff and stealing parts.

unseen-japan.com/retro-toy-mus

Izumozaki Retro Museum, Niigata Prefecture
ALT text detailsIzumozaki Retro Museum, Niigata Prefecture
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Kiyosumi-shirakawa, in Koto City, is home to a number of great coffee shops. It was the site of Japan's first Blue Bottle, which now has multiple locations across Tokyo. Now, cafe owners there say that an influx of people means their shops are often packed solid.

unseen-japan.com/tokyo-cafe-re

iki Espresso in Kiyosumi-shirakawa
ALT text detailsiki Espresso in Kiyosumi-shirakawa
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Last year, police in Osaka charged a woman for riding an electric suitcase on a sidewalk. Riding the device violates Japan’s motor vehicle laws, as it’s not legally classified as an e-scooter. It also violates the law around motorized vehicles on pedestrian walkways.

unseen-japan.com/electric-suit

Narita Airport photo
ALT text detailsNarita Airport photo
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: Wanna stay in a Shinjuku hotel room in Japan that’s as over the top as possible? So do a lot of other people, it seems. A Shinjuku hotel just announced a new collaboration with a famous noodle maker that already appears to be booked solid.

unseen-japan.com/nissin-donbei

Donbei room in Shinjuku Washington Hotel
ALT text detailsDonbei room in Shinjuku Washington Hotel
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:'s avatar
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:

@norbertwoehnl@famichiki.jp

Good morning & happy Monday from Tokyo! A bit overcast today - so if you need an umbrella, I have a shop for you right here. This is along the approach to Kawasaki Daishi Temple in Kanagawa Pref., whose main gate is seen in the back.

In this photo taken on the approach road to Kawasaki Daishi Temple in Kawasaki City, Kanagawa Prefecture, we can see a line of shops on both sides of the street. In the foreground on the left side, a shop that sells various Japanese gift items and souvenirs, including umbrellas. One such umbrella, colored pink, is displayed in front of the shop. Some pedestrians are walking on the road, and in the background we can see the main gate of the temple.
ALT text detailsIn this photo taken on the approach road to Kawasaki Daishi Temple in Kawasaki City, Kanagawa Prefecture, we can see a line of shops on both sides of the street. In the foreground on the left side, a shop that sells various Japanese gift items and souvenirs, including umbrellas. One such umbrella, colored pink, is displayed in front of the shop. Some pedestrians are walking on the road, and in the background we can see the main gate of the temple.
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:'s avatar
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:

@norbertwoehnl@famichiki.jp

Good morning & happy Monday from Tokyo! A bit overcast today - so if you need an umbrella, I have a shop for you right here. This is along the approach to Kawasaki Daishi Temple in Kanagawa Pref., whose main gate is seen in the back.

In this photo taken on the approach road to Kawasaki Daishi Temple in Kawasaki City, Kanagawa Prefecture, we can see a line of shops on both sides of the street. In the foreground on the left side, a shop that sells various Japanese gift items and souvenirs, including umbrellas. One such umbrella, colored pink, is displayed in front of the shop. Some pedestrians are walking on the road, and in the background we can see the main gate of the temple.
ALT text detailsIn this photo taken on the approach road to Kawasaki Daishi Temple in Kawasaki City, Kanagawa Prefecture, we can see a line of shops on both sides of the street. In the foreground on the left side, a shop that sells various Japanese gift items and souvenirs, including umbrellas. One such umbrella, colored pink, is displayed in front of the shop. Some pedestrians are walking on the road, and in the background we can see the main gate of the temple.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Fuji TV's issues show no signs of getting any better. So many sponsors have canceled their ads in the wake of ex-SMAP member Nakai Masahiro's scandal that the station's flagship animes, Sazae-san and Chibi Maruko-chan, aired this week with zero commercials.

unseen-japan.com/fuji-tv-sazae

Sazae-san and Chibi Maruko-chan
ALT text detailsSazae-san and Chibi Maruko-chan
Alfie Goodrich's avatar
Alfie Goodrich

@alfiegoodrich@photog.social

Good morning from Tokyo. Another week starts. And I thought I'd start it here with a blast of bubblegum pink, infrared madness. Yay!

Pic from 2011. Check the ALT for more.

May this week be a good one for you. Despite the chaotic nature of the world, there's much to be thankful for.

Luv&peace
🙏❤️

A typical suburban Tokyo backstreet but photographed on an infrared converted Nikon DSLR, rendering the scene in a surreal colour palette. The trees at the corner of the T-junction we see here are a vivid pink. The sky a deep teal shade of blue. A cyclist passes by. Her trousers the same shade of shock pink. Five metres into the street that leads off the junction, a scooter is parked. The sun glinting in a bright starburst off of its mirror.
ALT text detailsA typical suburban Tokyo backstreet but photographed on an infrared converted Nikon DSLR, rendering the scene in a surreal colour palette. The trees at the corner of the T-junction we see here are a vivid pink. The sky a deep teal shade of blue. A cyclist passes by. Her trousers the same shade of shock pink. Five metres into the street that leads off the junction, a scooter is parked. The sun glinting in a bright starburst off of its mirror.
Alfie Goodrich's avatar
Alfie Goodrich

@alfiegoodrich@photog.social

Good morning from Tokyo. Another week starts. And I thought I'd start it here with a blast of bubblegum pink, infrared madness. Yay!

Pic from 2011. Check the ALT for more.

May this week be a good one for you. Despite the chaotic nature of the world, there's much to be thankful for.

Luv&peace
🙏❤️

A typical suburban Tokyo backstreet but photographed on an infrared converted Nikon DSLR, rendering the scene in a surreal colour palette. The trees at the corner of the T-junction we see here are a vivid pink. The sky a deep teal shade of blue. A cyclist passes by. Her trousers the same shade of shock pink. Five metres into the street that leads off the junction, a scooter is parked. The sun glinting in a bright starburst off of its mirror.
ALT text detailsA typical suburban Tokyo backstreet but photographed on an infrared converted Nikon DSLR, rendering the scene in a surreal colour palette. The trees at the corner of the T-junction we see here are a vivid pink. The sky a deep teal shade of blue. A cyclist passes by. Her trousers the same shade of shock pink. Five metres into the street that leads off the junction, a scooter is parked. The sun glinting in a bright starburst off of its mirror.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

With the Chinese New Year holiday in full swing, many tourists are coming to Japan. More than a few are bringing rideable electric suitcases with them - a nuisance device that's causing increasing problems in airports and on sidewalks across the country.

unseen-japan.com/electric-suit

Narita Airprot with the picture of an electric suitcase over it
ALT text detailsNarita Airprot with the picture of an electric suitcase over it
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: Some fans are seeking ways to see their favorite idols and artists in cities like Tokyo while avoiding the city’s extravagant lodging prices. One bus company says it has a unique new solution: a bus whose seats turn into flat beds.

unseen-japan.com/sleeper-buses

Sommeil Profond flat sleeper seat
ALT text detailsSommeil Profond flat sleeper seat
Buddhist Art's avatar
Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

, or the art of repairing broken pottery, .

#Kintsugi, or the art of repairing broken pottery, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text details#Kintsugi, or the art of repairing broken pottery, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A 2021 study in Japan found that men camped out in office toilets for around 6 minutes and 52 seconds on average, compared to only 2 minutes and 32 seconds for women. That’s an increase from 1965, when men spent 5 minutes to women’s 1 minute and 30 seconds.

unseen-japan.com/womens-toilet

Men and women office toilet time - 2021 vs 1965 (figures in body of post)
ALT text detailsMen and women office toilet time - 2021 vs 1965 (figures in body of post)
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: With over 3,000 onsen towns and 27,000 hot springs in Japan, it can be tough to decide where to go. A popular Japan travel site has used its own ranking system to find the best ones for a winter soak.

unseen-japan.com/best-onsen-wi

Nozawa Onsen Hot Springs, Nagano Prefecture
ALT text detailsNozawa Onsen Hot Springs, Nagano Prefecture
Solar Tokyo's avatar
Solar Tokyo

@solar_tokyo@mas.to

The sun will rise in tomorrow at 6:40, 47 seconds earlier than the day before.
It will set at 17:09, 63 seconds later than the day before.

pkg update's avatar
pkg update

@pkgupdt@hl.pkgu.net

이제 쓰일 일이 없다고 해도 빛은 포근히 내려앉는다.

Old warehouse in Shirakawago, Japan.
ALT text detailsOld warehouse in Shirakawago, Japan.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Sea of Echigo (1957)

Artist: Kasamatsu Shiro

www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/new

Winter night gathers around a village by the sea. Snow covers the ground and the tile rooftops of the houses; warm lights glow in the windows. A figure carrying a lamp accompanies a smaller figure through the snow, approaching one of the houses. Beyond, the wintry Sea of Japan is dark, grey, and cold.
ALT text detailsWinter night gathers around a village by the sea. Snow covers the ground and the tile rooftops of the houses; warm lights glow in the windows. A figure carrying a lamp accompanies a smaller figure through the snow, approaching one of the houses. Beyond, the wintry Sea of Japan is dark, grey, and cold.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Snow at Itsukushima (1932)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

itsukushimajinja.jp/en/

A view looking out over a snowy landscape toward the famous 'floating' torii of Itsukushima Shrine. In the foreground, snow and frost cling to the trunk and branches of a Japanese pine tree; just beyond, a tall stone lantern and a pair of smaller ones stand on the shore of the Inland Sea, all plastered with snow. Out in Hiroshima Bay, the red torii gate appears to float on the surface of the water. Further out, a tiny open boat is steered across the bay by a single pilot. Rugged snow-capped mountains line the horizon, while the sky above is a deep, cold blue. Light snow continues to fall across the scene
ALT text detailsA view looking out over a snowy landscape toward the famous 'floating' torii of Itsukushima Shrine. In the foreground, snow and frost cling to the trunk and branches of a Japanese pine tree; just beyond, a tall stone lantern and a pair of smaller ones stand on the shore of the Inland Sea, all plastered with snow. Out in Hiroshima Bay, the red torii gate appears to float on the surface of the water. Further out, a tiny open boat is steered across the bay by a single pilot. Rugged snow-capped mountains line the horizon, while the sky above is a deep, cold blue. Light snow continues to fall across the scene
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

mainichi.jp/english/articles/2

atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/new

atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: During the New Year Holidays (c.1990s)

Artist: Nishijima Katsuyuki

asahi.com/ajw/articles/1557094

A traditional-style storefront on New Year's Day, somewhere in Kyoto. The sliding doors are shut, the windows are closed, and the street before the shop is empty.
ALT text detailsA traditional-style storefront on New Year's Day, somewhere in Kyoto. The sliding doors are shut, the windows are closed, and the street before the shop is empty.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Nakayama-Shichiri, Hida (1924)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/new

Snow falls on a mountain village in Japan. In the foreground, a cold-looking river cuts through the wintry landscape; on the right, tall trees are plastered with snow, while on the left, warm lights glow in the windows of a handful of houses along the riverbank. Beyond, snow-covered mountains cut a jagged line across dark clouds.
ALT text detailsSnow falls on a mountain village in Japan. In the foreground, a cold-looking river cuts through the wintry landscape; on the right, tall trees are plastered with snow, while on the left, warm lights glow in the windows of a handful of houses along the riverbank. Beyond, snow-covered mountains cut a jagged line across dark clouds.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Suijin no Mori on the Sumida River (1934)

Artist: Koitsu Tsuchiya

english.kyodonews.net/news/202

A snowy evening in Tokyo. A solitary figure wearing a kimono and carrying a bamboo umbrella stands beneath a tall snow-plastered tree on the shore of the Sumida River; nearby, a building is concealed behind a cluster of snow-caked trees and a fence. Small boats travel on the still surface of the cold-looking river beyond. A layer of snow covers everything, as more snow falls from an overcast sky
ALT text detailsA snowy evening in Tokyo. A solitary figure wearing a kimono and carrying a bamboo umbrella stands beneath a tall snow-plastered tree on the shore of the Sumida River; nearby, a building is concealed behind a cluster of snow-caked trees and a fence. Small boats travel on the still surface of the cold-looking river beyond. A layer of snow covers everything, as more snow falls from an overcast sky
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Temple Snow Scene (c.1910s - 1930s)

Artist: Choka

allabout-japan.com/en/article/

A snowy evening at a temple in Japan. A single figure passes an unlit wooden lantern as they approach a tall, red-lacquered temple building; the figure carries a bamboo umbrella as protection from the snow, as the winter wind whips their robes about them. Snow covers the ground all around, and sticks to the bark and bare branches of a tall tree on our left. More snow covers the roof and railings of the temple. The sky above is dark and overcast.
ALT text detailsA snowy evening at a temple in Japan. A single figure passes an unlit wooden lantern as they approach a tall, red-lacquered temple building; the figure carries a bamboo umbrella as protection from the snow, as the winter wind whips their robes about them. Snow covers the ground all around, and sticks to the bark and bare branches of a tall tree on our left. More snow covers the roof and railings of the temple. The sky above is dark and overcast.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Onjuku, Chiba Prefecture (1950)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

nippon.com/en/japan-topics/b09

A setting sun warms a winter scene in Chiba. A handful of houses, likely part of a fishing village, stand near the ocean; a layer of snow covers the landscape and the rooftops of the houses. A solitary figure, carrying a child on their back and bundled up against the cold, follows a thin meandering track worn by foot traffic through the snow. Beyond, a little stream runs past the houses and empties out into the calm waves of the Pacific Ocean. Out of frame, the setting sun casts a golden light over the scene
ALT text detailsA setting sun warms a winter scene in Chiba. A handful of houses, likely part of a fishing village, stand near the ocean; a layer of snow covers the landscape and the rooftops of the houses. A solitary figure, carrying a child on their back and bundled up against the cold, follows a thin meandering track worn by foot traffic through the snow. Beyond, a little stream runs past the houses and empties out into the calm waves of the Pacific Ocean. Out of frame, the setting sun casts a golden light over the scene
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Yuki no Yugure (c.1940s)

Artist: Kasamatsu Shiro

asahi.com/ajw/articles/1558425

A snowy winter evening scene somewhere in rural Japan. A narrow, cold-looking creek cuts through the forground; on the right-hand bank, a tall leafless tree is plastered with snow and frost, while on the left-hand bank, a faint track worn by foot traffic in the snow runs past a couple of small buildings. A pair of figures -- one child and one adult, each carrying bamboo umbrellas -- follow the track, heading toward a snow-covered house where warm lights shine in the windows. Beyond, a shadowy forest cuts a silhouette against a dull gray sky. Snow continues falling across the scene.
ALT text detailsA snowy winter evening scene somewhere in rural Japan. A narrow, cold-looking creek cuts through the forground; on the right-hand bank, a tall leafless tree is plastered with snow and frost, while on the left-hand bank, a faint track worn by foot traffic in the snow runs past a couple of small buildings. A pair of figures -- one child and one adult, each carrying bamboo umbrellas -- follow the track, heading toward a snow-covered house where warm lights shine in the windows. Beyond, a shadowy forest cuts a silhouette against a dull gray sky. Snow continues falling across the scene.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

asahi.com/ajw/articles/1558895

atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Tennoji Temple, Osaka (1927)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

insideosaka.com/shitenno-ji-te

A solitary figure visits Osaka's Tennoji Temple on a dark winter night. Footprints in the fresh snow reveal the figure's interrupted progress; the bamboo umbrella the figure holds hides their head. Beyond, the nearby temple buildings are deserted and closed up, while further on, taller buildings and the five-story pagoda are shadowy, details obscured by the dim light. Snow falls across the scene.
ALT text detailsA solitary figure visits Osaka's Tennoji Temple on a dark winter night. Footprints in the fresh snow reveal the figure's interrupted progress; the bamboo umbrella the figure holds hides their head. Beyond, the nearby temple buildings are deserted and closed up, while further on, taller buildings and the five-story pagoda are shadowy, details obscured by the dim light. Snow falls across the scene.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Bell Tower, Mt Koya (1935)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

japan.travel/en/uk/inspiration

A lone figure walks past a quiet temple bell tower on a gloomy, snowy day. The figure carries a bamboo umbrella over their head as they trudge down a meandering track worn by foot traffic in the snow. Fresh snow covers the ground, the temple structures, and clogs the branches of tall trees standing just beyond the tower. Above, the sky is overcast with a dingy, grimy look; snow continues to fall across the scene. The image is rendered in sepia tones.
ALT text detailsA lone figure walks past a quiet temple bell tower on a gloomy, snowy day. The figure carries a bamboo umbrella over their head as they trudge down a meandering track worn by foot traffic in the snow. Fresh snow covers the ground, the temple structures, and clogs the branches of tall trees standing just beyond the tower. Above, the sky is overcast with a dingy, grimy look; snow continues to fall across the scene. The image is rendered in sepia tones.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Riverside (1970)

Artist: Kasamatsu Shiro

matcha-jp.com/en/3152

A view looking down into a residential street on a dim winter evening somewhere in Japan. On our left, a river curves up and across the top of the image; on the riverbank, a row of houses follows the line of the river, light shining in their windows. An uneven layer of snow covers the tile rootops of the houses. In the street on our right, hanging lanterns throw splashes of yellow illumination across the ground, and a few shadowy pedestrians walk along the road.
ALT text detailsA view looking down into a residential street on a dim winter evening somewhere in Japan. On our left, a river curves up and across the top of the image; on the riverbank, a row of houses follows the line of the river, light shining in their windows. An uneven layer of snow covers the tile rootops of the houses. In the street on our right, hanging lanterns throw splashes of yellow illumination across the ground, and a few shadowy pedestrians walk along the road.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Senzoku Pond (1928)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

matcha-jp.com/en/9903

A view looking out over Tokyo's Senzoku Pond on a snowy winter's day. In the foreground, wiry pine trees stand on the edge of the pond, fresh snow clogging their branches and sticking to their trunks. Beyond, the calm surface of the pond stretches out toward dim silhouettes of more trees on the opposite side of the water. Above, the sky is dark and overcast, and snow continues to fall across the scene
ALT text detailsA view looking out over Tokyo's Senzoku Pond on a snowy winter's day. In the foreground, wiry pine trees stand on the edge of the pond, fresh snow clogging their branches and sticking to their trunks. Beyond, the calm surface of the pond stretches out toward dim silhouettes of more trees on the opposite side of the water. Above, the sky is dark and overcast, and snow continues to fall across the scene
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: The Hall of the Golden Hue at Hiraizumi (1957)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

meguri-japan.com/en/exploring-

A lone monk wearing a broad hat climbs snowy steps toward the Konjikido; tall pine trees, their branches weighed down by fresh snow, stand on either side of the steps. Up ahead, the small temple building is closed up and deserted. Above, the sky is dark and overcast; snow continues falling across the scene
ALT text detailsA lone monk wearing a broad hat climbs snowy steps toward the Konjikido; tall pine trees, their branches weighed down by fresh snow, stand on either side of the steps. Up ahead, the small temple building is closed up and deserted. Above, the sky is dark and overcast; snow continues falling across the scene
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Matsumoto Castle (1950)

Artist: Okiie

visitmatsumoto.com/en/event/il

A view of Nagano's Matsumoto Castle in winter. Leafless trees stand in the foreground, screening our view of a flat snowy field stretching out toward the castle. The stacked rooftops of the multi-level castle are covered with fresh snow; the windows are dark and unlit. Beyond, low mountains cross the horizon, beneath a steely blue sky. Everything seems quiet and still.
ALT text detailsA view of Nagano's Matsumoto Castle in winter. Leafless trees stand in the foreground, screening our view of a flat snowy field stretching out toward the castle. The stacked rooftops of the multi-level castle are covered with fresh snow; the windows are dark and unlit. Beyond, low mountains cross the horizon, beneath a steely blue sky. Everything seems quiet and still.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Zojo-ji Temple in Snow (1933)

Artist: Koitsu Tsuchiya

japannews.yomiuri.co.jp/societ

Snow falls at Tokyo's Zojo-ji Temple. In the foreground, the branches of a few wiry pine trees are clogged with snow; beyond, a pair of female figures cross the wide snow-covered road, carrying bamboo umbrallas as protection against the falling snow. Further on, another pair of figures approaches the front steps of the impressive red-lacquered gate of Zojo-ji Temple. Above, the sky is dark and overcast; snow continues to fall across the scene
ALT text detailsSnow falls at Tokyo's Zojo-ji Temple. In the foreground, the branches of a few wiry pine trees are clogged with snow; beyond, a pair of female figures cross the wide snow-covered road, carrying bamboo umbrallas as protection against the falling snow. Further on, another pair of figures approaches the front steps of the impressive red-lacquered gate of Zojo-ji Temple. Above, the sky is dark and overcast; snow continues to fall across the scene
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Sarusawa Pond, Nara (1934)

Artist: Koitsu Tsuchiya

visitnara.jp/venues/A01559/

A snowy evening in Nara Park, by Sarusawa Pond. In the foreground, the branches and bark of a leafless tree are caked with snow and frost; beyond, a lone female figure walks past, carrying a bamboo umbrella as protection from the falling snow. Further on, the still surface of Sarusawa Pond stretches out toward more snow-covered trees on the far side of the water. In the distance, the shape of Kohfukuji Temple's five-story pagoda is a dim silhouette among shadowy trees, standing against an overcast sky. Snow continues to fall across the scene.
ALT text detailsA snowy evening in Nara Park, by Sarusawa Pond. In the foreground, the branches and bark of a leafless tree are caked with snow and frost; beyond, a lone female figure walks past, carrying a bamboo umbrella as protection from the falling snow. Further on, the still surface of Sarusawa Pond stretches out toward more snow-covered trees on the far side of the water. In the distance, the shape of Kohfukuji Temple's five-story pagoda is a dim silhouette among shadowy trees, standing against an overcast sky. Snow continues to fall across the scene.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Nearly half of women in Japan say they have to wait in excruciatingly long lines to use the restroom. Is that discrimination? Here's why one Japanese woman counted public toilets to see how society treats men's and women's needs differently - and what she found.

unseen-japan.com/womens-toilet

Woman stretching while she waits in a long line
ALT text detailsWoman stretching while she waits in a long line
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: Got a smoking habit? Better watch where you light ’em up in Osaka City. As of January 27th, the city has become the latest in Japan to ban smoking in most public locations.

unseen-japan.com/osaka-city-no

Osaka No Smoking sign
ALT text detailsOsaka No Smoking sign
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Thanks to record tourism, wages in Japan’s Taito City (home of Ueno Park and Tokyo Museum) are up 7% and up 8.10% in Hakone and other parts of Kanagawa Prefecture. In Niseko, says Nikkei, the average hourly wage has gone up a whopping 10%.

unseen-japan.com/japan-tourism

Lake Ashino, Hakone, Japan
ALT text detailsLake Ashino, Hakone, Japan
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atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Zojo-ji Temple in Snow (1933)

Artist: Koitsu Tsuchiya

japannews.yomiuri.co.jp/societ

Snow falls at Tokyo's Zojo-ji Temple. In the foreground, the branches of a few wiry pine trees are clogged with snow; beyond, a pair of female figures cross the wide snow-covered road, carrying bamboo umbrallas as protection against the falling snow. Further on, another pair of figures approaches the front steps of the impressive red-lacquered gate of Zojo-ji Temple. Above, the sky is dark and overcast; snow continues to fall across the scene
ALT text detailsSnow falls at Tokyo's Zojo-ji Temple. In the foreground, the branches of a few wiry pine trees are clogged with snow; beyond, a pair of female figures cross the wide snow-covered road, carrying bamboo umbrallas as protection against the falling snow. Further on, another pair of figures approaches the front steps of the impressive red-lacquered gate of Zojo-ji Temple. Above, the sky is dark and overcast; snow continues to fall across the scene
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A near riot broke out in Akihabara as 400+ rushed to PC Kobo for tickets raffling off graphics cards with the new NVIDIA RTX 5080 and 5090 GPUs, causing property damage to a nearby preschool. The majority of would-be purchasers appeared to be foreign resellers.

unseen-japan.com/nvidia-rtx-50

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Wages in Japan have remained stagnant for decades. Lately, however, areas of Japan such as Niseko, Hakone, and other heavy tourist draws have seen average raises shoot up as much as 10%. Workers are delighted - and employers are complaining.

unseen-japan.com/japan-tourism

Niseko - shot of street with snow piled up on sides and mountains looming in the background
ALT text detailsNiseko - shot of street with snow piled up on sides and mountains looming in the background
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: Going to the Shibuya area anytime soon? If so, be warned that Shibuya Station is even more chaotic than usual. A new stage of the station’s reconstruction effort started this week – and it’s making the area around the Hachiko Gate even harder to navigate.

unseen-japan.com/shibuya-stati

Hachiko Gate backup at Shibuya Station
ALT text detailsHachiko Gate backup at Shibuya Station
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: Credit cards in Japan are about to take a leap into the 21st century as they abandon signatures. But what does this mean for tourists using foreign cards when they travel to the country?

unseen-japan.com/japan-credit-

Stacks of credit cards (they're all fake, don't get excited)
ALT text detailsStacks of credit cards (they're all fake, don't get excited)
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Recent statistics show the number of overstays in Japan dropping. As of July 2024, 77,935 people are projected to be in Japan illegally – a drop of 1.5% since January 2024. Most of those (48,343) aren't workers but people who overstayed short-term visitor visas.

unseen-japan.com/japan-immigra

Workers talking to one another
ALT text detailsWorkers talking to one another
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Ikebukuro’s VLiverLab allows you to drink while interacting directly with virtual, digital avatar-ensconced bartenders. There’s an entire rotating cast of bartenders with their own designs and quirks; you sit facing a digital screen featuring the bartenders in question.

unseen-japan.com/tokyo-for-vtu

VLiver Lab pictures
ALT text detailsVLiver Lab pictures
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: As tensions continue to flare between Kurdish immigrants and Japanese residents in Saitama Prefecture, a new incident involving a Kurdish girl who was expelled from school is generating fierce debate online.

unseen-japan.com/kurdish-stude

Saitama City landscape
ALT text detailsSaitama City landscape
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Ame

@ame@breta.moe

Does anyone know if there's a list or feed for Hololive/Vtuber in-person events, such as collab cafes or special store events (like AmiAmi x Ina)? I'll be visiting Japan in March and want to see if there are any time-limited events during that time :polarbear_sdvx:

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Thanks to the influx of tourism, illegal “white taxi” services have sprung up all across Japan. These services are hard for police to catch, as they typically set up booking forms or apps outside the country.

unseen-japan.com/white-taxis-h

Japanese white humber plate with hands indicating "stop" or "penalty"
ALT text detailsJapanese white humber plate with hands indicating "stop" or "penalty"
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atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Matsumoto Castle (1950)

Artist: Okiie

visitmatsumoto.com/en/event/il

A view of Nagano's Matsumoto Castle in winter. Leafless trees stand in the foreground, screening our view of a flat snowy field stretching out toward the castle. The stacked rooftops of the multi-level castle are covered with fresh snow; the windows are dark and unlit. Beyond, low mountains cross the horizon, beneath a steely blue sky. Everything seems quiet and still.
ALT text detailsA view of Nagano's Matsumoto Castle in winter. Leafless trees stand in the foreground, screening our view of a flat snowy field stretching out toward the castle. The stacked rooftops of the multi-level castle are covered with fresh snow; the windows are dark and unlit. Beyond, low mountains cross the horizon, beneath a steely blue sky. Everything seems quiet and still.
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mapconcierge

@mapconcierge@en.osm.town

Finally, the long-awaited Free and Open Source GIS Global Conference is coming to Japan! As a board member of the OSGeo Japan Chapter since 2008 and a founding member of the Japanese community, I am thrilled to welcome everyone as a local organizer. I look forward to ensuring that we all have a fantastic experience at FOSS4G 2026 Hiroshima, where geospatial information professionals from around the world will gather in Japan.

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Thanks to a labor shortage and the weak yen, immigrants continue to flock to Japan looking for new opportunities. The country passed 2.3 million foreign workers last year - the 12th year in a row setting a new record - while illegal overstays fell.

unseen-japan.com/japan-immigra

Road workers in Japan
ALT text detailsRoad workers in Japan
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Held inside a long-running folding fan shop in Kyoto, the "Ikezu Bunka" event challenged people to take a crack at reading the true intentions behind the shop proprietress's veiled language. One group said they got kicked out in a minute and 20 seconds.

unseen-japan.com/kyoto-unkindn

Ikea Bunka sticker event poster created by Nai Inc.
ALT text detailsIkea Bunka sticker event poster created by Nai Inc.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Tourism to Japan is overwhelming taxi services, leading to the proliferation of so-called illegal "white taxis." Here's why officials around Himeji Castle this week are warning tourists that if the plate is white, you should say "thanks, I'm alright."

unseen-japan.com/white-taxis-h

Picture of white Japanese license plate with hands indicating you shouldn't use it
ALT text detailsPicture of white Japanese license plate with hands indicating you shouldn't use it
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: A thief in Japan who robbed a man in Kabukicho got more than he bargained for when he sped off with a bag containing a pair of AirPods that had location tracking turned on.

unseen-japan.com/kabukicho-thi

A pair of AirPods on a wooden desk
ALT text detailsA pair of AirPods on a wooden desk
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: Japan remains a relatively good deal for travelers, especially those from countries whose currency remains strong against the country’s weak yen. However, that demand is starting to drive prices up.

unseen-japan.com/hotel-prices-

Hotel clerk handing a traveler his keys
ALT text detailsHotel clerk handing a traveler his keys
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

In one case, the owner of the Izumozaki Retro Museum in Niigata Prefecture says he asked a parent whose child dropped a toy to help the child be more careful. The parent snapped, “Then you shouldn’t leave these out where kids can touch ’em!”

unseen-japan.com/retro-toy-mus

Izumozaki Retro Museum in Niigata Prefecture
ALT text detailsIzumozaki Retro Museum in Niigata Prefecture
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Snoeksen

@Snoeksen@bonn.social

Heute endlich den ersten Druck aus der diesjährigen Serie von Shin-hanga Drucken von . Tolles Design von @ateliersento ! Was man auch erst richtig sieht, wenn das Licht von der Seite auf den Druck fällt: der Schnee und der Rauch der Rakete sind mit einem Prägedruck leicht erhaben. Ich freue mich auf die die nächsten Monate!

Mehr Details: mokuhankan.com/subscriptions/d

Holzschnittdruck im japanischen Stil. Zwei Frauen im Kimono in Rückansicht blicken von einem mit Bambus gesäumten Weg auf eine weite, schneebedeckte Ebene. In der Ferne sieht man einige Gebäude, offenbar eine Raketenabschußbasis. Eine Rakete im retrofuturistischen Design steigt gerade in den Himmel.
ALT text detailsHolzschnittdruck im japanischen Stil. Zwei Frauen im Kimono in Rückansicht blicken von einem mit Bambus gesäumten Weg auf eine weite, schneebedeckte Ebene. In der Ferne sieht man einige Gebäude, offenbar eine Raketenabschußbasis. Eine Rakete im retrofuturistischen Design steigt gerade in den Himmel.
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atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: The Hall of the Golden Hue at Hiraizumi (1957)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

meguri-japan.com/en/exploring-

A lone monk wearing a broad hat climbs snowy steps toward the Konjikido; tall pine trees, their branches weighed down by fresh snow, stand on either side of the steps. Up ahead, the small temple building is closed up and deserted. Above, the sky is dark and overcast; snow continues falling across the scene
ALT text detailsA lone monk wearing a broad hat climbs snowy steps toward the Konjikido; tall pine trees, their branches weighed down by fresh snow, stand on either side of the steps. Up ahead, the small temple building is closed up and deserted. Above, the sky is dark and overcast; snow continues falling across the scene
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

In Kyoto, telling someone they're wearing a nice kimono might be the meanest thing you can say. Here's how a recent event gave people across Japan a chance to experience the area's "culture of unkindness" by challenging them to read between the lines.

unseen-japan.com/kyoto-unkindn

Okami asking someone if they want chazuke (i.e., telling them to please leave)
ALT text detailsOkami asking someone if they want chazuke (i.e., telling them to please leave)
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japan experienced its second-lowest ever number of suicides last year. Unfortunately, among schoolkids, the number of youth suicides hit an all-time high in 2024. That has experts saying it's time to consider new strategies for youth suicide prevention.

unseen-japan.com/japan-child-s

Picture of school with a cherry blossom tree in front
ALT text detailsPicture of school with a cherry blossom tree in front
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

This is why we can't have nice things. The Izumozaki Retro Museum in Izumozaki, Niigata Prefecture, specializes in collecting toys from Japan’s Showa era (1926-1989). Now, it's closing because some parents can't stop their kids from breaking stuff.

unseen-japan.com/retro-toy-mus

Izumozaki Retro Museum in Izumozaki, Niigata Prefecture
ALT text detailsIzumozaki Retro Museum in Izumozaki, Niigata Prefecture
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: A women’s pro shogi player hoped to break a 100-year wall and become the first female professional in the country’s regular Japanese chess league. Sadly, it was not to be.

unseen-japan.com/shogi-female-

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: Should digital nomads flock to Tokyo as the cold months continue? A new analysis rates the city a prime location for working during the winter, ranking it highly for its public transit and relative safety.

unseen-japan.com/tokyo-digital

Woman sitting by a Japanese style fusuma paper door working on her laptop
ALT text detailsWoman sitting by a Japanese style fusuma paper door working on her laptop
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Ito Shiori's BLACK BOX DIARIES, her film about her struggle for justice after her sexual assault, has earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Documentary. She's the first Japanese director ever to earn a nomination in the category. The film has yet to release in Japan.

unseen-japan.com/black-box-dia

Poster for Ito Shiori's Black Box Diaries showing her looking at the camera behind a water-streaked pane of glass
ALT text detailsPoster for Ito Shiori's Black Box Diaries showing her looking at the camera behind a water-streaked pane of glass
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Besides the famous Toho Cinemas Godzilla room operated by Fujita Kanko in Shinjuku, it also runs the train and Panda House rooms in Akihabara's Washington Hotel, kabuki rooms in Kyoto, and a stunning “ocean room” in Naha, Okinawa.

unseen-japan.com/nissin-donbei

Ocean room in Naha Washington Hotel - two twin beds surrounded by aquarium-like walls
ALT text detailsOcean room in Naha Washington Hotel - two twin beds surrounded by aquarium-like walls
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Kochi Ekimae Kanko says that they’re testing out a “full flat seat” bus. The new seat type is for customers who say they love the cost savings of night buses in Japan for attending concerts but not the restless night’s shut-eye that comes from sleeping upright.

unseen-japan.com/sleeper-buses

Ful flat sleeper seats showing how they decline into a full horizontal position
ALT text detailsFul flat sleeper seats showing how they decline into a full horizontal position
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: Overtourism in Japan isn’t just a matter of inconvenience – it’s an issue of tourist safety. That point was driven home this week by a tragic incident in Hokkaido where a woman trying to grab a picture was struck by a train.

unseen-japan.com/hokkaido-tour

Sign for Asari Station in Otaru, Hokkaido
ALT text detailsSign for Asari Station in Otaru, Hokkaido
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Lawson's "transparent flan" comes in a clever package. When you first pick up the product with its stark white label, it seems to only say, “Can you see it?” Tilt it into the light, and the words “transparent caramel-flavored flan” make themselves known.

unseen-japan.com/lawson-transp

Lawson's transparent flan - double shot: on the left, the words "can you see it?" On the right, in the light, you can see the words "see-through caramel-flavored flan" appear
ALT text detailsLawson's transparent flan - double shot: on the left, the words "can you see it?" On the right, in the light, you can see the words "see-through caramel-flavored flan" appear
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atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Kinkakuji, Kyoto (c.1930s)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

kinkakujitemple.com/winter/

Heavy snow falls across a view of Kyoto's Kinkakuji Temple. In the foreground, snow weighs down the branches of a Japanese pine tree; beyond, a still pond stretches out toward the temple. The heavy weather obscures many details of the temple building, though the silhouette of the golden phoenix fixed at the top of the roof stands out against the overcast sky.
ALT text detailsHeavy snow falls across a view of Kyoto's Kinkakuji Temple. In the foreground, snow weighs down the branches of a Japanese pine tree; beyond, a still pond stretches out toward the temple. The heavy weather obscures many details of the temple building, though the silhouette of the golden phoenix fixed at the top of the roof stands out against the overcast sky.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Wanna make your stay in Japan as over the top as possible? Shinjuku Washington Hotel is making that happen for the lucky guests who booked their limited-time Nissin Donbei udon room. But don't fret - the hotel has other themed rooms waiting for you!

unseen-japan.com/nissin-donbei

Nissin Donbei room at the Shinjuku Washington Hotel
ALT text detailsNissin Donbei room at the Shinjuku Washington Hotel
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Wanna make your stay in Japan as over the top as possible? Shinjuku Washington Hotel is making that happen for the lucky guests who booked their limited-time Nissin Donbei udon room. But don't fret - the hotel has other themed rooms waiting for you!

unseen-japan.com/nissin-donbei

Nissin Donbei room at the Shinjuku Washington Hotel
ALT text detailsNissin Donbei room at the Shinjuku Washington Hotel
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Tony Barrett

@tonybarrett@pixelfed.social

Zen garden, Nara

#japanphotography #japan #photography #darktable
Tony Barrett's avatar
Tony Barrett

@tonybarrett@pixelfed.social

Zen garden, Nara

#japanphotography #japan #photography #darktable
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

As hotel prices rise, more idol fans in Japan are taking night buses to see their oshi perform. To make the trip more pleasant, one bus company is debuting a new "full flat sleeper" design in March featuring bus seats that fold down into beds for the return trip.

unseen-japan.com/sleeper-buses

New "full flat seat" bus seat design
ALT text detailsNew "full flat seat" bus seat design
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Our Hatsune Miku green onion-flavored protein powder post is suddenly doing new traffic. Sadly, as far as we can tell, this product was limited edition and doesn't appear to have been re-released. (If you have different information, let us know.)

unseen-japan.com/hatsune-miku-

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: Multiple Japanese press outlets are reporting that Nakai Masahiro, the ex-member of boy band SMAP who’s been embroiled in a scandal involving alleged sexual assault, will retire from entertainment. The move ends his lucrative post-SMAP career as a TV and radio host.

unseen-japan.com/nakai-masahir

Banner for Nakai Masahiro's now-dead program DAREKA TO NAKAI
ALT text detailsBanner for Nakai Masahiro's now-dead program DAREKA TO NAKAI
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Thieves in Japan don't just target abandoned houses for their accessories and metals. Last year, multiple outlets reported that toilets in Tokyo's Katsuhika City and other areas had their faucets and pipes removed by criminals looking to turn them into cash.

unseen-japan.com/abandoned-hou

Article from NHK News on the theft of pipes from toilets in parks in Katsushika
ALT text detailsArticle from NHK News on the theft of pipes from toilets in parks in Katsushika
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: There are still plenty of interesting things to do and see in Akihabara, Tokyo's colorful anime neighborhood. One “attraction” that contradicts Akiba’s bouncy image, though, is a bank of vending machines with a lineup of products locals describe as “cursed.”

unseen-japan.com/akihabara-cur

3tourism

Woman hiding her face in her hands as she stands in front of the bank of "cursed" vending machines in Akihabara
ALT text detailsWoman hiding her face in her hands as she stands in front of the bank of "cursed" vending machines in Akihabara
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: How you address someone in Japan tells a lot about how you see them and their relationship to you in society. In recent years, according to researchers and news reports, many Japanese managers are taking a more respectful tone with their subordinates.

unseen-japan.com/santsuke-japa

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

As home to one of Japan’s traditional gasshou-zukuri villages made famous by Shirakawa-Go, Gero Onsen is both a great tourist attraction and a wonderful hot springs spot. The village has 10 thermal baths, as well as a number of foot baths located around town.

Gero Onsen - traditional Gassho style house
ALT text detailsGero Onsen - traditional Gassho style house
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Fuji TV held a follow-up press conference on the Nakai Masahiro scandal to recover from its disastrous one earlier this month. The grueling event, open to all journalists, ran until 2am, lasting over 10 HOURS. It didn't appear to change advertiser's minds one bit.

Article from LiveDoor News on the Fuji TV presser. Japanese title: 【速報】フジテレビ“再会見”が終了　異例の10時間超
ALT text detailsArticle from LiveDoor News on the Fuji TV presser. Japanese title: 【速報】フジテレビ“再会見”が終了　異例の10時間超
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Looking for a hot soak during the winter months while in Japan? The country's onsen (hot springs) are an excellent way to relax and restore your health by heating yourself down to your bones. Here are the best winter spots according to a new ranking.

unseen-japan.com/best-onsen-wi

Onsen in Hakone; water flowing down a bamboo shoot into a bath
ALT text detailsOnsen in Hakone; water flowing down a bamboo shoot into a bath
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japanese maid cafe chain At Home will test a new device from Pixie Dust technologies that translates up to 100 languages and renders words on a clear table display. The company hopes to help At Home support both foreign tourists and Japan's deaf population.

unseen-japan.com/maid-cafe-lan

Maids behind a table top screen making the moe-moe-kyun gesture as the tablet translates their words into English. A sign next to the device reads, "Please speak slowly"
ALT text detailsMaids behind a table top screen making the moe-moe-kyun gesture as the tablet translates their words into English. A sign next to the device reads, "Please speak slowly"
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: Ever hear a crime report and think, “Let him cook”? That’s my reaction upon hearing about a man who catfished other men online. However, he insists his intentions were noble.

unseen-japan.com/tokyo-ikebuku

Person holding a smartphone that displays a Japanese dating app
ALT text detailsPerson holding a smartphone that displays a Japanese dating app
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Authorities only caught up with terrorist Kirishima Satoshi when he checked himself into a hospital in Kanagawa Prefecture due to terminal stomach cancer, where he admitted his identity to authorities. He died shortly thereafter at age 70.

unseen-japan.com/kirishima-sat

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Thieves targeting abandoned homes in Japan say they use smartphone map apps to find areas that might have abandoned houses. They then visit homes and look for signs the property is abandoned — such as overgrown lawns and the status of water meters.

unseen-japan.com/abandoned-hou

Kawara style roof house abandoned in Japan
ALT text detailsKawara style roof house abandoned in Japan
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: Japan’s conservative-leaning government continues to drag its feet on passing marriage equality despite broad public support. However, the government announced that same-sex couples were covered by 24 laws usually reserved for legally recognized marriages.

unseen-japan.com/japan-same-se

Gavel on top of an LGBTQ flag
ALT text detailsGavel on top of an LGBTQ flag
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Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

Engyo-ji, .

Engyo-ji, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsEngyo-ji, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: In a bid to crack down on illegal use of e-scooters in Japan, the country’s leading rental service announced it’s permanently suspended someone who clearly broke the rules – and endangered their life and the lives of others.

unseen-japan.com/luup-escooter

E-scooters awaiting rental
ALT text detailsE-scooters awaiting rental
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Nithin Coca నితిన్

@ncoca@social.coop

Nice to live in a country where the hard left party is smart enough to realize that it's namesake in has nothing to do with whatsoever, and is willing to call out their crimes against , including the .

"The leadership’s...does not deserve the name of the Party"

scmp.com/week-asia/politics/ar

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Nithin Coca నితిన్

@ncoca@social.coop

Nice to live in a country where the hard left party is smart enough to realize that it's namesake in has nothing to do with whatsoever, and is willing to call out their crimes against , including the .

"The leadership’s...does not deserve the name of the Party"

scmp.com/week-asia/politics/ar

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Fuji TV CEO Minato Koichi and Chairman Kano Shuji just resigned in the wake of the scandal caused by ex-SMAP member Nakai Masahiro. Both were thrown overboard after their disastrous response led the station to lose over half of its advertisers.

Article from Sponichi Annex on the Fuji TV press conference. Japanese title: フジテレビ　港浩一社長ら辞任を発表、嘉納会長も　新社長は清水賢治専務「ちびまる子ちゃん」手掛けた
ALT text detailsArticle from Sponichi Annex on the Fuji TV press conference. Japanese title: フジテレビ　港浩一社長ら辞任を発表、嘉納会長も　新社長は清水賢治専務「ちびまる子ちゃん」手掛けた
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

One firm analyzed average unit prices across 2,000 hotels across Japan. The average price is now up to 22,880 yen (USD $146) – up 18% from the previous year. That’s higher than the previous high watermark of 22,245 yen in 1997, making a new record.

unseen-japan.com/hotel-prices-

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Going to Shibuya anytime soon? If so, be warned that the Hachiko Gate's been relocated and the number of gates reduced from 17 to 14. That's making Hachiko Square even messier than usual. More info below on what's happening - and how to navigate around it.

unseen-japan.com/shibuya-stati

Shibuya Station - Hachiko Gate mess
ALT text detailsShibuya Station - Hachiko Gate mess
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: There’s no denying the importance of vending machines to the rhythm of daily life here. Which is why, when the Swedish Embassy in Japan announced it was engaging in vending machine diplomacy, I had to go see it for myself.

unseen-japan.com/try-swedish-v

Try Swedish! vending machine in Ikebukuro's Alpa mall
ALT text detailsTry Swedish! vending machine in Ikebukuro's Alpa mall
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: With all the talk of overtourism and tourists behaving badly, it’s left many travelers wondering whether the majority in Japan even want tourists. Good news: a new survey shows that they overwhelmingly do.

unseen-japan.com/japan-tourism

Woman with a tourist to Japan standing under a wooden roof and pointing to something off-screen. Probably a Shinkansen train or a box of Pocky.
ALT text detailsWoman with a tourist to Japan standing under a wooden roof and pointing to something off-screen. Probably a Shinkansen train or a box of Pocky.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

On March 26th, 1978, the control tower at the nearly complete Narita Airport fell to an invading force of leftist militants. Why did such a wide range of activists unite to stop the government from taking people’s homes?

unseen-japan.com/sanrizuka-the

Banner for The Battle of Narita Airport
ALT text detailsBanner for The Battle of Narita Airport
Bytes Europe's avatar
Bytes Europe

@byteseu@pubeurope.com

Thai Female Nurse on a Trip to Japan Rescues Elderly Man Who Collapsed at Asakusa Station byteseu.com/686316/

Thai Female Nurse on a Trip to Japan Rescues Elderly Man Who Collapsed at Asakusa Station
ALT text detailsThai Female Nurse on a Trip to Japan Rescues Elderly Man Who Collapsed at Asakusa Station
Bytes Europe's avatar
Bytes Europe

@byteseu@pubeurope.com

Thai Female Nurse on a Trip to Japan Rescues Elderly Man Who Collapsed at Asakusa Station byteseu.com/686316/

Thai Female Nurse on a Trip to Japan Rescues Elderly Man Who Collapsed at Asakusa Station
ALT text detailsThai Female Nurse on a Trip to Japan Rescues Elderly Man Who Collapsed at Asakusa Station
Stephen 🇵🇭✈️📷's avatar
Stephen 🇵🇭✈️📷

@smlgo@pixelfed.social

My wife in #Takayama #Japan is my wallpaper on my #MXLinux desktop. Taken by me using an old but still functional #Nikon D5100 camera and a 35mm f1.8 lens.

#Travel #Photography #Linux
Stephen 🇵🇭✈️📷's avatar
Stephen 🇵🇭✈️📷

@smlgo@pixelfed.social

My wife in #Takayama #Japan is my wallpaper on my #MXLinux desktop. Taken by me using an old but still functional #Nikon D5100 camera and a 35mm f1.8 lens.

#Travel #Photography #Linux
earthling's avatar
earthling

@appassionato@mastodon.social

Misty river.

Yamagata, .
Source: rainie-is-seasonchange

@photography

earthling's avatar
earthling

@appassionato@mastodon.social

Misty river.

Yamagata, .
Source: rainie-is-seasonchange

@photography

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Ex-SMAP member Nakai Masahiro's retirement due to a sexual assault scandal has some fans angry at Japan's tabloids for their "vigilantism." Other fans, however, are explaining his behavior with a wild theory: that the "real" Nakai Masahiro died back in 2022.

unseen-japan.com/nakai-masahir

Picture of Nakai Masahiro on the right with the words "The Dead Nakai Theory" in Unseen Japan Red on the left
ALT text detailsPicture of Nakai Masahiro on the right with the words "The Dead Nakai Theory" in Unseen Japan Red on the left
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A reminder that we don't always get a chance to reply to our fans on socials but you can talk with us and other UJ fans on our Discord server! Feel free to join us in a safe and well-moderated space for discussing All Things Japan below.

discord.gg/uPwBhuBCwQ

UJ banner depicting a woman in kimono walking a shibu-ina down a shotengai (shopping district) as on the left side of the image a page peels back. Image by Gerri Draws Japan - https://www.geridrawsjapan.com/
ALT text detailsUJ banner depicting a woman in kimono walking a shibu-ina down a shotengai (shopping district) as on the left side of the image a page peels back. Image by Gerri Draws Japan - https://www.geridrawsjapan.com/
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

To beef up credit card security, Japan in March will end the "PIN bypass" system, which has allowed forgetful residents to sign for purchases over 10K yen. But don't worry, US travelers - you can still make signature-based purchases here with your terribly insecure cards.

unseen-japan.com/japan-credit-

Picture of a stack of fake credit cards
ALT text detailsPicture of a stack of fake credit cards
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The Board of Education in Saitama City, Japan has apologized for expelling a Kurdish sixth-year elementary student after her parents lost their immigration status. Japan's government says the decision contradicts its guidance to keep students in school while parents appeal.

unseen-japan.com/kurdish-stude

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japan is famous for its vast variety of food and treats. But there's far more to its snack world than just Pocky and flavored Kit Kats. Learn about the wide range of Japanese snacks - from dorayaki to almond fish and shrimp crackers - below.

unseen-japan.com/japanese-snac

Taiyaki on a plate
ALT text detailsTaiyaki on a plate
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The culture of cute is everywhere in Japan. Kawaii may present a peppy facade, but this culture glosses over the deeper issues of how Japanese women are perceived and treated in a society that markets them as lesser and more childish than men.

unseen-japan.com/japan-kawaii-

Picture from Akihabara
ALT text detailsPicture from Akihabara
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: Usually, the most serious crime that happens on a Japanese train is molestation. However, one train in Kanagawa Prefecture allegedly saw some violence involving an itchy throat and an icepick.

unseen-japan.com/doctor-japan-

Train interior with a glowing icepick superimposed over it
ALT text detailsTrain interior with a glowing icepick superimposed over it
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Jiko Desu

@jikomayo@mastodon.world

Here's the Eiga Sai lineup with video trailers. Of note are international award winners "Perfect Days" and "Monster." There are also 4 anime films and a Godzilla movie.

Starts showing Jan.31 to Feb. 9 in Shangrila Mall, Mandaluyong, Metro Manila, Philippines. Free, but online reservation is required.

@pinoy

8list.ph/japanese-film-festiva

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

35-year-old Takahashi Motoki probably thought he hit a nice payday when he snatched a bag from a man in Kabukicho with 850K yen (USD $5,444) in cash. The bag had something else, though: the victim's AirPods. Cops used location tracking to arrest the thief.

unseen-japan.com/kabukicho-thi

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Ito Shiori's BLACK BOX DIARIES, her film about her struggle for justice after her sexual assault, has earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Documentary. She's the first Japanese director ever to earn a nomination in the category. The film has yet to release in Japan.

unseen-japan.com/black-box-dia

Poster for Ito Shiori's Black Box Diaries showing her looking at the camera behind a water-streaked pane of glass
ALT text detailsPoster for Ito Shiori's Black Box Diaries showing her looking at the camera behind a water-streaked pane of glass
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Booking a hotel for Japan travel? Expect a bit of a sticker shock: the average room rate nationwide just broke a record previously set in 1997. Industry experts say tourist demand + the weak yen are driving up prices.

unseen-japan.com/hotel-prices-

atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Senzoku Pond (1928)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

matcha-jp.com/en/9903

A view looking out over Tokyo's Senzoku Pond on a snowy winter's day. In the foreground, wiry pine trees stand on the edge of the pond, fresh snow clogging their branches and sticking to their trunks. Beyond, the calm surface of the pond stretches out toward dim silhouettes of more trees on the opposite side of the water. Above, the sky is dark and overcast, and snow continues to fall across the scene
ALT text detailsA view looking out over Tokyo's Senzoku Pond on a snowy winter's day. In the foreground, wiry pine trees stand on the edge of the pond, fresh snow clogging their branches and sticking to their trunks. Beyond, the calm surface of the pond stretches out toward dim silhouettes of more trees on the opposite side of the water. Above, the sky is dark and overcast, and snow continues to fall across the scene
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

There have been zero female professional shogi (Japanese chess) players in the country's regular league since its inception in 1924. This week, pro women's player Nishiyama Tomoka came close to breaking down that 100-year-old wall. Sadly, it was not to be.

unseen-japan.com/shogi-female-

Person playing shogi (Japanese chess)
ALT text detailsPerson playing shogi (Japanese chess)
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: As tourism to Japan continues its upward trajectory, more people are staying at private vacation rentals brokered by sites like AirBnB. That’s causing tension with residents, at least one of whom decided to take matters into their own hands in Tokyo recently.

unseen-japan.com/airbnb-rental

Woman showing a rental to a foreign tourist; thumbs down symbol over the image
ALT text detailsWoman showing a rental to a foreign tourist; thumbs down symbol over the image
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: The Kinoko no Yama and Takenoko no Sato treats from Meiji remain iconic in the world of Japanese snacks. Unfortunately, along with just about everything else, they’re getting more expensive.

unseen-japan.com/kinoko-takeno

Kinoko no Yama box
ALT text detailsKinoko no Yama box
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: After a long and hard-fought battle, victims of Japan’s eugenics law will finally receive compensation from the government. Payments began on January 17th for those who were victimized because the country deemed them unfit to have children.

unseen-japan.com/eugenics-law-

Doctors operating on students
ALT text detailsDoctors operating on students
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Dulce Maria

@DulceMaria@toot.community

Have you seen this animal IRL? I just found out they’re a real thing.

en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Japane

A small, furry mammal called a Tanuki with a mix of brown and black fur sitting on a stone ledge, surrounded by green foliage. Although known as a Japanese raccoon-dog, they are from the family of foxes and wolves.
ALT text detailsA small, furry mammal called a Tanuki with a mix of brown and black fur sitting on a stone ledge, surrounded by green foliage. Although known as a Japanese raccoon-dog, they are from the family of foxes and wolves.
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rLok

@rLok@pixelfed.apobangpo.art

At this time of year, they put on a small firework show every Friday night at the King Gondola base (Grand Hirafu)

#Japan #Hokkaido #Niseko #GrandHirafu
A cluster of white fireworks exploding over the King Gondola base station at Grand Hirafu.
ALT text detailsA cluster of white fireworks exploding over the King Gondola base station at Grand Hirafu.
A cluster of white fireworks exploding over the King Gondola base station at Grand Hirafu.
ALT text detailsA cluster of white fireworks exploding over the King Gondola base station at Grand Hirafu.
A cluster of white fireworks exploding over the King Gondola base station at Grand Hirafu - in this shot they are dispersing.
ALT text detailsA cluster of white fireworks exploding over the King Gondola base station at Grand Hirafu - in this shot they are dispersing.
The remains of a cluster of white fireworks raining down over the King Gondola base station at Grand Hirafu.
ALT text detailsThe remains of a cluster of white fireworks raining down over the King Gondola base station at Grand Hirafu.
rLok's avatar
rLok

@rLok@pixelfed.apobangpo.art

At this time of year, they put on a small firework show every Friday night at the King Gondola base (Grand Hirafu)

#Japan #Hokkaido #Niseko #GrandHirafu
A cluster of white fireworks exploding over the King Gondola base station at Grand Hirafu.
ALT text detailsA cluster of white fireworks exploding over the King Gondola base station at Grand Hirafu.
A cluster of white fireworks exploding over the King Gondola base station at Grand Hirafu.
ALT text detailsA cluster of white fireworks exploding over the King Gondola base station at Grand Hirafu.
A cluster of white fireworks exploding over the King Gondola base station at Grand Hirafu - in this shot they are dispersing.
ALT text detailsA cluster of white fireworks exploding over the King Gondola base station at Grand Hirafu - in this shot they are dispersing.
The remains of a cluster of white fireworks raining down over the King Gondola base station at Grand Hirafu.
ALT text detailsThe remains of a cluster of white fireworks raining down over the King Gondola base station at Grand Hirafu.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Sarusawa Pond, Nara (1934)

Artist: Koitsu Tsuchiya

visitnara.jp/venues/A01559/

A snowy evening in Nara Park, by Sarusawa Pond. In the foreground, the branches and bark of a leafless tree are caked with snow and frost; beyond, a lone female figure walks past, carrying a bamboo umbrella as protection from the falling snow. Further on, the still surface of Sarusawa Pond stretches out toward more snow-covered trees on the far side of the water. In the distance, the shape of Kohfukuji Temple's five-story pagoda is a dim silhouette among shadowy trees, standing against an overcast sky. Snow continues to fall across the scene.
ALT text detailsA snowy evening in Nara Park, by Sarusawa Pond. In the foreground, the branches and bark of a leafless tree are caked with snow and frost; beyond, a lone female figure walks past, carrying a bamboo umbrella as protection from the falling snow. Further on, the still surface of Sarusawa Pond stretches out toward more snow-covered trees on the far side of the water. In the distance, the shape of Kohfukuji Temple's five-story pagoda is a dim silhouette among shadowy trees, standing against an overcast sky. Snow continues to fall across the scene.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Looking to work remotely as the winter trudges on? A new report names Tokyo the seventh best location for digital nomads to work out the winter, citing its mild temperatures, high safety ratings, and great public transportation.

unseen-japan.com/toyko-digital

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A Chinese tourist in her 60s died near Asari Station in Otaru, Hokkaido after walking onto train tracks to snap a scenic photo. The tragic death is putting a spotlight on tourist manners as travelers to Japan flock to "hidden" spots, turning them into sudden hit destinations.

unseen-japan.com/hokkaido-tour

Sign for Asari Station, Otaru, Hokkaido
ALT text detailsSign for Asari Station, Otaru, Hokkaido
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: Native Camp originally started as an online English language school for Japanese speakers. Now, Native Camp Japanese also offers lessons for Japanese learners on an on-demand, all-you-can-learn model.

unseen-japan.com/native-camp-j

Native Camp Japanese header - teacher on left talking to student on right via online video conferencing
ALT text detailsNative Camp Japanese header - teacher on left talking to student on right via online video conferencing
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Bell Tower, Mt Koya (1935)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

japan.travel/en/uk/inspiration

A lone figure walks past a quiet temple bell tower on a gloomy, snowy day. The figure carries a bamboo umbrella over their head as they trudge down a meandering track worn by foot traffic in the snow. Fresh snow covers the ground, the temple structures, and clogs the branches of tall trees standing just beyond the tower. Above, the sky is overcast with a dingy, grimy look; snow continues to fall across the scene. The image is rendered in sepia tones.
ALT text detailsA lone figure walks past a quiet temple bell tower on a gloomy, snowy day. The figure carries a bamboo umbrella over their head as they trudge down a meandering track worn by foot traffic in the snow. Fresh snow covers the ground, the temple structures, and clogs the branches of tall trees standing just beyond the tower. Above, the sky is overcast with a dingy, grimy look; snow continues to fall across the scene. The image is rendered in sepia tones.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: Men taking non-consensual photos of female athletes in Japan is a chronic problem. The latest disturbing example comes from Hyogo Prefecture, where police arrested a man for using an infrared camera to take sexually suggestive photos of athletes.

unseen-japan.com/nonconsensual

Man taking photo from a distance
ALT text detailsMan taking photo from a distance
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

BREAKING: Ex-SMAP member Nakai Masahiro, who's been embroiled in a scandal involving alleged sexual assault, has announced he's ending his entertainment career. The announcement is unlikely to help Fuji TV, which is accused of forcing female employees to "entertain" Nakai.

unseen-japan.com/nakai-masahir

entertainment

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Researchers said they have developed a peptide that can bind to the spike proteins of SARS-CoV-2 to prevent COVID-19 infections. japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/01/

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

There's still a lot of fun stuff to see and do in Akihabara. Then there are the vending machines selling oden, bugs, an old rotary phone, and a slew of mystery goods adorned with strange rants. Naturally, we had to check them out.

unseen-japan.com/akihabara-cur

atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Riverside (1970)

Artist: Kasamatsu Shiro

matcha-jp.com/en/3152

A view looking down into a residential street on a dim winter evening somewhere in Japan. On our left, a river curves up and across the top of the image; on the riverbank, a row of houses follows the line of the river, light shining in their windows. An uneven layer of snow covers the tile rootops of the houses. In the street on our right, hanging lanterns throw splashes of yellow illumination across the ground, and a few shadowy pedestrians walk along the road.
ALT text detailsA view looking down into a residential street on a dim winter evening somewhere in Japan. On our left, a river curves up and across the top of the image; on the riverbank, a row of houses follows the line of the river, light shining in their windows. An uneven layer of snow covers the tile rootops of the houses. In the street on our right, hanging lanterns throw splashes of yellow illumination across the ground, and a few shadowy pedestrians walk along the road.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The days of using "chan" and "kun" in the Japanese business world may be ending. Research shows that most company managers are now referring to their staff w/ the honorific "-san." Some companies even mandate it. The goal: reduce workplace harassment.

unseen-japan.com/santsuke-japa

Guy in a suit and tie with his arms folded looking at another person like he's about to lay into them
ALT text detailsGuy in a suit and tie with his arms folded looking at another person like he's about to lay into them
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: In response to the Nakai Masahiro scandal, Fuji TV held a tightly controlled press conference to promise it would launch an independent investigation. The format of the announcement, however, left a bad taste in a lot of people’s mouths.

unseen-japan.com/nakai-masahir

Fuji TV studio
ALT text detailsFuji TV studio
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: Startling reports from Japanese media outlets say multiple Japanese people are being held against their will by Chinese scammers who are camped out in the borderlands of Myanmar.

unseen-japan.com/20-japanese-h

Buddha statue in Myawaddy, Myanmar's capital
ALT text detailsBuddha statue in Myawaddy, Myanmar's capital
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: Disneyland's parent company says it'll also change the way it sells limited edition goods in an effort to crack down on reselling.

unseen-japan.com/disney-anti-r

Tokyo Disneyland entrance
ALT text detailsTokyo Disneyland entrance
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Dalton Investments, a US firm with a stake in Fuji Media Holdings, is demanding the company hold a public, televised press conference on ex-SMAP member Nakai Masahiro's scandal by end of week. This comes as Fuji TV has lost 75 out of its 150 advertisers.

Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:'s avatar
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:

@norbertwoehnl@famichiki.jp

Office Day; Jan 22, 2025

Some scenes from my way to work this morning in .

1. Walk side street to subway station
2. Train arriving
3. Catch some fresh air and morning sun
4. View from 18th floor office

Walking to the subway station on a quiet side street on a January morning in Itabashi Ward, Tokyo
ALT text detailsWalking to the subway station on a quiet side street on a January morning in Itabashi Ward, Tokyo
Mita Line Subway train arriving at the station. Itabashi Ward, Tokyo
ALT text detailsMita Line Subway train arriving at the station. Itabashi Ward, Tokyo
Office workers are waiting to cross a road close to Shin-Marunouchi Building in Tokyo, Japan. The morning sun is hitting the building’s facade.
ALT text detailsOffice workers are waiting to cross a road close to Shin-Marunouchi Building in Tokyo, Japan. The morning sun is hitting the building’s facade.
View from the 18th floor of an office building towards Tokyo Station. Its train platforms are surrounded by high-rise office buildings.
ALT text detailsView from the 18th floor of an office building towards Tokyo Station. Its train platforms are surrounded by high-rise office buildings.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Bell Tower, Mt Koya (1935)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

japan.travel/en/uk/inspiration

A lone figure walks past a quiet temple bell tower on a gloomy, snowy day. The figure carries a bamboo umbrella over their head as they trudge down a meandering track worn by foot traffic in the snow. Fresh snow covers the ground, the temple structures, and clogs the branches of tall trees standing just beyond the tower. Above, the sky is overcast with a dingy, grimy look; snow continues to fall across the scene. The image is rendered in sepia tones.
ALT text detailsA lone figure walks past a quiet temple bell tower on a gloomy, snowy day. The figure carries a bamboo umbrella over their head as they trudge down a meandering track worn by foot traffic in the snow. Fresh snow covers the ground, the temple structures, and clogs the branches of tall trees standing just beyond the tower. Above, the sky is overcast with a dingy, grimy look; snow continues to fall across the scene. The image is rendered in sepia tones.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

In reaction to last year's Supreme Court ruling, Japan has recognized 24 laws that pertain to same-sex couples, including domestic violence & property lease/rental laws. It's still considering another 130 laws, including the country's pension & health care laws.

unseen-japan.com/japan-same-se

Gavel on top of LGBTQ flag
ALT text detailsGavel on top of LGBTQ flag
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Bell Tower, Mt Koya (1935)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

japan.travel/en/uk/inspiration

A lone figure walks past a quiet temple bell tower on a gloomy, snowy day. The figure carries a bamboo umbrella over their head as they trudge down a meandering track worn by foot traffic in the snow. Fresh snow covers the ground, the temple structures, and clogs the branches of tall trees standing just beyond the tower. Above, the sky is overcast with a dingy, grimy look; snow continues to fall across the scene. The image is rendered in sepia tones.
ALT text detailsA lone figure walks past a quiet temple bell tower on a gloomy, snowy day. The figure carries a bamboo umbrella over their head as they trudge down a meandering track worn by foot traffic in the snow. Fresh snow covers the ground, the temple structures, and clogs the branches of tall trees standing just beyond the tower. Above, the sky is overcast with a dingy, grimy look; snow continues to fall across the scene. The image is rendered in sepia tones.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

On December 3rd, cameras caught a user taking an e-scooter onto Tokyo's Shuto Expressway system. Yesterday, rental company LUUP announced it "permanently suspended" their account and reminded people not to take their product on the expressway, you stupid *!&@ idiots.

unseen-japan.com/luup-escooter

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: Tokyo Police last weekend took action as social media users continued to brag about committing crimes against female students who were rushing to exams.

unseen-japan.com/exam-day-grop

Woman holding strap on train as men leer behind her
ALT text detailsWoman holding strap on train as men leer behind her
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: You get what you pay for, the old saying goes. That may be more true than ever with this condominium listing that went viral on Japanese social media recently.

unseen-japan.com/hiroshima-con

Scary condo building looking like it's about to drop into the seasude
ALT text detailsScary condo building looking like it's about to drop into the seasude
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: Kanagawa Prefecture has taken a mighty leap into the 21st century. As of February, the prefecture’s police say, they’ll stop the practice of issuing skirts to female officers.

unseen-japan.com/kanagawa-pref

Female police officer in Japan holding her hand in a stop motion toward the camera
ALT text detailsFemale police officer in Japan holding her hand in a stop motion toward the camera
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Wanna try a little bit of Sweden in Japan? Who wouldn't?! The Swedish Embassy is promoting their country's culture with a limited edition vending machine in Ikebukuro's Alpa that sells traditional delicacies such as salted herring, lingonberry jam, and...tacos?!?!

unseen-japan.com/try-swedish-v

Try Swedish vending machine in Alpa, Ikebukuro, Tokyo
ALT text detailsTry Swedish vending machine in Alpa, Ikebukuro, Tokyo
Taco Tubs at Try Swedish vending machine in Ikebukuro
ALT text detailsTaco Tubs at Try Swedish vending machine in Ikebukuro
Taco Tubs at Try Swedish vending machine in Ikebukuro
ALT text detailsTaco Tubs at Try Swedish vending machine in Ikebukuro
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Wanna try a little bit of Sweden in Japan? Who wouldn't?! The Swedish Embassy is promoting their country's culture with a limited edition vending machine in Ikebukuro's Alpa that sells traditional delicacies such as salted herring, lingonberry jam, and...tacos?!?!

unseen-japan.com/try-swedish-v

Try Swedish vending machine in Alpa, Ikebukuro, Tokyo
ALT text detailsTry Swedish vending machine in Alpa, Ikebukuro, Tokyo
Taco Tubs at Try Swedish vending machine in Ikebukuro
ALT text detailsTaco Tubs at Try Swedish vending machine in Ikebukuro
Taco Tubs at Try Swedish vending machine in Ikebukuro
ALT text detailsTaco Tubs at Try Swedish vending machine in Ikebukuro
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Tennoji Temple, Osaka (1927)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

insideosaka.com/shitenno-ji-te

A solitary figure visits Osaka's Tennoji Temple on a dark winter night. Footprints in the fresh snow reveal the figure's interrupted progress; the bamboo umbrella the figure holds hides their head. Beyond, the nearby temple buildings are deserted and closed up, while further on, taller buildings and the five-story pagoda are shadowy, details obscured by the dim light. Snow falls across the scene.
ALT text detailsA solitary figure visits Osaka's Tennoji Temple on a dark winter night. Footprints in the fresh snow reveal the figure's interrupted progress; the bamboo umbrella the figure holds hides their head. Beyond, the nearby temple buildings are deserted and closed up, while further on, taller buildings and the five-story pagoda are shadowy, details obscured by the dim light. Snow falls across the scene.
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Tennoji Temple, Osaka (1927)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

insideosaka.com/shitenno-ji-te

A solitary figure visits Osaka's Tennoji Temple on a dark winter night. Footprints in the fresh snow reveal the figure's interrupted progress; the bamboo umbrella the figure holds hides their head. Beyond, the nearby temple buildings are deserted and closed up, while further on, taller buildings and the five-story pagoda are shadowy, details obscured by the dim light. Snow falls across the scene.
ALT text detailsA solitary figure visits Osaka's Tennoji Temple on a dark winter night. Footprints in the fresh snow reveal the figure's interrupted progress; the bamboo umbrella the figure holds hides their head. Beyond, the nearby temple buildings are deserted and closed up, while further on, taller buildings and the five-story pagoda are shadowy, details obscured by the dim light. Snow falls across the scene.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Could ex-SMAP member Nakai Masahiro's sexual assault scandal force Fuji TV off the air? In 24 hours, the company has reportedly lost over 50 advertisers after a disastrous closed-door press conference failed to reassure sponsors, who fear boycotts for supporting the network.

unseen-japan.com/fuji-tv-nakai

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Can an AI bot teach you Japanese? Also: A Hokkaido tourist attraction closes, Japan's hot new tourist destination, the Three Cs of dating men in Japan, and more of the best of UJ in this week's Unseen Japan Newsletter below.

us20.campaign-archive.com/?u=e

Anime woman vs. real Japanese woman
ALT text detailsAnime woman vs. real Japanese woman
Stand of white birch trees in Biei, Hokkaido
ALT text detailsStand of white birch trees in Biei, Hokkaido
Toyama in Toyama Prefecture - street car against a snowy mountain backdrop
ALT text detailsToyama in Toyama Prefecture - street car against a snowy mountain backdrop
Woman running away from Japan's Three Cs - the men Japanese dating advice columnists warn Japanese women against dating
ALT text detailsWoman running away from Japan's Three Cs - the men Japanese dating advice columnists warn Japanese women against dating
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Good news for those spooked by Japan overtourism headlines: despite the growing pains, 68% of people in a new survey say the country's record tourism numbers are a good thing. At the same time, however, 78% are concerned about the impact of overtourism.

unseen-japan.com/japan-tourism

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: More tourists are flowing into Japan through Narita Airport than ever. To help reduce congestion - and boost tourism around Chiba Prefecture - officials are asking travelers not to hail a taxi but to use taxi apps instead.

unseen-japan.com/narita-airpor

Taxi stand sign
ALT text detailsTaxi stand sign
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: It isn’t rare for hosts at Japan’s host clubs to introduce female customers who get into debt to one of Japan’s sex shops. In the first ruling of its kind ever, the Tokyo District Court ruled this practice criminal.

unseen-japan.com/host-clubs-se

Woman standing under host club signs in Kabukicho
ALT text detailsWoman standing under host club signs in Kabukicho
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Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

Chion-in, : View of Isshinin Buddhist temple from the garden.

Chion-in, #Japan: View of Isshinin Buddhist temple from the garden. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsChion-in, #Japan: View of Isshinin Buddhist temple from the garden. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: With more people visiting Japan, municipalities are looking for ways they can collect additional revenue from them. This week, Kyoto announced its intentions to drastically raise its loading tax by up to ten times for the city’s most expensive properties.

unseen-japan.com/kyoto-lodging

Kiyomizudera in Kyoto
ALT text detailsKiyomizudera in Kyoto
YuriL 🕊️🤺's avatar
YuriL 🕊️🤺

@yuril@fedibird.com

⛩️ ヒドイぜ…今日のフライトが5時間以上遅延になったので、これは再トライしにおいでってことかと、改めて東京都心から遠征？してきたのに、到着してみたら、まだ午前中でしかも今日は月曜のはずなのにこの混みよう😓 参拝者の列がなが〜く、まさに蛇のごとく…🐍 やはり私が子年 🐁 生まれだからダメなのか！？そうなのか？！🤯 境内に入るまで最低2時間待ち、とのことだったので、今回もすごすごと諦めて、都心に帰ってきました…。フライトが無ければ、2時間でも待つんだけどなぁ…「3度目の正直」とも言うが「2度あることは3度ある」とも言うので、私が再々チャレンジする可能性は……あるかなぁ🥺

境内に入るための行列最後尾
ALT text details境内に入るための行列最後尾
最後尾から30分ほど待って、やっと角を曲がったところ。まだまだ列は長い
ALT text details最後尾から30分ほど待って、やっと角を曲がったところ。まだまだ列は長い
列を更に進んだところ。まだまだ先は長いよ！
ALT text details列を更に進んだところ。まだまだ先は長いよ！
写真一番奥に見えるのが、やっと境内の入り口に並んでいる人々。御朱印とか求めたら、出られるのは何時になるのか…並び始めてから4〜5時間コースなのでは、という感じ🐍
ALT text details写真一番奥に見えるのが、やっと境内の入り口に並んでいる人々。御朱印とか求めたら、出られるのは何時になるのか…並び始めてから4〜5時間コースなのでは、という感じ🐍
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A man was coughing on a Yokohama-bound train. Instead of responding like a normal person, a 59-year-old doctor from Yokosuka allegedly pulled out an icepick and told the man, “If you cough one more time, I’ll kill you.” Police arrested The Bad Doctor, who denies the charges.

unseen-japan.com/doctor-japan-

Inside of a train with an icepick superimposed over the image
ALT text detailsInside of a train with an icepick superimposed over the image
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A Tokyo neighborhood is littered with signs in three languages opposing short-term, AirBnB-style vacation rentals in one local building. The drama raises the question: Is it safe/wise to stay in an AirBnB in Japan - or should you opt for a hotel or ryokan instead?

unseen-japan.com/airbnb-rental

Sign reading "we are deadset against your staying at this vacation rental" (Japanese: 民泊絶対反対)
ALT text detailsSign reading "we are deadset against your staying at this vacation rental" (Japanese: 民泊絶対反対)
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: The three Cs are men who aren’t necessarily dangerous or who ought to be avoided at all costs. But under no circumstances, some people say, should you consider dating them. Why? Find out below.

unseen-japan.com/3c-man-womens

3C men in triptych with woman running away from them
ALT text details3C men in triptych with woman running away from them
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: With the weak yen showing no signs of abating, it’s become harder for people in Japan to travel overseas. The Tokyo Metropolitan Government says it may counteract that with a new program that would help students fulfill their dreams of studying abroad.

unseen-japan.com/tokyo-study-a

Woman at airport abuot to travel abroad, holding a book on Taiwanese Hokkien in her hands
ALT text detailsWoman at airport abuot to travel abroad, holding a book on Taiwanese Hokkien in her hands
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: A cluster of white birch trees in the town of Biei, Hokkaido is going under the saw, possibly by the end of the month. The culprit? Overtourism - and angry farmers who sound like they've had it out for the trees for some time.

unseen-japan.com/hokkaido-biei

Grove of birch trees in Biei, Hokkaido
ALT text detailsGrove of birch trees in Biei, Hokkaido
YuriL 🕊️🤺's avatar
YuriL 🕊️🤺

@yuril@fedibird.com

浅草でランチにもんじゃ焼きを楽しんだのだけど、お店のGoogleレビューを書いてたら、私の前にレビューしたお客さんの英語レビューで「外国人だから10%税金取られた」とあったので、え？と添付されてたレシートをみたら、消費税の上に「外税」とあり、それを単純に「外（国人）税」と解釈したらしい。

イマドキ、ネットでちょっと調べれば、外税とは「代金を請求する際に、商品の値札の総額が税込みの場合は「内税」、税抜きで消費税を別表記しているもの」であることがわかるはずだし、冷静に表示金額を計算すれば、消費税10%しか追加されていないの分かるはずなんだけどね😅

ややこしい記述方法が誤解を招いたのもあるかもだけど、下手に漢字が読めてしまう人（多分中華系）だと、食事やサービスでの行き違いで、ちゃんと調べず脊髄反射で勝手解釈しちゃったのかもしれない。こういううっかり誤解は、外国人観光客としては他の国とかでもやらかす可能性があるから、自分も気をつけなきゃなーと、改めて自戒しました。人種や出身国に関わらず、観光客としては、自分たちはあくまで「客」（お客さまは神様です、の客ではない）、つまり「ゲスト」の立場なのだということを、基本忘れないようにしたい。

YuriL 🕊️🤺's avatar
YuriL 🕊️🤺

@yuril@fedibird.com

浅草でランチにもんじゃ焼きを楽しんだのだけど、お店のGoogleレビューを書いてたら、私の前にレビューしたお客さんの英語レビューで「外国人だから10%税金取られた」とあったので、え？と添付されてたレシートをみたら、消費税の上に「外税」とあり、それを単純に「外（国人）税」と解釈したらしい。

イマドキ、ネットでちょっと調べれば、外税とは「代金を請求する際に、商品の値札の総額が税込みの場合は「内税」、税抜きで消費税を別表記しているもの」であることがわかるはずだし、冷静に表示金額を計算すれば、消費税10%しか追加されていないの分かるはずなんだけどね😅

ややこしい記述方法が誤解を招いたのもあるかもだけど、下手に漢字が読めてしまう人（多分中華系）だと、食事やサービスでの行き違いで、ちゃんと調べず脊髄反射で勝手解釈しちゃったのかもしれない。こういううっかり誤解は、外国人観光客としては他の国とかでもやらかす可能性があるから、自分も気をつけなきゃなーと、改めて自戒しました。人種や出身国に関わらず、観光客としては、自分たちはあくまで「客」（お客さまは神様です、の客ではない）、つまり「ゲスト」の立場なのだということを、基本忘れないようにしたい。

YuriL 🕊️🤺's avatar
YuriL 🕊️🤺

@yuril@fedibird.com

今朝、滞在先ホテルのロビーに降りてきたら、グアムから来ているらしい大家族観光客の皆さんが集まっていた。白人系ではなく、恰幅の良いネイティブ？の皆さんで、陽気に楽しそうに会話しているだけのだけど、日本という環境以外を知らない日本人がこういう状況に出くわしたら「外人」声デカすぎ、マナーなってない、場所取りやがって、と思うんだろうな、とふと思った。

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

It seems Fuji TV advertisers are so dismayed at how the network's handled sex assault accusations against ex-SMAP member Nakai Masahiro that they're pulling ads. Toyota, Nippon Life Insurance, Meiji Yasuda Life & Aflac have all pulled their ads in the past two days.

David :SetouchiExplorer:'s avatar
David :SetouchiExplorer:

@David@setouchi.social

Trying Loops!

loops.video/v/5YIxvHkTS8

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Are you a Kinoko no Yama fan or a Takenoko no Sato fan? It doesn't matter - either way, you're gonna get less than what you paid for come May 20th. Meiji says it'll reduce the volume of both snack boxes by 11% in the latest painful instance of shrinkflation to hit Japanese consumers.

unseen-japan.com/kinoko-takeno

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Victims of Japan's forced sterilization practices will finally receive compensation. On January 17th, the country began to pay victims - mostly the mentally handicapped - who were deemed "unfit" to have children under the Eugenics Protection Act, which was repealed in 1996.

unseen-japan.com/eugenics-law-

Picture of a team of surgeons operating on a patient
ALT text detailsPicture of a team of surgeons operating on a patient
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Bad news for Square Enix fans: The company has announced it will close its Square Enix Cafe in Akihabara on March 31st, 2025. The store, which opened in October of 2016, will close out 8.5 years at its current location, after which it'll be converted into a gift shop.

unseen-japan.com/square-enix-c

Square Enix Cafe closure announcement in Japanese
ALT text detailsSquare Enix Cafe closure announcement in Japanese
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: Some far-right voices in Japan are objecting to the creation of a new cemetery in Miyagi Prefecture that will cater to Japan’s growing Muslim population. However, the Prefecture’s governor says the project is necessary and will proceed as planned.

unseen-japan.com/islamic-cemet

Mosque in Tokyo
ALT text detailsMosque in Tokyo
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: A major media outlet in Japan takes up the issue of sexually explicit ads appearing on sites in Japan frequently used by children - and many netizens wonder what took them so long to finally pay attention.

unseen-japan.com/sexually-expl

Smartphone with an R18+ symbol on it
ALT text detailsSmartphone with an R18+ symbol on it
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

"In Japan, as I watched the events unfold after the assassination of Brian Thompson, the CEO of UnitedHealthcare, I had a very strange sense of déjà vu. It was like reliving the assassination of former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe in 2022."

unseen-japan.com/luigi-mangion

David :SetouchiExplorer:'s avatar
David :SetouchiExplorer:

@David@setouchi.social

Trying Loops!

loops.video/v/5YIxvHkTS8

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A service says it can connect you to native Japanese speakers via on-demand, unlimited lessons every month. But it'll cost ya. Is it worth it? We tried and reviewed Native Camp Japanese - here's what we think.

unseen-japan.com/native-camp-j

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The New York Times has named Toyama City as one of its must-see travel gems for 2025. Long overlooked by Western travelers, officials say they hope the endorsement will bring more tourists looking to experience the beauty of Japan in a more relaxed atmosphere.

unseen-japan.com/toyama-new-tr

atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

asahi.com/ajw/articles/1558895

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Police in Hyogo Prefecture arrested a 53yo fisherman for taking nonconsensual infrared photos of female swimmers, including victims who were 11 and 13 years old. It's part of a disturbing trend of men in Japan using infrared cameras to emulate a "see-through" effect.

unseen-japan.com/nonconsensual

Man taking photo from balcony pointing downward
ALT text detailsMan taking photo from balcony pointing downward
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: Some say Generative AI will “revolutionize” language learning. After trying AI Japanese teachers & chatbots, I remained convinced you shouldn’t rely on a bot to do a job that living, breathing native Japanese speakers already do 1000x better.

unseen-japan.com/ai-japanese-s

Cute anime girl who has no volition and is merely a reflection of your warped desires vs. the actual woman you're afraid to talk to
ALT text detailsCute anime girl who has no volition and is merely a reflection of your warped desires vs. the actual woman you're afraid to talk to
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: NHK, Japan’s public broadcaster, is in a bit of financial trouble. Now, it says it wants to plug the hole by charging for a broadcasting license even if residents don’t own a television.

unseen-japan.com/nhk-fee-no-tv

NHK building in Nigata Prefecture
ALT text detailsNHK building in Nigata Prefecture
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: It appears one sushi shop in the United States outed itself as having no Japanese staff with a recent ad that commits a massive faux pas.

unseen-japan.com/america-sushi

Picture of sushi being dipped in soy sauce while, to the right, an male Irasutoya figure gives the "NG" sign (arms crossed over chest)
ALT text detailsPicture of sushi being dipped in soy sauce while, to the right, an male Irasutoya figure gives the "NG" sign (arms crossed over chest)
vga256's avatar
vga256

@vga256@dialup.cafe

mini-doc with some beautiful walkthroughs of alleys in kyoto, and documents some of the ongoing preservation and restoration efforts by locals

there is something indescribably serene and warm about japan's alleys. i've never found anything with the same architectural tranquility.

www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/sho

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

As new allegations of sexual misconduct swirl around ex-SMAP member Nakai Masahiro and Fuji TV, the station says it'll launch an independent investigative committee. However, that announcement came at a tightly controlled presser that Fuji refused to broadcast.

unseen-japan.com/nakai-masahir

YuriL 🕊️🤺's avatar
YuriL 🕊️🤺

@yuril@fedibird.com

銀座から日本橋に向かって歩いていたら、京橋辺りで1本だけ何気に咲いている木が…あれ、これってもしかして 🌸？？このスポットだけ陽当たりが無駄に良くて勘違いしちゃったのかしらん😳

超！？早咲きの、東京・京橋の桜
ALT text details超！？早咲きの、東京・京橋の桜
1本だけ開花してしまっている京橋の桜の木
ALT text details1本だけ開花してしまっている京橋の桜の木
銀座から日本橋に向かう道すがら、ちょうど京橋あたりのどうろの左側に生えている桜の木です。
ALT text details銀座から日本橋に向かう道すがら、ちょうど京橋あたりのどうろの左側に生えている桜の木です。
YuriL 🕊️🤺's avatar
YuriL 🕊️🤺

@yuril@fedibird.com

おはようございます。今日は1日フリーデイで、長男には単身で好きなように東京を歩き回ってもらうつもり。オットは、自国ですら私のジンベエザメ状態😅だから、今日はまぁ長男が興味なさそうなとこにでも連れていきますよw

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A Chinese-led group is reportedly forcing people from multiple countries - including Japan - to run scams on its behalf. Reports say over 20 Japanese people may be held in a lawless part of Myanmar, lured in by part-time work & forced to commit fraud against their will.

unseen-japan.com/20-japanese-h

Buddha statue in Myawaddy, Myanmar's capital
ALT text detailsBuddha statue in Myawaddy, Myanmar's capital
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Kantoman

@Kantoman@pixelfed.social

The arches over the #Shinkansen tracks #Japan #TrainPorn #日本 #新幹線 #電車オタク
Taken against a backlit sky, the shot includes a couple of arches holding the power lines over the elevated bullet train tracks.
ALT text detailsTaken against a backlit sky, the shot includes a couple of arches holding the power lines over the elevated bullet train tracks.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Resellers continue to make life painful for fans in Japan. In response to trouble on its own properties, Tokyo Disneyland is taking new measures to defeat reselling. That includes threatening to throw them off the property entirely.

unseen-japan.com/disney-anti-r

atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Yuki no Yugure (c.1940s)

Artist: Kasamatsu Shiro

asahi.com/ajw/articles/1558425

A snowy winter evening scene somewhere in rural Japan. A narrow, cold-looking creek cuts through the forground; on the right-hand bank, a tall leafless tree is plastered with snow and frost, while on the left-hand bank, a faint track worn by foot traffic in the snow runs past a couple of small buildings. A pair of figures -- one child and one adult, each carrying bamboo umbrellas -- follow the track, heading toward a snow-covered house where warm lights shine in the windows. Beyond, a shadowy forest cuts a silhouette against a dull gray sky. Snow continues falling across the scene.
ALT text detailsA snowy winter evening scene somewhere in rural Japan. A narrow, cold-looking creek cuts through the forground; on the right-hand bank, a tall leafless tree is plastered with snow and frost, while on the left-hand bank, a faint track worn by foot traffic in the snow runs past a couple of small buildings. A pair of figures -- one child and one adult, each carrying bamboo umbrellas -- follow the track, heading toward a snow-covered house where warm lights shine in the windows. Beyond, a shadowy forest cuts a silhouette against a dull gray sky. Snow continues falling across the scene.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

It's college exam time again this weekend in Japan. That means some men are on social media bragging it's the "perfect time" to molest female test takers on trains since they're too busy to report the crime. This year, Tokyo Police are saying: not so fast, bucko.

unseen-japan.com/exam-day-grop

Female student hounded by molesters on a train
ALT text detailsFemale student hounded by molesters on a train
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: Tokyo Police say the Access scouting ring primarily recruited women online into sex work, employing a countrywide network of 300 scouts. The group targeted women who had gotten into severe debt due to their addiction to host clubs.

unseen-japan.com/sex-work-scou

Picture of a "free resource center" directing people to cabaret and sex clubs in Kabukicho
ALT text detailsPicture of a "free resource center" directing people to cabaret and sex clubs in Kabukicho
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: Think Japan had a lot of tourists in 2024? You ain’t seen nothin’ yet, according to a new report on what to expect in the new year. JTB is predicting that the country will see 40.2 million visitors in 2025.

unseen-japan.com/japan-40-mill

Two women - one Asian, one white - holding a Tokyo travel brochure and soaking in the sights of Asakusa, Tokyo
ALT text detailsTwo women - one Asian, one white - holding a Tokyo travel brochure and soaking in the sights of Asakusa, Tokyo
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

IYCMI: Resellers have struck again in Japan, the second time in several months in connection with a Sanrio special event. Goods for a new event celebrating the character My Melody sold out in seconds online - and are now reselling for a markup.

unseen-japan.com/my-melody-50t

My Melody Rainbow (Niji) plushies - full set of eight - plus accompanying small figured and keychains
ALT text detailsMy Melody Rainbow (Niji) plushies - full set of eight - plus accompanying small figured and keychains
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

People say you can buy old abandoned homes in Japan for cheap. That's true. The downside is many of them look like this "oceanside" condo unit in Kure City, Hiroshima Prefecture going for 2.8M yen (USD $17,888). On the plus side, it looks like Chiitan might be your neighbor...

unseen-japan.com/hiroshima-con

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A sexist symbol of Japan's past is no more in Kanagawa Prefecture, whose police department will stop issuing skirts to new female officers effective February 2025. The impractical uniform dates back to a time when female officers were mostly relegated to traffic duty.

unseen-japan.com/kanagawa-pref

Japanese female police officers says STOP...to these impractical fashion choices!
ALT text detailsJapanese female police officers says STOP...to these impractical fashion choices!
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Onjuku, Chiba Prefecture (1950)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

nippon.com/en/japan-topics/b09

A setting sun warms a winter scene in Chiba. A handful of houses, likely part of a fishing village, stand near the ocean; a layer of snow covers the landscape and the rooftops of the houses. A solitary figure, carrying a child on their back and bundled up against the cold, follows a thin meandering track worn by foot traffic through the snow. Beyond, a little stream runs past the houses and empties out into the calm waves of the Pacific Ocean. Out of frame, the setting sun casts a golden light over the scene
ALT text detailsA setting sun warms a winter scene in Chiba. A handful of houses, likely part of a fishing village, stand near the ocean; a layer of snow covers the landscape and the rooftops of the houses. A solitary figure, carrying a child on their back and bundled up against the cold, follows a thin meandering track worn by foot traffic through the snow. Beyond, a little stream runs past the houses and empties out into the calm waves of the Pacific Ocean. Out of frame, the setting sun casts a golden light over the scene
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Narita Airport and Chiba Prefecture want travelers to use more taxis - and they're asking tourists to rely more on ride-hailing apps, like Go Taxi, to make their trips smoother. Narita also says it's adding more nighttime taxis, and more large-sized taxis to accommodate suitcases.

unseen-japan.com/narita-airpor

Taxi stand picture
ALT text detailsTaxi stand picture
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: Japan welcomed a record number of visitors in November 2024. It wants to welcome 60 million a year by the 2030s. However, some argue that there are severe obstacles to achieving that goal – and Japan’s aging population ranks near the top.

unseen-japan.com/japan-tourism

Anvit's avatar
Anvit

@anvit@pixelfed.social

Matsumoto, Oct 2024

#Japan #Nagano #Matsumoto #Castle #photography
A Japanese castle with a green pond at the bottom of the frame.
ALT text detailsA Japanese castle with a green pond at the bottom of the frame.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: Nakai Masahiro, one of the ex-members of now retired boy band SMAP, has finally released a statement about the 90 million yen (USD $569,000) settlement he made with a woman who works for a Japanese TV station. It isn't going over well.

unseen-japan.com/nakai-masahir

Picture of Nakai Masahiro in a banner for his show "Dareka to Nakai"
ALT text detailsPicture of Nakai Masahiro in a banner for his show "Dareka to Nakai"
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: The latest Mister Donut collaboration with Belgian chocolatier Pierre Marcolini – a celebration of the donut maker’s 50th anniversary of selling their old-fashioned donut – looks both tantalizing and artful.

unseen-japan.com/mister-donut-

misdo meets Pierre Marcolini - picture of five chocolate dough-based donuts each sitting on its own pedestal
ALT text detailsmisdo meets Pierre Marcolini - picture of five chocolate dough-based donuts each sitting on its own pedestal
Kantoman's avatar
Kantoman

@Kantoman@pixelfed.social

The arches over the #Shinkansen tracks #Japan #TrainPorn #日本 #新幹線 #電車オタク
Taken against a backlit sky, the shot includes a couple of arches holding the power lines over the elevated bullet train tracks.
ALT text detailsTaken against a backlit sky, the shot includes a couple of arches holding the power lines over the elevated bullet train tracks.
YuriL 🕊️🤺's avatar
YuriL 🕊️🤺

@yuril@fedibird.com

生まれて初めて 、しかもラフォーレ原宿にいる私。21歳まで東京には良く出入りしてたけど、原宿とか全く興味なかったんで、22歳長男の用事で来るまで全く縁がなかった。

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

In the first ruling of its kind, the Tokyo Court found that a host at a host club who took kickbacks after introducing an indebted female customer to a sex shop is criminally liable, sentencing him to 2.5 years in jail (suspended) and a fine for violating Japan's Organized Crime Law.

unseen-japan.com/host-clubs-se

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Kyoto tourists, get ready to pay a little - or a lot - more when you stay overnight. To fund rail improvements, the city will raise lodging taxes on rooms, with the top rate for rooms over USD $633 going up to $63 per night, making it Japan's highest lodging tax.

unseen-japan.com/kyoto-lodging

Kiyomizudera in Kyoto
ALT text detailsKiyomizudera in Kyoto
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Why do some in Japan say you shouldn't date a man who makes his own curry roux from scratch? An introduction to the "three C men" - and what women in Japan think about this advice in the Reiwa era.

unseen-japan.com/3c-man-womens

An Irasutoya woman running away from the 3C Men, who are portrayed in a triptych in the background from left to right: Cameraman, Creator, and guy who makes his own Curry from scratch
ALT text detailsAn Irasutoya woman running away from the 3C Men, who are portrayed in a triptych in the background from left to right: Cameraman, Creator, and guy who makes his own Curry from scratch
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: In recent years, Japan’s seen a huge spike in syphilis cases. The latest numbers aren’t any better, with Tokyo reporting its fourth consecutive increase last year. There are now 7.4 times as many cases compared to 10 years ago.

unseen-japan.com/syphilis-case

A blood vial labeled "syphilis test" and a drawing of an upward-trending arrow going towards the right
ALT text detailsA blood vial labeled "syphilis test" and a drawing of an upward-trending arrow going towards the right
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: A man in Shiga Prefecture wasn’t too happy when a police officer told him off – so he tried to have the public servant arrested under a defamation law strengthened to deal primarily with online hate.

unseen-japan.com/cop-name-call

Two Japanese police cars pulled up against a curb
ALT text detailsTwo Japanese police cars pulled up against a curb
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

"Accelerated language learning happens when you know enough of a language that you can immerse yourself in it for hours a day....At that point, language learning goes from a chore to a pleasure."

unseen-japan.com/how-to-learn-

Pictures of Japanese kanji on pieces of paper
ALT text detailsPictures of Japanese kanji on pieces of paper
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: A new campaign from 7-11 Japan seems to be winning back customers for the ailing combini chain. However, some online commenters say the store’s gonna have to do a lot more than that to make up for its high prices and shrinking volumes.

unseen-japan.com/7-11-japan-ta

7-11 Japan's Delightful Price campaign
ALT text details7-11 Japan's Delightful Price campaign
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Raymond Larabie

@typodermic@mastodon.social

Reflections in the glass panels above add fleeting brushstrokes of the surrounding neighborhood, completing this accidental masterpiece. 🚪🎨

上部のガラス窓には周囲の景色が映り込み、一瞬の即興アートを完成させている。🛠️🖌️

This industrial scene captures a factory's weathered steel door, streaked with rich layers of rust that mimic a painter’s bold strokes. Above, rectangular glass panes reflect the distorted outlines of nearby buildings and utility poles, creating an interplay of texture and light. The corrugated metal walls on either side provide a minimalist frame for the door's rugged, expressive beauty, blending decay and artistry in the heart of the city.
ALT text detailsThis industrial scene captures a factory's weathered steel door, streaked with rich layers of rust that mimic a painter’s bold strokes. Above, rectangular glass panes reflect the distorted outlines of nearby buildings and utility poles, creating an interplay of texture and light. The corrugated metal walls on either side provide a minimalist frame for the door's rugged, expressive beauty, blending decay and artistry in the heart of the city.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Looking for a Valentine's Day date spot around Tokyo? Shiseido Parlour is (as usual) upping the ante this year with two treats that look like art: its Berry and Chocolate parfait (Ginza store) and White Swan parfait (Kawasaki store). Check below for more details.

unseen-japan.com/shiseido-parl

Shiseido Parlour - Valentine's Day Parfait - berry and chocolate parfait
ALT text detailsShiseido Parlour - Valentine's Day Parfait - berry and chocolate parfait
Shiseido Parlour - Valentine's Day Parfait - white swan parfait
ALT text detailsShiseido Parlour - Valentine's Day Parfait - white swan parfait
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Alfie Goodrich

@alfiegoodrich@photog.social

Good morning to you all from a chilly Tuesday here in Tokyo.

Busy, busy this week, after yesterday's public holiday. Which makes me happy, happy.

Big love to you all.

Whatever you're doing today, wishing you well with it.

Couple of recent street shots from a fave Tokyo spot.

More in the ALT
🙌❤️

A street corner on the Bakurocho neighbourhood of Tokyo. The building on the corner is bright yellow, with japanese text in red on it. This is a towel company. This neighbourhood is famed for its haberdashery and textiles companies. A yellow drinks vending machine is outside the front of the building. A couple is walking past it. Near them, a cyclist is exiting the street. Strong late afternoon sunshine is creating wonderful shadows and gving the scene a beautiful warmth.
ALT text detailsA street corner on the Bakurocho neighbourhood of Tokyo. The building on the corner is bright yellow, with japanese text in red on it. This is a towel company. This neighbourhood is famed for its haberdashery and textiles companies. A yellow drinks vending machine is outside the front of the building. A couple is walking past it. Near them, a cyclist is exiting the street. Strong late afternoon sunshine is creating wonderful shadows and gving the scene a beautiful warmth.
Close up detail of the Nippon Towel building in Bakurocho. Scalloped concrete facade painted yellow with strong shadows in the late afternoon sun.
ALT text detailsClose up detail of the Nippon Towel building in Bakurocho. Scalloped concrete facade painted yellow with strong shadows in the late afternoon sun.
Alfie Goodrich's avatar
Alfie Goodrich

@alfiegoodrich@photog.social

Good morning to you all from a chilly Tuesday here in Tokyo.

Busy, busy this week, after yesterday's public holiday. Which makes me happy, happy.

Big love to you all.

Whatever you're doing today, wishing you well with it.

Couple of recent street shots from a fave Tokyo spot.

More in the ALT
🙌❤️

A street corner on the Bakurocho neighbourhood of Tokyo. The building on the corner is bright yellow, with japanese text in red on it. This is a towel company. This neighbourhood is famed for its haberdashery and textiles companies. A yellow drinks vending machine is outside the front of the building. A couple is walking past it. Near them, a cyclist is exiting the street. Strong late afternoon sunshine is creating wonderful shadows and gving the scene a beautiful warmth.
ALT text detailsA street corner on the Bakurocho neighbourhood of Tokyo. The building on the corner is bright yellow, with japanese text in red on it. This is a towel company. This neighbourhood is famed for its haberdashery and textiles companies. A yellow drinks vending machine is outside the front of the building. A couple is walking past it. Near them, a cyclist is exiting the street. Strong late afternoon sunshine is creating wonderful shadows and gving the scene a beautiful warmth.
Close up detail of the Nippon Towel building in Bakurocho. Scalloped concrete facade painted yellow with strong shadows in the late afternoon sun.
ALT text detailsClose up detail of the Nippon Towel building in Bakurocho. Scalloped concrete facade painted yellow with strong shadows in the late afternoon sun.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

“Came to a building I wanted to see at least once that feels like it’s at the edge of Hell”

(And yes, this is the one in Hachioji)

Post on X depicting a combined Hard Off, Hobby Off, Off House, Mode Off, Book Off, Liquor Off, Hard Off Studio and Off House Retro. Located in Hachioji. Original Japanese text: エフケン(獣脚類) @Fken12190030 一回来てみたかった地獄の果てみたいな施設へとやってきたぞ。
ALT text detailsPost on X depicting a combined Hard Off, Hobby Off, Off House, Mode Off, Book Off, Liquor Off, Hard Off Studio and Off House Retro. Located in Hachioji. Original Japanese text: エフケン(獣脚類) @Fken12190030 一回来てみたかった地獄の果てみたいな施設へとやってきたぞ。
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Tokyo says it may help some students study abroad by giving them stipends of up to 3.15 million yen (USD $19,982) for a full year. Some are criticizing the plan, however, saying it's something the central government should sponsor uniformly for all Japanese citizens.

unseen-japan.com/tokyo-study-a

Young woman at the airport holding a book on Taiwanese Hokkien
ALT text detailsYoung woman at the airport holding a book on Taiwanese Hokkien
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Temple Snow Scene (c.1910s - 1930s)

Artist: Choka

allabout-japan.com/en/article/

A snowy evening at a temple in Japan. A single figure passes an unlit wooden lantern as they approach a tall, red-lacquered temple building; the figure carries a bamboo umbrella as protection from the snow, as the winter wind whips their robes about them. Snow covers the ground all around, and sticks to the bark and bare branches of a tall tree on our left. More snow covers the roof and railings of the temple. The sky above is dark and overcast.
ALT text detailsA snowy evening at a temple in Japan. A single figure passes an unlit wooden lantern as they approach a tall, red-lacquered temple building; the figure carries a bamboo umbrella as protection from the snow, as the winter wind whips their robes about them. Snow covers the ground all around, and sticks to the bark and bare branches of a tall tree on our left. More snow covers the roof and railings of the temple. The sky above is dark and overcast.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The town of Biei in Hokkaido will fell a stand of scenic white birch trees after complaints from farmers about overtourism. Besides attracting tons of tourists who trample nearby crops and stand in traffic, the farmers say the trees also block needed sunlight, lowering crop yields.

unseen-japan.com/hokkaido-biei

White birch tree row in Biei, Hokkaido
ALT text detailsWhite birch tree row in Biei, Hokkaido
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Metin Seven 🎨

@metin@graphics.social

Wink to the well-known Akira anime poster, showing the Kaneda character walking towards a red couch instead of his red motorcycle, while the poster title has been changed to "IKEA."
ALT text detailsWink to the well-known Akira anime poster, showing the Kaneda character walking towards a red couch instead of his red motorcycle, while the poster title has been changed to "IKEA."
Metin Seven 🎨's avatar
Metin Seven 🎨

@metin@graphics.social

Wink to the well-known Akira anime poster, showing the Kaneda character walking towards a red couch instead of his red motorcycle, while the poster title has been changed to "IKEA."
ALT text detailsWink to the well-known Akira anime poster, showing the Kaneda character walking towards a red couch instead of his red motorcycle, while the poster title has been changed to "IKEA."
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: Host clubs in Japan have come under fire for forcing young women into prostitution. Under a proposed revision to Japan’s entertainment law, businesses that promote the illusion of love or operate illegally will be subject to whopping fines.

unseen-japan.com/illegal-host-

Host club f*ckboy holding a glass of wine
ALT text detailsHost club f*ckboy holding a glass of wine
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: If you drink, you should drink responsibly. That’s a lesson that one Japanese actor will likely be reflecting on after he made the fatal decision to over-imbibe after signing a beer commercial contract.

unseen-japan.com/yoshizawa-ryo

Asahi Dry Crysal
ALT text detailsAsahi Dry Crysal
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: 2024 was shaping up to be a bad year for ramen shops. And it turned out to be pretty awful in the end, as Japan saw a record number of bankruptcies.

unseen-japan.com/ramen-shop-cl

Woman eating ramen from a large bowl with a cup of water at her side
ALT text detailsWoman eating ramen from a large bowl with a cup of water at her side
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

*In the not-too-distant past furisode (振袖) indicated that a young woman was single and of marriageable age.

Interestingly it was only in the 19thC that furisode became gendered, and only in the 20thC that they (in part due to Western influence) were restricted to girls and women.

Woodblock print of women in furisode. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of women in furisode. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
Woodblock print of a young woman in furisode. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of a young woman in furisode. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
Woodblock print of a young woman in furisode bring courted. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of a young woman in furisode bring courted. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
Woodblock print of young women in furisode. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
ALT text detailsWoodblock print of young women in furisode. Image thanks - https://ja.ukiyo-e.org/
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social

🚸🧒COMING OF AGE DAY👩‍🦱👘

Today is 'Seijin-no-hi' (成人の日 - 2nd Monday of January), a national holiday set aside to congratulate those who have reached -or are soon to reach- the age of majority (18 years old).

The tradition of celebrating 'coming of age' is recorded as early as 714!

Young women celebrate Seijin-no-hi (Coming-of-Age Day).
ALT text detailsYoung women celebrate Seijin-no-hi (Coming-of-Age Day).
Classmates celebrate Seijin-no-hi (Coming-of-Age Day).
ALT text detailsClassmates celebrate Seijin-no-hi (Coming-of-Age Day).
Classmates celebrate Seijin-no-hi (Coming-of-Age Day).
ALT text detailsClassmates celebrate Seijin-no-hi (Coming-of-Age Day).
Young women celebrate Seijin-no-hi (Coming-of-Age Day).
ALT text detailsYoung women celebrate Seijin-no-hi (Coming-of-Age Day).
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Worn by young, unmarried women* in Japan, this style of kimono was once commonly purchased by parents for a daughter's coming-of-age.

Notable for their long sleeves, furisode (振袖) often feature bright colours and bold designs.

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Staatsbibliothek zu Berlin

@stabi_berlin@openbiblio.social

🇯🇵 Wie finde ich japanische Werke in westlichen Sammlungen? Das erklärt euch unser -Team beim Online Workshop "Introducing Japan" - morgen, den 14. Januar, um 17 Uhr 👉 blog.sbb.berlin/online-worksho

Staatsbibliothek zu Berlin's avatar
Staatsbibliothek zu Berlin

@stabi_berlin@openbiblio.social

🇯🇵 Wie finde ich japanische Werke in westlichen Sammlungen? Das erklärt euch unser -Team beim Online Workshop "Introducing Japan" - morgen, den 14. Januar, um 17 Uhr 👉 blog.sbb.berlin/online-worksho

Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Worn by young, unmarried women* in Japan, this style of kimono was once commonly purchased by parents for a daughter's coming-of-age.

Notable for their long sleeves, furisode (振袖) often feature bright colours and bold designs.

Alfie Goodrich's avatar
Alfie Goodrich

@alfiegoodrich@photog.social

A few more shots from Saturday's Bingo Sports car auction down at Odaiba City Circuit. Couldn't stick around for the auction as had things to do. But was nice to see the cars for a bit, for Charlie to get some pics and to catch up with a couple of the Bingo team who I know.



Alfa Romeo boat tail spider, a few Porsches, Alfa GTA, special edition Honda CRX-SiR by Nagisa Auto, at the Bingo Sports Auction at Odaiba City Circuit in Tokyo recently.
ALT text detailsAlfa Romeo boat tail spider, a few Porsches, Alfa GTA, special edition Honda CRX-SiR by Nagisa Auto, at the Bingo Sports Auction at Odaiba City Circuit in Tokyo recently.
Two 1960s Nissan Skylines, a Pagani Zonda and Koenigsegg Aguera RS at the Bingo Sports Auction at Odaiba City Circuit in Tokyo recently.
ALT text detailsTwo 1960s Nissan Skylines, a Pagani Zonda and Koenigsegg Aguera RS at the Bingo Sports Auction at Odaiba City Circuit in Tokyo recently.
The rear ends of two 1960s and this 1970s Nissan Skyline GTR, a Pagani Zonda and Koenigsegg Aguera RS at the Bingo Sports Auction at Odaiba City Circuit in Tokyo recently.
ALT text detailsThe rear ends of two 1960s and this 1970s Nissan Skyline GTR, a Pagani Zonda and Koenigsegg Aguera RS at the Bingo Sports Auction at Odaiba City Circuit in Tokyo recently.
Ferrari 512 BB with its engine clamshell open and in the background anAlfa Romeo boat tail spider, Porsche 911, Alfa GTA and a special edition Honda CRX-SiR by Nagisa Auto, at the Bingo Sports Auction at Odaiba City Circuit in Tokyo recently.
ALT text detailsFerrari 512 BB with its engine clamshell open and in the background anAlfa Romeo boat tail spider, Porsche 911, Alfa GTA and a special edition Honda CRX-SiR by Nagisa Auto, at the Bingo Sports Auction at Odaiba City Circuit in Tokyo recently.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

"Disney's speaker-hiding skills go to infinity and beyond"

Pictures of a speaker at Tokyo Disneyland (I assume) that's built into the end of a wooden beam
ALT text detailsPictures of a speaker at Tokyo Disneyland (I assume) that's built into the end of a wooden beam
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japan is once again debating the question of whether it’s polite to wear your backpack front-facing on the train. Some continue to insist the custom is correct, while others say it’s more polite to keep your bag near your feet instead.

画像の説明 Article from LiveDoor News. JP title: 【賛否】電車内の定番マナー「前リュック」→今や「マナー違反」！？　SNSで論争続く「邪魔」「荷物棚なんて使えない」
ALT text details画像の説明 Article from LiveDoor News. JP title: 【賛否】電車内の定番マナー「前リュック」→今や「マナー違反」！？　SNSで論争続く「邪魔」「荷物棚なんて使えない」
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Local authorities host ceremonies to welcome the new adults into society, but the day is also a chance for more raucous celebrations and reunions.

Many young women opt to dress in a style of kimono called 'furisode' (振袖 lit. 'swinging sleeves').

Nao-san modelsl her furisode kimono. Typically worn by younger women, we hosted a New Year tea gathering themed on Coming-of-Age Day, which gave the team an opportunity to wear furisode again.
ALT text detailsNao-san modelsl her furisode kimono. Typically worn by younger women, we hosted a New Year tea gathering themed on Coming-of-Age Day, which gave the team an opportunity to wear furisode again.
Typically worn by younger women, we hosted a New Year tea gathering themed on Coming-of-Age Day, which gave the team an opportunity to wear furisode again.
ALT text detailsTypically worn by younger women, we hosted a New Year tea gathering themed on Coming-of-Age Day, which gave the team an opportunity to wear furisode again.
Nao-san and Maya-san model their furisode kimono. Typically worn by younger women, we hosted a New Year tea gathering themed on Coming-of-Age Day, which gave the team an opportunity to wear furisode again.
ALT text detailsNao-san and Maya-san model their furisode kimono. Typically worn by younger women, we hosted a New Year tea gathering themed on Coming-of-Age Day, which gave the team an opportunity to wear furisode again.
Typically worn by younger women, we hosted a New Year tea gathering themed on Coming-of-Age Day, which gave the team an opportunity to wear furisode again.
ALT text detailsTypically worn by younger women, we hosted a New Year tea gathering themed on Coming-of-Age Day, which gave the team an opportunity to wear furisode again.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social

🚸🧒COMING OF AGE DAY👩‍🦱👘

Today is 'Seijin-no-hi' (成人の日 - 2nd Monday of January), a national holiday set aside to congratulate those who have reached -or are soon to reach- the age of majority (18 years old).

The tradition of celebrating 'coming of age' is recorded as early as 714!

Young women celebrate Seijin-no-hi (Coming-of-Age Day).
ALT text detailsYoung women celebrate Seijin-no-hi (Coming-of-Age Day).
Classmates celebrate Seijin-no-hi (Coming-of-Age Day).
ALT text detailsClassmates celebrate Seijin-no-hi (Coming-of-Age Day).
Classmates celebrate Seijin-no-hi (Coming-of-Age Day).
ALT text detailsClassmates celebrate Seijin-no-hi (Coming-of-Age Day).
Young women celebrate Seijin-no-hi (Coming-of-Age Day).
ALT text detailsYoung women celebrate Seijin-no-hi (Coming-of-Age Day).
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

School nurses in Japan need to better protect student privacy re: sexuality and gender issues, says a new report. 54.2% of those surveyed say they've shared a student's sexual attraction or gender concerns w/ other school officials w/o the student's permission.

unseen-japan.com/japan-school-

Model of a school with gender symbols laying around it
ALT text detailsModel of a school with gender symbols laying around it
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

"Our daughter says this is what she's wearing to her Coming of Age ceremony"

Tweet from X. Original Japanese text: しげはる @SGHR27 · 1月11日 うちの娘、成人式これ着ていくんだって。
ALT text detailsTweet from X. Original Japanese text: しげはる @SGHR27 · 1月11日 うちの娘、成人式これ着ていくんだって。
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Suijin no Mori on the Sumida River (1934)

Artist: Koitsu Tsuchiya

english.kyodonews.net/news/202

A snowy evening in Tokyo. A solitary figure wearing a kimono and carrying a bamboo umbrella stands beneath a tall snow-plastered tree on the shore of the Sumida River; nearby, a building is concealed behind a cluster of snow-caked trees and a fence. Small boats travel on the still surface of the cold-looking river beyond. A layer of snow covers everything, as more snow falls from an overcast sky
ALT text detailsA snowy evening in Tokyo. A solitary figure wearing a kimono and carrying a bamboo umbrella stands beneath a tall snow-plastered tree on the shore of the Sumida River; nearby, a building is concealed behind a cluster of snow-caked trees and a fence. Small boats travel on the still surface of the cold-looking river beyond. A layer of snow covers everything, as more snow falls from an overcast sky
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japan's far right is fighting plans for a Muslim cemetery in Miyagi Prefecture, which would be Japan's 11th and the Tohoku region's first. However, Miyagi governor Murai Yoshihiro says it "must happen" to meet the needs of Muslim foreign residents and Japanese converts.

unseen-japan.com/islamic-cemet

Turkish mosque in Tokyo
ALT text detailsTurkish mosque in Tokyo
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

In Japan, sexually explicit ads - including some that depict scenes of sexual assault against minors - frequently appear on gaming and other websites that appeal to children. Some in Japan are now asking the country's Children and Families Agency to crack down.

unseen-japan.com/sexually-expl

Picture of smartphone with an 18+ symbol on it
ALT text detailsPicture of smartphone with an 18+ symbol on it
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: Better go to your favorite tonkatsu place in Japan as soon as you can. A confluence of events has made the simple cabbage more expensive than ever – and some fried pork cutlet restaurants say it’s killing them.

unseen-japan.com/cabbage-japan

Tonkatsu with a heap of cabbage
ALT text detailsTonkatsu with a heap of cabbage
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: With more tourists coming to Japan than ever, many websites offer advice about what to expect when you get here. Most of them read as if they’re written by people (or, ahem, software) who've never set foot in the country. Here's what they get wrong.

unseen-japan.com/japan-travel-

Tattoo on someone's limb standing next to an onsen
ALT text detailsTattoo on someone's limb standing next to an onsen
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: For years, women in Japan have been fleeing the countryside to big cities. This appears to be having an outsized impact on Okinawa, with six out of 10 of Japan’s most gender-imbalanced municipalities located on the island chain.

unseen-japan.com/woman-okinawa

Woman leaving Kitadaito Island for a job in the big city
ALT text detailsWoman leaving Kitadaito Island for a job in the big city
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

"People keep telling me that AI chatbots are the future of Japanese language learning. So I tried a few. Here's why I came away more convinced than ever that the best way to practice Japanese is - wait for it - talking to an actual native Japanese speaker."

unseen-japan.com/ai-japanese-s

Stereotypical Japanese background with an anime girl on the left and an actual Japanese woman on the right. Picture urges you to choose good (right) rather than evil (left)
ALT text detailsStereotypical Japanese background with an anime girl on the left and an actual Japanese woman on the right. Picture urges you to choose good (right) rather than evil (left)
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

NHK, Japan's public broadcaster, is bleeding cash. To help plug the hole, the station says it'll start collecting its fee, not just from TV owners, but from anyone w/ an Internet-capable device. However, some say NHK should focus instead on making better programming.

unseen-japan.com/nhk-fee-no-tv

Picture of NHK office in Nigata
ALT text detailsPicture of NHK office in Nigata
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: Japan last changed the format of its license plates back in 1998. Now, it’s introduced a new format including Latin alphabetic letters because it’s running close to exhausting the current number supply.

unseen-japan.com/japan-license

Partial Japanese license plate
ALT text detailsPartial Japanese license plate
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

"When people tell me they’re using Duolingo for Japanese and ask for alternatives, here’s what I recommend. This approach mirrors the way that I learn languages. It’s how I learned Japanese, and it’s how I’m learning Korean."

unseen-japan.com/learn-japanes

Woman thinking about throwing Duolingo in the trash
ALT text detailsWoman thinking about throwing Duolingo in the trash
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

There's a lot of hate towards resellers in Japan - but the resellers don't seem to mind. One reseller said they search 転売ヤー死ね (tenbaiyaa shine, "die, reseller") online to research what goods are currently hot.

unseen-japan.com/my-melody-50t

My Melody Rainbow set - 50th anniversary edition limited goods
ALT text detailsMy Melody Rainbow set - 50th anniversary edition limited goods
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: Ever make a tweet so bad that it ended your company? That appears to be what happened after a cosmetics maker’s CEO criticized a Japanese singing trio on the company’s official account.

unseen-japan.com/comestics-com

Picture of closed business with a sign saying "Seeking tenant" in Japanese (テナント募集)
ALT text detailsPicture of closed business with a sign saying "Seeking tenant" in Japanese (テナント募集)
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

There's a lot of hate towards resellers in Japan - but the resellers don't seem to mind. One reseller said they search 転売ヤー死ね (tenbaiyaa shine, "die, reseller") online to research what goods are currently hot.

unseen-japan.com/my-melody-50t

My Melody Rainbow set - 50th anniversary edition limited goods
ALT text detailsMy Melody Rainbow set - 50th anniversary edition limited goods
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Solar Tokyo

@solar_tokyo@mas.to

The sun will rise in tomorrow at 6:51, 8 seconds earlier than the day before.
It will set at 16:47, 55 seconds later than the day before.

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

An X user drew a visceral reaction from Japanese social media users yesterday w/ this ad from a sushi restaurant in the US showing hashi-watashi, or passing food between chopsticks - a custom reserved for putting bones in urns after a body's been cremated.

unseen-japan.com/america-sushi

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Tokyo Police busted Access, a "scout" group, for funneling women - many who'd racked up debts supporting hosts at host clubs - into sex work and illegal prostitution. The group allegedly made USD $44M over five years using a social media network of some 300 scouts.

unseen-japan.com/sex-work-scou

#

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japan saw a lot of inbound foreign tourists in 2024. One company says it'll see even more in 2025. Travel agency JTB predicts a record 40.2 million tourists in 2025. On the flip side, however, Japanese travel abroad will lag well behind 2019 levels due to the weak yen.

unseen-japan.com/japan-40-mill

Foreign tourist being shown around Asakusa
ALT text detailsForeign tourist being shown around Asakusa
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

This is why Sanrio fans can't have nice things: Just two months after resellers mobbed a Hello Kitty 50th anniversary event, they cleaned out the 50th anniversary My Melody goods, too. Local reports spotted resellers exchanging cash on the street & hauling 20+ bags of merch.

unseen-japan.com/my-melody-50t

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: Shirakawa-go in Gifu Prefecture has suffered tourists entering people's homes to take pictures and crushing farmers' fields. But they're not complaining about overtourism. Instead, they're developing resources to help tourists and locals co-exist.

unseen-japan.com/shirakawago-o

Picture of Shirakawa-go in the winter
ALT text detailsPicture of Shirakawa-go in the winter
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A lot of us get stuck in learning Japanese, bogged down in the tedium of memorizing new words or studying dry grammatical explanations. Here's how sentence mining can revive your love of language learning.

unseen-japan.com/sentence-mini

Picture of a head in profile against a turquoise background with a swirl of lines in its head coming out of its mouth and forming a light bulb as the voice says "This is a pen" in Japanese
ALT text detailsPicture of a head in profile against a turquoise background with a swirl of lines in its head coming out of its mouth and forming a light bulb as the voice says "This is a pen" in Japanese
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Fish isn't the only thing Japan does raw - eggs in their uncooked form also find their way into numerous dishes. Is that safe? Here's what you need to know about raw egg cuisine and egg safety when in Japan.

unseen-japan.com/raw-eggs-japa

Tamago-kake-gohan (TKG) - raw egg and bonito flakes on rice next to a bowl of eggs in their shell
ALT text detailsTamago-kake-gohan (TKG) - raw egg and bonito flakes on rice next to a bowl of eggs in their shell
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SeanBreslin

@SeanBreslin@famichiki.jp

We only get snow once or twice a year around these parts so whenever we do I head into the nearby hills with a camera.

A shrine in the snow.
ALT text detailsA shrine in the snow.
A lake, snow, and a bird.
ALT text detailsA lake, snow, and a bird.
Looking at a shrine.
ALT text detailsLooking at a shrine.
A shrine in the snow.
ALT text detailsA shrine in the snow.
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:'s avatar
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:

@norbertwoehnl@famichiki.jp

Continuing my new series of night photos from ward, , taken earlier this week returning from work:

“Itabashi Nights”
Series 4, Episode 2
“There's a Light”

iPhone 15 Pro, night mode. More info in ALT texts.

Night photo looking down a quiet residential street in the Maenochō area of Itabashi Ward in Tokyo, Japan
ALT text detailsNight photo looking down a quiet residential street in the Maenochō area of Itabashi Ward in Tokyo, Japan
Night photo looking down a quiet residential street in the Maenochō area of Itabashi Ward in Tokyo, Japan
ALT text detailsNight photo looking down a quiet residential street in the Maenochō area of Itabashi Ward in Tokyo, Japan
Night photo taken outside Fujimidai Children Hall in the Maenochō area of Itabashi Ward in Tokyo, Japan.
ALT text detailsNight photo taken outside Fujimidai Children Hall in the Maenochō area of Itabashi Ward in Tokyo, Japan.
Night shot of an older building with a defunct shop sign and laundry hung out to dry on the upper floor, photographed in the Maenochō area of Itabashi Ward in Tokyo, Japan
ALT text detailsNight shot of an older building with a defunct shop sign and laundry hung out to dry on the upper floor, photographed in the Maenochō area of Itabashi Ward in Tokyo, Japan
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Highest & lowest temp. Osaka

@810eagle@mastodon.social

大阪市
2025/01/09 最高気温 8.4℃
2025/01/10 最低気温 -0.1℃
.
Highest and lowest temperatures in Osaka City.
These are the values of the thermometer installed at home.

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japan wants to keep increasing tourism. But how can it do that when, according to one report, 40% of its municipalities are in danger of disappearing? Here's why experts say one of the solutions is appealing to the right type of tourist.

unseen-japan.com/japan-tourism

シュンジョーァ :badge: :code: :wfox:'s avatar
シュンジョーァ :badge: :code: :wfox:

@me@sns.mszpro.com

京都市内も雪が降っています❄️
Snow in Kyoto at 八坂神社










シュンジョーァ :badge: :code: :wfox:'s avatar
シュンジョーァ :badge: :code: :wfox:

@me@sns.mszpro.com

京都市内も雪が降っています❄️
Snow in Kyoto at 八坂神社










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Weather Mizu

@mizu@mastodon.social

The mainland in the fridge. Temperature 7am in the heart of Kanto, Kansai and Kyushu.

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Ex-SMAP member Nakai Masahiro has broken his silence about the massive settlement he paid a woman who works for Fuji TV, admitting there was an "incident" but that it's "resolved" and he plans to continue working. However, his alleged victim says she doesn't forgive him.

unseen-japan.com/nakai-masahir

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: Popular boy group SMAP member Nakai Masahiro has failed to answer questions about a massive settlement he paid out. In the absence of clear answers, Japanese TV stations are removing him from the air bit by bit.

unseen-japan.com/nakai-masahir

Picture of someone using remote control either to turn down the volume or change the channel; the TV is faded out in the background
ALT text detailsPicture of someone using remote control either to turn down the volume or change the channel; the TV is faded out in the background
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: McDonald’s Japan is known for its online ad campaigns that draw international attention. Its latest stunt, however, drew a few heads, as it employed a writing system that some people have tried to pretend is an ancient Japanese form of writing.

unseen-japan.com/mcdonalds-jap

Post banner showing the McDonald's ad in the center, a picture of relics from the Kofun Era with an X over it on the left, and a picture of the Edo era with a green checkmark over it on the right
ALT text detailsPost banner showing the McDonald's ad in the center, a picture of relics from the Kofun Era with an X over it on the left, and a picture of the Edo era with a green checkmark over it on the right
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: More tourists than ever are coming to Japan. To accommodate them, both the central and regional governments are grappling with ways to get tourists to spread the love across Japan and stop crowding into its major cities.

unseen-japan.com/japan-cities-

Picture of oceanside view in Japan from a hotel room's large sliding glass windows
ALT text detailsPicture of oceanside view in Japan from a hotel room's large sliding glass windows
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:'s avatar
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:

@norbertwoehnl@famichiki.jp

“Two seconds of flight time”

Walking home from work last night, I heard the sound of an overhead plane descending into Haneda airport, so I tried a 2-second exposure. As a result, it came out looking like an arrow ↖️🛬

A plane is flying on a slightly cloudy night sky over northwestern Tokyo.
ALT text detailsA plane is flying on a slightly cloudy night sky over northwestern Tokyo.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

In recent years, Japan’s seen a huge spike in syphilis cases. The latest numbers aren’t any better, with Tokyo reporting its fourth consecutive increase last year. There are now 7.4 times as many cases compared to 10 years ago.

unseen-japan.com/syphilis-case

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Hey folks - heads up you might see intermittent errors on unseen-japan.com for a bit. We think this is due to an upgrade to our caching plugin, WP Rocket. We're contacted the vendor and are working on a solution. Thanks for your patience.

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atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Nakayama-Shichiri, Hida (1924)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/new

Snow falls on a mountain village in Japan. In the foreground, a cold-looking river cuts through the wintry landscape; on the right, tall trees are plastered with snow, while on the left, warm lights glow in the windows of a handful of houses along the riverbank. Beyond, snow-covered mountains cut a jagged line across dark clouds.
ALT text detailsSnow falls on a mountain village in Japan. In the foreground, a cold-looking river cuts through the wintry landscape; on the right, tall trees are plastered with snow, while on the left, warm lights glow in the windows of a handful of houses along the riverbank. Beyond, snow-covered mountains cut a jagged line across dark clouds.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Ready to get your fancy donut on? After its popular Pokemon donut run, donut chain Mister Donut in Japan is going high-brow with a set of five chocolate donuts designed by Belgian chocolatier Pierre Marcolini. The new donuts go on sale tomorrow, January 10th.

unseen-japan.com/mister-donut-

misdo meets Pierre Marcolini donut collaboration
ALT text detailsmisdo meets Pierre Marcolini donut collaboration
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A man in Shiga Prefecture apparently tried to have a cop jailed for calling him an "idiot." Wildly, the charge - filed under a law strengthened just a few years ago in reaction to social media abuse - could have landed the officer in jail for up to six months.

unseen-japan.com/cop-name-call

Picture of two police cars in Japan (Shizuoka Police)
ALT text detailsPicture of two police cars in Japan (Shizuoka Police)
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Sign reads, “I bet this cabbage is more expensive than the meat for tonkatsu” - a reference to how the price of cabbage has skyrocketed in Japan in the last few months. OP says, “It’s so expensive even store employees are giving up”

Tweet by user @chibachogori on X. Text in Japanese: ちばちょごり @chibachogori お店の人も諦めるキャベツの高さ
ALT text detailsTweet by user @chibachogori on X. Text in Japanese: ちばちょごり @chibachogori お店の人も諦めるキャベツの高さ
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: While the murder case of Uchida Riko in Hokkaido is still pending trial, one man has already received his judgment. News is out that one of the detectives on the case has lost his job after it came out he’d been having an affair with the defendant before the murder.

unseen-japan.com/hokkaido-dete

Kamui Bridge in Asahikawa, Hokkaido
ALT text detailsKamui Bridge in Asahikawa, Hokkaido
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: As demand spikes due to record tourism, Japan’s aging population has left popular ski areas like Nagano Prefecture’s Hakuba without the facilities to accommodate them.

unseen-japan.com/nagano-skiing

Picture of skiiers on a slope in Nagaon Prefecture (Hakuba)
ALT text detailsPicture of skiiers on a slope in Nagaon Prefecture (Hakuba)
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Ever watch an anime set in a Japanese high school and think, "it shoulda been me"? Well, you're in luck. A company in Japan is inviting tourists to attend an abandoned campus in Chiba and live out an authentic Showa high school experience.

unseen-japan.com/japanese-high

Woman and man dressed in sailor-fuku and a Showa style gakuran raising their hands in a Japanese classroom
ALT text detailsWoman and man dressed in sailor-fuku and a Showa style gakuran raising their hands in a Japanese classroom
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Funeo Funekawa

@funefune_kyoto@mstdn.tokyocameraclub.com

京都駅の黄色の新幹線

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Funeo Funekawa

@funefune_kyoto@mstdn.tokyocameraclub.com

京都駅の黄色の新幹線

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

7-11 Japan's in trouble. To reverse its profit decline, it launched its linguistically clever "Ureshii ne!" - or "Delightful Price!" - campaign to win customers back. Its CEO says it's working. However, some customers still say the chain's food is too pricey for the scant volumes it sells.

unseen-japan.com/7-11-japan-ta

To win customers back, 7-11 launched a new discount campaign last year. Titled うれしい値! (ureshii ne!), the clever play on words takes the expression “What a delight!” and replaces the Japanese agreement particle ne (ね) with the kanji for “price,” turning the expression into something like “Delightful price!”
ALT text detailsTo win customers back, 7-11 launched a new discount campaign last year. Titled うれしい値! (ureshii ne!), the clever play on words takes the expression “What a delight!” and replaces the Japanese agreement particle ne (ね) with the kanji for “price,” turning the expression into something like “Delightful price!”
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Host clubs in Japan have come under fire for pushing female customers into debt and, in some cases, prostitution. A proposed revision to the country's Entertainment Law would ban fake romances and punish hosts that receive sex business kickbacks.

unseen-japan.com/illegal-host-

Host-ass-looking guy holding a glass of wine in his hand
ALT text detailsHost-ass-looking guy holding a glass of wine in his hand
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japanese actor Yoshizawa Ryo is out of a contract with Asahi Beer after drunkenly wandering into an apartment that wasn't his. The company says it's axed his commercials for their Asahi Dry Crystal after police found the actor passed out in a neighbor's place on December 30th.

unseen-japan.com/yoshizawa-ryo

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

2024 was a bad year to own a ramen restaurant in Japan. A record 72 shops went bankrupt, thanks to the twin evils of rising prices and the common belief that restaurants can't charge more than 1000 yen (USD $6.34) for their product.

unseen-japan.com/ramen-shop-cl

Woman eating ramen (in her home because all the ramen shops have gone bankrupt)
ALT text detailsWoman eating ramen (in her home because all the ramen shops have gone bankrupt)
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: In April of 2016, a devastating earthquake hit Kumamoto Prefecture. Since then, the region’s been working to rebuild and revive its economic fortunes. They’ve gotten a huge boost in the past few years thanks to a manga author and his iconic masterpiece.

unseen-japan.com/one-piece-kum

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: What chance do a bunch of rag-tag civilians stand against a hardened and highly-trained group of professionally trained killers?

Quite a good one, it turns out.

unseen-japan.com/airsoft-sdf-c

Four Japanese people holding airguns and acting like their fantasies are legal here
ALT text detailsFour Japanese people holding airguns and acting like their fantasies are legal here
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

“We would highly recommend Unseen Japan’s tailor-made tours. Noah worked with us every step of the way to create an unforgettable itinerary for Kyushu. He was on hand to answer any questions. 5 stars out of 5!" - Hazel C., France

Traveling to Japan? Create a custom and guided experience with Unseen Japan Tours and go where most tourists can't.

unseen-japan.com/unseen-japan-

Nakasu in Fukuoka City, Fukuoka Prefecture
ALT text detailsNakasu in Fukuoka City, Fukuoka Prefecture
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: Kodoku no Gurume The Movie – directed and written by lead actor Matsushige Yutaka – will hit Japanese theaters this month on the 10th. The story – such as it ever is in this series – sees Goro travel around the world in search of the perfect soup.

unseen-japan.com/kodoku-no-gur

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Weather Mizu

@mizu@mastodon.social

10-day total precip anomalies: Dec28-Jan6 (upper) & Dec26-Jan4 (lower). Lots of rain yesterday compensated for the shortage.

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Online casino gambling is illegal in Japan. That hasn’t stopped people from getting their hands dirty, though. One nonprofit group says they’ve seen a spike in consultations – and some are turning to crime to pay off the debts they’ve accumulated.

unseen-japan.com/online-gambli

Picture of a smartphone with an online roulette gambling app laid on top of a pile of yen
ALT text detailsPicture of a smartphone with an online roulette gambling app laid on top of a pile of yen
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Raymond Larabie

@typodermic@mastodon.social

A weathered workshop bathes in late afternoon light, its rusted beams and peeling turquoise paint quietly soaking in the sun.🔨☀️

錆びた梁と剥がれたターコイズの塗装が、午後の陽光に優しく照らされる古びた作業場。🔧🌞

This industrial scene captures the front of an old workshop, its facade a patchwork of rust, faded paint, and sunlight. The dark interior contrasts sharply with the vibrant hues outside, revealing piles of metal and scraps in a state of suspended chaos.
ALT text detailsThis industrial scene captures the front of an old workshop, its facade a patchwork of rust, faded paint, and sunlight. The dark interior contrasts sharply with the vibrant hues outside, revealing piles of metal and scraps in a state of suspended chaos.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Mochi deaths, a mobbed onsen, Oshikatsu addiction, and Hashimoto Kanna drama bomb - check out these and more of our top stories from last week in the Unseen Japan Newsletter!

us20.campaign-archive.com/?u=e

Mochi making
ALT text detailsMochi making
Ginzan Onsen In Obanazawa City, located on the northern part of the main island of Honshu, is one of Japan’s most popular onsen. It gained fame locally thanks to the 1983 NHK morning drama Oshin.
ALT text detailsGinzan Onsen In Obanazawa City, located on the northern part of the main island of Honshu, is one of Japan’s most popular onsen. It gained fame locally thanks to the 1983 NHK morning drama Oshin.
Woman holding up oshi fans in front of a computer, supporting her favorite idol
ALT text detailsWoman holding up oshi fans in front of a computer, supporting her favorite idol
Hashimoto Kanna in NHK morning drama Omusubi
ALT text detailsHashimoto Kanna in NHK morning drama Omusubi
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Traveling to Japan? Chances are you've heard one of these eight "facts" about the country that are mostly wrong. Read about these myths drawn from our own experience covering Japan and from our reader's feedback.

unseen-japan.com/japan-travel-

Guy smoking in a restaurant while simultaneously talking on his cell phone while a woman to his left glances at him with a face that reads "death penalty"
ALT text detailsGuy smoking in a restaurant while simultaneously talking on his cell phone while a woman to his left glances at him with a face that reads "death penalty"
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japan’s Mt. Fuji is a popular tourist destination, especially for the hiking-minded. These days, it’s a little too popular. Fortunately, there are other locations where you can get spectacular views of the mountain with less effort.

unseen-japan.com/mt-fuji-viewi

View of Mt. Fuji and surrounding area
ALT text detailsView of Mt. Fuji and surrounding area
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: Japanese companies struggling to fill jobs are looking for ways to supplement their workforces. Japanese convenience store chain Lawson is expanding on one such solution: self-checkout counters manned by workers who don’t even live in Japan.

unseen-japan.com/lawson-combin

Sorato and Aoi, Lawson's combini clerk avatars
ALT text detailsSorato and Aoi, Lawson's combini clerk avatars
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Funeo Funekawa

@funefune_kyoto@mstdn.tokyocameraclub.com

京都を走る黄色の新幹線

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Funeo Funekawa

@funefune_kyoto@mstdn.tokyocameraclub.com

京都を走る黄色の新幹線

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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Atsuko-san is here to show you what the 'nanakusa' (七草 '7 herbs') look like.

In the depths of winter, when frost covered the ground, the 'nanakusa' were some of the only plants still growing. Their lush green colour came to represent hope and renewal.

Atsuko-san briefly explains what the 7 herbs are called, and what they look like.
ALT text detailsAtsuko-san briefly explains what the 7 herbs are called, and what they look like.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Atsuko-san is here to show you what the 'nanakusa' (七草 '7 herbs') look like.

In the depths of winter, when frost covered the ground, the 'nanakusa' were some of the only plants still growing. Their lush green colour came to represent hope and renewal.

Atsuko-san briefly explains what the 7 herbs are called, and what they look like.
ALT text detailsAtsuko-san briefly explains what the 7 herbs are called, and what they look like.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

You can find the 7 herbs you need for your rice-congee conveniently packaged at supermarkets.

🌿water dropwort (せり)
🌿shepherd’s purse (なずな/ぺんぺん)
🌿cudweed (ごぎょう)
🌿chickweed (はこべら)
🌿nipplewort (ほとけのざ)
🌿turnip (すずな/かぶ)
🌿daikon (すずしろ・大根)

Around the 7th of January you will see small packs being sold in supermarkets containing all 7 herbs needed to make special rice gruel for Nanakusa-no-sekku.
ALT text detailsAround the 7th of January you will see small packs being sold in supermarkets containing all 7 herbs needed to make special rice gruel for Nanakusa-no-sekku.
The 7 herbs needed for Nanakusa-no-sekku.
ALT text detailsThe 7 herbs needed for Nanakusa-no-sekku.
Around the 7th of January you will see small packs being sold in supermarkets containing all 7 herbs needed to make special rice gruel for Nanakusa-no-sekku.
ALT text detailsAround the 7th of January you will see small packs being sold in supermarkets containing all 7 herbs needed to make special rice gruel for Nanakusa-no-sekku.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social

🌿WHOLESOME HERBS🥣

After all that New Year excess it's time for a hearty porridge to help fortify the body for the year ahead.

For over a thousand years herbs have been gathered, mixed into a rice gruel and consumed on the 7th day of the 1st month as a prayer for health and luck.

#

On the 7th day of the 1st month 7 herbs are mixed into a rice gruel and consumed as a prayer for good health for the year.
ALT text detailsOn the 7th day of the 1st month 7 herbs are mixed into a rice gruel and consumed as a prayer for good health for the year.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

You'll find a lot of natural beauty on Okinawa's outlying islands. There's something that's harder to find, however: women. An analysis by the Okinawa Times found that six of the 10 municipalities with the worst gender imbalance in Japan are located on the island chain.

unseen-japan.com/woman-okinawa

Data from the Okinawa Times showing the worse gender ratios of municipalities in Japan (original Okinawa Times article linked in UJ article in this thread)
ALT text detailsData from the Okinawa Times showing the worse gender ratios of municipalities in Japan (original Okinawa Times article linked in UJ article in this thread)
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Don't be surprised if you start seeing Latin alphabet letters on Japanese license plates. Japan's Ministry of Transportation is introducing 10 letters to one of the plates' components because a boom in vanity plate numbers is exhausting unique combinations.

unseen-japan.com/japan-license

Partial Fukuoka license plate with a type of 301, a ま hiragana, and a partial four-digit plate number
ALT text detailsPartial Fukuoka license plate with a type of 301, a ま hiragana, and a partial four-digit plate number
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Friends don't let friends use Duolingo. When it comes to Japanese, there are so many better ways to learn than giving money to a company that's firing its workers and replacing them with AI. Here's our roadmap for a cheap and effective Duolingo alternative.

unseen-japan.com/learn-japanes

Woman thinking about putting Duo, i.e., The Gangrene Owl of Doom, in the trash where he belongs
ALT text detailsWoman thinking about putting Duo, i.e., The Gangrene Owl of Doom, in the trash where he belongs
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Reju Cosmetics, a small cosmetics company in Japan, used its official X account to blast the boy band number_i as "traitors." It later issued an apology for the actions of its CEO and said that to make amends, it will...close the company for good. 🤔

unseen-japan.com/comestics-com

A tweet from Reju Cosmetics calling the members of boy band number_i "traitors"
ALT text detailsA tweet from Reju Cosmetics calling the members of boy band number_i "traitors"
The apology from Reju Cosmetics' official X account saying they'll close the company
ALT text detailsThe apology from Reju Cosmetics' official X account saying they'll close the company
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The story of the Republic of Ezo is not a happy one – at least not for its leader, Enomoto Takeaki. Cut off from supplies from the mainland and buffeted by foes at every turn, Enomoto’s resistance was truly a lost cause. But it was one he remained loyal to until the bitter end.

unseen-japan.com/ezo-samurai-l

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: Japan isn’t having a lot of kids. In lieu of kids, more people are turning to pets. But the little critters are causing a nuisance at some Shinto shrines – leading more shrines to ask folks to keep their fur babies at home.

unseen-japan.com/shinto-shrine

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: With Hashimoto Kanna in the leading role, everyone had high hopes that NHK’s latest morning drama, Omusubi, would do smash numbers. Now, the show is fighting not to become the station’s worst-rated asadora ever - and some blame the gyaru.

unseen-japan.com/nhk-asadora-o

Hashimoto Kanna in Omusubi
ALT text detailsHashimoto Kanna in Omusubi
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Anonymous 🐈️🐾☕🍵🏴🇵🇸 :af:

@youranonriots@kolektiva.social

Protesters outside Israeli embassy in Tokyo

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Anonymous 🐈️🐾☕🍵🏴🇵🇸 :af:

@youranonriots@kolektiva.social

Protesters outside Israeli embassy in Tokyo

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Shirakawa in Gifu Prefecture is a village of 1,400 people that sees over 1 million tourists yearly. So why aren't they screaming about "overtourism"? Village reps say that, despite some bad behavior, they still want people to "fall in love with this village that we treasure."

unseen-japan.com/shirakawago-o

Shirakawa-go - picture of thatched roof structures (gasshou-zukuri style of architecture) in winter with snow piled on them
ALT text detailsShirakawa-go - picture of thatched roof structures (gasshou-zukuri style of architecture) in winter with snow piled on them
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

SMAP's Nakai Masahiro isn't talking about the eyebrow-raising lawsuit he paid out in a case of alleged sexual assault. In response, some TV stations seem to be taking him off the air. Both TBS and TV Asahi have removed broadcasts featuring Nakai from their schedules.

unseen-japan.com/nakai-masahir

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: Is this the beginning of the end for Japan’s beloved IC transportation cards? Two train systems in Tokyo say they’ve started a large-scale experiment with credit card contactless payments to make life easier for tourists.

unseen-japan.com/tokyo-trains-

JR gates at a train station
ALT text detailsJR gates at a train station
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: Japan’s traditional festivals (祭; matsuri) are feeling the pinch as well. As a result, some are doing something that was once unthinkable: they’re letting women participate.

unseen-japan.com/japan-festiva

Festival (matsuri) in Japan, which people (mostly men) shouldering a holy relic
ALT text detailsFestival (matsuri) in Japan, which people (mostly men) shouldering a holy relic
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: Every year, a group in Japan rallies against the evils of the holiday's celebration of "romance capitalism culture." This year, however, “circumstances” led them to take a break from protesting the popular holiday.

unseen-japan.com/anti-christma

Cartoon girl saying "eff those guys" to a couple exchanging presents on Christmas
ALT text detailsCartoon girl saying "eff those guys" to a couple exchanging presents on Christmas
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

McDonald's Japan went viral for this stone-etched ad written in an odd-looking script. Turns out the text is Wojite, a form of Jindai Moji (Characters of the Age of the Gods) - an Edo Era forgery that claimed to be Japan's pre-Chinese character writing system.

McDonald's Japan Jindai Moji post
ALT text detailsMcDonald's Japan Jindai Moji post
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

“There’s a wall at Tokyo Station that looks like you could blow it apart”

Original tweet on X: 鉄道会社は辞めるな君 @tetsudo_yameru · 1月2日 東京駅にあるバクダンで壊せそうな壁
ALT text detailsOriginal tweet on X: 鉄道会社は辞めるな君 @tetsudo_yameru · 1月2日 東京駅にあるバクダンで壊せそうな壁
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japan's welcoming a lot of tourists - but they're not spreading the love around the country. A report by the Japan Travel Agency shows hotel stays shot up in the "Big Three" metro areas (Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya) - but regional stays fell compared to 2019 by 25.9%.

According to a report by the Japan Travel Agency earlier this year, from 2019 to 2023, the number of people staying in lodging facilities (hotels, onsen, private housing rentals, etc.) climbed 13.6 points – from 72.57 million to 82.43 million – in the country’s three major cities.
ALT text details According to a report by the Japan Travel Agency earlier this year, from 2019 to 2023, the number of people staying in lodging facilities (hotels, onsen, private housing rentals, etc.) climbed 13.6 points – from 72.57 million to 82.43 million – in the country’s three major cities.
The number of people staying in regional Japan fell from 43.09 million in 2019 to 31.91 million in 2023. That’s a massive dip of 25.9%.
ALT text detailsThe number of people staying in regional Japan fell from 43.09 million in 2019 to 31.91 million in 2023. That’s a massive dip of 25.9%.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

22-year-old Uchida Riko stands accused of murder in Hokkaido for pushing a girl off of a bridge for the crime of taking her picture. Now, it's come out that a detective on the local police force is out of a job after he confessed to having an affair with the defendant.

unseen-japan.com/hokkaido-dete

Kamui Bridge, Asahikawa
ALT text detailsKamui Bridge, Asahikawa
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Headed to Nagano Prefecture for skiing? Best of luck: while tourist demand is spiking, more ski lodges in the area are closing as owners pass on without leaving an heir. The number of lodges in Nozawaonsen, e.g., fell by almost half between 1985 and today.

unseen-japan.com/nagano-skiing

Hakuba Goryu in Nagano Prefecture
ALT text detailsHakuba Goryu in Nagano Prefecture
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: Japan’s experiencing a boom in oshikatsu (推し活) – commercial activities (活) in support of one’s favorite star, or oshi (推し). But is that a good thing? New data shows many fans are concerned about the financial toll that supporting their faves is taking on their pocketbooks.

unseen-japan.com/oshikatsu-add

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: Frequent travelers to Japan, get ready for a significant change to the way you shop in 2026. Japan’s government has firmed up a new – and somewhat involved – system designed to stop unscrupulous resellers from avoiding the country’s consumption tax.

unseen-japan.com/japan-duty-fr

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: Japan's wrestling with how to address an epidemic of so-called “customer harassment” (カスハラ, kasu-hara for short), i.e., customers who verbally or physically abuse staff. Now, in a first, one city is passing a law that’ll publicly shame anyone caught in the act.

unseen-japan.com/kuwana-city-c

Woman screaming into five phones
ALT text detailsWoman screaming into five phones
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Protein-heads looking to get your fix in Japan, heads up: Gold's Gym Japan has a new line of protein-rich bento boxes out and available at select 7-11 Japan. The beef bolognese is 393kcal w/ 25g protein and the chicken jambalaya is 461kcal and a beefy 42g protein.

Sign for Gold's Gym protein bento boxes
ALT text detailsSign for Gold's Gym protein bento boxes
Gold's Gym nikuben beef bolognese
ALT text detailsGold's Gym nikuben beef bolognese
Gold's Gym chicken jambalaya
ALT text detailsGold's Gym chicken jambalaya
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atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: During the New Year Holidays (c.1990s)

Artist: Nishijima Katsuyuki

asahi.com/ajw/articles/1557094

A traditional-style storefront on New Year's Day, somewhere in Kyoto. The sliding doors are shut, the windows are closed, and the street before the shop is empty.
ALT text detailsA traditional-style storefront on New Year's Day, somewhere in Kyoto. The sliding doors are shut, the windows are closed, and the street before the shop is empty.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

After Kumamoto's devastating earthquake in 2016, ONE PIECE mangaka Oda Eichiro set sail on a quest to revitalize his hometown. It's been a smashing success: the Kumamoto Revival Project has boosted tourism to the prefecture over 2x since 2019 - the largest increase across Japan.

unseen-japan.com/one-piece-kum

ONE PEICE Luffy statue and text from Navitime discussing the area's increase in visitors
ALT text detailsONE PEICE Luffy statue and text from Navitime discussing the area's increase in visitors
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

What happens when you pit trained soldiers against cosplayers? Turns out you get a tough fight. Last week, 100 airsoft amateurs fought 50 active duty members of Japan's Self-Defense Forces to a draw. "Winning against that many people's impossible," one soldier lamented.

unseen-japan.com/airsoft-sdf-c

People playing airsoft
ALT text detailsPeople playing airsoft
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Duty-free travel changes in Japan, bookstores charging admission, onigiri mascots, and hostile architecture - get a synopsis of our most popular stories last week in the recent issue of the Unseen Japan Newsletter.

us20.campaign-archive.com/?u=e

Akihabara Duty Free Store at airport
ALT text detailsAkihabara Duty Free Store at airport
Outside of Bunkitsu in Roppongi - bookstore (more like a lounge) with an admission fee
ALT text detailsOutside of Bunkitsu in Roppongi - bookstore (more like a lounge) with an admission fee
Famiily Mart onigiri "save me" mascot reduces food waste
ALT text detailsFamiily Mart onigiri "save me" mascot reduces food waste
Benches along a lake with price tags on them
ALT text detailsBenches along a lake with price tags on them
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

"I’ve always wanted to draw comics, and Beserk was a major inspiration for me as a budding artist. For quite a long time, all my “original” characters would have to have massive swords and bad attitudes."

In May, 2021, manga legend Miura Kentaro passed away, leaving his opus Berserk unfinished. Our author discusses the true genius behind his art, and how he inspired millions.

unseen-japan.com/what-miura-ke

Artist Illumiknobi's Berserk fan art
ALT text detailsArtist Illumiknobi's Berserk fan art
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Ben Royce 🇺🇸🇺🇦 Don't Boo: Vote

@benroyce@mastodon.social

There's no agenda in posting this video

Just a capture of a moment of simple human joy in efficient

Ok, ok... just a small agenda

Year: unknown, location:

Possibly related to this:

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ch%C5%AB

two people watch a train fly by at very high speed, and their expressions are simple joy
ALT text detailstwo people watch a train fly by at very high speed, and their expressions are simple joy
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

It was one of Japan's most horrific crimes and still gets discussed to this day. How the murder of Furuta Junko shocked the country, sparking a national debate over juvenile crime - and why her murderers are now walking around free.

unseen-japan.com/furuta-junko-

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

People in Japan who have a hard time eating mochi are susceptible to choking on them. As you’d suspect, the elderly are most susceptible to this. Tokyo Fire Department says its stats show the most likely victims are between the ages of 80 and 84.

unseen-japan.com/mochi-new-yea

Graph from Tokyo Fire Department on mochi choking deaths
ALT text detailsGraph from Tokyo Fire Department on mochi choking deaths
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: Why a mild plan to relax visa restrictions for Chinese travelers – particularly the most wealthy travelers – has some on Japan's far right accusing Japan's Foreign Minister of being a "spy" for China and accepting bribes from a gambling company.

unseen-japan.com/china-ten-yea

Chinese passport
ALT text detailsChinese passport
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noco｜Flower Photographer

@noco3n_com@mstdn.jp

The world colored by flowers and light is so beautiful that I love it.



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noco｜Flower Photographer

@noco3n_com@mstdn.jp

The world colored by flowers and light is so beautiful that I love it.



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Dr. Evan J. Gowan

@DrEvanGowan@fediscience.org

My trip to Sakurajima Volcano was a complete success!

A selfie photo of me wearing a baseball hat and sunglasses, with an erupting ash cloud from Sakurajima Volcano in the background.
ALT text detailsA selfie photo of me wearing a baseball hat and sunglasses, with an erupting ash cloud from Sakurajima Volcano in the background.
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Ben Royce 🇺🇸🇺🇦 Don't Boo: Vote

@benroyce@mastodon.social

There's no agenda in posting this video

Just a capture of a moment of simple human joy in efficient

Ok, ok... just a small agenda

Year: unknown, location:

Possibly related to this:

en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ch%C5%AB

two people watch a train fly by at very high speed, and their expressions are simple joy
ALT text detailstwo people watch a train fly by at very high speed, and their expressions are simple joy
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Wanna watch a man eat soup for two hours? Good news! Next week, KODOKU NO GURUME (The Solitary Gourmet): THE MOVIE hits Japanese theaters. It's written & directed by star Matsushige Yutaka, who says the film was *almost* directed by PARASITE helmsman Bong Joon-Ho.

unseen-japan.com/kodoku-no-gur

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

How do you keep combini in Japan operating 24 hours a day in the midst of a labor shortage? Lawson thinks it has the answer: remotely operated avatars at self-checkout. Now, for the first time, the chain says it's hired a remote operator who doesn't even currently live in Japan.

unseen-japan.com/lawson-combin

Lawson virtual avatar operators Aoi and Sorato
ALT text detailsLawson virtual avatar operators Aoi and Sorato
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

New Year's in Japan means people are eating mochi rice cakes as part of a tradition dating back to Japan's Heian Era. Unfortunately, the sticky treat has claimed one choking victim so far. It's bound to claim more, as more people die yearly from mochi choking here than traffic accidents.

unseen-japan.com/mochi-new-yea

Mochi making (mochi-tsuki)
ALT text detailsMochi making (mochi-tsuki)
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

New Year's in Japan means people are eating mochi rice cakes as part of a tradition dating back to Japan's Heian Era. Unfortunately, the sticky treat has claimed one choking victim so far. It's bound to claim more, as more people die yearly from mochi choking here than traffic accidents.

unseen-japan.com/mochi-new-yea

Mochi making (mochi-tsuki)
ALT text detailsMochi making (mochi-tsuki)
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

This is why we can't have nice shrines: Police in Takeo, Shiga Prefecture arrested 64yo Yamaguchi Tsukasa for stealing 6003 yen ($38.23) from a Shinto shrine's donation box on New Year's Day. Area police are investigating a string of shrine donation box thefts from last year.

Article in Japanese from LiveDoor News. Japanese title: 元日の昼間の神社　“さい銭泥棒”で男逮捕　佐賀県武雄市　周辺で同様の被害相次ぐ
ALT text detailsArticle in Japanese from LiveDoor News. Japanese title: 元日の昼間の神社　“さい銭泥棒”で男逮捕　佐賀県武雄市　周辺で同様の被害相次ぐ
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atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/new

atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

mainichi.jp/english/articles/2

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: A small city in Yamagata Prefecture known for its onsen (hot spring baths) is popular among tourists. Maybe too popular, as tourists to one popular location now vastly exceed the number of residents.

unseen-japan.com/ginzan-onsen-

Ginzan Onsen, Obanazawa, Yamagata Prefecture
ALT text detailsGinzan Onsen, Obanazawa, Yamagata Prefecture
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: Japan’s major political parties are proposing a new law to limit what can go up on the country’s election campaign poster boards. The move is a reaction to the rampant abuse that the boards suffered during this year’s Tokyo Gubernatorial election.

unseen-japan.com/japan-electio

Tokyo Governor candidate Kawai Yusuke advocating for marijuana legalization while dressed the The Joker and holding what appears to be a bunch of green leaves he picked up off the sidewalk
ALT text detailsTokyo Governor candidate Kawai Yusuke advocating for marijuana legalization while dressed the The Joker and holding what appears to be a bunch of green leaves he picked up off the sidewalk
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Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:

@norbertwoehnl@famichiki.jp

Looking out my windows; Jan 1st, 2025

We had some nice gentle light this afternoon; a few panoramas straight out of camera.

Itabashi-ku, Tokyo, Japan

View of an urban Tokyo scenery with apartment buildings of various shapes and sizes, seen in gentle winter afternoon sunlight
ALT text detailsView of an urban Tokyo scenery with apartment buildings of various shapes and sizes, seen in gentle winter afternoon sunlight
View of an urban Tokyo scenery with apartment buildings of various shapes and sizes, seen in gentle winter afternoon sunlight
ALT text detailsView of an urban Tokyo scenery with apartment buildings of various shapes and sizes, seen in gentle winter afternoon sunlight
View of an urban Tokyo scenery with apartment buildings of various shapes and sizes, seen in gentle winter afternoon sunlight
ALT text detailsView of an urban Tokyo scenery with apartment buildings of various shapes and sizes, seen in gentle winter afternoon sunlight
View of an urban Tokyo scenery with apartment buildings of various shapes and sizes, seen in gentle winter afternoon sunlight
ALT text detailsView of an urban Tokyo scenery with apartment buildings of various shapes and sizes, seen in gentle winter afternoon sunlight
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

"Whaddo I do...I've been carted off to Thirteenuary 2025"

Elevator display showing 2025/13/01 (Saturday) as the date
ALT text detailsElevator display showing 2025/13/01 (Saturday) as the date
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

More dog owners in Japan regard their pets as family and love taking them to locations such as Shinto shrines for the perfect Instagrammable moment. But more shrines are banning pets in recent years as irresponsible owners ruin things for everyone else.

unseen-japan.com/shinto-shrine

A cute shiba inu mens being halted from entering a torii gate by a cartoon woman with a stop sign. But why? He's just a guy, just a cute little furry guy wanting to see a shrine and get a blessing from the kami, it's his birthday, you wouldn't deny a little guy a shrine visit on his birthday would you?
ALT text detailsA cute shiba inu mens being halted from entering a torii gate by a cartoon woman with a stop sign. But why? He's just a guy, just a cute little furry guy wanting to see a shrine and get a blessing from the kami, it's his birthday, you wouldn't deny a little guy a shrine visit on his birthday would you?
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Two dudes made a mess of Shibuya Scramble on Christmas Eve, doing repeated motorbike loops as pedestrians crossed and even shooting off a fire extinguisher. Police now say they've arrested a jobless 29yo, who admitted to the crime, and a 15yo. Neither has a motorbike license.

unseen-japan.com/shibuya-scram

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

NHK's new morning drama Omusubi, starring Hashimoto Kanna, may turn out to be the network's worst-rated asadora ever: it's currently averaging 13.2%, below 2009's Welkame (13.5%). What went wrong? Many Japanese viewers are blaming the story's unlikeable gyaru protagonist.

unseen-japan.com/nhk-asadora-o

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: Japanese convenience store chain Family Mart says a cute experiment designed to reduce food waste worked, actually. As a result, it’ll roll out its new food loss mascot man to all stores nationwide this spring.

unseen-japan.com/family-mart-d

Family Mart 20 yen discount seal featuring a little onigiri guy crying "Save me!"
ALT text detailsFamily Mart 20 yen discount seal featuring a little onigiri guy crying "Save me!"
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: The verdict for a Japan resident who helped a Chinese influencer deface Yasukuni Shrine marked a sad chapter in the life of a man who told the court how a love for one of Japan’s most beloved cartoons brought him to the country 11 years ago.

unseen-japan.com/yasukuni-shri

Yasukuni Shrine
ALT text detailsYasukuni Shrine
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

In 2018, a controversy broke out in Japan when a sumo announcer angrily demanded a woman leave the ring during a match. The woman was a registered nurse who was aiding a wrestler who’d collapsed due to a subarachnoid hemorrhage.

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: A cosmetic surgeon in Japan thought it was a good idea to treat an anatomy practice session as some sort of field trip. Users online are calling for her to lose her license – but there’s a high hurdle for that to happen.

unseen-japan.com/kuroda-aimi-c

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noco｜Flower Photographer

@noco3n_com@mstdn.jp

Thank you everyone for viewing my photos this year. The happy comments and warm support encouraged me in my activities.

Everyone, please support me again next year.

I hope that everyone will have a good year next year as well. 2024.12.31 noco.

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Alfie Goodrich

@alfiegoodrich@photog.social

Charlie and I went out for a photowalk yesterday, starting at the Sky Lounge at The Top of Yebisu, at Ebisu Garden Tower.

There's various angles of view available up there, but this is a good one.

Panorama stitched from nine separate, vertically shot photos. 105mm lens on one of my Nikons.

Panoramic photo of a section of Tokyo, made from Ebisu. We're looking east. The view from right to left stretches from Tamachi and Mita, round to Roppongi and halfway to Shibuya. The Tokyo Tower is just right of centre. It's a lovely, sunny day with distant haze and a few clouds.
ALT text detailsPanoramic photo of a section of Tokyo, made from Ebisu. We're looking east. The view from right to left stretches from Tamachi and Mita, round to Roppongi and halfway to Shibuya. The Tokyo Tower is just right of centre. It's a lovely, sunny day with distant haze and a few clouds.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Nyonin Kinsei (女人禁制) has kept many women from participating in Japan's religious festivals for centuries due to their supposed "impurities." But now, as the country's population shrinks and ages and people flee to cities, some festivals are (slowly) rethinking the age-old prejudice.

unseen-japan.com/japan-festiva

Celebration at Tomioka Hachimangu
ALT text detailsCelebration at Tomioka Hachimangu
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atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Snow at Itsukushima (1932)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

itsukushimajinja.jp/en/

A view looking out over a snowy landscape toward the famous 'floating' torii of Itsukushima Shrine. In the foreground, snow and frost cling to the trunk and branches of a Japanese pine tree; just beyond, a tall stone lantern and a pair of smaller ones stand on the shore of the Inland Sea, all plastered with snow. Out in Hiroshima Bay, the red torii gate appears to float on the surface of the water. Further out, a tiny open boat is steered across the bay by a single pilot. Rugged snow-capped mountains line the horizon, while the sky above is a deep, cold blue. Light snow continues to fall across the scene
ALT text detailsA view looking out over a snowy landscape toward the famous 'floating' torii of Itsukushima Shrine. In the foreground, snow and frost cling to the trunk and branches of a Japanese pine tree; just beyond, a tall stone lantern and a pair of smaller ones stand on the shore of the Inland Sea, all plastered with snow. Out in Hiroshima Bay, the red torii gate appears to float on the surface of the water. Further out, a tiny open boat is steered across the bay by a single pilot. Rugged snow-capped mountains line the horizon, while the sky above is a deep, cold blue. Light snow continues to fall across the scene
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Are train companies in Tokyo paving the way to make IC cards extinct? Tokyu Railways and Toei Subway say they've implemented credit card touch payment at over 60 stations - including Haneda Airport - to make getting around Tokyo easier for tourists.

unseen-japan.com/tokyo-trains-

Credit card touch graphic superimposed on JR train gates
ALT text detailsCredit card touch graphic superimposed on JR train gates
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: After dismissing the Kishiwada city council for its vote of no confidence, Mayor Nagano Kohei held a press conference defending himself against accusations of sexual assault. To up the cringe factor, he brought his wife, who praised him as "an important pillar of our family."

unseen-japan.com/kishiwada-may

Nagano Kohei and his wife, who's trying very hard not to make this look like a hostage situation
ALT text detailsNagano Kohei and his wife, who's trying very hard not to make this look like a hostage situation
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: Recent news about World Expo 2025 Osaka Kansai isn’t sitting well with local residents. It seems the event is well short of meeting its goals for ticket sales – and taxpayers are expected to pick up the tab.

unseen-japan.com/kansai-expo-p

Myaku-Myaku, Kansai Expo 2025 mascot, ready to suck out your soul to feed its insatiable hunger
ALT text detailsMyaku-Myaku, Kansai Expo 2025 mascot, ready to suck out your soul to feed its insatiable hunger
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

"Unseen Japan Tours and Noah were fantastic! I had looked around for custom tours in Tokyo, and it seemed like Unseen Japan had the best experience and the best price — and I was right!" - Cynthia H. and Ajay M., United States

unseen-japan.com/unseen-japan-

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Saizeriya, Japan's famous Italian-esque restaurant chain, is losing its first-ever store in Ichikawa City, Chiba Prefecture, as developers wanna tear down the building. The store closed in 2000 but the chain kept it open as an educational museum. The news has left Saizeriya fans in mourning.

unseen-japan.com/first-saizeri

Saizeriya menu front cover
ALT text detailsSaizeriya menu front cover
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

With the New Year at hand, many in Japan will be undertaking hatsumode (初詣), the traditional first Shinto shrine visit of the year. Find out why hatsumode is one of the most prosperous times for shrines in the year and how the tradition has changed over the centuries.

unseen-japan.com/hatsumode-shr

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

80 shrines and temples around Japan now accept some form of digital payment, such as PayPay or similar QR code apps. More are joining the fray before the New Year - including one Shinto shrine in Kawasaki that's using digital payments to stop people breaking into its donation box.

unseen-japan.com/shinto-shrine

Donation box at a Shinto shrine
ALT text detailsDonation box at a Shinto shrine
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A group that protests "Japan's romance capitalism Christmas culture" had to call off its annual demonstration this year. Kakuhidou (革命的非モテ同盟), the Revolutionary Alliance of the Unloveable, said it didn't act in time to secure permits. Last year's demo drew 10 people.

unseen-japan.com/anti-christma

Cartoon girl giving a loving couple on Christmas the big thumbs down
ALT text detailsCartoon girl giving a loving couple on Christmas the big thumbs down
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

According to the “Oshinomics” report from Hakuhodo, teenage girls said that they spend over half of their disposable income on their oshis. For most in this group, their money goes to male underground idols (performers at small clubs) or at male concept cafes that allow minors.

unseen-japan.com/oshikatsu-add

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: Inbound foreign travel to Japan is booming. However, domestic travel isn’t doing so hot. The economy is playing a large factor – but so is overtourism at popular spots. Due to various factors, the consumer price index for lodging has risen from 100 in 2020 to 134.3 today.

unseen-japan.com/japan-domesti

Japanese woman giving herself a solo trip, as a little treat
ALT text detailsJapanese woman giving herself a solo trip, as a little treat
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: Hostile architecture has come to Tokyo – and the city’s residents are none too happy. As Tokyo continues to undergo rapid development, it seems there are fewer places to take a load off of your feet without spending money.

unseen-japan.com/tokyo-disappe

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Perhaps surprising no one, Tokyo’s richest city, Minato – with a median income of 11.26 million yen (USD $71,969) – retained its number one ranking spot for the city where people are happiest. Daikanyama came in first, however, as the train station with the highest happiness index.

unseen-japan.com/tokyo-city-ha

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Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:

@norbertwoehnl@famichiki.jp

December 29, 2024 (2)

After leaving the art supplies store, I had a nice walk from Ochanomizu down to Suidobashi. Tried to capture the mood along the way, on a bright and crisp December afternoon.

A quiet urban winter scene from Tokyo in the area between Ochanomizu and Suidobashi.
ALT text detailsA quiet urban winter scene from Tokyo in the area between Ochanomizu and Suidobashi.
A quiet urban winter scene from Tokyo in the area between Ochanomizu and Suidobashi.
ALT text detailsA quiet urban winter scene from Tokyo in the area between Ochanomizu and Suidobashi.
A quiet urban winter scene from Tokyo in the area between Ochanomizu and Suidobashi.
ALT text detailsA quiet urban winter scene from Tokyo in the area between Ochanomizu and Suidobashi.
A quiet urban winter scene from Tokyo in the area between Ochanomizu and Suidobashi.
ALT text detailsA quiet urban winter scene from Tokyo in the area between Ochanomizu and Suidobashi.
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Solar Tokyo

@solar_tokyo@mas.to

The sun will rise in tomorrow at 6:50, 15 seconds later than the day before.
It will set at 16:36, 41 seconds later than the day before.

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Weather Mizu

@mizu@mastodon.social

Snow accumulation anomalies as of 29th - much more than normal except for San-in region and for Doto area, East Hokkaido.

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SeanBreslin

@SeanBreslin@famichiki.jp

My very occasional and short newsletter: Restless 26 → End of 2024

buttondown.com/SeanBreslin/arc

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Can oshikatsu - supporting one's favorite idol, anime character, or other entertainer - be unhealthy? New survey data shows teen girls spending over half their disposable funds on their oshi, raising concerns about how the activity can morph from a hobby into an addiction.

unseen-japan.com/oshikatsu-add

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japan tourists, get ready to change how you shop. A new law, set to go into effect in November 2026, will stop duty-free sales at stores and instead require requesting a refund upon departure. The law is aimed at stopping illegal consumption tax-free reselling.

unseen-japan.com/japan-duty-fr

Tax-free Akihabara-themed store at Narita Airport
ALT text detailsTax-free Akihabara-themed store at Narita Airport
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

"Customer harassment" remains a significant problem in Japan. Kuwana City in Mie Prefecture will fight it with a new weapon: shame. People who verbally or physically harass staff could find themselves called out on the city's website under a new ordinance if they don't change their ways.

unseen-japan.com/kuwana-city-c

Woman screaming into a large number of phones that, somehow, aren't AI-generated
ALT text detailsWoman screaming into a large number of phones that, somehow, aren't AI-generated
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Poor Ishiba Shigeru gets no respect. Japan's Prime Minister lamented at a speech last week that the job is "five to 10 times" harder than his predecessors had it. “You read the newspapers and no one’s singing your praises, you look online and it hurts even more, you can hardly sleep.”

unseen-japan.com/ishiba-shiger

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: Online resale of fan goods at high prices is an ongoing issue in Japan. Now, one famous anime voice actress says she’s so disgusted by the practice that she won’t do any more signings going forward.

unseen-japan.com/evangelion-vo

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: Ito Shiori has been fighting for justice since she accused journalist Yamaguchi Noriyuki of rape in 2015. Her latest chapter is a documentary that's earned an Oscar shortlisting. However, it’s also coming under fire from her former attorney for using “unauthorized” footage.

unseen-japan.com/ito-shiori-bl

Ito Shiori - poster for Black Box Diaries
ALT text detailsIto Shiori - poster for Black Box Diaries
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Alfie Goodrich

@alfiegoodrich@photog.social

Quite the sunset today.

Charlie, my youngest, and I were out for a photowalk. We weren't anywhere high up when the sun set but we got a few nice shots.

Here's a couple of mine. Gonna sit down with him tomorrow and get his pics off the card and do some editing with him.

Details in the ALT.

Three photo stitched panorama of the last of the sun hitting buildings in Kitashinagawa. This photo was taken from Shinbamba. There's also a nice reflection of the building with the sun hitting it, in the window of the building on the right of the frame. The sunlight is a deep orange, contrasting beautifully with the blue light of the approaching dusk.
ALT text detailsThree photo stitched panorama of the last of the sun hitting buildings in Kitashinagawa. This photo was taken from Shinbamba. There's also a nice reflection of the building with the sun hitting it, in the window of the building on the right of the frame. The sunlight is a deep orange, contrasting beautifully with the blue light of the approaching dusk.
Sun setting behind buildings in Shinbamba, Tokyo. We were going up the escalator into the station when I took this photo. There's a round water tank on the roof of the building in the centre of the frame. The balconies on each floor of the building on the left are beautifully silhouetted by the sun. Creating a lovely repeating pattern.
ALT text detailsSun setting behind buildings in Shinbamba, Tokyo. We were going up the escalator into the station when I took this photo. There's a round water tank on the roof of the building in the centre of the frame. The balconies on each floor of the building on the left are beautifully silhouetted by the sun. Creating a lovely repeating pattern.
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Alfie Goodrich

@alfiegoodrich@photog.social

A photo made with the Nikon, from my time at Anamori-inari Shrine last Monday.

The very last of the daylight, blue-hued, at the end of the line of toriii gates. Magical, as usual. This shrine is a fave of mine and it always delivers some magic for me.

A long line of red torii gates at the Anamori-inari shrine in Tokyo, Japan. At the end of the gates, the last of the daylight. Blue with the coming dusk. We see a few paper "shide" (四手), paper zigzags. A traditional adornment at the entrance of holy places.
ALT text detailsA long line of red torii gates at the Anamori-inari shrine in Tokyo, Japan. At the end of the gates, the last of the daylight. Blue with the coming dusk. We see a few paper "shide" (四手), paper zigzags. A traditional adornment at the entrance of holy places.
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Alfie Goodrich

@alfiegoodrich@photog.social

A photo made with the Nikon, from my time at Anamori-inari Shrine last Monday.

The very last of the daylight, blue-hued, at the end of the line of toriii gates. Magical, as usual. This shrine is a fave of mine and it always delivers some magic for me.

A long line of red torii gates at the Anamori-inari shrine in Tokyo, Japan. At the end of the gates, the last of the daylight. Blue with the coming dusk. We see a few paper "shide" (四手), paper zigzags. A traditional adornment at the entrance of holy places.
ALT text detailsA long line of red torii gates at the Anamori-inari shrine in Tokyo, Japan. At the end of the gates, the last of the daylight. Blue with the coming dusk. We see a few paper "shide" (四手), paper zigzags. A traditional adornment at the entrance of holy places.
Alfie Goodrich's avatar
Alfie Goodrich

@alfiegoodrich@photog.social

Quite the sunset today.

Charlie, my youngest, and I were out for a photowalk. We weren't anywhere high up when the sun set but we got a few nice shots.

Here's a couple of mine. Gonna sit down with him tomorrow and get his pics off the card and do some editing with him.

Details in the ALT.

Three photo stitched panorama of the last of the sun hitting buildings in Kitashinagawa. This photo was taken from Shinbamba. There's also a nice reflection of the building with the sun hitting it, in the window of the building on the right of the frame. The sunlight is a deep orange, contrasting beautifully with the blue light of the approaching dusk.
ALT text detailsThree photo stitched panorama of the last of the sun hitting buildings in Kitashinagawa. This photo was taken from Shinbamba. There's also a nice reflection of the building with the sun hitting it, in the window of the building on the right of the frame. The sunlight is a deep orange, contrasting beautifully with the blue light of the approaching dusk.
Sun setting behind buildings in Shinbamba, Tokyo. We were going up the escalator into the station when I took this photo. There's a round water tank on the roof of the building in the centre of the frame. The balconies on each floor of the building on the left are beautifully silhouetted by the sun. Creating a lovely repeating pattern.
ALT text detailsSun setting behind buildings in Shinbamba, Tokyo. We were going up the escalator into the station when I took this photo. There's a round water tank on the roof of the building in the centre of the frame. The balconies on each floor of the building on the left are beautifully silhouetted by the sun. Creating a lovely repeating pattern.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: It’s long been a headache for residents. Now, fed-up city officials in Kamakura are installing a security camera to prevent people from standing in the road of a famous anime holy site featured in Slam Dunk.

unseen-japan.com/kamakura-slam

Kamakura Enoshima train crossing
ALT text detailsKamakura Enoshima train crossing
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noco｜Flower Photographer

@noco3n_com@mstdn.jp

White Christmas.

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noco｜Flower Photographer

@noco3n_com@mstdn.jp

White Christmas.

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Unseen Japan is independent media with values. We cover Japanese news, culture, history, and social justice movements in support of the rights of all oppressed people - in Japan and elsewhere. If you like what we do, consider helping us do more by supporting us.

unseen-japan.com/support/

Woman in front of shrine
ALT text detailsWoman in front of shrine
Ito Shiori's Black Box Diaries
ALT text detailsIto Shiori's Black Box Diaries
LGBTQ flag colored fist superimposed on Japanese Diet building
ALT text detailsLGBTQ flag colored fist superimposed on Japanese Diet building
The Story of the Japanese-Peruvians
ALT text detailsThe Story of the Japanese-Peruvians
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Weather Mizu

@mizu@mastodon.social

Temperature trend for the third and forth week of January. It's likely to be colder than normal.

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

This week, Japan announced a rather tame plan to give China's wealthiest an extended multiple-entry tourist visa of 10 years. Japan's right-wing pounced, calling it the "China-fication" of Japan and accusing their country's Foreign Minister of taking bribes from a Chinese casino.

unseen-japan.com/china-ten-yea

China passport
ALT text detailsChina passport
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Ginzan Onsen in Yamagata Prefecture's Obanazawa is one of Japan's most popular hot spring resorts. That's a blessing and a curse: in one year, the city sees 85x more visitors than it has residents. As a result, it's passing new rules to reduce congestion and overtourism.

unseen-japan.com/ginzan-onsen-

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: A chemical products company in Japan recently continued its decades-long tradition this week of holding a service in which it prayed for the souls of the bugs it killed in the name of science.

unseen-japan.com/japan-insect-

Buddhist priest praying for a cockroach
ALT text detailsBuddhist priest praying for a cockroach
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Weekend Stories

@weekendstories@mastodon.social

🇯🇵The is renowned for its unique linguistic and cultural heritage. Its complex grammar and writing system 📚🖋️, combining , , and , reflect 's rich history and diverse influences. While its origins are debated, theories suggest links to , , and other families. This post explores the origins, development, and distinctive features of Japanese and its writing system:

🌍 fabriziomusacchio.com/weekend_

Map of Japanese dialects and Japonic languages (without Ryukyuan islands). Blue: Tokyo accent (standard accent pattern), orange: Kyōto-Ōsaka accent, white: no accent. Descriptions are in German. At the time I wrote this post, there was no English version available. Source: Wikimedia Commonsꜛ (license: CC BY-SA 2.5).
ALT text detailsMap of Japanese dialects and Japonic languages (without Ryukyuan islands). Blue: Tokyo accent (standard accent pattern), orange: Kyōto-Ōsaka accent, white: no accent. Descriptions are in German. At the time I wrote this post, there was no English version available. Source: Wikimedia Commonsꜛ (license: CC BY-SA 2.5).
Map of Ryukyuan languages (the Ryukyuan islands are in the south of Japan). Source: Wikimedia Commonsꜛ (license: public domain).
ALT text detailsMap of Ryukyuan languages (the Ryukyuan islands are in the south of Japan). Source: Wikimedia Commonsꜛ (license: public domain).
Painting of Kūkai (空海; his posthumous name is Kōbō Daishi, 弘法大師, which means “The Grand Master who Propagated the Dharma”) from the Shingon Hassozō, a set of scrolls depicting the first eight patriarchs of the Shingon-shū (真言宗), Japan, Kamakura period (13th-14th centuries). Kūkai, who played a crucial role in the development of the Japanese writing system, is generally a prominent figure in Japanese Buddhism. He is the founder of the esoteric Shingon school of Buddhism, which is one of the major schools of Japanese Buddhism. He is also prominent as a calligrapher, poet, and scholar. It is also said, that he never died but rather meditating in the mausoleum on Mount Kōya (高野山, Kōya-san), a large temple settlement in Wakayama Prefecture. At his mausoleum in Oku-no-in, food offerings are presented daily to him in the early morning and before noon. Source: Wikimedia Commonsꜛ (license: CC BY-SA 4.0).
ALT text detailsPainting of Kūkai (空海; his posthumous name is Kōbō Daishi, 弘法大師, which means “The Grand Master who Propagated the Dharma”) from the Shingon Hassozō, a set of scrolls depicting the first eight patriarchs of the Shingon-shū (真言宗), Japan, Kamakura period (13th-14th centuries). Kūkai, who played a crucial role in the development of the Japanese writing system, is generally a prominent figure in Japanese Buddhism. He is the founder of the esoteric Shingon school of Buddhism, which is one of the major schools of Japanese Buddhism. He is also prominent as a calligrapher, poet, and scholar. It is also said, that he never died but rather meditating in the mausoleum on Mount Kōya (高野山, Kōya-san), a large temple settlement in Wakayama Prefecture. At his mausoleum in Oku-no-in, food offerings are presented daily to him in the early morning and before noon. Source: Wikimedia Commonsꜛ (license: CC BY-SA 4.0).
Derivation of hiragana from Chinese characters (kanji). The upper letters show the regular Chinese script, the middle letters in red show the cursive Chinese script, and the lower letters show the hiragana. Source: Wikimedia Commonsꜛ (license: CC BY-SA 4.0).
ALT text detailsDerivation of hiragana from Chinese characters (kanji). The upper letters show the regular Chinese script, the middle letters in red show the cursive Chinese script, and the lower letters show the hiragana. Source: Wikimedia Commonsꜛ (license: CC BY-SA 4.0).
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

On the TV show SEVEN COLORS~girls life memory~, the contestants lived together Terrace House-style and were judged by seven “charm” factors. On December 18th, fans were supposed to find out who made the cut and who didn't.

But that never happened.

unseen-japan.com/seven-colors-

Seven colors girls life memory - TV banner
ALT text detailsSeven colors girls life memory - TV banner
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: 町 is an incredibly common character used in the names of towns throughout Japan. But whether it’s pronounced chou or machi seems like a crapshoot. Which raises the question: is there any way to tell? Are there any handy rules to follow?

unseen-japan.com/japanese-plac

Chou vs. machi
ALT text detailsChou vs. machi
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noco｜Flower Photographer

@noco3n_com@mstdn.jp

夜に優しく灯るチューリップ。

Tulips gently light up at night.

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noco｜Flower Photographer

@noco3n_com@mstdn.jp

夜に優しく灯るチューリップ。

Tulips gently light up at night.

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: Japan is welcoming more tourists than ever – and the problems it’s causing are making headlines. Singer/songwriter GACKT has a solution: Return the country to the Edo Era.

unseen-japan.com/gackt-japan-i

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A member of ultra-famous Japanese boy band SMAP paid a woman an eye-watering settlement. The amount was so outrageous that fans on social media - and even the Japanese press - are demanding answers. Here's what we know about what's going on with Nakai Masahiro.

unseen-japan.com/smap-nakai-ma

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Would you pay to enter a bookstore? Many in Japan would. Book cafes like Bunkitsu in Tokyo's Roppongi are charging admission, giving customers a new kind of third space in the city - and giving bookstores a financial model that just might help them thrive in the digital age.

unseen-japan.com/tokyo-bunkits

Bunkitsu in Roppongi - front door
ALT text detailsBunkitsu in Roppongi - front door
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Would you pay to enter a bookstore? Many in Japan would. Book cafes like Bunkitsu in Tokyo's Roppongi are charging admission, giving customers a new kind of third space in the city - and giving bookstores a financial model that just might help them thrive in the digital age.

unseen-japan.com/tokyo-bunkits

Bunkitsu in Roppongi - front door
ALT text detailsBunkitsu in Roppongi - front door
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Domino's Japan left tons of Christmas Eve pizza eaters in the lurch this year as stores countrywide failed to deliver orders. The company blamed the incidents on a "labor shortage" - but angry Japanese netizens say Domino's delivery errors are pretty much a Christmas tradition.

unseen-japan.com/dominos-japan

An ad from Domino's Japan trying to recruit workers for the holiday season. (Picture: Domino's Pizza Japan)
ALT text detailsAn ad from Domino's Japan trying to recruit workers for the holiday season. (Picture: Domino's Pizza Japan)
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

This summer, Tokyo's official election poster boards were rife with cute cats, pornography, and outright financial scams. A new law crafted by seven political parties in Japan hopes to fix that by banning for-profit posters and messages that slander other people and political parties.

unseen-japan.com/japan-electio

Poster by Kawai Yusuke - "The Joker" - advocating legalizing marijuana in Shibuya City, Tokyo
ALT text detailsPoster by Kawai Yusuke - "The Joker" - advocating legalizing marijuana in Shibuya City, Tokyo
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Hoshino Gen had planned to sing the song "Jigoku de Naze Warui?" at this year's Kohaku singing competition on NHK. NHK and Hoshino's staff have now said they'll switch out the song as it's closely linked to director Sono Sion, who has a long history of sexual assault.

unseen-japan.com/nhk-kohaku-ho

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Alfie Goodrich

@alfiegoodrich@photog.social

Good morning to you all. Lovely sunny day here in Tokyo. Ended up being a nice, chilled Christmas Day here. Some family, some nice food and good conversation.

Hope you're having a good day so far.

Much love to you ❤️

Couple of pics from my locale, from a walk a couple of days ago. Details in ALT.

A tatami shop on the Kyu-Tokaido (Old Tokaido Road) in Aomonoyokocho, not far from where we live in Tokyo. We see a quintessential Japanese scene: old, traditional Japanese shop, with its signage. And the ubiquitous Honda Cub motorcycle outside. Photographed in colour, in 65x24 aspect ratio, with the 65x24 app for iPhone.
ALT text detailsA tatami shop on the Kyu-Tokaido (Old Tokaido Road) in Aomonoyokocho, not far from where we live in Tokyo. We see a quintessential Japanese scene: old, traditional Japanese shop, with its signage. And the ubiquitous Honda Cub motorcycle outside. Photographed in colour, in 65x24 aspect ratio, with the 65x24 app for iPhone.
Detail of the front of a house on the Old Tokaido Road near Samezu, here in Tokyo. It's a house I love, for the trees and bushes that adorn it. Beautifully pruned and wonderfully arranged to be an integral part of the aesthetic of the dwelling. The four that are arranged up the staircase are particular favourites of mine. Photographed in black and white, in 65x24 aspect ratio, with the 65x24 app for iPhone.
ALT text detailsDetail of the front of a house on the Old Tokaido Road near Samezu, here in Tokyo. It's a house I love, for the trees and bushes that adorn it. Beautifully pruned and wonderfully arranged to be an integral part of the aesthetic of the dwelling. The four that are arranged up the staircase are particular favourites of mine. Photographed in black and white, in 65x24 aspect ratio, with the 65x24 app for iPhone.
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Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:

@norbertwoehnl@famichiki.jp

Mood.
(Taken just a few minutes ago - unprocessed out of camera).
Maenochō, , .

Late afternoon sun is casting the day’s last glow on a street in the Itabashi Ward of Tokyo, Japan.
ALT text detailsLate afternoon sun is casting the day’s last glow on a street in the Itabashi Ward of Tokyo, Japan.
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Alfie Goodrich

@alfiegoodrich@photog.social

Good morning to you all. Lovely sunny day here in Tokyo. Ended up being a nice, chilled Christmas Day here. Some family, some nice food and good conversation.

Hope you're having a good day so far.

Much love to you ❤️

Couple of pics from my locale, from a walk a couple of days ago. Details in ALT.

A tatami shop on the Kyu-Tokaido (Old Tokaido Road) in Aomonoyokocho, not far from where we live in Tokyo. We see a quintessential Japanese scene: old, traditional Japanese shop, with its signage. And the ubiquitous Honda Cub motorcycle outside. Photographed in colour, in 65x24 aspect ratio, with the 65x24 app for iPhone.
ALT text detailsA tatami shop on the Kyu-Tokaido (Old Tokaido Road) in Aomonoyokocho, not far from where we live in Tokyo. We see a quintessential Japanese scene: old, traditional Japanese shop, with its signage. And the ubiquitous Honda Cub motorcycle outside. Photographed in colour, in 65x24 aspect ratio, with the 65x24 app for iPhone.
Detail of the front of a house on the Old Tokaido Road near Samezu, here in Tokyo. It's a house I love, for the trees and bushes that adorn it. Beautifully pruned and wonderfully arranged to be an integral part of the aesthetic of the dwelling. The four that are arranged up the staircase are particular favourites of mine. Photographed in black and white, in 65x24 aspect ratio, with the 65x24 app for iPhone.
ALT text detailsDetail of the front of a house on the Old Tokaido Road near Samezu, here in Tokyo. It's a house I love, for the trees and bushes that adorn it. Beautifully pruned and wonderfully arranged to be an integral part of the aesthetic of the dwelling. The four that are arranged up the staircase are particular favourites of mine. Photographed in black and white, in 65x24 aspect ratio, with the 65x24 app for iPhone.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Wanna understand how Tokyo became Tokyo? One of our favorite books on the subject is EMERGENT TOKYO: DESIGNING THE SPONTANEOUS CITY. Check out our review to learn a little about how the city's low-rise neighborhoods and famous yokocho came to be.

unseen-japan.com/emergent-toky

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A custom-order dress company may ruin Coming of Age Day for some young people in Okinawa after disappearing with the money for around 130 orders totaling 7.3 million yen (USD $46.4K). Thankfully, it seems other businesses are stepping up to help save the day. Read more below.

unseen-japan.com/coming-of-age

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: A group of adult film stars, producers, sex workers, and even a number of prominent party politicians – including DPFP leader Tamaki Yuichiro – participated in a symposium this week intended to change Japan’s so-called “new AV law” regulating adult video production.

unseen-japan.com/tamaki-yuichi

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

When in Rome, they say, do as the Romans do. (Actually, in Japan, they say 郷に入っては郷に従え – but, hey, same concept.) But what happens when the locals don’t even agree on what the local customs are? Case in point: What's the best way to hold your backpack on the train?

unseen-japan.com/backpack-japa

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A survey by Mitsubishi Research Institute shows interest in Kansai World Expo 2025 is steadily declining. As of April 2024, only 27% of people polled nationwide said they wanted to go. That number dropped to 24% in the most recent survey conducted in October.

unseen-japan.com/kansai-expo-p

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Combini chain Family Mart discovered it can reduce food loss with the most Japan thing ever: a mascot. An experiment with a seal featuring an onigiri crying, "Save me!" boosted sales of soon-to-expire items by five points. It'll roll the seal out nationwide next year.

unseen-japan.com/family-mart-d

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A fire department manager in Hiroshima's Kure City was docked 10% of his pay for working dozens of night shifts for 11 of his employees. "I wanted to let them rest," he said. Japanese social media users are largely sympathizing with the "kind" supervisor.

unseen-japan.com/hiroshima-man

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A love for Doraemon brought 29-year-old Jiang Zhuojun from China to Japan in 2013. Now, he's a convicted criminal in the country he once loved. A Tokyo court sentenced Jiang to eight months unsuspended for his role in defacing Yasukuni Shrine in May.

unseen-japan.com/yasukuni-shri

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noco｜Flower Photographer

@noco3n_com@mstdn.jp

Christmas party tonight 🎄

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

A South Korean temple that claimed ownership of a Buddha statue stolen from a temple in Nagasaki Prefecture has said it will return the statue to the original owner next spring, after holding a 100-day memorial service. japantimes.co.jp/news/2024/12/

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japanese cosmetic surgeon Kuroda Aimi is facing massive criticism for a medical training trip to Guam after she posted photos online of cadavers with her flashing a peace sign. Netizens say she should lose her medical license. Some experts say that's unlikely to happen.

unseen-japan.com/kuroda-aimi-c

The header of Kuroda Aimi's blog on Ameblo
ALT text detailsThe header of Kuroda Aimi's blog on Ameblo
Kuroda Aimi on her TikTok with two other women. "”On our way to dissect a fresh cadaver!!” reads the caption
ALT text detailsKuroda Aimi on her TikTok with two other women. "”On our way to dissect a fresh cadaver!!” reads the caption
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Nine years ago, Takahashi Matsuri lost her life in a clear-cut case of karoshi, or death by overwork. In her annual letter, Takahashi's mother, Yukimi, remembers her daughter and calls for reforms to create a Japan "where everyone can work safely and live in hope."

unseen-japan.com/takahashi-mat

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The Azabudai Hills Mori JP Tower, Tokyo's new tallest building, presents a somewhat appealing facade to the average Tokyoite. So, what can you do at Azabudai Hills – and what does it signal for Tokyo’s ever-changing urban landscape?

unseen-japan.com/on-azabudai-h

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: Japan’s government wants to welcome 60 million tourists a year to the country by 2030. If it keeps growing at this rate, it might just do it. New numbers from the Japan National Travel Organization (JNTO) shows the country setting yet another record this month.

unseen-japan.com/japan-tourism

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: New app Tsuita operates as an anonymous message board. There’s no user sign-in – you can start posting to it immediately. You just can’t include Japanese kana – attempting to will produce an error message that prevents you from posting.

unseen-japan.com/tsuita-kanji-

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

After Kishiwada City mayor Nagano Kohei settled a civil lawsuit accusing him of sexual assault, the city's assembly passed a vote of no confidence. Nagano responded by dissolving the assembly and holding a press conference with his wife to defend himself.

unseen-japan.com/kishiwada-may

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: A Japanese food influencer made her recommendations on the best burgers in Tokyo in a post on her X account. Here are her six recommendations, plus another two recommendations from the folks on the UJ Discord.

unseen-japan.com/tokyo-best-bu

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: An influencer in Japan owes a company millions of dollars in damages over a collaboration deal that went south. A court agreed with the plaintiff in the case that the online star violated her contract when she got a boob job without their knowledge.

unseen-japan.com/tenchim-lawsu

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Will Osaka's World Expo 2025 be a financial bust? It's trending that way - and Japanese taxpayers might be on the hook. Reports say the event is only selling 30K tickets a week and won't sell enough to cover costs. Plus, surveys show, interest in the event is plummeting.

unseen-japan.com/kansai-expo-p

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atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Sea of Echigo (1957)

Artist: Kasamatsu Shiro

www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/new

Winter night gathers around a village by the sea. Snow covers the ground and the tile rooftops of the houses; warm lights glow in the windows. A figure carrying a lamp accompanies a smaller figure through the snow, approaching one of the houses. Beyond, the wintry Sea of Japan is dark, grey, and cold.
ALT text detailsWinter night gathers around a village by the sea. Snow covers the ground and the tile rooftops of the houses; warm lights glow in the windows. A figure carrying a lamp accompanies a smaller figure through the snow, approaching one of the houses. Beyond, the wintry Sea of Japan is dark, grey, and cold.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japan's tourism boom is generating profits for many local businesses. However, it may be leaving domestic travelers out in the cold. Domestic tourism this year largely failed to exceed last year's numbers due to rising costs of goods, expensive hotel prices, and overtourism.

unseen-japan.com/japan-domesti

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

You don't hear much about gun violence in Japan. You hear even less about rocket launcher violence. And yet, Fukuoka Prefectural police have confirmed that a couple in their 70s found a live rocket launcher lying in the grass in Kitakyushu back in May.

unseen-japan.com/rocket-launch

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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social

🥚GACHA ODDITIES🐣

I have a particular soft spot for gachapon (ガシャポン/ガチャポン), those little capsule toys you find all over Japan.

Of all the gacha oddities to be found, surely 'Kabuki Owls' (カブクロウ) have to be up there with the strangest.

Kabuki owls (カブクロウ), just another of those odd capsule toys you find in Japan.
ALT text detailsKabuki owls (カブクロウ), just another of those odd capsule toys you find in Japan.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A site in Kamakura made famous by the anime Slam Dunk is the latest Japanese tourism destination aiming to clamp down on bad manners. Kamakura city officials say they'll set up a security camera this month to deter photo-taking from the road near the famous train crossing.

unseen-japan.com/kamakura-slam

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A recent tweet bemoaned the disappearance of benches in Tokyo. "I always sit by the Imperial Palace moat," the user said. "Only the Emperor lets us sit for free." It's another sign that free resting spaces in Tokyo are falling to rapid development and hostile architecture.

unseen-japan.com/tokyo-disappe

Tweet by X user @windymelt: "There are no free places to sit in Tokyo so I always sit on the benches around the moat of the Imperial Palace, only the Emperor lets us sit for free”
ALT text detailsTweet by X user @windymelt: "There are no free places to sit in Tokyo so I always sit on the benches around the moat of the Imperial Palace, only the Emperor lets us sit for free”
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Somewhat dumbfounded and feeling out of touch with today’s youth, a Japanese reporter set up shop outside Nagano Station and ran an informal survey of people in their teens and 20s: do you see "egui" as good? Or bad? The vast majority said they saw it as good.

unseen-japan.com/egui-japanese

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

How do you become a miko (Shinto shrine maiden) in Japan? A new school is opening up paths for any woman who speaks Japanese to train for the culturally significant job. Get an inside peek at miko school in our detailed coverage below.

unseen-japan.com/japanese-shri

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

When Elon Musk bought Twitter, Mixi trended briefly as JP users mulled a return to the still-operating service. Mixi came up again as a possible refuge when technical problems on Twitter froze thousands of legitimate accounts – an event known as the “Ice Age” among Japanese users.

Mixi's now back and hoping to make fetch happen with its newly-released app, Mixi 2. More info here:

unseen-japan.com/mixi-2-japan-

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Ito Shiori's documentary about her sexual assault, BLACK BOX DIARIES, just made the Oscar shortlist. However, a former attorney claims the film uses "unauthorized" footage to make its case. In an interview, Ito defends her use of the CCTV and audio recordings.

unseen-japan.com/ito-shiori-bl

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Cup Noodle wants you to know they're not squidding around. Nissin's released a fishy new product for eating its signature junk food - and made a hard-to-translate Japanese pun at the same time. Get yours while supplies last.

unseen-japan.com/cup-noodle-sq

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Thanks, resellers: Voice actress Yamaguchi Yuriko (Evangelion's Akagi Ritsuko, ONE PIECE's Nico Robin) says she won't do signings anymore after items from a charity event landed on online auction sites, just the latest example from Japan of how resellers make everything worse.

unseen-japan.com/evangelion-vo

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A lawyer in Japan says, yes, it's legal for restaurants to refuse service to non-Japanese speakers. However, if they refuse customers, not due to spoken language, but on the basis of their race or nationality, that violates the 14th Amendment of Japan’s Constitution.

unseen-japan.com/japanese-sign

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Polls – even those from traditionally conservative media outlets – consistently show over 60% of people in Japan support marriage equality. However, hard-right elements of Japan’s Liberal Democratic Party, until recently the ruling party, have prevented a bill from becoming reality.

unseen-japan.com/marriage-equa

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Thinking of moving to Tokyo? Living there but hate where you live? Here's where people are happiest living and where they most want to remain living, according to a popular yearly survey. (Warning: You'll need a fair amount of yen.)

unseen-japan.com/tokyo-city-ha

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japanese Communist Party legislator Matsui Yumiko of Tsushima City, Aichi Prefecture, is out of a job after drinking to excess at a "mama party," collapsing, & then attacking a hospital nurse & inflicting serious injuries. Matsui claimed she "didn't remember" the incident.

unseen-japan.com/jcp-matsui-yu

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Earth Corporation, a company in Japan that sells a line of pesticides, kills a lot of insects every year. And every year, they make sure to atone for it. This week, the company continued its 40+-year tradition of holding a memorial for the bugs that died for its research.

unseen-japan.com/japan-insect-

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Solar Tokyo

@solar_tokyo@mas.to

The sun will rise in tomorrow at 6:47, 29 seconds later than the day before.
It will set at 16:31, 28 seconds later than the day before.

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Could standing soba restaurants meet the fate of ramen shops in Japan? Some soba places - including a few that have been in business for over 100 years - say the "500 yen wall" prevents them from raising prices even as the cost of doing business continues to climb.

unseen-japan.com/soba-restaura

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

TBS idol contest program Seven Colors was supposed to announce its winners this week. Instead, producers outraged fans by saying they'd debut moxymill in January w/ less than the planned seven members because they just didn't find the contestants charming enough.

buff.ly/4iOL6cI

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Weather Mizu

@mizu@mastodon.social

20-day mean temperature anomalies shows colder December well. The weather last into very late this month.

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The character 町 - pronounced either "chou" or "machi" - is common in Japanese town and neighborhood names. But how do you tell if a given place is a "chou" or a "machi"? The answer is that, like everything else related to languages, it's complicated and messy.

unseen-japan.com/japanese-plac

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: It’s a weird situation where a company apologizes for one of its hit products. But that’s what happened this week when Mister Donut said it was sorry for the rampant “individuality” of its new Pokémon donuts.

unseen-japan.com/mister-donut-

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Singer-songwriter GACKT, in a lengthy X post on how Japan is "moving in a different direction" than other countries, said "one choice" is for Japan to return to the isolationism it practiced for over 200 years during the Edo era.

GACKT lives in Malaysia.

unseen-japan.com/gackt-japan-i

GACKT beckons you to the sweet release of sakoku
ALT text detailsGACKT beckons you to the sweet release of sakoku
GACKT X Post on 12/19. Original Japanese: 12月12日から大麻の”使用”も罪になる。 アメリカとは異なる方向に進む日本。だが、今回の法律強化は「ダメなものはダメ」とさらに日本のルールが明確化されただけの話だ。 国が違えばルールも違い、常識も異なる。 例えば、日本の「器を持って食事をする」という礼儀も、多くの海外では「非常識」とみなされる。 逆に、海外で許されることが日本では許されないのも当然だ。 結局、どこにいても大事なのは、その国のルールや礼儀への敬意を持った振る舞い。 「日本ではダメ」と言われていることをしたいなら、それがOKな国で生きればいいだけ。 「やっちゃいけないことはやるな」っていう子供でも分かるシンプルな話だ。 しかし、現実問題として、日本人の多くは世界の常識を知らず、外国人も日本の常識を理解していないことが多い。 だからこそ、両者にとってのガイドラインを整備する必要がある。 ガイドラインがあやふやなら、混乱を招き問題が増えるばかり。 いっそのこと、鎖国して自国だけで成り立つ道を模索するのも一つの手かもしれない。 もっとも、今の時代、それは不可能に近いが。 ちなみに、ボクは鎖国賛成派。オマエはどうだ？
ALT text detailsGACKT X Post on 12/19. Original Japanese: 12月12日から大麻の”使用”も罪になる。 アメリカとは異なる方向に進む日本。だが、今回の法律強化は「ダメなものはダメ」とさらに日本のルールが明確化されただけの話だ。 国が違えばルールも違い、常識も異なる。 例えば、日本の「器を持って食事をする」という礼儀も、多くの海外では「非常識」とみなされる。 逆に、海外で許されることが日本では許されないのも当然だ。 結局、どこにいても大事なのは、その国のルールや礼儀への敬意を持った振る舞い。 「日本ではダメ」と言われていることをしたいなら、それがOKな国で生きればいいだけ。 「やっちゃいけないことはやるな」っていう子供でも分かるシンプルな話だ。 しかし、現実問題として、日本人の多くは世界の常識を知らず、外国人も日本の常識を理解していないことが多い。 だからこそ、両者にとってのガイドラインを整備する必要がある。 ガイドラインがあやふやなら、混乱を招き問題が増えるばかり。 いっそのこと、鎖国して自国だけで成り立つ道を模索するのも一つの手かもしれない。 もっとも、今の時代、それは不可能に近いが。 ちなみに、ボクは鎖国賛成派。オマエはどうだ？
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noco｜Flower Photographer

@noco3n_com@mstdn.jp

あなたを幻想的な青色花世界にお連れします。

I will take you to the fantastic world of blue flowers.

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Tenchim, the YouTuber who lost millions in court claiming a bra made her boobs bigger (not a thing) after she had boob surgery, now says she'll pay off the debt by going back to the well one more time. "Paying bra debt w/ bras," she said in her video post showing new designs.

Post by Tenchim showing new bra designs
ALT text detailsPost by Tenchim showing new bra designs
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Democratic Party for the People (DPFP) leader Tamaki Yuichiro attended a symposium this week aimed at changing Japan's "New Adult Video Law." Adult industry attendees hope Tamaki's attention helps drive changes to the law, which they say is hurting their livelihoods.

unseen-japan.com/tamaki-yuichi

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Somehow, someone managed to steal 1,200 cabbages out from under the nose of a farmer in Japan's Ibaraki Prefecture. Cabbage theft has apparently become a popular crime in Ibaraki as prices have risen by 3.6x in a year, making them a valuable target.

unseen-japan.com/1200-stolen-c

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

With tourists continuing to stream into Japan, the cost of hotels - even those geared towards domestic travelers - is skyrocketing. That's forcing local business travelers assigned fixed budgets to settle for capsule hotels - or worse.

unseen-japan.com/hotels-japan-

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

"I'm always searching. Since I've been born, I've been searching desperately. Searching for a partner with whom I can create a perfectly overlapping heart." - Iijima Ai (1972-2008)

unseen-japan.com/iijima-ai/?ut

Iijima Ai
ALT text detailsIijima Ai
Iijima Ai
ALT text detailsIijima Ai
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Three decades after the shocking murders of famed fortune teller Fujita Kototome and her son Goro, a twist has emerged in the case. Fukusaku Raita, the man convicted of their murders, died in his prison cell. But did he actually do it?

unseen-japan.com/fortune-telle

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

UJ works to provide accurate updates about the changing state of Japanese society from a liberal perspective. We're a small, independent outlet - if you like what we do, consider supporting us so we can keep on keepin' on.

unseen-japan.com/support/?utm_

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Nithin Coca నితిన్

@ncoca@social.coop

Something the and (and some of the world's most despotic regimes) can apparently all agree on - the use of the

Item 71 (b) - A/79/458/Add.2 DR XIV e Moratorium on the use of the death penaltvy
ALT text detailsItem 71 (b) - A/79/458/Add.2 DR XIV e Moratorium on the use of the death penaltvy
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Wanna stress-test your Japanese knowledge? A new social media app for Japanese users, Tsuita, dares you to ditch kana by allowing only kanji input, a.k.a. "Pseudo-Chinese." The app's been such a hit that users crashed the service temporarily (it's since been restored).

unseen-japan.com/tsuika-kanji-

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Waymo is partnering with two taxi companies in Japan to pilot self-driving "robotaxis" in seven cities in Tokyo next year. The experiment could provide more taxi capacity in the face of a chronic labor shortage - but Waymo's US record raises questions about its safety.

unseen-japan.com/self-driving-

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

As the media in Japan continues to focus on overtourism, the country announces that it saw more tourists than ever last month. Japan welcomed 3.187 million tourists - a 30.5% increase from 2019. More on the spike - and some of the problems it's causing - below.

buff.ly/400qmXW

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: Sanrio is always up for new and interesting collaborations for its characters. (Case in point: the recent amazing Junji Ito collab.) Somehow, though, I don’t think they’d do an official collab with the Ukrainian military. And yet...

buff.ly/3ZxpM2o

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Japanese model and YouTube entertainer Tenchim owes millions of dollars to bra manufacturer Yuiku, a Japanese court has ruled. The online star sold a successful line of bras she said encouraged breast growth - without revealing that she'd had breast augmentation surgery.

buff.ly/4iGO4zE

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Japan has set a new annual record for visitor arrivals with one month to spare, with the total for 2024 so far at 33.4 million. japantimes.co.jp/news/2024/12/

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Nithin Coca నితిన్

@ncoca@social.coop

Great to see that the latest report from 's Renewable Energy Institute specifically mentions both & intensity as concerns with 's dominance of global

One of the first times a /#energy group in Japan, as far as I know, has raised this. Not surprised its REI, the most independent & expert led such org.

renewable-ei.org/en/activities

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Funeo Funekawa

@funefune_kyoto@mstdn.tokyocameraclub.com

京都の紅葉の寺(2)

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The governor of Akita Prefecture has some choice words for people who object to Akita City's decision to exterminate a bear that invaded a supermarket, telling legislators that if anyone complained about it to him, he'd threaten to send a bear to their homes. The gov also had some other...innovative ideas for bear control, such as putting explosives in food and remotely exploding them while in the bear's stomach. (...)

unseen-japan.com/akita-governo

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Hungry for a burger in Tokyo? Good news - you have a ton of options. A popular Japanese food influencer recently made her top six suggestions for burgers in Tokyo. Check 'em out and let us know what you think.

unseen-japan.com/tokyo-best-bu

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atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Ushibori Ferry (1930)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/new

Snow falls as evening settles on a riverbank. A single pilot steers an small open wooden boat across a river, their solitary passenger sheltering under a wide bamboo umbrella. The little ferry is headed toward a small landing on the far side of the river, where a handful of traditional thatched-roof houses crowd in close beneath trees. The houses, the trees, and the fields beyond carry a layer of fresh snow, and snow continues to fall across the scene. Above, the sky is dim and overcast. Apart from a light glowing in the window of one of the houses, the image is rendered in shades of cool blue.
ALT text detailsSnow falls as evening settles on a riverbank. A single pilot steers an small open wooden boat across a river, their solitary passenger sheltering under a wide bamboo umbrella. The little ferry is headed toward a small landing on the far side of the river, where a handful of traditional thatched-roof houses crowd in close beneath trees. The houses, the trees, and the fields beyond carry a layer of fresh snow, and snow continues to fall across the scene. Above, the sky is dim and overcast. Apart from a light glowing in the window of one of the houses, the image is rendered in shades of cool blue.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Prices continue to climb in Japan while wages remain stagnant, putting many in a rough spot. The government says it wants to raise the minimum wage to 1500 yen (USD $9.80) by the 2030s. However, in a survey, nearly half of businesses said they can't afford that.

unseen-japan.com/japan-hourly-

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

22.6% of Japanese food service businesses don’t want more tourists as customers, one survey found. The language gap is the primary reason. However, others are concerned that hosting non-Japanese speakers will ruin the store's vibe as a neighborhood hangout.

unseen-japan.com/japanese-sign

A graph showing 22.6% of food service businesses don't want to increase tourist traffic
ALT text detailsA graph showing 22.6% of food service businesses don't want to increase tourist traffic
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

As "customer harassment" in Japan continues to increase, more businesses and governments are looking for ways to protect their employees. Kumamoto City has become the latest to announce it'll remove employee's first names from their name tags to prevent online harassment.

unseen-japan.com/kumamoto-city

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A shocking crime on Japan's island of Kyushu has everyone on high alert. After the random stabbing of two middle-school children in Kitakyushu, many parents decided to keep their kids home, with the local Board of Education reporting 4,168 students absent on Monday.

unseen-japan.com/4200-students

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noco｜Flower Photographer

@noco3n_com@mstdn.jp

高原の黄昏は静かで優しくて美しい。

The twilight on the plateau is quiet, gentle and beautiful.



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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: Women in Japanese business are notably absent in leadership positions. A new report has good news and bad news: there are more female company presidents in Japan than ever – but the number still remains well below 10% of the total.

unseen-japan.com/japan-company

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Walk News

@walknews@jforo.com

walknews.com/694084/ 生活保護費、月500円程度引き上げへ調整 物価高で増額求める声も

生活保護費、月500円程度引き上げへ調整 物価高で増額求める声も
ALT text details生活保護費、月500円程度引き上げへ調整 物価高で増額求める声も
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The days in Japan where you could casually name your kid "Nausicaä" or "Pickachu" are coming to an end: a new revision to Japan's Family Registration Law will demand parents provide written defenses of so-called "kira kira" names. Learn more below.

unseen-japan.com/kira-kira-nam

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Is Japan ready to do social media like it's 2004? MIXI Inc. hopes so. The company, whose Mixi service hosted 15 million active daily users at its peak, has announced a new Twitter-like version, Mixi 2, that's less "town square" & more about connecting you with your friends.

unseen-japan.com/mixi-2-japan-

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A store in Kyoto made headlines when it posted a sign in English and Chinese saying it was closed - but, in small print, it welcomed anyone who could read Japanese. It's clever - but is it legal? A lawyer in Japan says: yeah, pretty much.

unseen-japan.com/japanese-sign

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Jeff Forcier

@bitprophet@social.coop

‼️ 2015, 🌝 misskey.flowers/notes/a1tzbde3

Photo of Tokyo Tower at night, from a specific intersection. It is the exact same framing as the daytime photo in the post mine is quoting.
ALT text detailsPhoto of Tokyo Tower at night, from a specific intersection. It is the exact same framing as the daytime photo in the post mine is quoting.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Find out why "heat shock," changes to the popular Suica card, and contention over Shinkansen reserved seats generated discussion in Japan in the latest issue of the UJ Newsletter:

mailchi.mp/2f8bdb296262/why-ar

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bdonnelly

@Theblueone@mastodon.social

Sally 1st Album "BURN IT" Music Video "Lost at SEA"

youtube.com/watch?v=G9GF3cgW44

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Alfie Goodrich

@alfiegoodrich@photog.social

My 2025 4K desktop calendar is now available in my download shop, in both English and Japanese versions.

This year there are three different calendars to choose from.

私の2025年4K卓上カレンダーが、英語版と日本語版の両方でダウンロードショップに登場した。

今年は3種類のカレンダーからお選びいただけます。

ko-fi.com/alfiejapanorama/shop





A screenshot from my online download store, showing all three versions of my 2025 4K desktop calendar, in both English and Japanese.
ALT text detailsA screenshot from my online download store, showing all three versions of my 2025 4K desktop calendar, in both English and Japanese.
A sample of the August wallpaper from my 2025 4K desktop English calendar. The picture shows festival lanterns in Asagaya, Tokyo.
ALT text detailsA sample of the August wallpaper from my 2025 4K desktop English calendar. The picture shows festival lanterns in Asagaya, Tokyo.
A sample of the August wallpaper from my 2025 4K desktop English calendar. The picture shows vending machines in the snow, in the Towada-Hachimantai national park.
ALT text detailsA sample of the August wallpaper from my 2025 4K desktop English calendar. The picture shows vending machines in the snow, in the Towada-Hachimantai national park.
A sample of the August wallpaper from my 2025 4K desktop English calendar. The picture shows votive tablets (ema) at the Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto.
ALT text detailsA sample of the August wallpaper from my 2025 4K desktop English calendar. The picture shows votive tablets (ema) at the Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

We were discussing Japan's new marijuana regulations on the UJ Discord server and it made us recall the Reefer Madness comic that Wakayama Prefecture published in 2020. They yanked it from their website after social media ripped it to shreds. Check it out below.

unseen-japan.com/anti-drug-man

Scene from "Manga for Edification Regarding Preventing Drug Abuse" (薬物乱用防止啓発まんが
ALT text detailsScene from "Manga for Edification Regarding Preventing Drug Abuse" (薬物乱用防止啓発まんが
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Because Jōjakkō-ji blends so well into nature, it is often known as 'Hei no nai-dera' (塀のない寺), the 'Temple Without Walls'.
Like many Kyōto temples, it is also known as 'Hana-no-dera' (花の寺), the 'Temple of Flowers'.

Pagoda and yellow maple leaves.
ALT text detailsPagoda and yellow maple leaves.
Yellow flowers add a splash of colour to the verdant gardens of Jojakko-ji.
ALT text detailsYellow flowers add a splash of colour to the verdant gardens of Jojakko-ji.
Bamboo grove within Jojakko-ji's precincts.
ALT text detailsBamboo grove within Jojakko-ji's precincts.
A canopy of red awaits visitors as they pass up Jojakko-ji's mountain precincts.
ALT text detailsA canopy of red awaits visitors as they pass up Jojakko-ji's mountain precincts.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Should Japan follow Australia's lead and ban social media for kids under 16? Two polls conducted this month show little support for an outright ban but majority support for "some form" of legal restriction. Learn more below.

unseen-japan.com/japan-social-

NTV poll showing 66% approval for social media restrictions for minors
ALT text detailsNTV poll showing 66% approval for social media restrictions for minors
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

In 1596 the old abbot of Honkoku-ji (本圀寺), Nisshin (日禛 1561-1617), received a parcel of land on Mt. Ogura (小倉山) from the wealthy Suminokura family.

He constructed a thatched hut overlooking the Saga Moor (嵯峨野), where he could escape the world.

Jojakko-ji's bell tower surrounded by autumn colours.
ALT text detailsJojakko-ji's bell tower surrounded by autumn colours.
Jojakko-ji is filled with maple trees, making it particularly beautiful in early summer and autumn.
ALT text detailsJojakko-ji is filled with maple trees, making it particularly beautiful in early summer and autumn.
Looking down at Jojakko-ji's pagoda. Come autumn and the whole mountainside becomes a riot of reds and yellows.
ALT text detailsLooking down at Jojakko-ji's pagoda. Come autumn and the whole mountainside becomes a riot of reds and yellows.
Late afternoon and the shadows lengthen in Jojakko's garden of moss and maple.
ALT text detailsLate afternoon and the shadows lengthen in Jojakko's garden of moss and maple.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social

🍃🍁THE TEMPLE WITHOUT WALLS🍂🌨️

the autumn wind
twisting and turning
enters my gate
秋風や曲がり曲がりて門に入
-Kobayashi Issa (小林一茶), 1814.
Trans. David Lanoue.

Of all the temples in Kyōto, Jōjakkō-ji's (常寂光寺) seasonal transformations are some of the most beautiful.

...and this is where Kurobee lives🐈‍⬛

Jojakko-ji's pagoda adorned with autumn leaves.
ALT text detailsJojakko-ji's pagoda adorned with autumn leaves.
Vibrant, fresh green maple leaves illuminate the gate and grounds of Jojakko-ji.
ALT text detailsVibrant, fresh green maple leaves illuminate the gate and grounds of Jojakko-ji.
Kurobee, Jojakko-ji's black temple cat welcomes visitors.
ALT text detailsKurobee, Jojakko-ji's black temple cat welcomes visitors.
Jojakko-ji's rustic gate under a sprinkling of snow.
ALT text detailsJojakko-ji's rustic gate under a sprinkling of snow.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Being called “tako” in Japanese might sound like someone’s calling you a marine animal. In fact, the insult goes back to Japan’s Edo era – and, according to one theory, is deeply associated with the era’s feudal hierarchy.

unseen-japan.com/octopus-tako-

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Could marriage equality finally pass in Japan? A ruling from the Fukuoka High Court last week is putting pressure on legislators to act. Now, one report says there may be enough votes in the House of Representatives to make it happen.

unseen-japan.com/marriage-equa

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: The sudden death of a popular actress and singer in Tokyo last week shocked her fans. It’s also spurred multiple warnings in Japanese media urging people to avoid “heat shock” when bathing.

unseen-japan.com/nakayama-miho

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Nozaki Kosuke and Sudo Saki were married on a butsumetsu (仏滅) day – the unluckiest day for special occasions according to Japan’s rokuyō lunar calendar. Nozaki said he wasn’t bothered by this.

Perhaps he should have been.

unseen-japan.com/sudo-saki-don

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A karaage izakaya in Tokyo's Akasaka neighborhood went viral recently for a billboard advertising an "all you can eat" option. Once inside, however, you learn that the offer only lasts for 30 minutes. Oh, and did we mention the entire restaurant allows smoking??

unseen-japan.com/all-you-can-e

Outside menu for Hitosuji in Akasaka
ALT text detailsOutside menu for Hitosuji in Akasaka
Inside menu for Hitosuji in Akasaka, as described in the tweet
ALT text detailsInside menu for Hitosuji in Akasaka, as described in the tweet
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A Chinese family says a medical clinic in Tokyo engaged in anti-Chinese discrimination when it handed them a survey that asked if they planned to cause a ruckus or resell the drugs they were given. The clinic insists the survey isn't discriminatory.

unseen-japan.com/tokyo-medical

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

IYCMI: Yet another hamburg joint in Japan has gone viral for undercooking its meat. On the plus side, no one ended up in the hospital this time! The restaurant further calls into question the "drinkable hamburg" concept that's landed a few people in the hospital already.

unseen-japan.com/japan-underco

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Mister Donut's Diglett donuts have taken Japan by storm as users revel in the amusing individual variations from donut to donut. So everyone was shocked when the company apologized this week, saying the variations "weren't intentional" and it "feels bad" about them.

unseen-japan.com/mister-donut-

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Sending postcards as the first greeting for the New Year is a tradition dating way back in Japan. However, surveys show more people than ever are quitting the practice, opting to send e-greetings via LINE or e-mail instead.

unseen-japan.com/nengajo-new-y

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

If you've never smoked marijuana in Japan...well, don't start now. While possession and sale of the devil's lettuce has been illegal in Japan for decades, usage has not. Learn more about why that's suddenly changed.

unseen-japan.com/marijuana-use

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: Japan has long struggled to combat sexual crimes against women – particularly nonconsensual photography. Now, news reports say that schools are struggling with how to handle a spike in nonconsensual photography among students.

unseen-japan.com/nonconsensual

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: Japanese pop singer Ado revealed in a series of Twitter posts that she’s been living in the United States for a bit and trying to improve her English. Sadly, she reports, it hasn’t been going as well as she’d hoped.

unseen-japan.com/ado-living-in

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Mozart Petter

@mokkun@mastodon.social

Winter ride

A picture of a red bicycle with bags attached to it. At the background you can see Mount Fuji during sunset. Its summit is covered with snow.
ALT text detailsA picture of a red bicycle with bags attached to it. At the background you can see Mount Fuji during sunset. Its summit is covered with snow.
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SeanBreslin

@SeanBreslin@famichiki.jp

1/2: All taken today while out walking + zero expectations. (Winter is much easier than summer.)

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The price of everything in Japan is going up lately. Christmas cakes, a holiday staple since Japan's Taisho era, are no exception. Profit margins are so tight this year that some bakers say they might stop making them altogether.

buff.ly/49ATLey

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A free K-Pop concert planned for next year in Nara Park is drawing a ton of controversy for its short duration and huge cost to the taxpayer. New comments this week from Nara's governor intended to quell the controversy only added fuel to the fire.

unseen-japan.com/nara-kpop-con

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A Kyoto resident is asking a court to allow them to update their family registry to reflect their nonbinary gender identity. The petition asks to change the listing on their registry from "eldest daughter" to the gender-neutral "first child."

unseen-japan.com/nonbinary-fam

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

E-scooters like those rented by LUUP in Japan come with a button that turns the device into an “Exceptional Specified Small Motorized Bicycle,” limiting its top speed to 6kph. Make sure to press this button if you take one on the sidewalk - or you could be fined.

unseen-japan.com/e-scooter-mis

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Sudo Saki was accused of murdering her husband - a notorious playboy who went by the flamboyant nickname "the Don Juan of Kishu." This week, Sudo became one of the 0.1% of criminal defendants in Japan who win their cases. Here's how the prosecution's flimsy case fell flat.

unseen-japan.com/sudo-saki-don

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noco｜Flower Photographer

@noco3n_com@mstdn.jp

ぼくらの秋の大冒険が始まる。

Our big adventure begins in autumn.

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Solar Tokyo

@solar_tokyo@mas.to

The sun will rise in tomorrow at 6:43, 41 seconds later than the day before.
It will set at 16:28, 14 seconds later than the day before.

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Should tourists be hit with fines for taking reserved seats that aren't theirs on a Shinkansen train in Japan? That's what some are arguing as travelers struggle to understand (or ignore) basic bullet train seating rules.

unseen-japan.com/tourists-shin

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@zutalorz🤕

@zutalorz@haunted.computer

📷: Koki Ueda/Fuehrsn

These two cranes were photographes in Tsurui, Hokkaido, Japan. Their breath in the sunrise light looks like fire
ALT text detailsThese two cranes were photographes in Tsurui, Hokkaido, Japan. Their breath in the sunrise light looks like fire
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Kuromi appears to have moved on from her beef with My Melody and now has a new enemy: Russia! Here's why (we think) the mischievous little devil from Sanrio has made an appearance on a wall of badges belonging to various Ukrainian military detachments.

unseen-japan.com/kuromi-ukrain

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

It seems companies in Japan are more excited about holding end-of-year work parties than people are on attending them. One survey found 59.5% of companies plan to hold such parties. But in another survey, 65.9% of employees say they have no plans to show up.

unseen-japan.com/japan-work-pa

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

ICYMI: Our most popular article (over 50K views) last week was on a discovery that one department at Tokyo University had embedded "June 4th Tiananmen" as a hidden HTML keyword to keep mainland Chinese students out of its graduate program. Learn more below.

unseen-japan.com/tokyo-univers

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Warnings about "heat shock" in Japanese media aren't unfounded. According to TBS News Dig, Japan sees over 20,000 bath-related deaths every year. In 2011, 3.7 times more people died in their baths in the country than died in traffic accidents.

unseen-japan.com/nakayama-miho

Graphic from a TBS news program containing info described in post
ALT text detailsGraphic from a TBS news program containing info described in post
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Planning to ride an e-scooter around a Japanese city? Be careful if you take the devices on the sidewalk. One Japanese user found this out the hard way after police slapped him with a 6000 yen fine.

unseen-japan.com/e-scooter-mis

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Spot the Kuromi

Article on Ukraine's Zelenskyy saying they're making personnel changes to reboot the warrior training system. In a case of military insignia behind them, one of the badges shows Kuromi-chan
ALT text detailsArticle on Ukraine's Zelenskyy saying they're making personnel changes to reboot the warrior training system. In a case of military insignia behind them, one of the badges shows Kuromi-chan
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

“Bought this ridiculous battery storage case”

It's a battery of batteries, you gotta love it

Tweet for @yacopu: バカみたいな電池収納ケース買った。
ALT text detailsTweet for @yacopu: バカみたいな電池収納ケース買った。
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Our January tour roster is filling up fast! If you're planning a trip to Japan next month, contact us for custom guided tours to some truly unseen locations, filled with rich discussions of Japanese history, culture, and current events. Book today:

unseen-japan.com/unseen-japan-

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The people have spoken: The Kanji of the Year for 2024 is 金 (kin, kane), meaning money or gold - a character reflecting a range of topics from the Olympics to the LDP's embarrassing political slush fund scandal. Learn what other characters also made the news below.

unseen-japan.com/2024-kanji-of

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

You can make a profit selling anything on the Internet, it seems. In the latest trend, some resellers on Japanese sites like Mercari are making beer money selling old pamphlets meant for new Nintendo employees - some dating back over a decade.

unseen-japan.com/nintendo-empl

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A supposed "Ainu History Learning Association" has been holding "learning sessions" that promote disinformation about the indigenous group. Last month, a local activist group showed up to protest the propaganda.

unseen-japan.com/ainu-hate-dem

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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social

🪙THE GOLDEN PAVILION🔥

True beauty is something that attacks, overpowers, robs, & finally destroys.
-Mishima Yukio (三島由紀夫).

In 1950, almost bald of gold & having survived the Ōnin War, Kinkaku-ji was burnt to the ground by Hayashi Yōken, one of its own novice monks.

Snowy day at Kinkaku-ji.
ALT text detailsSnowy day at Kinkaku-ji.
Autumn adds a splash of red to the gardens of Kinkaku-ji.
ALT text detailsAutumn adds a splash of red to the gardens of Kinkaku-ji.
Kinkaku-ji in 1885. This, the original building, was destroyed in 1950. You can see that almost no gold remained on the original structure by the 20thC.
ALT text detailsKinkaku-ji in 1885. This, the original building, was destroyed in 1950. You can see that almost no gold remained on the original structure by the 20thC.
Summetime at Kinkaku-ji.
ALT text detailsSummetime at Kinkaku-ji.
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A city in Gifu Prefecture wants to give middle schoolers free lunches. So far, so good. However, it's sparked a debate in Japan after saying it'll fund the project by ending a 100K yen prize it gives to senior citizens who turn 100. Is that fair? Read up on the debate.

unseen-japan.com/free-school-l

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Good news! There are more female company presidents in Japan than ever before. The bad news? That number is still pathetically low - a mere 8.4%, according to a new report. More details plus additional information on Japanese women's struggles in the workplace below.

unseen-japan.com/japan-company

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

It's a common trope that "Japan's living in the future." But the country still has some train stations where you need a physical ticket. Next year, JR West will (finally) install IC card gates at Tottori Station, its last station that still collects paper passes.

unseen-japan.com/tottori-stati

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Street prostitution is on the rise in most major cities in Japan. Police and city leaders in Osaka had a unique idea for deterring the practice in the Umeda hotel district: paint the road a gaudy yellow. At least for now, they say, that plan seems to be working.

unseen-japan.com/umeda-yellow-

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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Deck the school halls with Famichiki? FamilyMart is making headlines today with its announcement of a very Japanese Christmas-themed giveaway, as it says it'll distribute over 10,000 of its boneless fried chicken fillets as free school lunches in the city of Sayama.

unseen-japan.com/familymart-fa

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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

By the end of the Ōnin War (1467-77) only 1 of the Tōji-ji temples survived...Kitatōji-ji (北等持寺). It is this temple that we now know as Tōji-in.

The Ashikaga shōgunate was both a blessing and curse for Kyōto. The clan's patronage aided in an extraordinary blossoming of culture, but their weakening grip on power resulted in a 10 year civil war that completely destroyed the capital and led to the "Warring States period".

Kinkaku-ji, the 'Golden Pavilion'.
ALT text detailsKinkaku-ji, the 'Golden Pavilion'.
Sunbeams burst over the grounds of Ginkaku-ji.
ALT text detailsSunbeams burst over the grounds of Ginkaku-ji.
Ginkaku-ji, the 'Silver Pavilion'.
ALT text detailsGinkaku-ji, the 'Silver Pavilion'.
Kinkaku-ji in the snow.
ALT text detailsKinkaku-ji in the snow.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

The Tōji-in we recognise today emerged in 1358 as the funerary temple of Ashikaga Takauji (足利尊氏). Originally founded in 1341 under the guidance of Musō Soseki, the temple was one of a handful constructed by the Ashikaga family in Kyōto, all bearing the name Tōji-ji (等持寺).

It is thought the original Tōji-ji stood within the Sanjō Bōmon palace, built to pray for those killed in the Genkō War (元弘の乱).

An autumn paradise on one of the two ponds within Toji-in's large pond. Originally large pavilions would have stood on the islands.
ALT text detailsAn autumn paradise on one of the two ponds within Toji-in's large pond. Originally large pavilions would have stood on the islands.
The stroll garden of Toji-in, resplendent in its autumn colours.
ALT text detailsThe stroll garden of Toji-in, resplendent in its autumn colours.
The dry landscape garden before Toji-in's main hall.
ALT text detailsThe dry landscape garden before Toji-in's main hall.
A bright splash of autumn colour in the stroll garden at Toji-in.
ALT text detailsA bright splash of autumn colour in the stroll garden at Toji-in.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Tōji-in's 'north garden' (北庭) is counted as 1 of Musō Soseki's (夢窓疎石 1275-1351) '3 Great Gardens' (国師三大庭園).

Inspired by the grounds of neighbouring Shinnyo-ji (真如寺), Soseki created a gently rising 3D 'painting', using Mt Kinugasa (衣笠山) as borrowed scenery.

Video of Toji-in's 'north garden' and Seiren-tei teahouse.
ALT text detailsVideo of Toji-in's 'north garden' and Seiren-tei teahouse.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social

⚔️THE ASHIKAGA - KYŌTO'S CHAOTIC SHŌGUNATE🔥

Very close to own Camellia Garden Teahouse is Tōji-in (等持院), funerary temple of the Ashikaga shōguns.

The temple's teahouse 'Seiren-tei' (清漣亭) is one of the city's oldest, constructed by Ashikaga Yoshimasa (足利義政) around 1457.

Seiren-tei teahouse at Toji-in, one of the city's oldest.
ALT text detailsSeiren-tei teahouse at Toji-in, one of the city's oldest.
Matcha and sweets at Toji-in. The tea bowl features the Ashikaga crest.
ALT text detailsMatcha and sweets at Toji-in. The tea bowl features the Ashikaga crest.
Autumn in Toji-in's stroll garden.
ALT text detailsAutumn in Toji-in's stroll garden.
Autumn adds a splash of colour to the dry landscape garden at Toji-in.
ALT text detailsAutumn adds a splash of colour to the dry landscape garden at Toji-in.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Sanrio fans rejoice! The company has announced it's opening a new and "unique" museum in 2025 in Kai, Yamanashi Prefecture for Hello Kitty, My Melody and gang. The new facility is partially an homage to Sanrio founder Tsuji Shintaro, a Yamanashi native.

unseen-japan.com/sanrio-new-mu

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Actress and singer Nakayama Miho, 54, was found dead in her bath last week. The shocking death has Japanese media warning against "heat shock," a major contributor to the over 20,000 bath-related deaths in Japan every year.

unseen-japan.com/nakayama-miho

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Are Japanese-Chinese relations getting worse? One annual survey says yes: it shows a nearly 25-point spike in negative feelings in China towards Japan, with 87.7% of respondents saying they don't think well of their neighbor. More below.

unseen-japan.com/china-japan-a

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

An annual ranking of the world's strongest cities says Tokyo is still number three, behind London and New York, and has made gains in areas such as Cultural Interaction and R&D. However, the report warned that the city's suck-tastic economy is still sucking.

unseen-japan.com/tokyo-3rd-top

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A second hamburg steak joint this year in Japan is going viral after netizens accuse it of undercooking its food. Social media users laid into Kichijoji Burg after a TikTok food influencer's video showed its food was essentially raw on the inside.

buff.ly/49sWfeX

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Ado has gone to great lengths to prevent the commercialization of her image. Earlier this year, she went viral with her plan to have a meet and greet – a traditional handshake event – where participants would shake her hand through a box while she stood in an isolated room.

unseen-japan.com/ado-living-in

It's an Ado in a Box!
ALT text detailsIt's an Ado in a Box!
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

The “Untamed” or “Wild” Kitty (破天荒キティ; hatenkou kiti) trend uses what appears to be AI-generated images of Sanrio’s hallmark character. However, rather than showing the sweet, angelic princess that most know and love, Kitty-chan's committing arson and property destruction.

unseen-japan.com/hello-kitty-m

Helly Kitty wearing glasses in a cardigan with a mug and looking at her computer as it bursts into flames
ALT text detailsHelly Kitty wearing glasses in a cardigan with a mug and looking at her computer as it bursts into flames
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Sick of constantly refilling your Suica card? Good news! JR East announced that it would raise the limit for the transit/payment cards by 2026. Currently, you can only have up to 20,000 yen (USD $131) on a card at any given time, limiting its utility as a cashless payment option.

Woman holding a Suica card
ALT text detailsWoman holding a Suica card
Burkhard Maria Zimmermann's avatar
Burkhard Maria Zimmermann

@bmzimmermann@mastodon.social

I had the pleasure of attending an event at the Embassy of in last night where several Japanese food associations presented their amazing products. 😍🍱

Her Excellency Mrs. Shino Mitsuko, Ambassador of to , was kind enough to have our picture taken: Yes, she is as lovely as she looks, and yes, I'm as clumsy as I seem. ☺️😅

Best event in a long time!

[Unpaid advertisement]

Shino Mitsuko, Ambassador to Germany, and yours truly
ALT text detailsShino Mitsuko, Ambassador to Germany, and yours truly
Japanese Seafood
ALT text detailsJapanese Seafood
A cook preparing Japanese fish
ALT text detailsA cook preparing Japanese fish
Japanese rice cookies
ALT text detailsJapanese rice cookies
EkkaART's avatar
EkkaART

@amazing_Ekka@ohai.social

Finally finished this landscape drawing :tiredcat:

Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social

💌KYŌTO'S CASANOVA❤️‍🔥

Takenaka-jinja (竹中稲荷神社) is a small but beautiful sub-shrine of Yoshida-jinja (吉田神社). Standing on the western summit of Yoshida-yama, the forlorn grounds betray the shrine's vibrant history of dashing poets, civil disorder and butterfly dances.

Most of the shrine records have been lost, but in other works there is mention of a vast, snaking tunnel of shrine gates leading from mountain base to the worship hall.

Autumn leaves cascade over Takenaka-jinja's gate.
ALT text detailsAutumn leaves cascade over Takenaka-jinja's gate.
A canopy of wonderfully red maple leaves on Yoshida-yama.
ALT text detailsA canopy of wonderfully red maple leaves on Yoshida-yama.
Momiji illuminated by the late autumn sun.
ALT text detailsMomiji illuminated by the late autumn sun.
The main hall of Takenaka-jinja, draped in fiery autumn oranges and reds.
ALT text detailsThe main hall of Takenaka-jinja, draped in fiery autumn oranges and reds.
Noel J. Penaflor's avatar
Noel J. Penaflor

@NoelJPenaflor@sunny.garden

Snowy night in Hokkaido, Japan.

Snowy night in Hokkaido, Japan.
ALT text detailsSnowy night in Hokkaido, Japan.
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もりす

@morimori@hachyderm.io

岐阜県桐生市、宝徳寺とその近く

もりす's avatar
もりす

@morimori@hachyderm.io

宝徳寺

Hokkaido Market ☑️'s avatar
Hokkaido Market ☑️

@hokkaidomarket@famichiki.jp

中津城（大分県）Nakatsu Castle located in Nakatsu City, Ōita Prefecture. Built: 1587. Had a mini holiday away and enjoyed exploring this majestic castle & museum. We practically had the place to ourselves. Recommended visit.

Renkon's avatar
Renkon

@renkotsuban@gamedev.lgbt

The 2024 Autumn issue of is out now! It is viewable in browser and available to download in PDF, ePub, and MOBI formats on itch and Ko-Fi. We also have digital postcards and the Japanese interview editions (インタビュー特集) to download. It is PWYW, so everyone can enjoy!

indietsushin.net/posts/2024-12

Be sure to follow @indietsushin for the latest updates! 📰

インディー通信 Indie Tsushin's avatar
インディー通信 Indie Tsushin

@indietsushin@mastodon.gamedev.place

Announcing the release of the 2024 Autumn issue compiling articles from the インディー通信 blog! Join us in celebrating these from !

indietsushin.net/posts/2024-12

The zine is viewable in browser, and available for download in PDF, ePub, and MOBI formats. We also have digital postcards and the Japanese interview editions (インタビュー特集) to download. It is PWYW so everyone can enjoy it! We really hope that you will check it out!

Here's what's inside:

Steve McCarty 🇯🇵's avatar
Steve McCarty 🇯🇵

@SteveMcCarty@hcommons.social

New publication: "Interview with Steve McCarty" [on his professorial accomplishments in Japan].

The College and University Educators research group of the Japan Association for Language Teaching has honored me with their second annual Veteran Teacher Voices interview on my teaching career in Japan. I critique the foreign language teaching profession, discuss future trends of increasing foreigners in Japan, the need for English, and long-term effects of AI on language acquisition.

I believe educationalists will find this article interesting: researchgate.net/publication/3

和訳 - Japanese translation which I edited: スティーブ・マッカーティとのインタビュー（日本での教授としての業績）: researchmap.jp/waoe/misc/48628

Publications on bilingualism and language teaching: japanned.hcommons.org/bilingua

@linguistics @edutooters @academicchatter

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Zen in Color

@zencolor@mastodon.art

The White Falcon by Isoda Koryūsai, 1780 .

The White Falcon by Isoda Koryūsai, 1780 #Japan.
ALT text detailsThe White Falcon by Isoda Koryūsai, 1780 #Japan.
sabrina's avatar
sabrina

@ommatidia@pixelfed.social

#japan #semboku #写真 #マストドン写真部 #photography #photo #travelphotography
Burkhard Maria Zimmermann's avatar
Burkhard Maria Zimmermann

@bmzimmermann@mastodon.social

Jetzt im Handel:

Für das durfte ich mit dem Sternekoch die japanische in erforschen – es war eine faszinierende Recherche über , und in . (Und natürlich haben wir zwischendurch großartig gegessen.) 🙂 🇯🇵 📏 🍱

Cover der aktuellen Ausgabe von Merian mit der Titelzeile Traumziele 2025"
ALT text detailsCover der aktuellen Ausgabe von Merian mit der Titelzeile Traumziele 2025"
Doppelseite auf dem Heft mit Tohru Nakamura vor dem Stadttheater in Düsseldorf und vor japanischen Geschäften in der Immermannstraße
ALT text detailsDoppelseite auf dem Heft mit Tohru Nakamura vor dem Stadttheater in Düsseldorf und vor japanischen Geschäften in der Immermannstraße
Erster Satz aus der Geschichte: "Manchmal reicht ein Kugelschreiber um große Kunst zu erschaffen"
ALT text detailsErster Satz aus der Geschichte: "Manchmal reicht ein Kugelschreiber um große Kunst zu erschaffen"
Foto von japanischen Messern in einem Schaufenster
ALT text detailsFoto von japanischen Messern in einem Schaufenster
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Sugimotodera, Kamakura (1985)

Artist: Ray Morimura

sugimotodera.com/english/

A stylized view of the stairs climbing the mountainside at Sugimotodera, in Kamakura. Trees of all kinds are rendered in greens, browns, and blacks as they crowd close to the steps. Halfway up the mountain, the path passes through a gate before continuing on toward the main temple building; the tops of other temple buildings are visible among the trees, and visitors to the temple climb and descend the steps. Above, the sky is a stylized burnt orange and black.
ALT text detailsA stylized view of the stairs climbing the mountainside at Sugimotodera, in Kamakura. Trees of all kinds are rendered in greens, browns, and blacks as they crowd close to the steps. Halfway up the mountain, the path passes through a gate before continuing on toward the main temple building; the tops of other temple buildings are visible among the trees, and visitors to the temple climb and descend the steps. Above, the sky is a stylized burnt orange and black.
Anvit's avatar
Anvit

@anvit@pixelfed.social

Matsumoto, Oct 2024

#Japan #Nagano #Matsumoto #Castle #photography
A Japanese castle with a green pond at the bottom of the frame.
ALT text detailsA Japanese castle with a green pond at the bottom of the frame.
Zach Nocturnal Artist's avatar
Zach Nocturnal Artist

@zachnocturnalartist@mastodon.social

Fluffy pastel painting of a Japanese Geisha/geiko/geigi woman in MediBang Paint

Fluffy pastel Geisha
ALT text detailsFluffy pastel Geisha
David B. Himself's avatar
David B. Himself

@DavidBHimself@firefish.city

One of the many reasons I love living in Japan is that the three monotheistic religions are almost non-existent here. (it's hard to avoid them in the news, especially these days, but at least they're not in my life for the most part).

- There are a few Jews - foreigners. They mind their own business.
- There are a few Muslims (mostly foreigners.) They mind their own business.
- There are a few Christians (foreigners and Japanese). And.... they always seem to fucking try to convert people. My wife tells me that at least once a week some kind of missionaries knock on our door during the day when she's home. There's this woman proselytizing who knows what in front on campus (although to be fair she could be from one of the many Japanese cults.) And two days ago, someone gave a Bible to my daughter (and all of her classmates) in front of her school as they were returning home. How is that even allowed? Motherfuckers. If I witness this one day, they'll hear from me. (the Bible is in the trash if you're wondering)

salguod, man 🍂🍁 lazysupper's avatar
salguod, man 🍂🍁 lazysupper

@lazysupper@famichiki.jp

If anyone happens to see this board game for sale in Japan at a non-silly price, let me know!

Screenshot of Amazon page for the board game Hive priced at 10,683 yen.
ALT text detailsScreenshot of Amazon page for the board game Hive priced at 10,683 yen.
シュンジョーァ :badge: :code: :wfox:'s avatar
シュンジョーァ :badge: :code: :wfox:

@me@sns.mszpro.com

Autumn season in Japan Kyoto and Osaka

秋🍂の伏見稲荷➕大阪梅田エリア

　








geekgirl :mastodon:'s avatar
geekgirl :mastodon:

@geekgirl@bne.social

Thought of you @phocks I hear on the grapevine things are getting easier to find food in

The Vegan Guide to Tokyo book
ALT text detailsThe Vegan Guide to Tokyo book
Dining and Cooking's avatar
Dining and Cooking

@dnc@vive.im

Tried vegan this time: Miso Ramen diningandcooking.com/1733748/t

Tried vegan this time: Miso Ramen
ALT text detailsTried vegan this time: Miso Ramen
salguod, man 🍂🍁 lazysupper's avatar
salguod, man 🍂🍁 lazysupper

@lazysupper@famichiki.jp

So... full...

Ascended Pork Mountain today. 🐷

Thicker noodles than I prefer, but yummy ramen with surprisingly good pork.

I got the "mini" ramen—which is 25 grams *more* than a standard ramen shop serving—and 5 slices of pork. (Two woulda sufficed as they are THICK.)

I also learned it's a national chain. (The 30m tall roadside sign shoulda tipped me off.)

Mission Accomplished.

So sleepy...

Instructions on how to order ramen and the options available taped to the side of the counter in a ramen shop.
ALT text detailsInstructions on how to order ramen and the options available taped to the side of the counter in a ramen shop.
A bowl of ramen with a pile of moyashi and 5 slices of thick-ass pork.
ALT text detailsA bowl of ramen with a pile of moyashi and 5 slices of thick-ass pork.
Alfie Goodrich's avatar
Alfie Goodrich

@alfiegoodrich@photog.social

Good morning. Lovely sunny day in Tokyo and I'm gonna head out soon for a walk to see how the autumn colours are doing in a couple of fave spots in the city.

Here's a fave pic of mine that's in my print store.

japanorama.darkroom.com/produc

Check the ALT for details.

Luv&peace
❤️🙏✌️

A landscape orientation photo of a row of vending machines in the snow at dusk. Made this back in 2017, on a trip up to the Towada-Hachimantai National Park here in Japan. Was there as part of a project with the Japan National Parks Authority, to photograph eight of their national parks. We were close to where we would be staying for the night and had just entered an area where the snow was really piled up. So our driver stopped at a little rest area to out the snow chains on the vehicle. 15 minutes there gave me time to grab a drink and grab this photo. The colour of the dusk, the light pouring a sort of visual warmth out on to the snow: really drew me in. It was, in fact, about -20C when I photographed this. Photo made with a 100 megapixel Hasselblad H6D-100C camera and the HC-24mm lens.
ALT text detailsA landscape orientation photo of a row of vending machines in the snow at dusk. Made this back in 2017, on a trip up to the Towada-Hachimantai National Park here in Japan. Was there as part of a project with the Japan National Parks Authority, to photograph eight of their national parks. We were close to where we would be staying for the night and had just entered an area where the snow was really piled up. So our driver stopped at a little rest area to out the snow chains on the vehicle. 15 minutes there gave me time to grab a drink and grab this photo. The colour of the dusk, the light pouring a sort of visual warmth out on to the snow: really drew me in. It was, in fact, about -20C when I photographed this. Photo made with a 100 megapixel Hasselblad H6D-100C camera and the HC-24mm lens.
cpi's avatar
cpi

@cpi@mastodon.social · Reply to cpi's post

2 amazing scans from Japan:
アミューズメン産業 (Amusement Industry) 1975-05
Computopia・コンピュートピア 1968-01

pinballnovice.blogspot.com/202

アミューズメン産業 (Amusement Industry) 1975-05
ALT text detailsアミューズメン産業 (Amusement Industry) 1975-05
Computopia・コンピュートピア 1968-01
ALT text detailsComputopia・コンピュートピア 1968-01
SeanBreslin's avatar
SeanBreslin

@SeanBreslin@famichiki.jp

The Japanese version of Kissa by Kissa has just rocked up. Been looking forward to this version.

@craigmod.com

The Japanese version of Kissa by Kissa by Craig Mod.
ALT text detailsThe Japanese version of Kissa by Kissa by Craig Mod.
Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

This post addresses a topic we’ve tackled a lot this year - the so-called “1,000 yen wall” for ramen in Japan. Post below shows Japanese people outraged at paying 1K yen (USD $6.50) for ramen but then saying it’s fair to pay 1,500 yen ($9.75) for pasta.

Pic of tweet by a Twitter user (pic described in tweet text)
ALT text detailsPic of tweet by a Twitter user (pic described in tweet text)
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Ochikawa-jinja was thought to be connected to Tachibana-no-Kachiko (橘嘉智子), the consort of Emperor Saga.

Some have suggested that the character Ochiba-no-miya (落葉の宮/女二の宮) from 'The Tale of Genji' (源氏物語) is in some way connected to the shrine, and possibly gave her name to the site.

From the Momoyama period Iwato-sha and Ochiba-sha were placed together.

Nao-san poses in front of Iwato Ochiba-jinja.
ALT text detailsNao-san poses in front of Iwato Ochiba-jinja.
Iwato Ochiba-jinja. For more gorgeous photos of Iwato Ochiba-jinja (岩戸落葉神社), do check out our friend Jeffrey Friedl's blog... 🍁🙌➡️http://regex.info/blog/index.php?s=Ochiba
ALT text detailsIwato Ochiba-jinja. For more gorgeous photos of Iwato Ochiba-jinja (岩戸落葉神社), do check out our friend Jeffrey Friedl's blog... 🍁🙌➡️http://regex.info/blog/index.php?s=Ochiba
Fallen leaves at Iwato Ochiba-jinja.
ALT text detailsFallen leaves at Iwato Ochiba-jinja.
Nao-san, very happy to finally make her way to Iwato Ochiba-jinja.
ALT text detailsNao-san, very happy to finally make her way to Iwato Ochiba-jinja.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

If you were dropped into a teahouse at a random time of year, without access to the garden or any idea of the temperature outside, then the sweets served are your best bet for narrowing down the date...
Ichō momiji' (銀杏紅葉 'autumn-leaved ginkgo') herald deep autumn.

Golden sweets folded to look like a ginkgo leaves commonly appear in the tearoom towards the end of autumn.
ALT text detailsGolden sweets folded to look like a ginkgo leaves commonly appear in the tearoom towards the end of autumn.
Golden sweets folded to look like a ginkgo leaves commonly appear in the tearoom towards the end of autumn.
ALT text detailsGolden sweets folded to look like a ginkgo leaves commonly appear in the tearoom towards the end of autumn.
Golden sweets folded to look like a ginkgo leaves commonly appear in the tearoom towards the end of autumn.
ALT text detailsGolden sweets folded to look like a ginkgo leaves commonly appear in the tearoom towards the end of autumn.
Golden sweets folded to look like a ginkgo leaves commonly appear in the tearoom towards the end of autumn.
ALT text detailsGolden sweets folded to look like a ginkgo leaves commonly appear in the tearoom towards the end of autumn.
Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

In the past women considered the tree symbol of fertility and breast-feeding as aerial-roots that developed in older ginkgo were known as 'chichi' (乳-breasts).

These unique structures grow down to the ground to form roots or up to sprout leaves.

An ancient ginkgo sprouts aerial roots. Since ancient times these have been likened to breasts and so women have prayed to the tree for fertility and overcoming problems with breastfeeding. Photo thanks - sandsea.blog.fc2.com
ALT text detailsAn ancient ginkgo sprouts aerial roots. Since ancient times these have been likened to breasts and so women have prayed to the tree for fertility and overcoming problems with breastfeeding. Photo thanks - sandsea.blog.fc2.com
An ancient ginkgo sprouts aerial roots. Since ancient times these have been likened to breasts and so women have prayed to the tree for fertility and overcoming problems with breastfeeding. Photo thanks - sandsea.blog.fc2.com
ALT text detailsAn ancient ginkgo sprouts aerial roots. Since ancient times these have been likened to breasts and so women have prayed to the tree for fertility and overcoming problems with breastfeeding. Photo thanks - sandsea.blog.fc2.com
An ancient ginkgo sprouts aerial roots. Since ancient times these have been likened to breasts and so women have prayed to the tree for fertility and overcoming problems with breastfeeding. Photo thanks - sandsea.blog.fc2.com
ALT text detailsAn ancient ginkgo sprouts aerial roots. Since ancient times these have been likened to breasts and so women have prayed to the tree for fertility and overcoming problems with breastfeeding. Photo thanks - sandsea.blog.fc2.com
An ancient ginkgo sprouts aerial roots. Since ancient times these have been likened to breasts and so women have prayed to the tree for fertility and overcoming problems with breastfeeding. Photo thanks - sandsea.blog.fc2.com
ALT text detailsAn ancient ginkgo sprouts aerial roots. Since ancient times these have been likened to breasts and so women have prayed to the tree for fertility and overcoming problems with breastfeeding. Photo thanks - sandsea.blog.fc2.com
atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Kawarahata, Gunma (1955)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

visit-gunma.jp/en/discover/sto

A rural Japanese farm in a valley in Gunma. A lone figure carrying a wicker basket on their back trudges up the path toward the farmhouse. On their right is a tidy vegetable patch; beyond, a persimmon tree has lost almost all its leaves, though orange fruit still clings to the bare branches. Leaves on other trees flanking the house have rusted red with the season. A layer of mist has collected further down the valley, obscuring the view; above, a few clouds cross a bright blue sky
ALT text detailsA rural Japanese farm in a valley in Gunma. A lone figure carrying a wicker basket on their back trudges up the path toward the farmhouse. On their right is a tidy vegetable patch; beyond, a persimmon tree has lost almost all its leaves, though orange fruit still clings to the bare branches. Leaves on other trees flanking the house have rusted red with the season. A layer of mist has collected further down the valley, obscuring the view; above, a few clouds cross a bright blue sky
Dining and Cooking's avatar
Dining and Cooking

@dnc@vive.im

Grilled unagi from Honke Shibato in Osaka – a restaurant that has served the dish for 300 (although by different chefs). A highlight of a recent Japan trip. diningandcooking.com/1710828/g

Grilled unagi from Honke Shibato in Osaka - a restaurant that has served the dish for 300 (although by different chefs). A highlight of a recent Japan trip.
ALT text detailsGrilled unagi from Honke Shibato in Osaka - a restaurant that has served the dish for 300 (although by different chefs). A highlight of a recent Japan trip.
sabrina's avatar
sabrina

@ommatidia@pixelfed.social

The quaint little harbor town of Onomichi, with its narrow streets winding along steep slopes, was one of those little unexpected gems on my trip.

#japan #onomichi #写真 #マストドン写真部 #photography #photo #urban #travelphotography #nightphotography
A building illuminated by many signs with Japanese characters at night is reflected in a pool of water
ALT text detailsA building illuminated by many signs with Japanese characters at night is reflected in a pool of water
noco｜Flower Photographer's avatar
noco｜Flower Photographer

@noco3n_com@mstdn.jp

見上げた秋空にやさしさを見つけた。

I looked up at the autumn sky and found kindness.

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Someone stole up to 13 pairs of slippers from an elementary school in Koga, Fukuoka Prefecture. After inspecting surveillance cameras, authorities caught THIS little son of a bitch in action. Word is the weasel won't talk to cops and has invoked his right to remain adorable.

atomicker's avatar
atomicker

@atomicker@mstdn.ca

Title: Moon at Gamo (1932)

Artist: Hasui Kawase

space.com/the-universe/moon/th

A moonlit scene on a farm in rural Japan. In the foreground, a short bridge spans a little creek; just beyond, the trunks of slim trees are bound with layers of straw, protection against the coming frost. Further on, a single figure pulls a two-wheeled cart along a path, a lantern dangling from one of the handles. A line of trees crosses the horizon, indistinct in the gloom; a pair of lights shine among them, likely a house. Above, a full yellow moon shines down from a starless night sky
ALT text detailsA moonlit scene on a farm in rural Japan. In the foreground, a short bridge spans a little creek; just beyond, the trunks of slim trees are bound with layers of straw, protection against the coming frost. Further on, a single figure pulls a two-wheeled cart along a path, a lantern dangling from one of the handles. A line of trees crosses the horizon, indistinct in the gloom; a pair of lights shine among them, likely a house. Above, a full yellow moon shines down from a starless night sky
noco｜Flower Photographer's avatar
noco｜Flower Photographer

@noco3n_com@mstdn.jp

sparkle.

Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

These photos show real mummified monks in Northern Japan.

Sokushinbutsu (即身仏) is the practice of monks observing asceticism to the point of death and entering mummification while alive.

The process took around 3000 days and involved a diet called 'mokujiki' (木食 'eating trees').

Mummified monk (弘智法印 宥貞). Image thanks - https://www.tohokukanko.jp/attractions/detail_1003855.html
ALT text detailsMummified monk (弘智法印 宥貞). Image thanks - https://www.tohokukanko.jp/attractions/detail_1003855.html
Mummified monk (弘智法印 宥貞). Image thanks - https://www.tohokukanko.jp/attractions/detail_1003855.html
ALT text detailsMummified monk (弘智法印 宥貞). Image thanks - https://www.tohokukanko.jp/attractions/detail_1003855.html
Mummified monk. Image thanks - https://www.tsuruokakanko.com/spot/261
ALT text detailsMummified monk. Image thanks - https://www.tsuruokakanko.com/spot/261
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

In 1613 Amida-ji's (阿弥陀寺) founder, Tanzei (弾誓), finally became a 'living Buddha', achieving mummification whilst still alive (meditating within a stone coffin).

Tanzei is the southernmost mummified monk in Japan (a practice much more common in the north).

Portrait of Tanzei. Founder of Amida-ji, he would self-mummify (becoming Japan's southernmost mummified monk).
ALT text detailsPortrait of Tanzei. Founder of Amida-ji, he would self-mummify (becoming Japan's southernmost mummified monk).
Cave at Amida-ji that acts as tomb for Tanzei.
ALT text detailsCave at Amida-ji that acts as tomb for Tanzei.
Entrance to the cave where Tanzei first came to meditate. It would later become his living tomb.
ALT text detailsEntrance to the cave where Tanzei first came to meditate. It would later become his living tomb.
Tomb of Tanzei at Amida-ji.
ALT text detailsTomb of Tanzei at Amida-ji.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social

🙏THE MUMMY IN THE CAVE🤕

Beyond Ōhara, perched on the forested slopes of Yakisugi-yama (焼杉山), high above Kochidani valley (古知谷) and the old 'Mackerel Highway' (若狭街道), is Amida-ji.

Inside a small cave the temple's mummified founder continues to watch over the faithful.

The first signs of autumn at Amida-ji and Kochidani valley.
ALT text detailsThe first signs of autumn at Amida-ji and Kochidani valley.
Tomb in the cave at Amida-ji, home to Japan's southernmost mummified monk.
ALT text detailsTomb in the cave at Amida-ji, home to Japan's southernmost mummified monk.
The main gate of Amida-ji in Kochidani valley. A long, winding road leads up to the temple proper. In autumn the whole path is flanked by deep red maple trees.
ALT text detailsThe main gate of Amida-ji in Kochidani valley. A long, winding road leads up to the temple proper. In autumn the whole path is flanked by deep red maple trees.
Rocky steps leading up to the main hall of Amida-ji.
ALT text detailsRocky steps leading up to the main hall of Amida-ji.
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Christian Grobmeier

@grobmeier@mastodon.social

In addition to Instagram I am now trying for my trip:If you want to follow, please check it out here: pixelfed.de/grobmeier

I am trying the beta app and have no idea what I am doing, please bear with me.

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SeanBreslin

@SeanBreslin@famichiki.jp

Took a trip into Gifu for the autumn colours.

A river and autumn colours.
ALT text detailsA river and autumn colours.
The Northern Alps, Japan, and autumn colours.
ALT text detailsThe Northern Alps, Japan, and autumn colours.
The Northern Alps, Japan, and autumn colours.
ALT text detailsThe Northern Alps, Japan, and autumn colours.
A small stream, a sketchy small suspension bridge to walk across, and autumn colours.
ALT text detailsA small stream, a sketchy small suspension bridge to walk across, and autumn colours.
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Dr. Evan J. Gowan

@DrEvanGowan@fediscience.org

The sea surface temperature in the Tohoku region of Japan is a whopping 6°C above normal. This is coupled with a long term trend that is allowing tropical fish and spiny lobsters to move to the region.

The sea surface temperature anomalies around Japan, showing a purple blob of extreme heat near Tohoku.
ALT text detailsThe sea surface temperature anomalies around Japan, showing a purple blob of extreme heat near Tohoku.
A bannerfish, a fish more commonly found in Okinawa.
ALT text detailsA bannerfish, a fish more commonly found in Okinawa.
A spiny lobster, which was not commonly found in Tohoku until recently.
ALT text detailsA spiny lobster, which was not commonly found in Tohoku until recently.
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Brook Miles

@brook@sunny.garden

Had a nice walk today around Rikugi-en Gardens near Komagome station.

Before heading to the park we had lunch in the area, and the highlight was "black tea french toast" (not pictured) from the bakery Mugibatake nearby. Recommended.

A wide shot of a Japanese garden from the high point of the park, a small hill lookout. There is a large pond with and island and several short bridges. The island and the gardens surrounding the pond are a mix of lawn, sculpted greenery, pine and maple trees, etc. The closest pine tree obscures the pond on the right side. Several groups of people are walking along the various paths. Beyond the tree line of the park, there are some building of Tokyo rising up, the sky is blue with a patchwork of white clouds.
ALT text detailsA wide shot of a Japanese garden from the high point of the park, a small hill lookout. There is a large pond with and island and several short bridges. The island and the gardens surrounding the pond are a mix of lawn, sculpted greenery, pine and maple trees, etc. The closest pine tree obscures the pond on the right side. Several groups of people are walking along the various paths. Beyond the tree line of the park, there are some building of Tokyo rising up, the sky is blue with a patchwork of white clouds.
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Ukraine War Bulletins and News

@SocraticEthics@mastodon.online

‼️🇸🇪IKEA sells its last asset in Russia (more) pravda.com.ua/eng/news/2024/11

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Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

Oni Mask, .

Oni Mask, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsOni Mask, #Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
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Weather Mizu

@mizu@mastodon.social

Sad news for winter fan. Looks like 1-month average temperature trend to be higher than normal across the country.

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Weather Mizu

@mizu@mastodon.social

Sad news for winter fan. Looks like 1-month average temperature trend to be higher than normal across the country.

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Buddhist Art

@buddhistart@mastodon.social

The cosmic Dainichi Nyorai (大日如来) by the artist Kimura Buzan (木村武山), 1935, at Kongōbu-ji (金剛峯寺) on Mount Kōya (高野山) in Wakayama Prefecture, #.

The cosmic #buddha Dainichi Nyorai (大日如来) by the artist Kimura Buzan (木村武山), 1935, at Kongōbu-ji (金剛峯寺) on Mount Kōya (高野山) in Wakayama Prefecture, ##Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
ALT text detailsThe cosmic #buddha Dainichi Nyorai (大日如来) by the artist Kimura Buzan (木村武山), 1935, at Kongōbu-ji (金剛峯寺) on Mount Kōya (高野山) in Wakayama Prefecture, ##Japan. #BuddhistArt #Buddhism
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

A daycare facility in a residential area in Tokyo installed a three-meter “soundproof wall” made from green leaves to minimize the noise. The move came after a string of lawsuits in which residents around Japan sued daycares because the kids were "too noisy."

Man teaching kids in a daycare
ALT text detailsMan teaching kids in a daycare
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noco｜Flower Photographer

@noco3n_com@mstdn.jp

Dahlia collection.

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NOH8 Campaign

@noh8campaign@mastodon.social

BREAKING: 's high court rules same-sex marriage ban unconstitutional

BREAKING: #Japan's high court rules same-sex marriage ban unconstitutional #NOH8
ALT text detailsBREAKING: #Japan's high court rules same-sex marriage ban unconstitutional #NOH8
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Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

"Heated seat feature"

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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social

😇👋A MONTH OF NO GODS🧳⛩️

There is a quaint belief that in the 10th month the gods of Japan congregate for a great gathering to discuss matchmaking at Izumo-taisha (出雲大社) in Shimane Prefecture.

Only hard-of-hearing Ebisu and the Sun Goddess miss this annual pilgrimage.

Autumn at Mizuya-chaya in Nara.
ALT text detailsAutumn at Mizuya-chaya in Nara.
Pancakes wrapped and pinched to look like the head of the god Ebisu. His face is made by branding the eyes, nose, moustache, and mouth.
ALT text detailsPancakes wrapped and pinched to look like the head of the god Ebisu. His face is made by branding the eyes, nose, moustache, and mouth.
Dried sweets in the shape of fallen leaves, pine needles, mushrooms and ginkgo nuts. They are presented in a traditional basket used for sweeping fallen leaves into.
ALT text detailsDried sweets in the shape of fallen leaves, pine needles, mushrooms and ginkgo nuts. They are presented in a traditional basket used for sweeping fallen leaves into.
A tiny bonsai persimmon tree.
ALT text detailsA tiny bonsai persimmon tree.
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FediFollows

@FediFollows@social.growyourown.services

picks of the day:

➡️ @thejapantimes - Japan's oldest English-language newspaper, founded 1897

➡️ @animefeminist - Japanese anime, manga & pop culture from feminist viewpoint

➡️ @yokaiparade - Creating original characters based on Japanese folklore

➡️ @curiousordinary - Sharing Japanese folklore including yokai & Japanese art including ukiyo-e

➡️ @invisibltourist - Advice for travelling to Japan, esp. on avoiding overtourism

🧵 1/3

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The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

The war in Ukraine has taken on a different aspect since North Korea sent troops to Russia, former Japanese Ambassador to Ukraine Kuninori Matsuda has said in an interview. japantimes.co.jp/news/2024/10/

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Billings :blobfoxcheck:

@Billings@mstdn.party

Look at these amazing rice cats!! This is a curry plate offered at Save Cat Cafe in Osaka, Japan.

Https://savecatcafe.net

Two plates of Curry with the rice portions in the form of yellow cats, two hands with two spoons seen as well
ALT text detailsTwo plates of Curry with the rice portions in the form of yellow cats, two hands with two spoons seen as well
Two black cats on a beige rug, one with yellow eyes looking up
ALT text detailsTwo black cats on a beige rug, one with yellow eyes looking up
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⛰🌲Randy Walters🌲⛰

@randywalters@mastodon.cloud

Scored a gorgeous cast iron snail tea light for the studio … about 6” long.

A cast iron tea light that’s safe around Lola the kitty.
ALT text detailsA cast iron tea light that’s safe around Lola the kitty.
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CelloMom On Cars

@CelloMomOnCars@mastodon.social · Reply to CelloMom On Cars's post

Hotter summers in Japan are hard both on rice crops and on the aging farmers growing them.

"Last year, recorded a poor harvest nationwide because of exceptionally hot weather. Ministry data showed the country’s private-sector rice inventory fell to 1.56 million tons in June, the lowest level since records began in 1999."

japantoday.com/category/nation?

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Vibes Magazine

@vibesmagazine@mastodon.social

vibesmagazine.blog/2024/10/17/

  , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , 

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Gerard Thomas ⭕️

@iamgerardthomas@mastodon.social

This is a fantastic essay, especially if you are into design, or are a designer

theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2

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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Beyond the tea fields the woodland has been allowed to go to seed, with tea plants springing up here and there.

Japanese tea cultivation began in Ujitawara in Kamakura times (1185-1333), and the method of manufacturing green tea developed here in the mid-Edo period (1603-1867).

A new camellia plant sprouts.
ALT text detailsA new camellia plant sprouts.
A fresh camellia plant sprouts in the woodland beyond the tea fields.
ALT text detailsA fresh camellia plant sprouts in the woodland beyond the tea fields.
Yuyadani's organic tea fields allow for the surrounding woodland to grow wild.
ALT text detailsYuyadani's organic tea fields allow for the surrounding woodland to grow wild.
Everywhere you walk in Yuyadani you see small wild camellia plants sprouting.
ALT text detailsEverywhere you walk in Yuyadani you see small wild camellia plants sprouting.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

The tour of the tea fields ended with an informal tea ceremony in a woodland clearing. It was a magical experience sitting amongst the tea bushes that provided the leaves for the tea we were enjoying🍵

Tea ceremony in the tea fields that provided the matcha for the experience.
ALT text detailsTea ceremony in the tea fields that provided the matcha for the experience.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

The soil here is known as 'Jika' (地香 'Fragrant Land') thanks to the huge efforts that go into making organic tea.

Fertilizer is made from a mix of pampas and humus, and no machinery is used to care for the bushes or pick the leaves. The resulting tea has a very different taste!

Yuyadani has perfect temperatures for tea growing. On first glance the fields here look more wild compared to the neat terraces of neighbouring areas. The tea plants are surrounded by forested hills.
ALT text detailsYuyadani has perfect temperatures for tea growing. On first glance the fields here look more wild compared to the neat terraces of neighbouring areas. The tea plants are surrounded by forested hills.
The tea plants of Yuyadani. They may look small, but some are almost 200 years old!
ALT text detailsThe tea plants of Yuyadani. They may look small, but some are almost 200 years old!
Small camellia flower buds. Before they reach this point farmers typically snip them off to make sure the nutrients go towards developing the plant leaves.
ALT text detailsSmall camellia flower buds. Before they reach this point farmers typically snip them off to make sure the nutrients go towards developing the plant leaves.
If you look closely in the forest and beyond the tea fields you will see that many wild tea plants have sprouted.
ALT text detailsIf you look closely in the forest and beyond the tea fields you will see that many wild tea plants have sprouted.
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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

Yuyadani (湯屋谷) is the birthplace of sencha green tea (煎茶発祥の地) in Japan. In ancient times this region sat on the sea bed, and the soil conditions are perfect for growing tea.

Nowadays the valleys and hills have little rain and remain free of frost in the winter🙌

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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social

🌿TEA CEREMONY IN THE TEA FIELDS🍵

A few weeks ago Nao-san made the long trip into the hills of Ujitawara (宇治田原) to enjoy tea amongst the blooming tea fields of Yuyadani (湯屋谷).
As the flowers suck up precious nutrients, it's not so common to see them bloom free.

The rolling tea fields of Ujitawara.
ALT text detailsThe rolling tea fields of Ujitawara.
Camellia flowers in bloom. On tea plants it is unusually to see the flowers blooming...because they take up precious nutrients the flower buds are typically cut off before maturing.
ALT text detailsCamellia flowers in bloom. On tea plants it is unusually to see the flowers blooming...because they take up precious nutrients the flower buds are typically cut off before maturing.
Matcha being prepared amongst the tea fields.
ALT text detailsMatcha being prepared amongst the tea fields.
The distinctive clipped terraces of tea plants.
ALT text detailsThe distinctive clipped terraces of tea plants.
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pkg update

@pkgupdt@ap.sanwon.kr

A Tappa in Tochoji temple(東長寺), Fukuoka, Japan.

#photography #photographs #사진 #写真 #Fukuoka #Japan

Tappa in Tochoji temple, Fukuoka, Japan.
ALT text detailsTappa in Tochoji temple, Fukuoka, Japan.
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東亞藝術

@EastAsiaArt@istanza.ch

Komura Settai (1887-1940) - Umbrella

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João Costa 💚🇵🇹🇪🇺🇬🇧🇺🇦

@joaocosta@mastodon.social

TOP 20 support as % of GDP:

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THANK YOU 🌍🤝🇺🇦

Source:
app.23degrees.io/viewSub/x67vE

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pkg update

@pkgupdt@ap.sanwon.kr

Keage incline, Kyoto, Japan.

여기도 다녀온지 꽤 시간이 흘렀네요.

#photography #photographs #사진 #写真 #Kyoto #Japan

Keage incline, Kyoto, Japan.
ALT text detailsKeage incline, Kyoto, Japan.
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pkg update

@pkgupdt@ap.sanwon.kr

Gokayama village, Toyama, Japan.

五箇山相倉合掌集落, a World heritage village.

#photographs #사진 #写真 #Gokayama #Japan #Toyama #五箇山 #相倉合掌集落

Gokayama village, Toyama, Japan.
ALT text detailsGokayama village, Toyama, Japan.
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pkg update

@pkgupdt@ap.sanwon.kr

Nomura-ke, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, Japan.

스레드에 올렸던 사진. 거기는 이제 닫아서 여기에 올립니다.

#photographs #사진 #写真 #Japan #Kanazawa

Nomura-ke, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, Japan.
ALT text detailsNomura-ke, Kanazawa, Ishikawa, Japan.
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noco｜Flower Photographer

@noco3n_com@mstdn.jp

光に導かれて。

Guided by the light.

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SeanBreslin

@SeanBreslin@famichiki.jp

Mt. Fuji at sunrise taken from Eboshidake in the Minami Alps.

Mt. Fuji at sunrise. Taken from the Minami Alps.
ALT text detailsMt. Fuji at sunrise. Taken from the Minami Alps.
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SeanBreslin

@SeanBreslin@famichiki.jp

Mt Shiomi and Mt. Fuji at sunrise. After a night hike in the Minami Alps, central Japan, I reached the summit of Eboshidake for these spectacular views. More info here: seanbreslin.net/2021/06/14/mt-

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ask DNA

@askDNA@pixelfed.social

Wasn't sure if I was going to go all the way to Odaiba just for this guy, but I have no regrets. It was awesome!

#gundam #giantgundam #odaiba #tokyo #japan
Giant Gundam in Odaiba, Tokyo, lit up at night.
ALT text detailsGiant Gundam in Odaiba, Tokyo, lit up at night.
Giant Gundam in Odaiba, Tokyo, lit up at night.
ALT text detailsGiant Gundam in Odaiba, Tokyo, lit up at night.
Giant Gundam in Odaiba, Tokyo, lit up at night.
ALT text detailsGiant Gundam in Odaiba, Tokyo, lit up at night.
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noco｜Flower Photographer

@noco3n_com@mstdn.jp

まるで描いたかのようなコスモスの写真。

A photo of cosmos that looks like it was painted.

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Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social · Reply to Camellia Tea Ceremony's post

1)
🎊A spring themed Pichu, Cleffa, and Igglybuff (ピチュ/ピィ/ププリン) are be found at Maruyama Kōen, close to the park's famous weeping cherry tree.

Pichu, Cleffa, and Igglybuff manhole cover at Maruyama Park.
ALT text detailsPichu, Cleffa, and Igglybuff manhole cover at Maruyama Park.
The famous weeping cherry tree at Maruyama Park.
ALT text detailsThe famous weeping cherry tree at Maruyama Park.
Statue of Sakamoto Ryoma at Maruyama Park.
ALT text detailsStatue of Sakamoto Ryoma at Maruyama Park.
The main gate of Chion-in during spring.
ALT text detailsThe main gate of Chion-in during spring.
Das's avatar
Das

@SRDas@mastodon.online · Reply to Das's post

A re- or perhaps de- introduction especially for so many new followers - I'm back to my usual beat in Pittsburgh; done with an amazing time in 👆🏽

Still so much to share about that - which I will anon. I'll do so with if that helps to filter (in or out).
I can never tell what may be to your interest and not offended if you unfollow. 

For now some pics from the trip; among my favs, one kid2 took of me in Asakusa (didn't touch the waraji, but hey look at that 50+ yo form!)

Cheers!

A giant waraji (straw sandal) hanging on the red painted wooden gate at Sensoji temple in Asakusa, Tokyo. A person is jumping and feet are off the ground as he is reaching out to try and touch the (bottom of the) waraji
ALT text detailsA giant waraji (straw sandal) hanging on the red painted wooden gate at Sensoji temple in Asakusa, Tokyo. A person is jumping and feet are off the ground as he is reaching out to try and touch the (bottom of the) waraji
An outstretched arm with with a couple of potato sticks held out as a flying seagull with spread wings grabs them in its beak. Other seagulls are flying nearby. A grey sea and overcast sky is the background
ALT text detailsAn outstretched arm with with a couple of potato sticks held out as a flying seagull with spread wings grabs them in its beak. Other seagulls are flying nearby. A grey sea and overcast sky is the background
A large pond with many fallen brown leaves and colored koi swimming in it. On the far end of the pond just above the short vertical bank is a white  egret with S bent neck among lush greenery
ALT text detailsA large pond with many fallen brown leaves and colored koi swimming in it. On the far end of the pond just above the short vertical bank is a white  egret with S bent neck among lush greenery
Three costumed spidermen and a person in a t-shirt pointing at each other
ALT text detailsThree costumed spidermen and a person in a t-shirt pointing at each other
Das's avatar
Das

@SRDas@mastodon.online · Reply to Das's post

Mostly I'll post (as I am typically wont to) about
I'm a compulsive documenter, so there'll be I hope to get my fill of and share a slightly different perspective - not just touristy (you'll get that too, don't worry).
Last time I was here in Japan with my partner was 2016 for 2 weeks (kids stayed behind - with partners visiting parents, in Pittsburgh). We have all so wanted to come (back) here.
I'll use tag too

よろしくお願いします 🙏🏽

Das's avatar
Das

@SRDas@mastodon.online

はじめまして
I never really did an , just jumped in and never went back to Xitter.
A bit of an explanation now - I've transplanted to from for my 4 month Fall sabbatical - with my family!
We our kids, so this worked out well (next yr Kid1 will head to college - last opportunity for this sort of adventure, so I snatched it). Wish me luck!
Thanks all who follow or just come across & boost - you mastofriends have all been gracious and kind! 🙏🏽

Colourful mural of a cartoon of the Kobe area buildings, streets, bridges and port with Be Kobe written to a side. 2 kids are standing in front of the mural (which is about 25 feet tall by 30 feet wide, approx)
ALT text detailsColourful mural of a cartoon of the Kobe area buildings, streets, bridges and port with Be Kobe written to a side. 2 kids are standing in front of the mural (which is about 25 feet tall by 30 feet wide, approx)
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noco｜Flower Photographer

@noco3n_com@mstdn.jp

美しい彩りは私たちの心を癒してくれる。

Beautiful colors soothe our hearts.

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Colossal

@colossal@mastodon.art

Amid the atmospheric forests of Japan’s Yamagata prefecture, Kazuaki Koseki calls upon delightful woodland collaborators in his series "Summer Faeries."

thisiscolossal.com/2024/09/kaz

a multi-exposure photograph of a woodland at night with fireflies indicated by tiny blurred yellow spheres of light
ALT text detailsa multi-exposure photograph of a woodland at night with fireflies indicated by tiny blurred yellow spheres of light
a multi-exposure photograph of a mountainous view night with fireflies indicated by tiny blurred yellow spheres of light
ALT text detailsa multi-exposure photograph of a mountainous view night with fireflies indicated by tiny blurred yellow spheres of light
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Pierre Bourdon

@delroth@mastodon.delroth.net

Shot in the dark, in case I have some experts in my followers...

I'm going to Japan in January 2025 and will spend a few days around Sapporo, Aomori and Sendai. Looking for fun ideas of things to do in those areas that are feasible as day trips from said cities. Especially winter/snow related things. Any thoughts? :-)

Not my first time in those cities and definitely not my first time in Japan (trip number 8? 9? not sure), so I'm starting to exhaust the "easy" tourism ideas!

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笹路かいと

@benihistudio@mstdn.jp

Daily life in a Yamanote Line train in Tokyo, Japan.

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cpi

@cpi@mastodon.social · Reply to cpi's post

5 more issues of プレイグラフ Play Graph are now online
pinballnovice.blogspot.com/202

Play Graph magazine cover
ALT text detailsPlay Graph magazine cover
Play Graph magazine cover
ALT text detailsPlay Graph magazine cover
Play Graph magazine cover
ALT text detailsPlay Graph magazine cover
Play Graph magazine cover
ALT text detailsPlay Graph magazine cover
Filmgalerie Phase IV's avatar
Filmgalerie Phase IV

@Phase_IV@dresden.network

Aktuell im Kleinen ThemenSpezial: Geschichten von Ausländern im Land der aufgehenden Sonne. 🎴
**********************************************
Japan hat seit jeher durch seine isolierte Insellage und einzigartige Kultur eine besondere Faszination auf andere Länder ausgeübt. Wo es einst den Mythos vom reinen, unantastbaren Japan gab, gibt es heute das Interesse am Kontrast zwischen alter Tradition und hochmoderner Urbanität und noch einiges dazwischen. Wir präsentieren fünfzehn sehr unterschiedliche Filme, welche alle das Aufeinandertreffen der Außenstehenden mit dem Land der aufgehenden Sonne aufzeigen.

(1/2)

Design Brouhaha's avatar
Design Brouhaha

@MoritzBrouhaha@typo.social

OK, it's time to talk about the last project I spent many, many days to make:
The digitalization of the Lovers Communication System (LoCoS)
I am thrilled to announce that I will present it at the next Symbol 24 Conference on September 20th. Grab a ticket here; this is an online conference!
symbol-group.org/

↓ 1/8 small thread to discover the project. Thanks for sharing !

Animated GIF depicting several symbols contained in LoCoS with Japanese, French, and English translations.
ALT text detailsAnimated GIF depicting several symbols contained in LoCoS with Japanese, French, and English translations.
Robbie Rowe's avatar
Robbie Rowe

@privateshufti@mastodon.social

Deeply moving journey into the misty mountains of Hakone, near Mt Fuji, yesterday - a welcome escape from the sweltering heat & bustle of Tokyo. Ancient cedar trees looming in the mist, branches encrusted with epiphytes, the air ringing with singing cicadas and warbling birdsong, moss covered boulders and immanent stillness

Vines erupt from mossy, ferny boulders
ALT text detailsVines erupt from mossy, ferny boulders
Tangles of hanging moss drip water from condensed mist
ALT text detailsTangles of hanging moss drip water from condensed mist
A profusion of epiphytes: ferns, moss, lichen - on a tree branch
ALT text detailsA profusion of epiphytes: ferns, moss, lichen - on a tree branch
Ancient cedars looming in the mist
ALT text detailsAncient cedars looming in the mist
東亞藝術's avatar
東亞藝術

@EastAsiaArt@istanza.ch

Inagaki Tomoo (1902-1980) - Chatting cats (1956)

Alfie Goodrich's avatar
Alfie Goodrich

@alfiegoodrich@photog.social

New post up on the blog about shooting the 750S with McLaren earlier this year.

blog.alfiegoodrich.com/portfol

Bot in Japan's avatar
Bot in Japan

@botinjapan@botsin.space

Random street view taken in May 2021, near Nagaoka District in Kochi prefecture. maps.google.com/?q=33.859415,1

Benoît Huron's avatar
Benoît Huron

@benoithuron@mastodon.online

US geopolitical concerns over China's dominance in the solar and battery supply chain are hindering the clean energy transition for the country and its allies. japantimes.co.jp/environment/2

東亞藝術's avatar
東亞藝術

@EastAsiaArt@istanza.ch

Yoshida Hiroshi (1876-1950) - Warehouses at Tomonoura (from The Seto Inland Sea second series, 1930)

João Costa 💚🇵🇹🇪🇺🇬🇧🇺🇦's avatar
João Costa 💚🇵🇹🇪🇺🇬🇧🇺🇦

@joaocosta@mastodon.social

Bilateral agreements signed with 🇺🇦

1️⃣ 12/1🇬🇧
2️⃣ 16/2🇩🇪
3️⃣ 16/2🇫🇷
4️⃣ 23/2🇩🇰
5️⃣ 24/2🇨🇦
6️⃣ 24/2🇮🇹
7️⃣ 02/3🇳🇱
8️⃣ 03/3🇫🇮
9️⃣ 11/4🇱🇻
1️⃣0️⃣ 28/5🇪🇸
1️⃣1️⃣ 28/5🇧🇪
1️⃣2️⃣ 28/5🇵🇹
1️⃣3️⃣ 31/5🇸🇪
1️⃣4️⃣ 31/5🇳🇴
1️⃣5️⃣ 31/5🇮🇸
1️⃣6️⃣ 13/6🇺🇸
1️⃣7️⃣ 13/6🇯🇵
1️⃣8️⃣ 27/6🇪🇪
1️⃣9️⃣ 27/6🇱🇹
2️⃣0️⃣ 27/6🇪🇺
2️⃣1️⃣ 08/7🇵🇱
2️⃣2️⃣ 10/7🇱🇺
2️⃣3️⃣ 11/7🇷🇴
2️⃣4️⃣ 18/7🇨🇿
2️⃣5️⃣ 18/7🇸🇮
2️⃣6️⃣ 04/9🇮🇪
2️⃣7️⃣ 11/9🇱🇹

Autumn64 🏳️‍⚧️ :gnu: :linux:'s avatar
Autumn64 🏳️‍⚧️ :gnu: :linux:

@autumn64@mast.lat

亚洲 Radio, una estación de radio online hecha por @rinku_gmv y por su servidora que transmite las 24 horas del día, los 365 días del año. Sin comerciales. Sin interrupciones.

Síguenos en @yazhouradio

Y visita nuestra página web
yazhouradio.autumn64.xyz/

David :SetouchiExplorer:'s avatar
David :SetouchiExplorer:

@David@setouchi.social

It has become fascinating how the Japanese press is talking about typhoons getting stronger, heatwaves lasting longer, temperatures beating records, and rainfall beating records without never ever mentioning global warming. Not a single single time over dozens and dozens of articles.

mainichi.jp/english/articles/2

Fedi.Garden 🌱's avatar
Fedi.Garden 🌱

@FediGarden@social.growyourown.services

Sakurajima.moe is an inclusive Glitch Mastodon server for fans and content creators interested in Japanese anime, manga, games etc. The server is highly moderated to provide a safe, non-toxic environment.

:Fediverse: sakurajima.moe

They also run a Sharkey server at:

:Fediverse: sakurajima.social

Find out more at sakurajima.moe/about or contact the admin @sakurajima

vga256's avatar
vga256

@vga256@dialup.cafe

heartbreaking and heartwarming mini-documentary on the survivors of the Noto earthquake, trying to live their best in a difficult situation. if there ever was a metaphor for what we're all going through, it's in this Hometown Stories episode.

www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/sho

noco｜Flower Photographer's avatar
noco｜Flower Photographer

@noco3n_com@mstdn.jp

秋の匂いを感じられる朝陽とコスモス。

The morning sun and cosmos make you feel the scent of autumn.

ms. liz's avatar
ms. liz

@unknown8bit@mastodon.social

room 19.

room 19 at hiiragiya ryokan, kyoto, japan. edo period room — a figure dressed in yakuta sits reading next to a panoramic garden window, surrounded by intricate wood, bamboo, and paper screens.
ALT text detailsroom 19 at hiiragiya ryokan, kyoto, japan. edo period room — a figure dressed in yakuta sits reading next to a panoramic garden window, surrounded by intricate wood, bamboo, and paper screens.
Design Brouhaha's avatar
Design Brouhaha

@MoritzBrouhaha@typo.social · Reply to Design Brouhaha's post

The Lovers Communication System is a pictorial language created by the genius Japanese designer Yukio Ota in 1964. You may know him as the main designer behind the ISO symbol Exit Sign, which has been adopted worldwide.

His goal was to create a universal language that is easy to read, write, and remember, based on a combination of symbols and pictograms.

↓ 2/8

Picture of Yukio Ota 10 years ago during a presentation. He has papers in his hands depicting his work of creating the Exit Sign.
ALT text detailsPicture of Yukio Ota 10 years ago during a presentation. He has papers in his hands depicting his work of creating the Exit Sign.
Exit Sign ISO 7010 symbol
ALT text detailsExit Sign ISO 7010 symbol
ふづき's avatar
ふづき

@fumitsuki_kokonoka@mastodon.social


 


ふづき's avatar
ふづき

@fumitsuki_kokonoka@mastodon.social


Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:'s avatar
Norbert Woehnl :itabashi:

@norbertwoehnl@famichiki.jp

Four shots from Kōenji (高円寺) in western Tokyo. A very interesting area to walk around and discover novel shops and unique eateries.

All photos shot with Mamiya 6 and 50mm f/4 lens on Kodak Portra 400 medium-format film.

Colorful exterior of a small Italian Restaurant, Kōenji, Tokyo, Japan.
ALT text detailsColorful exterior of a small Italian Restaurant, Kōenji, Tokyo, Japan.
A woman passing an old building with faded painted advertisements in Kōenji, Tokyo, Japan.
ALT text detailsA woman passing an old building with faded painted advertisements in Kōenji, Tokyo, Japan.
Street life reflected in a shop window, Kōenji, Tokyo, Japan.
ALT text detailsStreet life reflected in a shop window, Kōenji, Tokyo, Japan.
Exterior of a café in Kōenji, Tokyo, Japan.
ALT text detailsExterior of a café in Kōenji, Tokyo, Japan.
cpi's avatar
cpi

@cpi@mastodon.social · Reply to cpi's post

exploring the arcade in the トラック野郎 / Torakku yarô aka Truck Guy movies (1975-1979)

pinballnovice.blogspot.com/202

Angela's avatar
Angela

@angela@zirk.us

I guess I should write a brief introduction. I'm not quite sure exactly how I'm going to use Mastodon yet but I'm interested in and , especially from and East Asia, Japanese and , especially prints, and anything magical or . I am trying to learn , but it's a very slow process. I have a website mostly about Japanese folklore, see link in bio.

Looking forward to connecting with others here.

Ukiyo-e print by Utagawa Hiroshige.

A crowd of female entertainers walk along a beach and across a land bridge to Enoshima, an island a short distance off the shore. In the background you can see Mt Fuji.
ALT text detailsA crowd of female entertainers walk along a beach and across a land bridge to Enoshima, an island a short distance off the shore. In the background you can see Mt Fuji.
September_UA 🇺🇦's avatar
September_UA 🇺🇦

@September_UA@social.kyiv.dcomm.net.ua

The USA and other Western countries find themselves unable to stop the supply of their microelectronics to Russia, yet they forbid hitting Russia with Western weapons

Doug Whitfield [Minneapolis]'s avatar
Doug Whitfield [Minneapolis]

@musicman@mastodon.social

@strypey I have a vision of bringing events to every region of the world. I have a tentative timeline of doing events in Central US in 2025 and 2026. then in some order I'd like to do and western before maybe returning to the US on the west coast. point being, there is some time to learn how to make this work.

I guess I'm wondering if maybe you'd be interested in being involved in something in New Zealand (or possibly Australia)

... a thread

Steve McCarty 🇯🇵's avatar
Steve McCarty 🇯🇵

@SteveMcCarty@hcommons.social

From 2004-2024 I introduced Japan to visiting foreign officials for the government foreign aid agency (Japan International Cooperation Agency or JICA). From 2020, when JICA could not bring participants to Japan, my recorded presentation by Zoom was shown at their branches overseas. Now, JICA has released the 98-minute recording from exclusive government ownership. It goes broadly and deeply from the origins of Japan 30,000+ years ago to contemporary ways of thinking and social behavior.

You know, it is quite possible to work for 20 years on something and end up with nothing to show for it. Therefore, it means so much, as my legacy, to be able to share this video publicly from now on:

"Japanese People and Society": youtube.com/watch?v=dCTY8KNlJD

YouTube channel (since 2006, before Google acquired it): youtube.com/@SteveMcCarty

Publications on Japan: japanned.hcommons.org/japanolo

@religion @histodons @sociology @edutooters

noco｜Flower Photographer's avatar
noco｜Flower Photographer

@noco3n_com@mstdn.jp

曇天でも美しさが際立つ北海道の花畑。

The flower fields of Hokkaido in Japan are beautiful even on cloudy days.

HandgunYoga (he/him/his)'s avatar
HandgunYoga (he/him/his)

@HandgunYoga@mastodon.world

Time for another .
Hoping with practice I’ll feel less awkward.

American living near Kentucky, home of . Grew up there when Dad was Colonel Sander’s head of and , Dad helped launch the first wave of Ky Fried Chicken stores in the UK and .

I’ve practiced for 40 years, heavily influenced by , , , and .

There’s a good chance I’m .

Mircea Kitsune's avatar
Mircea Kitsune

@MirceaKitsune@baraag.net · Reply to ミヤサカタカジ's post

@tkg0078 Wish we lived in a timeline where this was a normal stand on the streets of and instead. Amazing that despite some dumb laws, this is how cool actually is. Meanwhile here in the shitty West we're stuck with retarded puritan morons, still offended by drawings and a morality police making it a crime for many artists to post their or get donations. Give the Japanese their imperial army back and have them shoot our leaders and conquer us already 😁

Stuart Frisby's avatar
Stuart Frisby

@stu@mastodon.me.uk

👋 I’m Stuart. I spend my days running the Brand and Experience team at Deliveroo.

I live in - in SW England - where I’m a Victorian house having moved from after almost a decade in and spells in and before that.

I have a degree in and I occasionally make and , take & waffle on about and and Coventry City () and and and my .

bdonnelly's avatar
bdonnelly

@Theblueone@mastodon.social

SAKI (formerly of Nemophila) "Marionette" instrumental from her first Solo Live 2024

youtube.com/watch?v=LxFLz3dqJA

anna_lillith 🇺🇦🌱🐖's avatar
anna_lillith 🇺🇦🌱🐖

@anna_lillith@mas.to · Reply to anna_lillith 🇺🇦🌱🐖's post

Less than 10 days after the arrest of anti-whaling activist at its behest, the Japanese Government declares that fin whales have been added to its summer kill list, confirming suspicions that a return to high seas of the world’s largest mammals was always their intention.

On July 21st, arrested Paul Watson in response to a request from , on allegations stemming from his opposition to Japan’s illegal whaling activities

1/4

anna_lillith 🇺🇦🌱🐖's avatar
anna_lillith 🇺🇦🌱🐖

@anna_lillith@mas.to · Reply to anna_lillith 🇺🇦🌱🐖's post

As Japan’s new whaling ship, Kangei Maru, embarks on its devastating mission, the timing of Paul Watson’s extradition demand is no coincidence. This strategic move is an attempt to silence one of the most vocal defenders of our oceans. 🌊 🐋

1/6

🇯🇵

Japan demands Watson’s extradition as its new whaling ship slaughters its first whales
ALT text detailsJapan demands Watson’s extradition as its new whaling ship slaughters its first whales
anna_lillith 🇺🇦🌱🐖's avatar
anna_lillith 🇺🇦🌱🐖

@anna_lillith@mas.to · Reply to anna_lillith 🇺🇦🌱🐖's post

On July 21 2024, Captain was by Danish police upon arrival in , Greenland, onboard the M/Y John Paul DeJoria. Danish authorities claim that the arrest was made due to an international arrest warrant issued by , related to his anti-whaling campaigns in the more than a decade ago.

Paul faces the possibility of to Japan, where he would serve a maximum prison sentence of 15 years.

4/5

neptunespirates.uk/freepaulwat

anna_lillith 🇺🇦🌱🐖's avatar
anna_lillith 🇺🇦🌱🐖

@anna_lillith@mas.to

could be going to jail for saving ! At 75 years old, this would likely be a life sentence for him. The renowned anti-whaling activist is currently detained in , Greenland, facing potential extradition to on an international arrest warrant.

1/5

🐋

The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Philosopher Kohei Saito calls for a world where fewer things are produced to reduce carbon emissions, while his idea of a break with overconsumption and long working hours are resonating with those disillusioned with the status quo in Japan. japantimes.co.jp/news/2024/08/

Earthworm's avatar
Earthworm

@earthworm@kolektiva.social

Japanese Mastodon achieved to make some hashtags trending about "permanent residence permit cancellation by the Japanese government."

Some of the posts have the cutest antiracist posters I've seen in a while! 😍 :QueerCatHeart_Pride: :acabkitty:

Can somebody give some context?



A japanese poster for a demonstration (I think) with supercute chicks (or yellow cats?) holding signs with "stop racism" and "no human is illegal". awww! :D
ALT text detailsA japanese poster for a demonstration (I think) with supercute chicks (or yellow cats?) holding signs with "stop racism" and "no human is illegal". awww! :D
東亞藝術's avatar
東亞藝術

@EastAsiaArt@istanza.ch

Katsuda Tetsu (1896-1980) - Evening

Kristofferabild's avatar
Kristofferabild

@Kristofferabild@hachyderm.io

Dette har jeg glædet mig til at kunne dele længe. Jeg har lavet et videoessay og tilhørende artikel til tidsskriftet 16:9 om japansk anime. Maria Rebekka Holm Andersen står for den sprøde voice-over. Håber det kan virke som inspiration til at kaste sig ud i anime. 🙂

16-9.dk/2024/06/animeformatets
@nikolajfj @4nd3rs @jenspoder

cpi's avatar
cpi

@cpi@mastodon.social · Reply to cpi's post

6 more Coin Journal [月刊コインジャーナル] issues have been scanned:
1992-08
1993-12
1996-01
1996-03
1997-05
1997-11
pinballnovice.blogspot.com/202

David :SetouchiExplorer:'s avatar
David :SetouchiExplorer:

@David@setouchi.social

New Instance, new , I guess.
So, I'm David, and I'm on my own instance now!
I'm , and I live in where I teach at the local uni. Here, expect to find posts about my corner of Japan that is full of that are full of . I also have some friends in the neighborhood, so pictures of are common in my timeline. I also care about , the and a few more things.

Minoru Saba's avatar
Minoru Saba

@minorusaba@toad.social

"A Trump presidency is concerning to Tokyo because... Japan’s economy suffered greatly [from Trump's trade war with China]"
" will also be worried about its regional security outlook"
"Trump’s relationship with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un [could force] Japan and South Korea [towards] developing nuclear weapons"
cnbc.com/2024/07/11/japan-worr

🔸Alternatively Japan may be existentially compelled to align with the regional top dog if Trump withdraws US support.

Unseen Japan's avatar
Unseen Japan

@unseenjapan@mstdn.jp

Some assume that other languages lack multi-use vocab like the "F"-word in English. Words so adaptable that you can use them to express exact opposite sentiments without batting an eye.

But that isn’t exactly true. After all, just look at the Japanese language's “yabai”.

unseen-japan.com/yabai-the-mos

ms. liz's avatar
ms. liz

@unknown8bit@mas.to

june 2024

vista of kiyomizu-dera and kyoto skyline. the main wooden temple on the right, with the orange-red west gate and three story pagoda to its left, framed in the foreground by trees
ALT text detailsvista of kiyomizu-dera and kyoto skyline. the main wooden temple on the right, with the orange-red west gate and three story pagoda to its left, framed in the foreground by trees
blinry's avatar
blinry

@blinry@chaos.social

/

Hey, I'm blinry! I create digital tools and games, and digital art. I mostly use Mastodon to share my joy about things I learn or create. Welcome, everyone! :)

I love my communities: the Chaos community, Jugend Hackt, the Recurse Center.

I'm , into , software, , , , , , , , , , , , all things visual!

I'm curious and want to learn & try everything! ☺️

洪 民憙 (Hong Minhee)'s avatar
洪 民憙 (Hong Minhee)

@hongminhee@fosstodon.org

Starting tomorrow, my wife and I are traveling to for a week. We're going to eat good food, see good things, and I'm going to do some coding on the side. I'm looking forward to it!

Karl Baron's avatar
Karl Baron

@kalleboo@bitbang.social

I found the network rack gacha! Assumed it was so niche it would only be found in like Tokyo but there was one around my neck of the woods as well.

This is the cutest thing ever! Look at the little cables and cable management hoops, the PDU, all of it is so well-done!

A gacha machine with an image of network rack toys on the front
ALT text detailsA gacha machine with an image of network rack toys on the front
The un-constructed bits of plastic toy network gear all spread out
ALT text detailsThe un-constructed bits of plastic toy network gear all spread out
The built network rack from the front, with two Cisco switches and a Furukawa Electric. Cables go between them.
ALT text detailsThe built network rack from the front, with two Cisco switches and a Furukawa Electric. Cables go between them.
The rear with power cables going to a PDU through cable management hoops.
ALT text detailsThe rear with power cables going to a PDU through cable management hoops.
Karl Baron's avatar
Karl Baron

@kalleboo@bitbang.social

Here's your periodic reminder about how cursed Japanese wiring is.

This is an official, standard Apple power cable that shipped with a MacBook.

A mains power cord with a two-pronged US-style plug on the end, except there's also a yellow green ground cable sticking out the side of it with a screw-in "pitchfork" on the end
ALT text detailsA mains power cord with a two-pronged US-style plug on the end, except there's also a yellow green ground cable sticking out the side of it with a screw-in "pitchfork" on the end
Björn's avatar
Björn

@adabo@pixelfed.social

Unter der Brücke
#photography #bridge #tokyo #japan #ishootfilm #analogphotography #filmphotography #kodak #kodakgold #pentax #pentaxk2 #tokyocameraclub
Geschäfte unter einer Eisenbahnbrücke
ALT text detailsGeschäfte unter einer Eisenbahnbrücke
Chad Kohalyk's avatar
Chad Kohalyk

@chadkoh@indieweb.social

An for my new neighbours here on Indieweb.social

Canadian but live in , photographing as I go about daily life. Post a lot of photos live while I . Practice and read about as well as and .

Vegetarian since 2015, and increasingly concerned about the . Working with tech for over 20 years, and thinking about and .

Flock of Cats 🐈 🐈 🐈 🌸's avatar
Flock of Cats 🐈 🐈 🐈 🌸

@FlockOfCats@famichiki.jp

Here’s my toot. I will:

1. Tell stupid jokes/puns
2. Muse about life in
3. Distribute/view animal/nature/moss pics
4. Converse with nice people
5. Have the rare emotional breakdown
6. Share pics of food I make
7. Follow news/politics, but not post too much of it
8. Rant about
9. !
10. Share / , video games, nerd stuff

Silly pics here, “good” pics on Pixelfed

I’m more likely to follow back after human interaction first 🙂

Camellia Tea Ceremony's avatar
Camellia Tea Ceremony

@camelliakyoto@mastodon.social

👣🧘‍♀️ LOTUS LOVE🪷😇

As rainy season deepens lotus plants emerge from the muddy beds of ponds, reaching above the waters to unfurl giant leaves.
In a few short weeks alien landscapes appear where once there were only bare stretches of water.

In Kyōto 'kanrensetsu' (観蓮節), 'lotus flower viewing', coincides with the culmination of the Gion Matsuri...almost as if the flowers have appeared to welcome the gods of Yasaka-jinja into the city.

Lotus flowers reach for the sky.
ALT text detailsLotus flowers reach for the sky.
Lotus flowers begin to appear in the pond at To-ji (the famous pagoda rises in the background).
ALT text detailsLotus flowers begin to appear in the pond at To-ji (the famous pagoda rises in the background).
A bright pink lotus flower shows signs of beginning to open.
ALT text detailsA bright pink lotus flower shows signs of beginning to open.
The early morning sun illuminates a lotus flower (seemingly from within).
ALT text detailsThe early morning sun illuminates a lotus flower (seemingly from within).
𝚃𝚊𝚛𝚊𝚜 𝙶𝚛𝚎𝚜𝚌𝚘𝚎 🚇's avatar
𝚃𝚊𝚛𝚊𝚜 𝙶𝚛𝚎𝚜𝚌𝚘𝚎 🚇

@straphanger@urbanists.social

This train platform in 's Yamaguchi Prefecture has no ticket booth, no entrance or exit.

Why does it exist?

🇯🇵🚉🧵

Gou🍉☮️🏴 :neodog_floof__w: :v_gay2:'s avatar
Gou🍉☮️🏴 :neodog_floof__w: :v_gay2:

@gougoudoggo@tech.lgbt · Reply to Gou🍉☮️🏴 :neodog_floof__w: :v_gay2:'s post

Unfortunately, it appears that the law has been passed. :blobraccoon_cry:
Your actions so far and in the future may affect the operation of the law and the decision on the constitutionality of this law in a court case that will happen someday.
So the action is meaningful. Thank you very much. :blobraccoon_blush:

:blobcatdab: @nyannyanblob
And this is an account that addresses the issue of discrimination and inequality in Japan. I also support it.
If you are interested in human rights or just Japan, I urge you to follow it. :blob_raccoon_heart:


Gou🍉☮️🏴 :neodog_floof__w: :v_gay2:'s avatar
Gou🍉☮️🏴 :neodog_floof__w: :v_gay2:

@gougoudoggo@tech.lgbt · Reply to Gou🍉☮️🏴 :neodog_floof__w: :v_gay2:'s post

Contact form of the Japanese Prime Minister's Office:
kantei.go.jp/jp/forms/goiken_s

Contact list of concerned legislators:
docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d

Contact list of concerned legislators (from another organization. Including duplicates):
docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d

Related Article:
Protesters attack bill on revoking permanent residency status
asahi.com/ajw/articles/1529686

I repeat, this is a human rights issue.
Not only could foreigners who have worked hard to obtain permanent residency or those married to Japanese citizens be deported, but even children born and raised in Japan to foreign parents could be sent out of the country.
:neofox_cry_loud:



Gou🍉☮️🏴 :neodog_floof__w: :v_gay2:'s avatar
Gou🍉☮️🏴 :neodog_floof__w: :v_gay2:

@gougoudoggo@tech.lgbt · Reply to Gou🍉☮️🏴 :neodog_floof__w: :v_gay2:'s post

Urgent Action Needed:
Despite continuous opposition from minority parties, it is expected that this law will be forcibly passed as early as today. It’s already 6 AM in Japan, so we might have less than 12 hours left.

To everyone who has signed the petition, thank you. Unfortunately, we might not have enough time to submit the signatures.

Please, take a moment to email your country’s embassy in Japan about this urgent issue. A simple and straightforward message is enough. Express your concern about the impending law that would make it easier to revoke permanent residency for foreigners in Japan. Let them know about the situation and encourage them to take action.

Your voice can make a difference. Thank you for your support. :blobraccoon_aww_animated:




Gou🍉☮️🏴 :neodog_floof__w: :v_gay2:'s avatar
Gou🍉☮️🏴 :neodog_floof__w: :v_gay2:

@gougoudoggo@tech.lgbt

2024-10-20 9am (UTC) Updated. Read the post that follows.

Urgent Human Rights Issue:

A new law is about to be passed in Japan, allowing the government to revoke the permanent residency of foreigners for minor infractions.

Japanese nationality is determined by jus sanguinis (right of blood), so children born and raised in Japan are considered foreigners if their parents are not Japanese citizens. Even those fully integrated into Japanese society could be deported due to a minor infraction or false accusation.

Minor infractions might include not carrying a residence card. Given the history of racial profiling by Japanese police, malicious actions against these residents are likely.

This law also affects those who have obtained permanent residency through their own efforts or by marrying Japanese citizens. Stripping away their lives is a human rights violation. If you care about human rights, please sign the petition.

chng.it/yC8fjZYjJm
:neofox_scream_angry:

bdonnelly's avatar
bdonnelly

@Theblueone@mastodon.social · Reply to bdonnelly's post

Hebi Katana - Pennsylvania Blood (LIVE)

youtube.com/watch?v=kDQ2ZJjQrP

CelloMom On Cars's avatar
CelloMom On Cars

@CelloMomOnCars@mastodon.social · Reply to CelloMom On Cars's post

"Global warming is bringing on a succession of negative effects on a range of marine creatures across , such as the relocated habitats of fish and fluctuations in catches.

Concerns are growing that the summer expected this year as well may further exacerbate the situation.
The total seafood catch in Japan has been on a continuous decline."

asahi.com/ajw/articles/1524412

Eugene Alvin Villar 🇵🇭's avatar
Eugene Alvin Villar 🇵🇭

@seav@en.osm.town

Did you know that there is a 1:1 scale replica of the world-famous Scramble intersection that can be rented by TV and film productions located 80 km northwest of Tokyo in the city of ? The real intersection is so busy that nobody can close it down for controlled filming.

This set was notably used in the hit Japanese TV series Alice in Borderland.

Location in OSM: osm.org/go/7Q9Mdm_mk?m=

Satellite image of the replica Shibuya Scramble intersection
ALT text detailsSatellite image of the replica Shibuya Scramble intersection
Jan's avatar
Jan

@Jan@hannover.town

Please share to the Japanese Fediverse! 🇯🇵

➡️ GOPRO FOUND AT OKINAWA!

Have you heard of someone loosing his/her GoPro at Okinawa?

I found a GoPro at an Okinawa beach. It contains diving videos. I will share the videos with the owner. 🎥 🐠 🤿

ray (he/him)'s avatar
ray (he/him)

@pantransautie@elekk.xyz

interest tags:












cpi's avatar
cpi

@cpi@mastodon.social · Reply to cpi's post

scan: Parts Catalog & Schematics for 1967 Rifleman - ライフルマン by セガ (Sega)
pinballnovice.blogspot.com/202

schematics and instructions for 1968 Periscope [single] - ペリスコープ by セガ (Sega)
pinballnovice.blogspot.com/202

Parts Catalog & Schematics for 1967 Rifleman - ライフルマン by セガ (Sega)
ALT text detailsParts Catalog & Schematics for 1967 Rifleman - ライフルマン by セガ (Sega)
Parts Catalog & Schematics for 1967 Rifleman - ライフルマン by セガ (Sega)
ALT text detailsParts Catalog & Schematics for 1967 Rifleman - ライフルマン by セガ (Sega)
schematics and instructions for 1968 Periscope [single] - ペリスコープ by セガ (Sega)
ALT text detailsschematics and instructions for 1968 Periscope [single] - ペリスコープ by セガ (Sega)
schematics and instructions for 1968 Periscope [single] - ペリスコープ by セガ (Sega)
ALT text detailsschematics and instructions for 1968 Periscope [single] - ペリスコープ by セガ (Sega)
cpi's avatar
cpi

@cpi@mastodon.social · Reply to cpi's post

Coin Journal scans:
月刊コインジャーナル [Monthly Coin Journal] 1994-10 & 1997-10
pinballnovice.blogspot.com/202

月刊コインジャーナル [Monthly Coin Journal] 1992-09 & 1993-07
pinballnovice.blogspot.com/202

月刊コインジャーナル [Monthly Coin Journal] 1994-10
ALT text details月刊コインジャーナル [Monthly Coin Journal] 1994-10
月刊コインジャーナル [Monthly Coin Journal] 1997-10
ALT text details月刊コインジャーナル [Monthly Coin Journal] 1997-10
月刊コインジャーナル [Monthly Coin Journal] 1992-09
ALT text details月刊コインジャーナル [Monthly Coin Journal] 1992-09
月刊コインジャーナル [Monthly Coin Journal] 1993-07
ALT text details月刊コインジャーナル [Monthly Coin Journal] 1993-07
cpi's avatar
cpi

@cpi@mastodon.social · Reply to cpi's post

I have compiled all of my research on SEGA in the 1960s into a single post.
1) Sega's corporate history summary
2) the lineages of Sega's early games
3) documenting the machines offered in the 1966 price list
4) tracking Sega through trade publications articles
pinballnovice.blogspot.com/202

Sega 1966 Price List
ALT text detailsSega 1966 Price List
1961-04-15 Cash Box https://pinballnovice.blogspot.com/2024/05/exploring-arcade-in-this-1961-gun.html
ALT text details1961-04-15 Cash Box https://pinballnovice.blogspot.com/2024/05/exploring-arcade-in-this-1961-gun.html
1967-12 VT Music and Games
ALT text details1967-12 VT Music and Games
1968-07 VT Music and Games - part 1 pinball machines
ALT text details1968-07 VT Music and Games - part 1 pinball machines
Vincent 🌻🇪🇺's avatar
Vincent 🌻🇪🇺

@photovince@mastodon.social

Went to the The Hague Japanese garden yesterday, on the grayest day of the week. It did being out all the greens, but also threw off the iphone’s auto white balance.

cpi's avatar
cpi

@cpi@mastodon.social · Reply to cpi's post

Exploring the arcade in 大当りパチンコ娘 (1952) aka Oatari Pachinko Musume aka Jackpot Pachinko Girl

pinballnovice.blogspot.com/202

cpi's avatar
cpi

@cpi@mastodon.social · Reply to cpi's post

exploring the arcade in 私刑（リンチ） (1949) aka Rinchi
pinballnovice.blogspot.com/202

ghostzero's avatar
ghostzero

@ghostzero@tech.lgbt

New obsession: kei truck gardens 軽トラガーデン. No idea this was a thing but apparently there are even competitions in Japan and I absolutely love it

Collage of photos of Japanese kei trucks with a miniature garden on top of the flatbed.
ALT text detailsCollage of photos of Japanese kei trucks with a miniature garden on top of the flatbed.
The Japan Times's avatar
The Japan Times

@thejapantimes@mastodon.social

Wednesday marked the 29th anniversity of the Aum Shinrikyo doomsday cult's sarin nerve gas attack on the Tokyo subway system that killed 14 people and injured more than 6,000. japantimes.co.jp/news/2024/03/

David Farnell's avatar
David Farnell

@azzageddi@dice.camp

New post on changing instances: Hi all! I'm an English professor at a university in southwest . I've lived in about half my life now. I'm married, with 3 grown stepkids and EIGHT grandkids, all living within a couple hours drive. I love walking and , playing , , , , , and more. I've been on Mastodon for about 2½ years. Nice to meet you!

Christian Krebel's avatar
Christian Krebel

@ChristianKrebel@ohai.social · Reply to Christian Krebel's post

🎲 Playing on the or is nice to calm down, especially with cozy games. In contrast, the TCG is a new excitement for me since 2024.

🌱 since 2017 and since 2022.

🧠 enthusiast and building my digital garden of notes in .

🎌 I adore and it's culture, so I visited it in 2023 and started to (slowly) learn どうぞよろしく

🇩🇪 Most of my posts are in English but sometimes I also post in German.

2/2

Marine Tachibana's avatar
Marine Tachibana

@citrus_marine@mas.to

Second post since I lost the first one in the bottom of the timeline.

Hi, I’m Tachibana Marine(obviously not my real name), a living in .

I love (, , ), , , () and many other things.

English is not my first language but I suck at Japanese(which is my native tongue) too so keep that in mind.

Say hi to my roommate as well, if you wish!

A cockatiel playing with a hanger. Forgot why I took this photo… Oh, I remembered it now… I was experimenting with what material would catch his attention other than clothes
ALT text detailsA cockatiel playing with a hanger. Forgot why I took this photo… Oh, I remembered it now… I was experimenting with what material would catch his attention other than clothes
cpi's avatar
cpi

@cpi@mastodon.social · Reply to cpi's post

I purchased this VHS Japanese documentary on pachinko and coordinated to have it digitized and translated. Please enjoy:
映像が語る パチンコの歴史 (The history of pachinko through video) [with English subtitles]
pinballnovice.blogspot.com/202

Victor Hugo Kebbe's avatar
Victor Hugo Kebbe

@factolvictor@dice.camp

I've just finished teaching a class on Anthropology of Food in Japan. How I like this topic, wow... it's really, really cool, being able to think about culture through the meals we eat, food production and consumption systems. As the anthropological motto says, food is good not only for eating, but also for thinking. @anthropology

cpi's avatar
cpi

@cpi@mastodon.social · Reply to cpi's post

scan: ヨーロッパに生まれ日本で育ったパチンコ百年史 [A Centennial History of Pachinko Born in Europe and Raised in Japan] (2002)
pinballnovice.blogspot.com/202

cpi's avatar
cpi

@cpi@mastodon.social · Reply to cpi's post

exploring the arcade in 1992-01 TVムック故郷は欧州　意外なパチンコ進化論 / TV Mook Mystery Journey: Surprising theory of pachinko evolution
pinballnovice.blogspot.com/202

This was an incredible amount of work. When someone says "prewar game", we have to specify WW2, WW1, Russo-Japanese war... because some of these machines go into the 19th century.
The translated documentary is also linked.

cpi's avatar
cpi

@cpi@mastodon.social · Reply to cpi's post

new movie added to "exploring pachinko in Japanese cinema..."
1957 - 警視庁物語 上野発五時三五分 / Keishichō monogatari Ueno-hatsu 5:35am (Metropolitan Police Department Story: 5:35am from Ueno)
pinballnovice.blogspot.com/202

History of Art's avatar
History of Art

@historyofart@mastodon.art

October 31 - the birthday of Katsushika Hokusai (1760-1849) - Japanese master artist and printmaker of the ukiyo-e (“pictures of the floating world”) school. His famous print series “Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji,” published between 1826 and 1833, marked the summit in the history of the Japanese landscape print.

stellar-art.pixels.com/feature

The Great Wave from the series Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji.
ALT text detailsThe Great Wave from the series Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji.
JoeJoeTom 🏳️‍🌈🎶🪨💛🤍💜🖤's avatar
JoeJoeTom 🏳️‍🌈🎶🪨💛🤍💜🖤

@joejoetom@mastodon.cloud

An updated ! (Oct 2023)

Will be in , beginning Nov 1 thru Jan 2024, then returning to . Married to a sweetheart of a man. Have dabbled in various artistic endeavors over the years (choreography, illustration, etc.) but concentrating for now on making (eerietom.com), (mostly about my experiences eerietom.dreamwidth.org/), and improving my .

Renkon's avatar
Renkon

@renkotsuban@gamedev.lgbt

Hi! 👋 My name is Renkon or renkotsuban. I'm 4世日系人, born and raised in Hawaiʻi. I've been living in since 2008. I am and go by they/them.

I keep myself busy by...
📝 @ renkotsuban.com
🎮 doing with my partner Daikon as @nicegeargames
📰 making highlighting from Japan @indietsushin
📚 very slowly
💮 studying
📸 taking amateur
🏕️ yuru

It's nice to meet you! 🤝

damian ☃️ willcox's avatar
damian ☃️ willcox

@dorkboycomics@sakurajima.social

Hello folks/friends/followers!

 My name is damian willcox - I have been making comics for MANY(possibly too many) years. You can find those at https://dorkboycomics.com . I also paint watercolours, so expect to see , , , paintings, and random notes periodically.

Here's a comic I made a few years back telling the story of the time I was in Japan and attended "Comiket" dressed up in my Godzilla costume. It was wonderful.

Also, you might have had a follow notification recently…It’s me, damian™, same guy just trying out a new Firefish server. Hoping to import my past posts, but still exploring that possibility so haven't done the full migration yet...stay tuned.

Comic re-telling the time I attended a comic convention in Japan dressed in a Godzilla costume.
ALT text detailsComic re-telling the time I attended a comic convention in Japan dressed in a Godzilla costume.
cpi's avatar
cpi

@cpi@mastodon.social · Reply to cpi's post

exploring the arcade in 未成年 / Miseinen / Minor (1955)
a look at smartball
pinballnovice.blogspot.com/202

Zach Nocturnal Artist's avatar
Zach Nocturnal Artist

@zachnocturnalartist@mastodon.social

Drawing and painting of a Japanese geisha/geiko woman calming a person down from an anxiety attack/panic attack. I was thinking of this idea randomly. She's a service geisha/geiko woman, who is trained to calm down people from anxiety/panic disorders, autism (ASD), etc. I used the following tools in Autodesk Sketchbook: color builder, pencil, fountain pen, and course watercolor.

Service Japanese Geisha Woman
ALT text detailsService Japanese Geisha Woman
Terry Wallwork's avatar
Terry Wallwork

@terrywallwork@mstdn.jp

Bible/Jesus AI chat, thanks Scathing Atheist podcast & Eli Bosnick (who is always trustworthy and never does anything for fun, ever) you can:

chatwithjesus.app/

Note: It understands Japanese, answers any question bibe related or not.

I got the AI to guess what fruit Mary of the Bible likes and it said Figs.

@piatpod


Rémi Dupré's avatar
Rémi Dupré

@remidupre@mas.to

I've been in for a bit more than a week and it really has been a breathtaking experience so far. I'm aware of the heavy cost of such a trip so I'm trying to get the most out of it.

I especially love how has a different place than in France, the thriving number of parcs and temples keeps some space for nature even in big cities.

It has also been the perfect occasion so far to learn the basics of on the camera I kinda stole from my girlfriend 😇

A orange butterfly on top a big yellow flower. Rémi Dupré, CC BY-SA
ALT text detailsA orange butterfly on top a big yellow flower. Rémi Dupré, CC BY-SA
A blue dragonfly. Rémi Dupré, CC BY-SA
ALT text detailsA blue dragonfly. Rémi Dupré, CC BY-SA
A white lotus flower, surounded by lotus leaves and a pink lotus flower in the background. Rémi Dupré, CC BY-SA
ALT text detailsA white lotus flower, surounded by lotus leaves and a pink lotus flower in the background. Rémi Dupré, CC BY-SA
Karl Baron's avatar
Karl Baron

@kalleboo@bitbang.social · Reply to Karl Baron's post

I recalled a few more fantastically handy Japanese power strips

A power strip with all the US-style pins but they are all the same spacing from each other so you don't know if you're connecting to live or neutral
ALT text detailsA power strip with all the US-style pins but they are all the same spacing from each other so you don't know if you're connecting to live or neutral
A power strip with just two long slots
ALT text detailsA power strip with just two long slots
The Exiled King's avatar
The Exiled King

@ExiledKing@mastodon.gamedev.place

I never wrote an or at least don't remember.

I'm Tim - a dedicated and enthusiast. I dream of doing but tend to lose focus and drive early on.

Things I will post about:
- lots of them
- - my backlog makes dragons jealous
-
-
-
- as I work through my backlog
-
-
-

*Probably not an actual King

Shred's avatar
Shred

@shred@oldbytes.space

I'm here for more than a year now, and I still owe you a proper .

Hi, I'm Richard! I started computers when I was about 9 years old. My first computer was a ZX81 (figure out how old I am now). and software development has always been my passion. My favorite programming languages are , , and . 😁​

If you follow me, you'll mainly read a lot of stuff, especially about refurbishing and programming , and machines. I also like and . My other, much too much neglected interests are , and .

I live in Germany. I post in English and German, and try my best to tag the language of my posts correctly. (You can filter languages on Mastodon!)

Nice to meet you! 😀​

Cold Duchess of the North's avatar
Cold Duchess of the North

@Geisterweiss@ad-astra.moe

part 2, some tags I like

Terry Wallwork's avatar
Terry Wallwork

@terrywallwork@mstdn.jp

Tokyo Foreign Studies University has a lot of their course content available online:

東外大言語モジュール

coelang.tufs.ac.jp/mt/


Terry Wallwork's avatar
Terry Wallwork

@terrywallwork@mstdn.jp

Tadoku Tree House – Graded Readers by Japanese Learners!

sites.smith.edu/tadoku/


Vincent 🌻🇪🇺's avatar
Vincent 🌻🇪🇺

@photovince@mastodon.social

The in The Hague is closed again. I managed to squeeze in a brief visit on Friday.

I do wonder if limiting the opening to a few weeks in spring and autumn really works to preserve the garden, or whether it would be better to open it all year round to avoid the twice yearly stampede.

There are Japanese gardens in many major cities that are part of city life and are rarely crowded!

Various
ALT text detailsVarious
Cliché
ALT text detailsCliché
Japanese Garden
ALT text detailsJapanese Garden
Images by me
ALT text detailsImages by me
cpi's avatar
cpi

@cpi@mastodon.social · Reply to cpi's post

2 very important pachinko scans are now online.
遊技通信でみるパチンコ業界の60年 (60 Years of the Pachinko Industry)
and
パチンコ博物館 (Pachinko Museum)

pinballnovice.blogspot.com/202

遊技通信でみるパチンコ業界の60年 60 Years of the Pachinko Industry
ALT text details遊技通信でみるパチンコ業界の60年 60 Years of the Pachinko Industry
cpi's avatar
cpi

@cpi@mastodon.social · Reply to cpi's post

new arcade exploration post up, featuring an (allegedly) 1971 arcade in Japan.
(Anyone able to figure out where the clip is from? I need to verify the year.)
pinballnovice.blogspot.com/202

cpi's avatar
cpi

@cpi@mastodon.social · Reply to cpi's post

new movie added to the "exploring pachinko in Japanese cinema..." post:
1961 - 豚と軍艦 / Buta To Gunkan (Pigs and Battleships)

pinballnovice.blogspot.com/202

cpi's avatar
cpi

@cpi@mastodon.social · Reply to cpi's post

do not miss the jungle remix of this!!!
King Of The Pachinco Man
soundcloud.com/dove6/king-of-t

cpi's avatar
cpi

@cpi@mastodon.social · Reply to cpi's post

close down the bit of Japanese culture with who else? Boogie Man with his smash hit (?) Pachinco Man!
pinballnovice.blogspot.com/202

cpi's avatar
cpi

@cpi@mastodon.social · Reply to cpi's post

did I ever mention I made a super-edit of a themed porn?
There is actually a bunch of porn in this whole thread, but all the others are "roman porno" or what we used to call "blue movies".

Here are the best parts of Pachinko Queen Explosion, edited down to just under 7 minutes of hardcore action
pinballnovice.blogspot.com/202

cpi's avatar
cpi

@cpi@mastodon.social · Reply to cpi's post

exploring pachinko in Japanese cinema...
pinballnovice.blogspot.com/202

7/
ok final one of this chain...

cpi's avatar
cpi

@cpi@mastodon.social · Reply to cpi's post

exploring pachinko in Japanese cinema...
pinballnovice.blogspot.com/202

6/
these 4 images are all from the 2004 movie 下妻物語 / Shimotsuma monogatari (Kamikaze Girls)

cpi's avatar
cpi

@cpi@mastodon.social · Reply to cpi's post

exploring pachinko in Japanese cinema...
pinballnovice.blogspot.com/202

5/

cpi's avatar
cpi

@cpi@mastodon.social · Reply to cpi's post

exploring pachinko in Japanese cinema...
pinballnovice.blogspot.com/202

4/
these 4 pictures are all from the 1975 movie 濡れた欲情　ひらけ！チューリップ (Wet Lust: Opening the Tulip)

cpi's avatar
cpi

@cpi@mastodon.social · Reply to cpi's post

exploring pachinko in Japanese cinema...
pinballnovice.blogspot.com/202

3/

cpi's avatar
cpi

@cpi@mastodon.social · Reply to cpi's post

exploring pachinko in Japanese cinema...
pinballnovice.blogspot.com/202

2/

cpi's avatar
cpi

@cpi@mastodon.social · Reply to cpi's post

but wait! There's more! I also have 2 posts that are somewhat related.
I have been documenting the appearance of in Japanese movies. Currently there are 31 movies included. You know what? I'm going to post a whole series of my favourite screenshots of movies with pachinko to go along with this

exploring pachinko in Japanese cinema...
pinballnovice.blogspot.com/202

(I also have a page of pachinko in foreign cinema incoming)

cpi's avatar
cpi

@cpi@mastodon.social · Reply to cpi's post

exploring the arcade in Supaidaman (ep 13) (1978)
pinballnovice.blogspot.com/202


cpi's avatar
cpi

@cpi@mastodon.social · Reply to cpi's post

exploring the arcade in ずべ公番長 ざんげの値打もない (1971) aka Delinquent Girl Boss: Worthless to Confess aka Delinquent Girl Boss: Unworthy of Penance
pinballnovice.blogspot.com/202

cpi's avatar
cpi

@cpi@mastodon.social · Reply to cpi's post

exploring the arcade in Android Kaikader (1972)
pinballnovice.blogspot.com/202

cpi's avatar
cpi

@cpi@mastodon.social · Reply to cpi's post

exploring the arcade in 東京流れ者 aka Tōkyō nagaremono aka Tokyo Drifter (1966)
pinballnovice.blogspot.com/202

cpi's avatar
cpi

@cpi@mastodon.social · Reply to cpi's post

exploring the 1973 Japanese arcades in this tweet...
pinballnovice.blogspot.com/202

cpi's avatar
cpi

@cpi@mastodon.social · Reply to cpi's post

exploring the arcade in 黒い賭博師 悪魔の左手 aka Kuroi Tobakushi: Akuma no Hidarite aka Black Gambler: Devil's Left Hand (1966)
pinballnovice.blogspot.com/202

cpi's avatar
cpi

@cpi@mastodon.social · Reply to cpi's post

exploring the arcade in 愛欲の罠 / Aiyoku no wana aka Trapped in Lust (1973)
pinballnovice.blogspot.com/202

this is by far the most important and impressive arcade I have documented.

cpi's avatar
cpi

@cpi@mastodon.social · Reply to cpi's post

exploring the arcade of Gメン'75 第24話「二人組警官ギャング」
pinballnovice.blogspot.com/202

cpi's avatar
cpi

@cpi@mastodon.social · Reply to cpi's post

exploring the arcade in the 1976 music video Cools - Mr.ハーレー・ダビットソン (Mr. Harley Davidson)
pinballnovice.blogspot.com/202

cpi's avatar
cpi

@cpi@mastodon.social · Reply to cpi's post

exploring the arcade in the Yaffle - Reconnect music video
pinballnovice.blogspot.com/202

for the fans

cpi's avatar
cpi

@cpi@mastodon.social · Reply to cpi's post

exploring the arcades in a few Japanese TV shows
pinballnovice.blogspot.com/202

this one is a grab-bag of multiple sources

cpi's avatar
cpi

@cpi@mastodon.social · Reply to cpi's post

exploring the arcade in ハイティーンやくざ / Hai tiin yakuza / Teenage Yakuza (1962)

cpi's avatar
cpi

@cpi@mastodon.social · Reply to cpi's post

exploring the arcade in this 1955 Japanese video on candy...
pinballnovice.blogspot.com/202

cpi's avatar
cpi

@cpi@mastodon.social · Reply to cpi's post

exploring the arcade in 本日休診 / Honjitsu kyûshin / Doctor's Day Off (1952)
pinballnovice.blogspot.com/202

cpi's avatar
cpi

@cpi@mastodon.social · Reply to cpi's post

exploring the arcade in 女獣 / Mejû / Woman Beast (1960)
pinballnovice.blogspot.com/202

cpi's avatar
cpi

@cpi@mastodon.social · Reply to cpi's post

exploring the arcade in ワンパク番外地 / Wanpaku Bangaichi (1971)
pinballnovice.blogspot.com/202

We also do old TV shows!

cpi's avatar
cpi

@cpi@mastodon.social · Reply to cpi's post

exploring the arcade in 団地妻しのび逢い (1972) aka Danchizuma shinobiai aka Apartment Wife: Secret Rendezvous
pinballnovice.blogspot.com/202

cpi's avatar
cpi

@cpi@mastodon.social

thread of my posts, starting with my latest:
exploring the arcade in the 1978 movie 鬼畜 / Kichiku (The Demon)

each blog entry features an arcade in a movie (mostly from ) and tries to identify all of the machines.
This is an exceptionally difficult task because:
1) I'm focused on movies from the 1930s-1970s
2) Japanese arcade machines were not well documented until I got fed up and started my eremeka site

pinballnovice.blogspot.com/202

Steve McCarty 🇯🇵's avatar
Steve McCarty 🇯🇵

@SteveMcCarty@hcommons.social

"Online Education as a Discipline" (2021) was the culmination of 25 years, and has been read by around 8,000 teachers and researchers worldwide at researchgate.net/publication/3 (16 recommendations) and doi.org/10.20935/AL434

Educators and scholars in all fields should find the article informative. It has been cited mostly in reference to Emergency Remote Teaching, but it goes beyond that issue to the role of academics in society, and the case of India. It defines terms including online education, and starts by explaining the difference between a field and a discipline.

@edutooters @academicchatter

eobet's avatar
eobet

@eobet@oldbytes.space

Me and the wife have arrived in the promised land of and this is literally the first thing we stumbled upon!

Apologies in advance, but for the next few weeks I’m probably going to spam a lot of from this trip. It’s my third time in , but last time was almost a decade ago so it will be interesting to see how my dream country since childhood has changed (my wife used to live here so she’s bored of it these days, but indulged me to visit friends and see the Sakura bloom).

UPDATE: Sad to learn that this place was recently destroyed in a fire… timeextension.com/news/2025/01

An old arcade with a lot of classic games still open for business with the tagline "since 1985" visible in the window.
ALT text detailsAn old arcade with a lot of classic games still open for business with the tagline "since 1985" visible in the window.
A Pac-Man cabinet in the back of the arcade.
ALT text detailsA Pac-Man cabinet in the back of the arcade.
Terry Wallwork's avatar
Terry Wallwork

@terrywallwork@mstdn.jp

If you want an AI Chat bot that can answer in Japanese this bot is good:

@poppinwillow

As is My AI chatbot on Snapchat. Though you will have to demand it speak Japanese before it will admit it understands Japanese!

snapchat.com/add/myai?share_id


Christopher Keener, pHd :ddg:'s avatar
Christopher Keener, pHd :ddg:

@RoboticistDuck@mas.to

I’m a refugee from the US living in . For several decades I’ve futzed around on industrial and commercial IT projects.

Recently I’m enamored with topics including .

My addiction has driven me to roast my own coffee in a pan on the stove (with thermocouples attached, of course).

Most toots are from random sightings along the road of life.

I look forward to opportunities to interact with you.

BearHugger's avatar
BearHugger

@bearhugger@4bear.com · Reply to BearHugger's post

So, here’s my introduction.

I’m a translator, Japanology student, gamer (I love MOBA games), chaser and still a bit cubby after COVID lockdowns. Still super single and happy.

I’m a cinephile. I especially lovw French, German and Italian cinema. Also, I’m a fan of American Film Noirs.

My hashtags:

Glen Malley's avatar
Glen Malley

@glen_malley@mstdn.ca

You know, I never did do an toot. Lemme just churn out something here.
I'm a who lives in and I've been here for awhile. I work in a mix of front and back-end for a mid-tier internet conglomerate.
I mostly toot about / and and I also tend to boost and that I like, focusing on and generally. Also a fan of and
I am and a bit of a

James Ross's avatar
James Ross

@twpol@tech.lgbt

Time for my post

I am a cis het man who likes , , / , and the Oxford comma

I am a professional computer whisperer, using C#/DotNet and JavaScript primarily

I live in southern England, UK

I do not post much myself but will boost interesting and insightful posts from as diverse a range of others as I can manage

Nad :imagination:'s avatar
Nad :imagination:

@NadCee@worldkey.io

Introduction in hashtags

🏳️‍🌈
🇨🇭
∞♡
°o°
🎤
💻
❤️‍🔥
🗣️

h-pom's avatar
h-pom

@hpom@vivaldi.net

h-pom's avatar
h-pom

@hpom@vivaldi.net

Ted O'Neill's avatar
Ted O'Neill

@ton@scholar.social

It is time. I think this is my third .

English Professor--Faculty of International Social Sciences, Gakushuin University.

Research and Practice

​
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Tech
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Places
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Associations
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Fun
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(maybe?) (yes)
esp ​
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@gotanda on the hellsite and most other places

David Douglas Stuart's avatar
David Douglas Stuart

@bigkamo@bne.social

Hi! Here’s my . I’m a digital at ABC News, mainly working on stuff. I’ve just returned to the public broadcaster after three years of globetrotting with my family. I’ve spent significant time in and so I’ll be tooting about those places as well as , , , interesting , , and much more. Nice to meet you!

Steve McCarty 🇯🇵's avatar
Steve McCarty 🇯🇵

@SteveMcCarty@hcommons.social

In the popular new book A Passion for Japan: A Collection of Personal Narratives, 30 authors provide inside perspectives on living in Japan. My chapter "Discovering Japanese Fusion of Religions on the Pilgrimage Island of Shikoku" is free at the research repositories academia.edu/82383623 or researchgate.net/publication/3
My translation of the chapter into Japanese (和訳): 「巡礼の島・四国で発見した日本の宗教融合」 (corrected by a native speaking university teacher in Kyoto) is free to download from works.hcommons.org/records/zjf

, ,

Sidherian's avatar
Sidherian

@Sidherian@aus.social

I’m another member of the , middle aged redhead living in Sydney.

I generally like to get a feel for new virtual environments before leaping in. I’m very much an introvert but will make exceptions to talk about










I like what I see of Mastodon so far. Looking forward to finding old 🐦 friends and making new ones.

Miicat_47's avatar
Miicat_47

@miicat_47@mastodon.miicat.eu

/

Hi, I'm Miika, programmer from Finland

I'm currently working as a QA engineer and coding in on my free time. Interested in

If you see something Japan related, plz @ me 🇯🇵

Playing

Favorite music artist / 🎶
(Check my last.fm: last.fm/user/Miicat_47)

user

are cute :blobcataww:

Nice to meet y'all!

Last updated 27.07.2023 (fixed typo)

Robin Marx's avatar
Robin Marx

@Ashigaru@dice.camp


Formerly from Seattle, I’ve lived in Japan for more than 20 years. I work in the mobile gaming industry, mainly localization and licensing.

My hobbies include tabletop roleplaying games and writing short fiction. I enjoy studying Japanese history, reading sword & sorcery and pulp fiction, and listening to gothic and industrial music.



Robin Marx's avatar
Robin Marx

@RobinMarx@mastodon.social

Formerly from Seattle, I’ve lived in Japan for more than 17 years. I work in the mobile gaming industry, mainly localization and licensing.

My hobbies include tabletop roleplaying games and writing short fiction. I enjoy studying Japanese history, reading sword & sorcery and pulp fiction, and listening to gothic and industrial music.