We all encounter health problems from time to time, but there are only so many medications or creams you can bring from your home country. An alternative approach would be to find Japanese women’s health products that treat the same minor issues. It might take some getting used to, but in the long run, it might even be a cheaper alternative, especially if you live in Japan long-term. The ones listed in this article function in the same way as their counterparts abroad and are available without a prescription. Most of these products cost less than ¥3,500. If symptoms persist, always consult wi ..read more

Sometimes buying vegan products in Japanese supermarkets can feel like an impossible task. Plant-based diets are far from mainstream, and many Japanese people are unfamiliar with what the word ‘vegan’ actually means. Even Japanese dishes centered on plant-based ingredients are frequently seasoned with dashi (fish stock) and other ingredients derived from animal products. All of this can make shopping for vegan food in Japanese supermarkets a considerable challenge, especially since some vegan-friendly products are not labeled as such. But with a little research, it is possible to find what yo ..read more

Conbini (convenience stores) in Japan really do live up to the term of convenience regarding many things. From ready-made meals and an endless variety of drinks to services that make daily life that little bit easier. In recent years, the growth of everyday cosmetic and beauty items has been on the rise, with each brand of convenience store introducing its own range of limited-release products. Let’s explore what each Japanese convenience store offers in its beauty buys! What kind of beauty products can you get from a convenience store? © Photo by Shelley Smith Convenience stores offer a rich ..read more

Do you want to feel radiant and ready for summer? It’s time to refresh your Japanese makeup routine for summer 2024. Vibrant options can transform your look and help you embrace the warmth and energy of summer. Summer is perfect for trying new makeup products. Why? Because you can use summery pops of color daily. This summer 2024, it’s all about shades of pink, purple and red for eyes and lips. Japanese makeup trends highlight bold, playful colors and innovative, long-lasting formulas designed to withstand the heat. Expect bright eyeshadows, dewy finishes and multifunctional products that mak ..read more

Make the most out of this summer season by putting yourself out there. Let’s step out of our comfort zones by meeting new people and trying new things. Here are all our recommended Tokyo events for July 2024! July 1-7, 2024 The Ultimate After-Work Stress Relief Jingu Stadium Night Yoga 2024 If you're looking to take advantage of the warm early summer nights in Tokyo, Jingu Stadium Night Yoga is the perfect event for you. The mastermind behind this relaxing event is Active Icon, a group of hyperactive enthusiasts who try to energize Tokyo through health-conscious activities and relaxation. If ..read more

Futuristic, technological advancements and artificial intelligence are just some of the things we think of when we hear the words ‘cyber’ and ‘cyberpunk.’ Although the digital age still feels relatively new, these terms aren’t new and have been used since the latter half of the 20th century. Cyberpunk is best described as a subgenre of science fiction that takes place in a dystopian futuristic setting. It centers around themes that essayist William Gibson terms as “lowlife and high tech.” The cyber fashion subgenre started to gain more traction in the 1980s, capturing the imagination of young ..read more

If you have spent any amount of time in Japan, you will quickly notice that point card culture here is on another level. Japanese point cards are a big deal—almost every shop has its own point card! Whether at the convenience store, department store or the local neighborhood cafe, the first question you will likely be asked by the cashier is ポイントカードはおもちですか? (pointo ka-do wa omochidesuka?; “Do you have a point card?”) You may wonder if you need a Japanese point card for every shop you visit. While it is tempting to collect them all for those “just in case” moments, there are a few popular poin ..read more

Here’s a refreshing selection of 100 yen shop summer must-haves for cooling products to keep you comfortable all season long. You can buy the following goods at Japan’s top ¥100 shops in stores or online at Daiso, CanDo and Seria (in-store only). Face Masks © Photo by Misty Fujii Disposable cooling face masks are the answer for allergies, summer colds or the still-circulating coronavirus. Seria’s disposable cooling face masks come in a pack of seven and provide a cool feeling when you touch and wear them. All major 100 yen shops offer washable cooling masks for a more eco-friendly option. Loo ..read more

If you’re thinking of having children, are pregnant, or already have little and not-so-little ones around the home, check out our overview of the benefits offered to families with children in Japan. Japan’s population is shrinking, and the population crisis is often talked about in the news and political discourse. The birth rate has been falling for eight years in a row with 2023 registering a record low. According to a study by the National Institute of Population and Social Security Research, the country’s population of 126.15 million (2020) will decline by almost 20 million over the next ..read more

Kimono, which literally translates to “thing to wear” is a long robe-like garment embellished with obi (belts) and other decorative items. Walking around in traditional clothing for a day is a popular activity, and not just for tourists and foreigners. If done right, it can be an enjoyable and rewarding way to experience traditional Japanese culture and a great way to connect with locals. But how do you go about your first kimono rental in Tokyo? Here, we will answer all your questions to make sure you know everything you need to know before you go. What do you need to know before you book ..read more