Culture•
Takaichi’s big victory might not be mandate for big spending
Fiscal hawks in the LDP and the bond market are expected to keep a lid on stimulus spending.
Source: The Japan Times
Culture News (Page 110)
Culture•
Hello Kitty Designer Retires After 40 Years
Yuko Yamaguchi, the designer behind Hello Kitty since 1980, is stepping down. Her designs shaped Kitty's global rise as a symbol of Japanese kawaii culture.
Source: The Japan Times
Culture•
Valentine's Day in Japan: A Treat Yourself Trend
Japanese Valentine's Day traditions are evolving. Instead of obligatory gifts, people are embracing personal luxuries.
Source: The Japan Times
Culture•
Hello Kitty Gets New Designer After 46 Years
Sanrio's Hello Kitty has a new lead designer for the first time in 46 years. Longtime designer Yuko Yamaguchi is stepping down, with Aya taking over the role.
Source: SoraNews24
Culture•
Ghost in the Shell Porcelain Robots!
Limited to 50 worldwide, these Tachikoma figures blend anime with Nabeshima ware. A unique fusion of modern and traditional Japanese art.
Source: SoraNews24
Culture•
AI Calms Abusive Calls in Japan
SoftBank Corp. has launched an AI service that filters verbal abuse in real-time, creating a calmer environment for customer service. This tech could indirectly improve service quality for tourists needing assistance.
Source: Tokyo Weekender
Culture•
Tokyo Events For February 2026
Here are some events you shouldn't miss this month!
Source: Savvy Tokyo
Culture•
Decisive win for Takaichi may be best scenario for bonds and yen
A big win would eliminate the need for Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi to negotiate with opposition parties, who are touting even deeper tax cuts and broader fiscal spending.
Source: The Japan Times
Culture•
Ramen shop manager arrested for punching self in the face and pretending he was robbed
He should have punched harder and knocked some sense into himself. They say times are especially tough in the ramen business, with steadily soaring food prices and an intensely competitive market that
Source: SoraNews24
Culture•
FEMA will resume staff reductions that were paused during winter storm, managers say
The Federal Emergency Management Agency will resume staff cuts that were briefly paused during January's severe winter storm, according to two FEMA managers, stoking concern across the agency…
Source: Japan Today
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