Culture•
Totoro Gamaguchi Pouches at Ghibli Stores!
Studio Ghibli's Donguri Kyowakoku stores are restocked with adorable Totoro gamaguchi pouches. These sleek silicone pouches are perfect for holding accessories, keys, or coins.
Source: SoraNews24
Latest Updates (Page 408)
Travel Alerts•
Japan Travel: Locals Priced Out?
A surge in foreign tourists and a weak yen are making domestic travel less appealing for Japanese residents. Expect higher prices and bigger crowds in popular destinations.
Source: SoraNews24
Events•
Rideable Pokémon Koraidon & Miraidon Debut in Japan
Honda and Toyota unveiled real-world, ridable versions of Pokémon's Koraidon and Miraidon at the Japan Mobility Show Kansai. Attendees could even hop on these functional motorcycles for photos, showcasing a blend of automotive innovation and pop culture.
Source: SoraNews24
Culture•
Japan's Kanji of the Year: "Bear" Wins 2025
The kanji for "bear" (熊) has been chosen as Japan's Kanji of the Year for 2025, reflecting a year marked by increased bear encounters. What does this mean for travelers? Be extra cautious when hiking in rural areas.
Source: SoraNews24
Events•
Sanrio Resort Coming to Japan!
Harmonyland, the Sanrio theme park in Oita, Japan, is expanding into a full-fledged resort. Expect a 'sky amusement park' with a new hotel, ropeway, and more Sanrio cuteness!
Source: SoraNews24
Events•
Final Fantasy VII Shinkansen Collab!
JR Central is teaming up with Final Fantasy VII for a limited-time collaboration. Enjoy an exclusive in-train audio drama, themed merchandise, and a digital stamp rally in Nagoya from January 15 to April 30.
Source: SoraNews24
Food•
7-Eleven Japan's New Rice Burgers!
7-Eleven Japan is now selling rice burgers, blurring the lines between convenience store and fast food. Available in Charcoal-Grilled Beef Kalbi and Teriyaki Chicken & Garlic Mayo, these warm and savory treats are perfect for a quick, satisfying meal on the go.
Source: SoraNews24
Travel Alerts•
Osaka Teen Hacked Cafe App with ChatGPT's Help
A 17-year-old in Osaka was arrested for hacking into the Kaikatsu Club internet cafe app, compromising 7.2 million users' data. The teen reportedly used ChatGPT to bypass security protocols and solve errors during the hack.
Source: SoraNews24
Food•
Chiba's Retro Dagashiya: A Sweet Snack Paradise
Discover Dagashiya Ahiru Shop in Chiba, a hidden warehouse packed with cheap Japanese snacks and retro games. Perfect for families, this local favorite offers a unique, off-the-beaten-path experience.
Source: SoraNews24
Culture•
Japan: Foreign Children Need Language Help
A record number of foreign children in Japan require Japanese language support in schools. This highlights a growing need for resources as Japan's foreign population diversifies.
Source: SoraNews24
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