
Nagano's Giant Escalator Leads to a Hot Spring!
Discover a surprising roadside attraction on the Joshinetsu Expressway in Nagano: a massive escalator. It leads to Miharashi no Yu, a super bathhouse with stunning views and relaxing hot springs.

Discover a surprising roadside attraction on the Joshinetsu Expressway in Nagano: a massive escalator. It leads to Miharashi no Yu, a super bathhouse with stunning views and relaxing hot springs.

A 53-year-old in Shiga Prefecture lost a significant amount of money in a phone scam. The con artists exploited his lack of understanding about modern banking.

TikTok reveals its Year in Music 2025, highlighting Japan's top songs. Discover the viral tracks and artists shaping Japan's music scene.

Ueno Zoo's beloved panda twins, Xiao Xiao and Lei Lei, are returning to China in late January, with public viewing ending January 25. This departure marks the end of pandas in Japan for the first time in 54 years.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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