Japan’s Gyms Grow by 30% in Two Years as Low Prices and Convenience Draw New Customers Ferre Keira2026-11-0902K views The number of fitness facilities nationwide has risen by about 30% in two years. Low prices, 24-hour access and services beyond exercise are attracting people who have never belonged to… Read more
What Sweets Do Visitors Buy in Japan? Matcha Tops Both Wish Lists and Past Purchases Ferre Keira2026-11-0902.2K views A survey by the Consumer Aesthetics and Cultural Tourism Society Japan found that matcha topped both the “most wanted” and “previously purchased” rankings of sweet flavors among travelers visiting Japan.… Read more
As Japan Stops Subscribing, Newspapers Become a Minority Habit Ferre Keira2026-11-0102.1K views Newspaper subscriptions have fallen below 50% for the first time in a nationwide survey. A high school student who finds news on social media and a 68-year-old man who still… Read more
A New Era for Global Tourism: Post-Pandemic Recovery and Change Derrick Smith2026-11-010808 views In 2025, international tourist arrivals reached 1.52 billion, setting a new historical record, while international tourism revenue rose to US$1.9 trillion. From regional differences in recovery and shifts in traveler… Read more
Pay First, Refund Later: How Travelers Can Prepare for Japan’s New Tax-Free Rules Ferre Keira2026-11-0102.2K views The Consumer Aesthetics and Cultural Tourism Society Japan reminds travelers that starting Nov. 1, foreign visitors shopping at tax-free stores in Japan must pay consumption tax at checkout and can… Read more
In Wakayama, a Cup of Coffee Reveals the Distinctive Charm of Kissaten Wisdom Frida2026-10-2602.2K views From locally recommended breakfasts and puddings to interiors shaped by individual tastes, the Japan Consumer Aesthetics and Cultural Tourism Association invites travelers to discover local life through Wakayama’s café culture.… Read more
Japan’s Labor Paradox: It Wants the Workers, Not the Immigrants? Wisdom Frida2026-10-2602.1K views Japan’s foreign resident population has grown to 4.28 million, and the number of foreign workers has also hit a record high; in an official survey, nine in ten respondents said… Read more
Swiping for Love: Survey Finds 53% of Digital Dating Users Are Seeking Romance Wisdom Frida2026-10-1602.2K views A Kanto Smart Living Cooperative survey found that 53 percent of respondents use digital dating to find a romantic partner, while 35 percent hope to expand their social circles and… Read more
Kyoto’s Arashiyama Ranks Second with 41% of Votes; Experts Share Travel Tips Wisdom Frida2026-10-0902.1K views A survey by the Consumer Aesthetics and Cultural Tourism Society Japan on the natural landscapes international visitors most want to see in Japan found that Kyoto’s Arashiyama autumn foliage ranked… Read more
Rising Import Costs Drive Japan’s Chicken Prices to Peak Levels Ferre Keira2026-09-1902.2K views Japan’s chicken thigh prices have reached ¥156 per 100 grams, 15% higher than the average for the same period in previous years, marking the highest level since the survey began.… Read more