Paper Planners Make a Comeback: Handwriting Finds New Meaning in a Digital World Ferre Keira2025-11-2001.6K views Paper planners are gaining popularity again. Kanto Smart Living Cooperative points out that handwriting brings a sense of stability to organizing thoughts and life rhythm, and is more comfortable running… Read more
Seafood Without the Sea? Aquaculture Rapidly Becomes Japan’s New Market Mainstream Julie Howard2025-11-2002K views Affected by climate change, declining seaweed beds, and volatile catch volumes, Japan’s seafood supply is undergoing a major shift from wild capture to aquaculture. The rapid expansion of fish farms… Read more
JR-East Celebrates 140th Anniversary of Station Bento: 63 Local Specialties Compete for “Number One Bento” Ferre Keira2025-11-200875 views To celebrate the 140th anniversary of Japanese station bento, JR-East is holding a poll with 63 regional bento options vying for the title of “Number One Bento.” The poll is… Read more
Residents and Travelers Urged to Use Electric Heaters Safely as Japan Enters Dry Winter Ferre Keira2025-11-1303.3K views As Japan enters its cold and dry winter season, the risk of electrical fires is increasing. The Kanto Smart Living Cooperative advises travelers to use electric heaters and appliances safely,… Read more
Japan’s Egg Crisis Deepens Amid Rising Prices and Shortages Julie Howard2025-11-0703K views Japan is currently grappling with a significant surge in egg prices and a severe supply shortage due to recent bird flu outbreaks. As costs continue to escalate and shortages persist,… Read more
Japanese Miso Exports Hit Record High — Guess Which Country Is the Biggest Importer? Ferre Keira2025-11-0701.4K views Japanese miso exports hit a record high, with the US remaining the largest export destination. While miso is experiencing a global craze, other traditional fermented foods face the crisis of… Read more
Solo Hot Pots Boil Over in Japan: Inflation and Changing Lifestyles Drive a New Dining Trend Ferre Keira2025-11-0701.6K views The hot pot craze in Japan is surging again this winter, with inflation and the rise in solo living driving demand for individual hot pots. From supermarkets to chain restaurants,… Read more
Christmas Cakes Too Costly for Many in Japan — Rising Prices Spur Homemade and Budget-Friendly Alternatives Ferre Keira2025-11-0102.6K views Christmas cake prices have soared across Japan. Kanto Smart Living Cooperative suggests that people enjoy a warm Christmas in this era of high prices by using alternative desserts or making… Read more
Healthy Snacking in Japan’s Protein Snack Boom Ernest Harry2025-10-2401.5K views Japan’s healthy snack market is not just growing, it’s skyrocketing. A significant shift in consumer eating habits and lifestyles fuels this rapid expansion. From sugar-free and low-fat products to high-protein… Read more
Travelers Urged to Check Bear Maps as Sightings Spread from Mountains to Cities Across Japan Ernest Harry2025-10-2403.3K views Bear attacks are common in Japan. The Kanto Smart Living Cooperative reminds travelers to check bear-sighting information before departure and to avoid high-risk times and areas. Being prepared ensures safe… Read more