October 2007

Eco-friendly Living

Eco-friendly Living

Japan is taking action on many fronts to become a more ecological and sustainable society. In this special feature, we explore several of these initiatives, including eco-homes, eco-cars and the 3Rs that Japan is using to transform itself into a more environmental nation.

Charms of Niigata

Situated on the shores of the Sea of Japan, Niigata Prefecture not only boasts natural hot springs and winter sports among its attractions, but also a wide variety of unique cultural relics.

Turning on the Style

The Spring/Summer 2008 Tokyo Collection featured a range of pop and fantasy fashions, along with a host of shows from labels with a deeper, more elegant feel.

The Fukuda Cabinet

At a Diet session on September 25, Yasuo Fukuda was appointed as Japan's new Prime Minister, and after forming a new Cabinet, he quickly set about outlining his future policies.

J-Contents festival

The first Japan Animation Contents Festival was recently held to introduce a range of Japanese anime, manga, game characters, and games to a global audience.

Exploring the Moon

The Kaguya lunar exploration satellite was launched from the Tanegashima Space Center in September, and will spend the next year conducting a full range of lunar observations.

Grand Prix Director

With a string of international awards to her name, the talented Naomi Kawase is rapidly becoming one of the Japanese film industry's most globally-recognized directors.

Sewing the Seeds

A Japanese specialist has played a key in expanding Cambodia's clothing industry.

Oxyride Batteries

The Oxyride racer recently set the speed record for a vehicle powered by dry cell batteries.

Boosting Brainpower

Aging Japanese are trying to drill their sagging brains into shape in a number of ways, from video games to coloring books.

J-Pop Freak!

Famed guitarist, J-Pop pundit and participant Marty Friedman talks about why J-Pop rocks.

Product/Art/Cinema

Here we take a peek at art, movies and products that are making waves in Japan.

Autumn in Kyoto

Autumn in Japan means a visually stunning eruption of fall foliage, with reds, oranges and yellows that draw sightseers from afar.