A red curtain fluttering beneath the railway tracks. Faces hidden behind white masks. A dark hallway filled with glowing works of art. And then, a call to board a train to another world… 

This is Anemoia Tokyo, an immersive theatre production by Japanese contemporary dance company Dazzle. Located near Tokyo station, the show has no seats and no stage. Instead, performers surround the audience, guiding guests into a wordless story told through music, dance and interactive works of art. 

Since the performance is entirely non-verbal, anyone can enjoy the show regardless of language. This was part of the reason I decided a ticket would make the perfect birthday gift for my art-loving Japanese partner, knowing we could both enjoy the show together. Here’s what happened when we went behind the curtain. 

A Fusion of Art and Entertainment

The creatives behind Anemoia Tokyo describe the show as a cutting-edge fusion of performance, art and technology. While the concept of immersive theatre emerged from the London theatre scene, Dazzle has reimagined the form through a Japanese cultural lens. The story takes place in an imagined spirit realm, with dancers embodying figures from Japanese myth and folklore.    

Dazzle has also partnered with nine artists from Japan and abroad to furnish the performance space with original works. These contemporary pieces subtly interact with the show’s storytelling, creating a unique hybrid of art and performance. 

The Journey Begins

My boyfriend and I arrived for the late evening performance of Anemoia Tokyo, not knowing quite what to expect. After storing all of our belongings in a locker outside the venue, staff gave us a series of cryptic instructions. 

First, we were not allowed to speak to each other once we were inside. Second, we must cover our faces with wolf masks and wear a sticker with a letter of the alphabet on our chests. Finally, we shouldn’t touch anything. That is, unless it was something given to us by the cast, who might have a task for us to complete.

They also asked that we not reveal any details about the performance’s content, so I won’t say too much about what happened next. What I can say is that the experience was unlike anything I’ve encountered in many years as an art and theatre lover—and a must-see for anyone interested in dance and performance art. 

How to Experience the Show  

Anemoia Tokyo will run until March 15, 2026, so make sure to get tickets while you still can. You can buy tickets via the show’s website, with prices ranging from ¥10,000 to ¥12,000, with discounts for under-twenty-fives and those with disabilities. Doors open 30 minutes before the show, and performances last for approximately 70 minutes.

Dazzle will be unveiling its next immersive theatre performance, Hanayoi Grand Tea Ceremony, at the Kyoto Nippon Festival 2026. This show, in collaboration with renowned photographer Mika Ninagawa and the EiM creative team, will take place at Kitano Tenmangu Shrine. Details can be found here. 

Have you experienced immersive theatre in Tokyo? Let us know in the comments. 

Last month, a Parisian friend told me about a huge designer sale outside of Tokyo’s fashion shopping districts. Here, she claimed, I could nab both vintage and on-trend pieces from brands like Louis Vuitton, Chanel and Hermès at incredible discounts. This event was Shicchy’s Charity Fair, at the Tokyo Ryutsu Center.

I wanted to get my hands on products that would typically be lightyears beyond my retail budget. As a pawnbroking event, the fair also sounded like an excellent way to shop for sustainable fashion. And if some of the money went to charity, all the better. So, I decided to check it out. 

Here’s everything you need to know about Shicchy’s Charity Fair and the products you can find there. Plus, what happened when I went bargain hunting.

What Is Shicchy’s Charity Fair?

© Photo by Rachel Crane

Shicchy’s Charity Fair is a bi-annual bargain sales event offering discounts of 30% to 90% on luxury fashion goods. First held in 1972, the fair is now one of the biggest pawnbroker events in Japan, with around 100,000 items on offer. The event is held twice a year at the Tokyo Ryutsu Center near Haneda Airport. Louis Vuitton, Hermès, Prada, Gucci and Tiffany’s are just a few of the brands shoppers can expect to find.

As the name suggests, Shicchy’s Charity Fair donates a portion of its profits to charitable causes around Japan. Past causes the fair has supported include the Japan Committee for UNICEF and numerous disaster-relief efforts nationwide.

The Shicchy Shopping Experience

© Photo by Rachel Crane

I arrived at the Tokyo Ryutsu Center shortly after the event opened at 10 a.m. Huge rows of people were lined up outside the building, waiting to be allowed inside. After 30 minutes in the queue, it was finally my turn. 

The sales floor was organized into sections for clothing, jewelry and watches, accessories and electronics, subdivided by brand. Beyond that, it was a free-for-all. Shoppers jostled to pick through piles of handbags or catch the attention of sales staff. At first, it was a bit overwhelming. However, with a little patience, I was able to get a good look at the items on offer. 

Sales staff wore sashes indicating which languages they spoke, in addition to Japanese, including English. All were very helpful when it came to showing me pieces I wanted to take a closer look at. But when I asked where I might find specific products, they politely told me I was on my own! 

Louis Vuitton was undoubtedly the star of the event, with smaller selections from brands such as Chanel, Prada, Gucci and others. I was able to buy two vintage Louis Vuitton pouches in the ¥30,000 to ¥50,000 range for my Paris friend. I also found her a stunning silk scarf from Hermès for ¥39,800. Lastly, I treated myself to a cute Michael Kors handbag for a modest ¥16,000.

Was it Worth it? 

© Photo by Rachel Crane

While a few items at Shicchy’s Charity Fair could be considered cheap, there are definitely some impressive discounts on offer. If you’re drawn to designer brands but find their products are usually just out of reach price-wise, then the Fair is definitely worth a trip.

Things To Know

Shicchy’s Charity Fair takes place twice a year, every June and November, at the Tokyo Ryutsu Center. For details about the next event, you can go to the Shicchy website or follow their Facebook page. 

Have you ever been to the Shicchy Charity Fair? Did you find any great deals? Let us know in the comments!

I first became aware of the mischievous imp-like character known as Labubu in a Vanity Fair interview with K-pop superstar Lisa. From then on, I started to notice the furry little monsters clipped to handbags around Tokyo, realizing Labubu had already found a fan base in Japan. And the more I saw them, the more I wanted one.

But what exactly is Labubu? Why is it so popular? And what happened when I finally tried to get my hands on one?

What Is Labubu?

© Photo by Pop Mart

Hong Kong-born artist Kaising Lung created Labubu as part of a story series called The Monsters. Inspired by Nordic folktales from the Netherlands, where Lung grew up, Labubu mixes kawaii (cute) softness with a razor-toothed grin.

In 2019, Lung teamed up with Chinese retailer Pop Mart to produce a series of collectible Labubu dolls and accessories. Pop Mart specialises in ‘blind boxes’, meaning buyers don’t know exactly which Labubu they’ll get until they open the packaging.

Why Is Labubu So Popular?

It turns out I wasn’t the only one to learn about Labubu from Blackpink’s Lisa. The character exploded in popularity in spring 2024 when Lisa began posting photos of her Labubu collection on Instagram. Other celebrities, including Rihanna, Dua Lipa, and Lisa’s bandmate, APT singer Rosé, quickly followed suit. 

Once people started buying into the Labubu trend, they became hooked on the blind box format. New releases and the chance of finding rare ‘secret’ Labubus kept even repeat buyers coming back for more. Since then, the hype has only continued to grow.

Where To Find Labubus in Japan

© Photo by iStock: Robert Way

Labubus are available at official Pop Mart stores and Robo Shops (essentially fancy vending machines) around Japan—with the concentration of shops in Tokyo and Osaka—but only intermittently. Fans often line up outside stores for more than an hour before opening time to nab one.

Pop Mart also holds semi-regular Labubu product launches and pop-up stores around Tokyo. Guaranteed access is only available by lottery, so it’s a matter of luck. Details of events and how to apply for tickets can be found on the official Instagram page.

Still Seeking A Labubu To Love

© Photo by X: @POPMARTJapan

© Photo by X: @POPMARTJapan

I recently began my own Labubu search by entering the ticket lottery for the ongoing Labubu Mini Market at Tokyo Solamachi. Although I tried to aim for a less busy weekday slot, I didn’t have any luck. 

Next, I dropped by Pop Mart’s refurbished Shibuya Parco branch after work on the store’s opening day. By then, there were still a few Labubu vinyl figurines available, but not a single plushie. 

For me, lining up in the summer heat outside the flagship Harajuku Pop Mart is out of the question. I also haven’t had a chance to scope out any of the Robo Shops dotted around Tokyo, to see what’s in stock. 

I could always skip the hassle and buy a marked-up Labubu from a reseller like Tokio Mania. But I’m not ready to resort to that quite yet. After all, first-hand Labubus only costs ¥2,255 at Pop Mart. And as my fellow Labubu-hunters know, half the fun is the thrill of the chase.

So for now, my Labubu hunt in Japan continues…

Have you jumped onto the Labubu bandwagon? Where do you recommend buying a Labubu doll in Japan? Let us know in the comments! 

Korean skincare is taking the beauty world by storm. Once a niche reserved for Asian beauty enthusiasts, South Korean skincare products are becoming increasingly mainstream, with K-beauty stores opening up in major cities everywhere. Korean products are known for being kind to sensitive skin and prioritising protective sunscreen. What’s more, many brands can boast about being completely cruelty-free.

As South Korea’s neighbor, Japan has been one step ahead in recognizing the appeal of K-beauty. Tokyo’s Shin-Okubo, known as Koreatown, is bursting at the seams with popular Korean skincare goodies. But you don’t have to take a detour all that way to find what you’re looking for. While Koreatown is definitely the place to go for K-pop merchandise or Seoul-style street food, Korean skincare products are available all over Japan.

Not sure where to start? Read on for our guide to 10 Korean skincare brands you can find in Japan, and where to buy them.

Why Is Korean Skincare So Popular?

© Photo by iStock: shockshots korea

You only need to look at the glowing faces of K-pop and K-drama stars to know that South Koreans take their skincare seriously. The goal isn’t just skin that’s free of wrinkles or blemishes—it’s skin so smooth and hydrated that it seems to reflect the light. The look is known as ‘glass skin’, and it’s not just fresh-faced youngsters—even mature Koreans manage to maintain this dewy glow. So what’s behind the magic?

South Korean women spend twice as much of their income on skincare than women in the U.S., and men also invest far more in skincare products than anywhere else. This trend has empowered Korean skincare brands to innovate with formulations and products now replicated around the world. From novel ingredients like snail mucin and salmon sperm collagen to uber-hydrating sheet masks, Korean skincare has a viral, must-have quality. And once you’ve tried K-beauty, you’ll never want to go back. 

Is Korean Skincare Cruelty Free?

K-beauty products have a reputation for being ethical as well as effective. This is thanks to South Korean law, which prohibits testing cosmetics on animals. However, some South Korean skincare brands will make an exception for products sold in mainland China, where animal testing is mandatory for skincare and beauty goods.

For this reason, products which are also available in Chinese stores cannot be considered truly cruelty-free, including the hugely popular Banila Co. Clean It Zero cleansing balm. Information on whether brands do employ animal testing overseas can be hard to come by. However, several well-known brands available in Japan are certified as completely cruelty-free.

10 Korean Skincare Brands You Can Find in Japan

Korean skincare brands are known for promoting skin care as self-care. Their products leave out the harsh cleansing and aggressive anti-aging ingredients favoured in the West, focusing instead on hydration, nourishment and gentle rejuvenation. A growing number of well-known brands are arriving on Japanese store shelves. Here are 10 of the best.

1. Beauty of Joseon

Beauty of Joseon is known for using traditional Korean ingredients, like ginseng and rice water, that have long been revered for their skin-nourishing properties. Their gentle formulations suit most skin types, and their prices will fit any skincare budget. 

• Cruelty Free? Yes
• Star Product: Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun Rice + Probiotics (¥1,750)

2. COSRX

COSRX’s most popular products put buzzy ingredients front and centre. Quite literally in the case of their bee propolis range! But it’s the heavy-duty hydration of their snail mucin essence that users rave about the most. 

• Cruelty Free? Yes
• Star Product: COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence (¥1,750)

3. Innisfree

Named after the poem The Lake Isle of Innisfree by W.B. Yeats, the ingredients from this brand come from South Korea’s own isle of beauty, the subtropical Jeju island. Ranges are based on key ingredients such as green tea, cherry blossom and volcanic stone, each one designed for a different skin type.

• Cruelty Free? Yes
• Star Product: Innisfree Green Tea Seed Hyaluronic Serum (¥3,410)

4. Biodance

Biodance’s overnight Real Deep Mask range takes sheet-masking to the next level. While you sleep, these opaque, gel-texture masks will turn clear as they deliver hydrating and plumping ingredients into the skin. You’ll wake up feeling brand new.

• Cruelty Free? Yes
• Star Product: Biodance Bio-Collagen Real Deep Mask (¥2,600)

5. VT Cosmetics

Probably the most widely available K-beauty brand in Japan, VT Cosmetics is known for its CICA range, featuring the soothing ingredient centella asiatica. But their hottest product is the VT Reedle Shot. Described as micro-needling in a bottle, tiny fragments of natural sponge puncture the skin so that the rest of your skincare ingredients can penetrate more deeply. It hurts, but it’s worth it!

• Cruelty Free? Yes
• Star Product: VT Cosmetics Reedle Shot S300 (¥3,750)

6. Mediheal

Mediheal specializes in sheet masks, worn for 15 to 20 minutes to give ingredients time to soak into the skin. Many of their masks are made of stretchy hydrogel, which adheres perfectly to any face shape and boosts their hydrating properties.

• Cruelty Free? Unclear
• Star Product: Mediheal Tea Tree Essential Mask (10 Sheets)(¥1,880)

7. Anua

Anua’s products balance natural and active ingredients for products that work even on sensitive skin. Their Heartleaf 77% Soothing Toner with hyaluronic acid is a favourite of users prone to flare-ups. 

• Cruelty Free? Unclear
• Star Product: Anua Heartleaf 77% Soothing Toner (¥2,650)

8. Skinfood

As the name suggests, Skinfood makes delectable products using ingredients you might find in your kitchen cupboard. Their wash-off masks are extra nourishing, and the Black Sugar Mask can also be used as an exfoliator for a baby-faced glow.

• Cruelty Free? Unclear
• Star Product: Skinfood Black Sugar Mask Wash Off (¥1,800)

9. Ma:nyo

Real K-beauty aficionados know the most effective first step of a Korean skincare routine is a cleansing balm. The formula melts on your skin and dissolves all traces of makeup, sunscreen and sebum. Ma:nyo’s Pure Cleansing Balm is one of the best cruelty-free options available in Japan.

• Cruelty Free? Yes
• Star Product: ma:nyo Pure Cleansing Balm (¥2,640)

10. Medicube

Best known for their high-end beauty devices such as the Age-R Booster Pro, many of Medicube’s products are designed to complement their use. The uniquely textured Collagen Jelly Cream will glide perfectly under your skin-boosting gadget of choice.

• Cruelty Free? Yes
• Star Product: Medicube Collagen Jelly Cream (¥2,970)

Where To Buy Korean Skincare in Japan

© Photo by iStock: Hakase_

Demand for K-beauty products is growing rapidly in Japan, and it’s becoming increasingly easy to find Korean skincare products outside of specialty stores. Here are a few places where you can shop for your next Korean skincare holy grail.

Loft

Lifestyle store Loft is one of the few Japanese chains with areas dedicated to K-beauty. While not signposted as such, you’ll typically find Korean skincare brands grouped together on the shop floor, making it easy to locate and browse for Korean products. They also sell K-beauty devices like the Medicube Age-R Booster Pro Mini.

Don Quixote 

The ubiquitous Donki is probably the best place to get your hands on Korean skincare in Japan outside of Shin-Okubo. The sheer number of products crammed onto shelves means that you might have to look carefully to find any specific products you’re after, but you’ll absolutely be spoilt for choice. 

Drug Stores

K-beauty enthusiasts will be able to spot genuine Korean products mixed in with Japanese dupes and competitors at drug stores like Matsumoto Kiyoshi. VT Cosmetics is one of the easiest brands to find, but as the popularity of K-beauty grows, the range of Korean brands stocked in Japanese drug stores is also expanding.

Convenience Stores

More and more convenience stores like Lawson and 7-Eleven are tapping into consumer demand for K-beauty products. While their selection is limited, they are often a great place to pick up sheet masks, particularly from brands like Anua and Mediheal. 

Online

While there is a wealth of K-beauty to be found in Japan, plenty more celebrated brands and viral products haven’t quite hit Japanese shelves. For a more comprehensive Korean skincare shopping experience, head to online retailers like iHerb, YesStyle and Amazon. 

Have you been shopping for Korean skincare products in Japan? Where did you find the best deals? Let us know in the comments!

Juggling a job and family life is no mean feat, particularly in Japan. The country’s demanding professional culture doesn’t leave a lot of room to work flexibly. This can mean parents aren’t always available for daycare pick-ups, sick days and school holidays. The pressure is even greater for foreign families, who may not have grandparents and other relatives near enough to call on in times of need. In these situations, hiring a nanny or utilizing English babysitting services in Japan can help lighten the load. 

Babysitters can provide flexible childcare both in and beyond the family home. Although it remains a pricier option, the Japanese government has begun subsidizing babysitting services in order to help support young families. What’s more, a desire to expose children to English and other foreign languages from an early age means that multilingual babysitting services are also widely available. So, if you’re searching for an English-language babysitting service in Japan, look no further than our handy guide. 

The Rise of Babysitting in Japan

© Photo by iStock: maroke

Traditionally, hiring a babysitter has been far less common in Japan than in the West. Until relatively recently, Japanese women were expected to stop working after marriage and devote themselves to homemaking and childrearing. The idea of mothers delegating childcare duties to strangers was even considered somewhat distasteful. However, the advancement of women in the Japanese workplace coupled with growing economic pressures means dual-income households are becoming the norm. As a result, it’s now increasingly acceptable for parents to pay for extra help.

Daycare vs. Babysitting

© Photo by iStock: maroke

When it comes to childcare services in Japan, there are two main options: daycare and babysitting. 

Daycare

Daycare centers are appealing because they’re more affordable than private babysitters. In fact, the Japanese government plans to make daycare services entirely free for children under the age of two starting September 2025. However, parents’ long work hours often exceed daycare pick-up times. Moreover, the demand for daycare services in Japan far outweighs the number of places currently available.

Babysitters

Babysitters, on the other hand, provide a host of advantages that daycare simply can’t offer. To start with, they can devote their full attention to the small number of children in their care. Unlike daycare workers, babysitters can also work as much or as little as needed to fit around each family’s unique schedule.

Many Japanese families also see the value in hiring foreign or multilingual babysitters. Having a multilingual babysitter can give kids a head start when it comes to learning a foreign language. One side effect of this trend is that foreign families looking for English-language childcare will have no shortage of options to choose from.

Babysitter Qualifications in Japan

© Photo by iStock: koumaru

Although anyone can work as a babysitter in Japan, as of 2016 all professional babysitters must be registered with their local government office. Reputable babysitting services will also employ strict systems to vet employees. There are no formal qualifications, but companies generally employ a multi-tiered screening process to ensure they provide safe and reliable child care to families. Some companies even require employees to complete special training in childcare, etiquette and first aid.

How Much Does A Babysitter Cost?

© Photo by iStock: maroke

Prices for babysitting services generally start at a very reasonable ¥2,000 to ¥3,000 per hour. However, it’s often cheaper to sign up for an annual membership fee with your babysitting service of choice. Paying for membership can lower services’ hourly rates and save you money in the long run. It’s also worth noting that babysitting services usually charge higher rates early in the morning and very late at night (after 10 p.m.). Extra services such as taking kids on trips, bathing and helping with household tasks can also incur an extra charge.

Government Discount for Babysitting Services

© Photo by All Japan Childcare Association (ACSA)

In 2015, the Japanese government introduced babysitting service discount coupons for employees of participating companies. In order to take advantage of the subsidy, you need to be a full-time employee of a company registered with the All Japan Childcare Association (ACSA). If your own employer isn’t signed up, it’s worth talking to your HR manager to suggest they take advantage of the scheme. You must also be enrolled in the company’s health insurance plan.

The discount coupons are available to parents with a child in the third grade of elementary school or below or a child in the sixth grade of elementary school or below with additional needs. For those eligible, companies can provide coupons offering a ¥2,200 discount on a range of babysitting services. Parents can receive up to two coupons per child per day. This system gives parents the option to hire slightly more affordable childcare when needed while continuing to work as usual.

Foreign-Friendly Babysitting Services to Try

© Photo by iStock: shironosov

Foreign-friendly babysitting services employ sitters who speak English and other languages. Some can send overnight babysitters to support parents who work night shifts, and many sitters will come to travelers’ hotels in major cities around Japan. Children of all ages can benefit from the services, and several also provide postnatal and newborn care. Take a look at these foreign-friendly babysitting services for more details.

1. CareFinder

CareFinder is a service that allows parents to find freelance foreign-language speaking babysitters across the country. All of their sitters go through a strict screening process and are government-registered.

• Location: Nationwide. 
• Price: From ¥1,500 per hour plus transportation and transaction fees. 

2. Babysitters

Japan’s first foreign-language babysitting service employs 25-30 sitters in major cities around Japan. All of their sitters are fluent in English, with many speaking additional languages. 

• Location: Tokyo, Yokohama, Nagoya, Kyoto and Osaka. 
• Price: ¥3,000 per hour plus transportation. Extra fees apply for weekends, holidays and early morning/late night hours.

3. Chez Vous

Chez Vous is a housekeeping and babysitting service based primarily in Tokyo and Kanagawa. They employ a number of experienced bilingual and foreign babysitting staff.

• Location: Tokyo and Kanagawa. Inquire for availability in other areas. 
• Price: Regular Plan (more than once a month); ¥3,200 per hour plus ¥1,000 transportation. Spot Plan (one-time only) ¥4,500 per hour plus ¥1,000 transportation fee. Extra fees apply for weekends, holidays, and early morning/late night hours. 

4. Poppins

Poppins is a female-owned babysitting service inspired by the traditional British nanny system. Their Japanese staff provide ‘educational care’ in both English and Japanese. They also run three private nursery schools in Tokyo. 

• Location: Tokyo, Nagoya, Osaka, Kyoto and Ashiya (Hyogo).
• Price: Inquire via the contact form on the website for details. 

5. Honey Clover

Honey Clover matches parents with a babysitter who meets their requirements, including multilingual sitters. Service members have the option either to accept a babysitter chosen by Honey Clover or search for one themselves.

• Location: Nationwide.
• Price: Negotiated between parents and sitters, plus transportation and matching fees. 

Have you had experience using English babysitting services in Japan? Let us know in the comments.

Japanese dating shows provide something of an antidote to other reality fare. While Western offerings typically prioritize sexy shenanigans and outlandish drama, Japanese reality TV has an almost soothing quality. The country’s reserved culture means that romantic build-up is slower and quieter, but often more meaningful. Courtships typically culminate in semi-formal love confessions, which make for seriously swoon-worthy TV.

It’s no surprise, then, that many viewers who otherwise don’t consider themselves fans of the genre find comfort and joy in Japanese reality dating shows. They can even be instructive for internationals who are dating a Japanese partner. Along with its range of romantic J-dramas, Netflix has undoubtedly built the best library of dating shows from Japan. So, if you’re seeking some romantic escapism, look no further than this list of seven Japanese reality dating shows to binge this Valentine’s Day in Japan.

1. Terrace House: Boys & Girls in the City

While its truncated final season ended in tragedy, Terrace House remains the pinnacle of Japanese reality shows. Its first Netflix outing, subtitled Boys & Girls in the City, is a masterpiece of the genre. Six young men and women live together in a stylish Tokyo house, and we watch as they strive to achieve their dreams in life and love. 

From the start, Terrace House’s calm, decidedly Japanese approach made it a refreshing contrast to the chaos of Western reality shows. But the shockingly meta ending of Boys & Girls in the City featured twists and romance enough to rival any scripted drama. Follow-up seasons Aloha State and Opening New Doors provided similar, if diminishing, rewards. However, Netflix’s first Terrace House has never been topped, and its influence can be felt in just about every Japanese reality show that followed.

Japanese Title: テラスハウス ボーイズ＆ガールズ イン・ザ・シティ(Terasu Hausu Boizu & Garuzu in za Shiti; “Terrace House Boys & Girls in the City”)

2. Love is Blind: Japan

For the uninitiated, Love is Blind asks single men and women to find a potential spouse without ever setting eyes on one another. Participants talk while separated by an opaque paper screen, adorably dubbed ‘the moon’. When they fall in love, they can propose. Only then will they get to see their betrothed for the first time.

The Love is Blind franchise is a global sensation, but many agree the Japan season is special. Perhaps it’s the participant’s earnestness in the search for a life partner. Perhaps it’s the beauty of the set design, with sweethearts meeting on a half-moon bridge surrounded by cherry blossoms. Without giving too much away, one of the joys of the Japanese season is seeing just how accurate the premise of the title can be. Whatever the secret ingredient is, Love is Blind: Japan is in a class of its own.

Japanese Title: ラブ・イズ・ブラインド JAPAN (Rabu izu Buraindo Japan; “Love is Blind Japan”)

3. The Boyfriend

This spiritual successor to Terrace House puts a delightfully queer spin on the format. Here, single young gay and bisexual men live together in a scenic coastal locale. During their stay, they are challenged to match up on dates and profess developing feelings. They also take turns manning a coffee truck, with each housemate inviting his ideal partner along for the ride.

While love and friendship blossom on The Boyfriend, the show is most notable for breaking taboos around LGBTQ+ representation. A deeply affecting scene comes when the housemates share their coming-out experiences. Several participants also expressed a desire to get married, a possibility that remains out of reach for same-sex couples in Japan. If the fact that the show has been renewed for a second season is anything to go by, however, these boys have plenty of viewers on their side.

Japanese Title: ボーイフレンド (Boifurendo; “Boyfriend”)

4. Love Village

Love Village is unusual among Japanese dating shows for showcasing mature relationships. All participants are over the age of 35, with several divorcees and single parents in the mix. The romantic hopefuls begin by working together to renovate a run-down Japanese house in the countryside. If they find love, they must confess their feelings, and leave the village with or without their chosen partner. 

Love Village’s focus on mid-life romance yields some surprising results. The housemates are less inhibited than their younger counterparts. Alcohol flows freely, and the dinner conversation is bawdy from the get-go. However, the participants’ life experiences make it an even more poignant reality drama, with touching animated sequences recounting past losses. It’s warm-hearted and well worth your time. Just make sure to have some tissues at the ready.

Japanese Title: あいの里 (Ai no Sato; “Village of Love”)

5. The Future Diary

Reality shows frequently come under fire for being too scripted, manipulating audiences and cast members alike. But for the young stars of The Future Diary, that’s precisely the point. In this experiment, participants are tasked with acting out the beats of a pre-written romance, right down to moments like holding hands and sharing a first kiss. The question at the heart of the series is, will they fall in love for real?

It’s a preposterous premise that ends up working thanks to the casting of the show’s would-be lovers. The first season unites a Hokkaido boy and an Okinawa girl to see if they can create a genuine long-distance romance. Season two sets up a young trio in a friendship-turned-love-triangle that could be straight out of an anime. By turning the genre’s biggest weakness into its secret weapon, The Future Diary emerges as one of the most tender and emotionally engaging dating shows around.

Japanese Title: 未来日記 (Mirai Nikki; “Future Diary”)

6. Ainori Love Wagon: Asian Journey

This pre-Terrace House format (also imported to Netflix from Fuji Television) has all the features of regular Japanese TV. Manic text captions, sarcastic voice-over, and the exaggerated reactions of studio commentators collide on screen. All of this makes Ainori Love Wagon a less relaxing experience than other entries on this list, but its core charms are similar.

In Ainori (literally meaning ‘love ride’), a gaggle of young singletons board a bright pink minivan for an international adventure. Half the fun is watching the sheltered young Japanese cast break out of their comfort zone as they experience the fun and culture shock of foreign travel. However, the main attraction is seeing whether any of them will return to Japan as boyfriends or girlfriends. A follow-up season, African Journey, is also available to stream.

Japanese Title: 恋愛バス：アジア之旅 (Renai Basu: Ajia Ryokou; “Love Bus: Asian Journey”)

7. Is She the Wolf?

Is She the Wolf introduces a group of impossibly glamorous Tokyoites looking for love. Sparks fly in all directions as the cast members work together to complete a romantic photography project. But there’s a catch: at least one of the female participants has been assigned the role of ‘the wolf’, and must entrance her male castmates without falling in love herself.

The twist within the twist, of course, is that you can’t prevent someone from falling in love. After all, forbidden fruit is often the most tempting. The fact that most of the stars here are quite successful figures in Japanese entertainment gives it a glossier and more manufactured feel than other dating shows. But the romantic psychodrama between the suspicious castmates is all too real and all too addictive.

Japanese Title: オオカミには騙されない (Ookami-chan ni wa Damasarenai; “Don’t Be Deceived by the Wolf”)

Have you watched any of these Japanese reality dating shows? Let us know in the comments!

There are plenty of reasons to enjoy Japanese dramas on Netflix. But have you ever considered using Netflix to better understand relationships in Japan?

Maybe you’re introducing your Japanese partner to your family or want to know what you’re getting into before marrying a Japanese salaryman. Whatever the case, fictional love stories can teach us a lot about how Japanese people view love and relationships. Romantic dramas in Japan also tend to reflect cultural trends. Sexual inexperience in adults, attitudes towards adultery and LGBTQ+ rights are all topical issues these dramas explore.

So, if you’re ready to tune in, here’s our selection of seven Netflix dramas that will help you understand relationships in Japan.

1. First Love

First Love immediately stands out from other Japanese dramas on Netflix for the way it looks. Luminous cinematography turns the snow, sunshine and neon glow of Sapporo into a nostalgic dream. An appropriate tone for a story about missed chances and lost love.

The story spans twenty years in the lives of Yae and Harumichi. Once high school sweethearts with big goals, their adult selves find that their dreams seem further away than ever. After a chance reunion, the two begin to wonder if lasting happiness could begin with first love.

While the romance in First Love is somewhat idealized, the story is grounded by the reality in which it takes place. Aging apartment buildings, careers that never materialized and the struggles of being a single mother are the backdrop of this tender story, which may just bring a tear to your eye.

• Japanese Title: First Love 初恋 (Hatsukoi; “First love”)
• Genre: Romance

2. My Husband Won’t Fit

It would be difficult to believe the story of My Husband Won’t Fit if it weren’t based on an anonymous memoir that caused a stir in Japan a few years ago.

The drama depicts the relationship of married couple Kumiko and Kenichi. They love each other deeply, but there’s a problem: they can’t have penetrative sex. The reason seems to be a physical problem of Kumiko’s until it’s revealed she lost her virginity as a high school student. So why can’t she do it with the love of her life?

The real mystery here is not why Kumiko and Kenichi can’t have intercourse, but why they don’t seek help for the problem. It makes the drama a frustrating and sometimes heartbreaking watch. But it’s also an accurate depiction of the communication issues that can exist in Japanese relationships, and the problems that can arise as a result of the country’s poor education around sexual and emotional wellbeing.

• Japanese Title: 夫のちんぽが入らない (Otto no chinpo ga hairanai; “My husband’s penis won’t fit”)
• Genre: Drama

3. My Dear Exes

My Dear Exes, also known in English as Omameda Towako and Her Three Ex-Husbands, is a zippy comedy series that tackles unusual ground for J-drama: life after divorce. As the alternative title suggests, Towako has been married three times. She’s now raising her teenage daughter alone while working as the head of a construction company. But her three ex-husbands can’t seem to stay away.

Traditional family values are still deeply-rooted in Japanese culture, and ending a marriage is often viewed as a mark of failure. So a drama celebrating a thrice-divorced career woman like Towako feels like a breath of fresh air. The smart, snappy dialogue isn’t necessarily realistic, but the show’s focus on how romantic relationships can evolve into deep friendships is poignant and relatable.

• Japanese Title: 大豆田とわ子と三人の元夫 (Omameda Towako to sannin no motootto; “Omameda Towako and her three ex-husbands”)
• Genre: Comedy, Drama

4. What Did You Eat Yesterday?

LGBTQ+ representation in Japan is far from mainstream. Depictions of same-sex couples are largely limited to the ‘Boys Love’ genre; titillating stories aimed at a straight female audience. So there’s something deeply refreshing about What Did You Eat Yesterday? a realistic slice-of-life drama about a middle-aged gay couple in Tokyo.

Based on a manga of the same name, the story follows uptight lawyer Shiro and his much more effusive partner, Kenji, a hairstylist. As the title suggests, food plays a big role in their relationship, with the home-cooked meals Shiro lovingly prepares for Kenji lingering over by the camera as they would be in a cooking show. It’s a delicious, heartwarming delight. 

• Japanese Title: きのう何食べた? (Kinou nani tabeta?; “What did you eat yesterday?”)
• Genre: Slice of Life, Cooking

5. Love and Fortune

The plot of Love and Fortune is an uncomfortable one. Thirty-something Wako is fed up with her boyfriend, who seemingly takes their life together for granted. But when she meets 15-year-old Yumeaki, dangerous sparks fly.

The taboo nature of Wako’s affair plays differently in Japan, where the age of consent was only raised from 13 to 16 in 2023. Wako herself feels far guiltier about cheating on her boyfriend than about sleeping with a teenager. But if you can stomach the storyline, you’ll discover one of the most honest depictions of relationships in Japanese drama.

The fatigue that can threaten long-term relationships and lead people to stray is brilliantly, painfully depicted here. It’s also gorgeous to look at; pay attention to the ways color helps tell the story. While Love and Fortune can be a tough watch, it’s ultimately rewarding.

• Japanese title: 恋のツキ (Koi no tsuki; “Love’s luck”)
• Genre: Drama, Romance

6. Ripe for the Picking

Lovely but unassuming office worker Kosaka is 32, and still a virgin. After years of bad luck in love, she decides it’s time to get the experience she lacks. When Kosaka crosses paths with equally shy maintenance man Kagiya, she thinks he could be the one she’s looking for. As the pair’s relationship haltingly blossoms, they learn that real intimacy is about much more than who you sleep with.

Ripe for the Picking is a sweet and watchable drama that nevertheless touches on a range of issues in modern Japanese dating culture. (One subplot involving a character coming out as asexual is a noteworthy moment of representation.) And at just nine 25-minute episodes, you’ll feel it’s all over too soon.

• Japanese Title: 瓜を破る〜一線を越えた、その先には (Uri o waru 〜 issen o koeta, sono sakini wa; “Breaking the melon 〜 Crossing the line, what lies beyond”
• Genre: Romance, Drama

7. The Could’ve-Gone-All-the-Way Committee

Just about everyone has a story about a time they nearly hooked up with someone. Memories of such moments can be bittersweet, even years after the fact. The Could’ve-Gone-All-the-Way Committee is a quirky drama that poses the question: what might have happened that night if things had been different? 

In each episode, a different candidate presents their almost-did-it story to a panel of three judges. After forensically examining every aspect of the tale, they declare whether the candidate could or could not, in fact, have gone all the way. While this drama doesn’t exactly offer much commentary on long-term relationships, it’s a great examination of the rules of seduction in a notoriously indirect culture.

• Japanese Title: やれたかも委員会 (Yareta kamo iinkai; “Could have done it commitee”)
• Genre: Comedy, Slice of Life

Have you watched any of these Netflix dramas to better understand relationships in Japan? Let us know in the comments.

Introducing your Japanese partner to your family might feel like a big step, but it’s likely an even bigger deal for them. Traditionally, introductions to a Japanese partner’s parents go hand-in-hand with marriage proposals. Although this trend is changing nowadays it will depend heavily on the family involved. 

In my boyfriend’s case, he’s never talked about his love life with his family, let alone introduced a partner. So when I told him that I wanted him to meet my parents and brother when they visited Japan, he was surprised, and very nervous. On the flip side, my family were keen to get on well with him without committing any cultural faux pas.

I had my own worries, too. My boyfriend and I have a multilingual relationship, but would my family be able to communicate with him? Would he be traumatized by the unstoppable force of my mother’s hugs?

Despite everyone’s reservations, introducing my Japanese partner to my family turned out to be a huge success. Everyone found plenty to talk about, and lots of laughs were had. For the most part, things went well naturally. But I was glad I had done some groundwork to prepare everyone for the occasion.

With that in mind, here’s some advice to help you prepare for introducing your Japanese partner to your family. 

Things To Tell Your Family

© Photo by iStock: wagnerokasaki

If your family are anything like mine, they’ll be just as keen to make a good impression on your partner as the other way around! A few simple tips should help them feel more at ease.

Hugs and kisses aren’t common greetings.

Hugging and kissing are unusual even between close friends and family members in Japan, so warn your family that your partner might be overwhelmed with this kind of hello. Likewise, your partner probably won’t expect a formal Japanese bow. A friendly handshake will do.

Teach your family a few Japanese phrases to show care and respect.

Just as you may teach your Japanese partner a few basic phrases in English, having your family know some Japanese can leave a good impression on both sides. Here are some useful expressions they could try using:

• hajimemashite (nice to meet you)
• yoroshiku onegaishimasu (literally, ‘please take care of me’)

If you’re eating together, your family might want to say:

• ittadakimasu (before eating a meal)
• gochisousamma deshita (to the restaurant staff after the meal or after eating)

Include them in the conversation.

Even if your partner has great English, they may still struggle to understand when your family speaks at native speed. Especially with local slang and all sorts of cultural shorthand. It’s easy for family members to underestimate how excluded this might make your partner feel, so encourage them to slow things down and keep your partner involved in the conversation.

Understand that you may not have met their family.

For cultural reasons, you may be introducing your Japanese partner to your family without having met theirs. This is because meeting the parents in Japan is often a precursor to marriage. So, if you’re not looking at engagement rings just yet, it’s a good idea to explain to your family why this imbalance is not necessarily a red flag.

Prepping Your Partner

© Photo by iStock: Aida Lopez Jimenez

My boyfriend initially had a few qualms about meeting my family. Thankfully, I was able to use these steps to win him around.

Explain the cultural difference.

Depending on how old-fashioned your partner and their family are, they may associate meeting the parents with marriage. Explain that this isn’t usually the case in your culture. On the contrary, your family might be alarmed if you did get engaged to someone they had never met. They could even take offense if your partner declines to meet them. Tell your partner that this meeting will mean a lot to you—without meaning you expect a ring!

Familiarize them with your family.

If you’re sure your family will get along well with your partner, tell them so! You can point out things they have in common, describe your relatives’ personalities and show them photos. This way, your partner won’t feel like they’re going in cold. 

Show them western movies or TV shows.

Family sitcoms like Schitt’s Creek and Gavin and Stacey include storylines where characters are introduced to their partner’s family members without an engagement. These examples can give your partner a tongue-in-cheek model for what the meeting might look like—as long as they don’t take it too seriously!

Reassure them you’ll be there to translate.

If your partner is worried about being able to communicate, tell them that you’re more than ready to bridge the language gap. You can even practice some of the questions your family is likely to ask so that they feel comfortable talking about things like their work and interests.

What To Do On The Day

© Photo by iStock: nicholashan

Once the date for the meeting is set, it’s time to think about where you’ll get together and what you’ll do so that everyone can relax and get to know one another. Here are some suggestions. 

Meet for lunch or dinner.

Getting together for a nice meal is always a safe bet. Avoid over-formalized restaurant settings so that the meeting doesn’t resemble an official introduction following an engagement. Instead, choose something casual, like a conveyor belt sushi restaurant or a pizza place. Keep the atmosphere light. 

Plan a fun activity.

If your family and your partner have things in common, it’s a great idea to plan an activity that everyone can bond over. You might want to visit a cultural site like a shrine or temple, go to an exhibition or even watch a baseball game!

Be ready to interpret.

Depending on the language skills of everyone involved, you will probably have to do a bit of translation work. Being ready and willing to interpret, including summarizing things for your partner when your family members are talking among themselves, will make everyone feel more comfortable and help them to have a good time. 

Advice For LGBTQ+ Couples

© Photo by iStock: Nikola Stojadinovic

Same-sex marriage is not yet legalized in Japan, and significant stigma remains around being LGBTQ+. Many people are not out at work or with their families. This might make your partner especially nervous about meeting your family. Explain to them that your family is accepting and welcoming. They may even find reassurance in being embraced for who they are by your family if they can’t be open with their own.

Of course, it’s not always the case that Japanese families are more conservative. One episode of the popular Netflix reality show Queer Eye in Japan provides a lovely example of a young gay man introducing his Canadian boyfriend to his mother and brother, which you and your partner may want to use as a model for your own introduction.

How Did It Go?

© Photo by iStock: Toru-Sanogawa

As soon as they were introduced, it was clear my boyfriend and my family would get along. At the end of their first meeting, my boyfriend commented on how kind and gentle my dad was—even going so far as to say he struck him as quite Japanese in his manner. 

While he could never say the same about my mum (who immediately disregarded the no-hug advice) he quickly got used to her touchy-feely ways. When it was time to say goodbye, he was able to anticipate and initiate the final hug. My mother was so delighted that she kept squealing, “he hugged me!” for the rest of the day. 

Now, I’ve moved on to preparing everyone for the next challenge: bringing my boyfriend home for Christmas in the UK! 

Do you have any advice for introducing your Japanese partner to your family? Let us know in the comments!

If you’re starting a new job or getting the kids ready for school, then it’s time to head to the 100 yen shop. Here, you can kit out your school or office desk or fill your child’s school bag without breaking the bank. You can buy the following goods at Japan’s top 100 yen shops or online at Daiso, CanDo and Seria (in-store only).

Zebra Mildliners

© Photo by Rachel Crane

Highlighters in Japan come in some very aesthetically pleasing shades, and Zebra Mildliners are among the most famous brands. Beloved of stationery addicts, they come in a rainbow of colors and have both flat and fine-tipped ends. They’re perfect for subtly highlighting your most important notes and can be layered or combined for more oomph.

• Price: ¥110
• Shop: Daiso (Similar items are available at other 100 yen shops too.)

Memorization Set

© Photo by Rachel Crane

This memorization set comes with two plastic sheets and two marker pens, each in red and green. It’s the perfect kit for exam revision. Simply highlight the key information in one color, cover it with the opposite-colored plastic sheet, and watch it disappear. All that remains is to test your memory!

• Price: ¥110
• Shop: Daiso (Similar items are available at other 100 yen shops too.)

Pen Holder with Smartphone Stand

© Photo by Rachel Crane

Products that roll two accessories into one are a specialty of the 100 yen store. This phone stand/pencil case is a great example, giving you two sets of storage for the price of one. It’s especially useful for anyone who regularly uses their smartphone as a second screen for work.

• Price: ¥110
• Shop: Daiso (Similar items are available at other 100 yen shops too.)

Keyboard Cleaning Gel

© Photo by Rachel Crane

Getting dust and crumbs out of your office keyboard can be a headache, but this cleaning gel is an ingenious solution. Sticky and malleable, it might remind you of kids’ slime, but it’s surprisingly functional. Simply dab the cleaner over your keys and watch the dirt adhere and lift away.

• Price: ¥110
• Shop: Seria (Similar items are available at other 100 yen shops too.)

Cable Clips

© Photo by Rachel Crane

Most of us have several devices at work on our desks every day, each with its own charger cable. Keeping all those cables straight can be a hassle, but these adhesive cable clips will stick to the surface or the side of any desk and keep your workspace clear of tangles. 

• Price: ¥110
• Shop: Daiso (Similar items are available at other 100 yen shops too.)

Neko Fusen Sticky Note & Pen Holder

© Photo by Rachel Crane

If you prefer your stationery on the kawaii (cute) side, then 100 yen stores are here to oblige. These Neko Fusen Sticky Note Holders are just one series of desk accessories that are both kawaii and functional. Doubling up as pen pots once opened, they’re super cute and seriously collectible.

• Price: ¥110
• Shop: Daiso (Similar items are available at other 100 yen shops too.)

Anti-Blue Light Glasses

© Photo by Rachel Crane

Blue light from digital devices is known to interfere with our natural desire to sleep. So, if you’re working late into the evening, you may want to pick up a pair of these glasses, which have lenses specifically designed to filter out blue light. These handy specs may also help with light sensitivity and dry eyes.

• Price: ¥110
• Shop: Daiso (Similar items are available at other 100 yen shops too.)

Hiragana Name Stamp Set

© Photo by Rachel Crane

Labeling school things is all part of the new-term routine. These rubber hiragana (Japanese phonetic script) stamps help you keep your kid’s name clear and uniform across bags, pencil cases, textbooks, notepads, stationery, lunch boxes and the rest. Easy-to-read hiragana can also help kids identify their own items, and not bring someone else’s home instead!

• Price: ¥110
• Shop: Daiso (Similar items are available at other 100 yen shops too.)

School Bag Cover and Chest Strap

© Photo by Rachel Crane

Japan’s Randoseru school bags are iconic. They’re also expensive and heavy for little kids to lug around when filled with school books. But the 100 yen store has a few accessories to help keep them in great condition and make them easier to carry. Plastic covers protect bags from the elements, while adjustable chest straps help distribute their weight a bit more evenly.

• Price: ¥110
• Shop: Daiso (Similar items are available at other 100 yen shops too.)

Map of Japan Drip Mat

© Photo by Rachel Crane

Drip mats can be laid under sheets of paper for easy writing, as well as used for cleaner arts and crafts. This one comes with a detailed map of Japan design, so it doubles up as an educational tool for kids to learn about geography and practice reading some tricky kanji.

• Price: ¥110
• Shop: Daiso (Similar items are available at other 100 yen shops too.)

Word Card Flip Books

© Photo by Rachel Crane

These word card flipbooks are perfect both for kids studying a second language at school or adults brushing up for the JLPT. All you need to do is write a word in your target language on one side, and a native translation on the other. Daiso sells them in convenient packs of four, so there’s plenty of space for all the vocabulary you need to learn.

• Price: ¥110
• Shop: Daiso (Similar items are available at other 100 yen shops too.)

Electronic Memo Pad and Calculator

© Photo by Rachel Crane

This handy calculator allows you to keep note of your sums as you go. With a 4.5-inch electronic memo screen and stylus, it’s easy to use and saves you from turning to your smartphone or PC calculator app. It’s also ideal for school maths lessons when electronic devices aren’t allowed.

• Price: ¥550
• Shop: Daiso (Similar items are available at other 100 yen shops too.)

Other 100 Yen Shop Recommendations

• 100 Yen Shop Must-Haves for the Kitchen
• 100 Yen Shop Summer Must-Haves for Cooling Down
• 100 Yen Shop Must Haves for Home Decor
• 100 Yen Shop Must Haves For DIY Nails
• 100 Yen Shop Must Haves For Cherry Blossom Viewing
• 100 Yen Shop Must-Haves for Families

Do you have any recommendations for 100 yen shop must-haves for school and the office? Let us know about them in the comments!

We’ve all been there. It’s 1 a.m. in Shibuya. You’ve been singing the night away at karaoke with your friends and you lost track of time. Now there are no more trains home. What do you do? Where can women go to feel safe in Tokyo at night? You could drop several thousand yen on a taxi back to the suburbs. Or you could head to one of many internet cafes in Tokyo.

But, you might be thinking, aren’t internet cafes places guys go to in order to…you know? Well, yes and no. While generally safe, internet cafes do have a reputation as a hotspot for seedier activities. For this reason, female visitors may wish to seek out internet cafes with special facilities geared towards women. There are several great women-friendly internet cafes in Tokyo to choose from.

What is an Internet Cafe?

© Photo by Pixta: mits

Internet cafes, similar to manga cafes, are places to relax and enjoy a range of entertaining activities. These can include browsing the web, watching movies, singing karaoke and reading comic books.

Most internet cafes offer private rooms equipped with TVs and laptop computers alongside showers and even laundry facilities. The reclining or flat-room floor seats make reasonably comfortable places to nap, meaning many visitors use internet cafes as cheap alternatives to hotels when they need a few hours’ rest. Customers pay on a time-based system, although some services, like food orders and towel rental, may incur extra fees.

What’s the difference between an Internet Cafe and Manga Cafe?

© Photo by Pixta: KAORU

You’ll hear the terms ‘internet cafe’ and ‘manga cafe’, or ‘manga kissa’ (coffee shop), used pretty interchangeably in Japan. Both provide a 24-hour place for rest and recreation, but their main focuses are slightly different.

Internet cafes originated in London as places where people could access a computer with an internet connection. Manga cafes, on the other hand, are a Japanese invention, charging customers by the hour to read comic books.

Nowadays both internet cafes and manga cafes offer a wider range of services and can be difficult to tell apart. However, manga cafes tend to showcase their comic book libraries as the main attraction and may offer fewer additional facilities than internet cafes.

Why are Internet Cafes popular in Japan?

© Photo by Pixta: Graphs

Internet cafes are popular for several reasons. Tokyoites and other Japanese city dwellers work hard and play hard, which often means missing the last train. Since internet cafes are open 24 hours a day and often have rooms available on short notice, they make an ideal place to crash when there’s no way home. They also provide a temporary alternative to the cramped living spaces of Tokyo apartments, some privacy for adults cohabiting with parents, and a cheap way to sample different forms of entertainment.

Women-Friendly Internet Cafes in Tokyo

While the private rooms in standard internet cafes may be acceptable in a pinch, many women prefer to seek out internet cafes that provide special areas and facilities exclusively available to female guests. These spaces offer some extra privacy and peace of mind to help you relax and enjoy everything the internet cafe has to offer. Here are five of our favorite women-friendly internet cafes in Tokyo.

Kaikatsu Club: Villa Me Time

© Photo by Kaikatsu Club

© Photo by Kaikatsu Club

© Photo by Kaikatsu Club

© Photo by Kaikatsu Club

Kaikatsu Club is one of the biggest internet cafe chains in Japan, and some of its branches feature women-only areas. Dubbed Villa Me Time, these attractive Balinese-themed facilities are designed by women for women. In Tokyo, you can find Villa Me Time at the Kaikatsu Club Ueno Hirokoji branch.

• Facilities: A women-only area, reclining seat rooms, single and double flat seat rooms, shower rooms (free), a vaping area and soft-serve ice cream.
• Fees: ¥370 one-time registration fee. Usage fees range from ¥290 for a 30-minute stay to ¥4,730 for a 24-hour pack (varies per store).
• Address: 7F 2-6-12 Ueno, Taito-ku, Tokyo

Space Create Jiyukukan

© Photo by Space Create Jiyukukan

© Photo by Space Create Jiyukukan

© Photo by Space Create Jiyukukan

© Photo by Space Create Jiyukukan

© Photo by Space Create Jiyukukan

Space Create Jiyukukan is another popular internet cafe chain with women-only areas in some stores. These spaces include drinks bars and manga libraries, so female customers can enjoy all of the cafe’s facilities in comfort. Women-only areas can be found at the Ikebukuro West Exit Rosa branch, as well as the Self Narimasu, Self Gotanda and Big Box Takadanobaba stores.

• Facilities: Women-only area, women-only shower rooms (additional fee), reclining seat rooms, flat seat rooms, powder room, hair iron rental, convenience store, smoking and non-smoking areas, color printer, soft serve ice cream.
• Fees: ¥370 one-time registration fee. Usage fees range from ¥300 for a 30-minute stay to ¥4,590 for a basic 24-hour pack, with extra services available at additional cost.
• Address: 4F 1-37-12 Nishi-Ikebukuro, Toshima-ku, Tokyo

Customa Cafe

© Photo by Customa Cafe

© Photo by Customa Cafe

Tokyo-based internet cafe chain Customa Cafe has three branches with women-only shower and laundry areas: Kabukicho, Yoyogi and Machida. The Kabukicho branch is notable for providing a safe and affordable place for women to spend the night in Shinjuku’s raucous red light and entertainment district. Unlike many internet cafes, you do not need to register as a member.

• Facilities: Women-only shower and laundry areas, private and group rooms, E-sports area, 24-hour all-you-can-eat curry.
• Fees: Usage fees range from ¥300 for 30 minutes to ¥4,730 for a 24-hour pack. Other services are available at additional cost.
• Address: 7F Dai-ni Toua Kaikan Building, 1-21-2 Kabukicho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo

Mine Space

© Photo by Mine Space

© Photo by Mine Space

© Photo by Mine Space

© Photo by Mine Space

Mine Space is the biggest internet cafe in Ikebukuro, and its entire fourth floor is dedicated to women-only areas. However, all women-only rooms allow smoking, so customers who prefer a non-smoking room will have to stay on a mixed floor. The cafe also boasts a wide range of amusements including a darts lounge, karaoke booths and ping-pong tables, as well as an office space for customers who need to get some work done.

• Facilities: Women-only smoking floor, women-only showers, women-only powder room, single and pair reclining seat rooms, flat seat rooms, office space and amusements.
• Fees: ¥250 for a first-time registration fee. Usage fees range from ¥200 for a 30-minute stay to ¥3,480 for a 24-hour pack. Extra services are available at additional cost.
• Address: 2F-10F Amuse Ikebukuro Building, 1-43-9 Nishi-Ikebukuro, Toshima-ku, Tokyo

Hailey’5 Cafe

© Photo by Hailey’5 Cafe

© Photo by Hailey’5 Cafe

Hailey’5 Cafe is an internet cafe chain with a decidedly more sophisticated atmosphere than most. While there is no separate area for women, female customers may still appreciate the bright and mature surroundings, which make Hailey’5 stand out from the competition. Tokyo branches can be found in Shibuya, Ikebukuro and Ueno.

• Facilities: Office rooms, flat seating rooms, theatre rooms, karaoke rooms, darts rooms, showers, hair iron rental, drinks bar (including alcoholic drinks), food menu, smoking area.
• Fees: Usage fees range from ¥660 for one hour to ¥2,980 for 12 hours. Some rental items and services are available for an additional fee.
• Address: 7F KN Shibuya 1, 13-11 Udagawa-cho, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo

Are Internet Cafes Worth It?

© Photo by iStock: maruco

The simple answer is: It depends. If you’re searching ahead of time for a place to spend the night in Tokyo, then hostels and hotels are generally the more comfortable option, and in some cases more budget-friendly for an overnight stay. However, if you’re looking for somewhere to relax for a few hours before the first train, to shower after a trip on the night bus, or just kill time in peace, then a women-friendly internet cafe might be the ideal place to go.

Have you tried any women-friendly internet cafes in Tokyo? Let us know in the comments.

In Japan, summer is the season for all things haunted. While the Obon holiday in August celebrates friendly spirits, Japanese people also like to take the edge off the oppressive summer heat with more sinister ghost stories. One popular way to experience a cooling dose of fear is visiting an obakeyashiki (haunted houses) in Tokyo.

While Japanese obakeyashiki share many things in common with haunted houses in the West, there is a distinct cultural flavor to the spine-tingling attractions, which have become something of an art form. They range from kitschy and family-friendly to genuinely nightmare-inducing. Here’s our ranking of six of Tokyo’s most terrifying.

Yureido (Yokohama Cosmo World)

© Photo by Yokohama Cosmo World

Yureido, meaning ‘hall of ghosts,’ is a dark ride that takes you on a tour of a very haunted old Japanese house. Before boarding, you can choose your fear level from one to three. One being ‘a little scary’ and three being ‘as scary as hell’! The appealing exterior gives way to a genuinely eerie world of ghostly and grotesque animatronics with a classic Japanese atmosphere.

Since Yureido is a ride rather than a walk-through attraction, it requires a lot less courage than other haunted houses on this list. This makes it a great attraction for horror-curious kids or anyone who wants to dip a toe into the world of obakeyashiki without pushing their limits. You even get a free photo at the end, so make sure to scream!

• Ticket Price: ¥700 (Admission to Cosmo World is free.)
• Fear Factor: 2/5

Edo’s Test of Courage (Asakusa Hanayashiki)

Asakusa Hanayashiki is Tokyo’s oldest theme park, and its attractions have a distinctly retro appeal. Like Yureido, this obakeyashiki has a traditional Japanese theme inspired by figures from spooky folk tales. There are even stories of real ghosts being sighted among the creaky animatronics that inhabit the house.

If the idea of encountering genuine spirits doesn’t put you off, then you’ll find the scares here are a little more family-friendly than in most haunted houses. It still takes some nerve to push open the sliding doors and find your way along the darkened corridors, though, so be prepared.

• Ticket Price: ¥100 plus park admission; ¥1200 for adults and  ¥600 for children under 12.
• Fear Factor: 3/5

Onryo Zashiki (Tokyo Dome City)

© Photo by Tokyo Dome City

Designed by legendary obakeyashiki producer Hirofumi Gomi in collaboration with digital art collective TeamLab, Tokyo Dome’s Onryo Zashiki is where things start getting really creepy. The central story has changed over the years, but the current theme is ‘The Cursed Glass Window.’ So, beware of the window panes!

The storytelling and attention to detail in this haunted house are superb. You might be tempted to slow down and admire the imaginative set design if it weren’t for the puppetry-induced jump scares hurrying you along the route. If you want to tone down the fear, you can choose to carry a safety lantern, which will ward off the scariest spirits.

For summer 2024, another classic Hirofumi Gomi haunted house has been resurrected at Tokyo Dome City. Baby Hell first appeared in 1996, inspiring countless other obakeyashiki with its mission-style format. It will run at Tokyo Dome until September 1, 2024.

• Ticket Price: Onryou Zashiki: ¥1050. Baby Hell: ¥1500. (Admission to Tokyo Dome City is free.)
• Fear Factor: 3.5/5

Dr. Edgar’s Cursed Collection (Yokohama Cosmo World)

© Photo by Yokohama Cosmo World

© Photo by Yokohama Cosmo World

Cosmo World’s second haunted attraction is inspired more by Western horror than typical obakeyashiki. The setting is the laboratory of mad scientist Dr. Edgar, who likes to perform grim human experiments.

This haunted house is a little less richly imagined than others on this list, with more of a stripped-back feel. It’s possible to see the seams even as you’re gripped by terror. But the presence of live cast members lurking in the shadows amps up the fear factor. Hence meaning, this attraction is not for the faint of heart.

• Ticket Price: ¥500 (Admission to Cosmo World is free.)
• Fear Factor: 4/5

Odaiba Mysterious School (Decks Tokyo Beach)

© Photo by Obake Land

Tucked away in the corner of this shopping and amusement complex is a sinister gem. The story here centers on an abandoned school where the students have mysteriously committed suicide. You have been tasked with releasing the souls of the children, but first, you’ll have to get past their restless ghosts, some of whom seem to know your name…

The mission element of this attraction heightens the immersion, as does the brilliant sound design, which echoes unnervingly with children’s voices. What’s more, you have to make your way through almost total darkness, with only a flickering torch to light your way. You can opt for a less intense version of the experience, but if not then be prepared for chilling scares that come from all sides in the darkness. The experience is also available in English.

• Ticket Price: ¥800
• Fear Factor: 4.5/5

Super Scary Labyrinth of Fear (Fuji Q Highland)

© Photo by Fuji Q Highland

Fuji Q Highland’s Super Scary Labyrinth of Fear is often ranked as Japan’s most terrifying haunted house. Set in an abandoned rural hospital with a history of conducting gruesome experiments on patients, the decrepit building is filled with zombie-like figures ready to chase you down the long, dark corridors—all 900 meters of them!

This enormous attraction supposedly takes up to 50 minutes to complete. While some visitors have reported getting out in half the time, the Labyrinth is still the longest obakeyashiki around. Escape doors line the route through the hospital and many visitors bow out when the horror becomes too much. You can also purchase a glow-in-the-dark omamori (protective charm) at the entrance to keep the zombies at bay.

• Ticket Price: ¥4,000 for a group of four with a one-day pass for Fuji Q Highland. ¥8,000 without a one-day pass.
• Fear Factor: 5/5

Want to read some spooky Japanese stories?

• Real Japanese Ghost Stories
• Real Japanese Ghost Stories: The Shriekquel
• Scary Stories: 7 Japanese Tales That Will Chill You To The Bone
• Yurei: Japanese Ghost Tales That Will Keep You Up At Night

Are you in the mood for some spooky fun this summer? Visit these haunted houses in Tokyo—and try not to scream!