Emojis have evolved into a shared shorthand for emotion and intent, shaping not only how people text, but how they relate to one another online. Now, as NTT Docomo prepares to retire its original emoji set after 26 years, it marks the end of a uniquely Japanese chapter in the global story of digital expression.
Children increasingly face exposure to inappropriate online ads even when accessing seemingly harmless websites such as cooking or game guides. In one notable case reported in March, users who opened a recipe site to cook with their children were startled by sudden sexually suggestive advertisements.
Japan has been struggling to cope with a combination of anaemic economic growth and a shrinking population for over 30 years. 2025 marks the tipping point when the rising costs outstrip the country's capacity to pay for them. (Financial Times)
Faded and illegible intersection signs are causing confusion and concern among residents in Himeji, a city in Hyogo Prefecture known for its iconic Himeji Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site. With around 520,000 residents and high vehicle traffic, the deteriorating condition of road signage is becoming a serious issue, especially in areas frequented by tourists.
A sweeping change to Japan’s penal system is set to take place in June with the abolition of the dual sentencing system of prison labor (chōeki) and imprisonment without labor (kinko), which will be replaced by a unified custodial sentence known as kōkin-kei.
Japanese women are often admired internationally for their beauty and kindness, particularly during the dating phase, when many present themselves as sweet, supportive, and attentive partners. Foreign men are often captivated by this image, but many are unprepared for the transformation that can occur after marriage and especially after children. (Japanese Comedian Meshida)
A 22-year-old man known for repeatedly posting nuisance videos on TikTok, was arrested by Osaka police on suspicion of confining a female gas station employee in a car on May 19th in Hirano Ward after he and an accomplice allegedly lured her into the vehicle under false pretenses as part of another stunt.
A growing number of so-called men’s concept cafes in Osaka are drawing scrutiny for blurring the line between themed entertainment and unlicensed adult services. In one case, a cafe was found offering a single drink for 1.65 million yen, underscoring the escalating concerns around financial exploitation and regulatory loopholes.