Opinion / Column

What Saturday’s Crowds in Fukuoka’s Hakata District Reveal

Fukuoka's population has grown 19.2% over the past two decades—far outpacing Japan's other major regional cities. The author explores what's driving this surge, from the Tenjin redevelopment to the city's geographic advantages for international business.

2026.06.15

Opinion / Column

Two AI-Related Events That Unfolded This Week

When Yomiuri Giants manager Shinnosuke Abe was arrested for assaulting his 18-year-old daughter, the trigger was a ChatGPT recommendation that set off a chain of events no one anticipated. On the same day, Pope Leo XIV issued an encyclical warning of AI's risks. What both moments reveal about AI literacy — and who bears responsibility for teaching it.

2026.05.29

Opinion / Column

NHK Announces John Manjiro as the Lead of its 2028 Taiga Drama

NHK has announced John Manjiro as the lead of its 2028 Taiga Drama. The author examines why this ordinary fisherman-turned-cosmopolitan was chosen, and what his story says about Japan's growing inward turn.

2026.04.10

Opinion / Column

What Do Japanese Entrepreneurs Mean by “Dorokusai”?

Why do Japanese entrepreneurs often describe their work as “dorokusai”? This column explores the cultural meaning behind the term and what it reveals about Japan’s startup mindset and business environment.

2026.01.28

Opinion / Column

There Is No Slump in Greetings

“There is no slump in greetings,” a phrase coined by Japanese comedian Kunihiro Matsumura, explains a simple rule behind Japanese communication.

2025.12.22

Opinion / Column

Message from Japan Regarding the Major Earthquakes in Tohoku and Hokkaido

Following a powerful earthquake in northern Japan, this column offers a message to international readers—sharing the current situation, lessons from past disasters, and a calm assurance that Japan as a whole remains stable.

2025.12.10

Opinion / Column