Features
Being child-free has been deemed ‘selfish’ for decades – the history of this misconception explained
Choosing to be child-free is more common than ever before in some countries, including the U.S. Many people see not having children an ethical and ecological choice, made to protect the environment, people and other species. Being child-free is about being “green.” Consequently, more positive discourses around childlessness are emerging. But this was… Read
For green spaces to be most beneficial to health, they need to be walkable
The positive health impact of green space isn't just about where you live, but how easily you can access nature, according to new research. Previous studies have suggested that simply living in neighborhoods filled with trees, grass and plants can reduce heart disease risk. For the new study, researchers explored… Read
Hong Kong Airlines launches flights to Kumamoto
Hong Kong Airlines has launched thrice weekly flights to Kumamoto, in the Kyushu region of Japan. The airline will operate the flights every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday, with flight HX686 scheduled to depart Hong Kong (HKG) at 11:40, arriving at Aso Kumamoto Airport (KMJ) at 15:40. From KMJ, flight HX687… Read
When is St Nicholas Day? And how did this Christian saint inspire the Santa Claus legend?
The white-bearded Christian saint whose acts of generosity inspired America’s secular Santa Claus figure is known worldwide — but Saint Nicholas' origin story is not. The legends surrounding jolly old St Nicholas — celebrated annually on Dec 6 — go way beyond delivering candy and toys to children. St Nicholas… Read
Mister Donut now sells Japanese curry doughnuts…with egg
“Delicious food that’s perfect for everyone’s tummy” is the slogan for the latest release from Japan’s leading doughnut chain, Mister Donut, but it’s a claim we’re slightly dubious about, seeing as it combines some weird ingredients not usually associated with the sweet snack. Two new flavors are being added to the… Read
Low on space? Try this multi-stick vacuum for your apartment
It’s no secret that Japanese apartments take space efficiency a little too seriously. Most studio apartments in major cities like Tokyo, Nagoya or Osaka have just enough space for a bed and not much else. While stacking appliances on top of each other or investing in furniture with extra storage,… Read
How food and agriculture contribute to climate change
Feeding the world is a big job, and the effort produces billions of tons of emissions of greenhouse gases each year - around a third of the global total. Despite the fact that food is a big climate problem, very little has been done so far to address it. This… Read
'I feel safe': The school for environmental defenders
On a sun-dappled spot of sandy land along Thailand's east coast, class is in session, as a group of environmental defenders listens to local activists describe battling an industrial park. At home, some of the 13 students gathered from around the Mekong region face harassment, jail terms, and even violence.… Read
Hakone sightseeing recommendations for your star sign this December
Hot springs, a historical checkpoint, and hikes along the ancient Tokaido Road are among the prime attractions awaiting travelers in Hakone, Kanagawa Prefecture. This onsen resort town is a picturesque getaway from the buzzing metropolis of Tokyo — accessible in 80 minutes from Shinjuku station via the Odakyu Romance Car.… Read
Marriage-centered dating apps in Japan: Finding your partner for life
We’re mid-cuffing season now, and people seem to be pairing up left, right and center, even in Japan. Living in Japan can be lonely at times, there are language and culture barriers to contend with, and if you’re not the casual dating sort, then clubs or casual dating apps aren’t for you.… Read
