Alex came to Japan in 2015, after getting too annoyed at the constant rain in the UK, but quickly realised the summers here were even worse. He currently works as a teacher in Tokyo, after spending a year in rural Ibaraki. Alex mainly writes about teaching and surviving the countryside in Japan, but in his spare time, enjoys writing about politics. He also once lit a candle, in his school assembly, with the women who played Hyacinth Bucket in "Keeping up Appearances".
As Abe pivots from trade agreement issues with the West, he looks to shore up support a little closer to home with an unexpected ally.
Trains are an unavoidable part of daily life in Japan — they also give life to specific genera of homo sapiens.
The grass isn't always greener — especially if it's artificial.
Welcome to Japan. You've reached gamers' paradise.
Searching for a new apartment, this writer stumbled upon a whole different set of options.
Now that's what you call an entrance.
Keep calm and listen to Enya.
Did a 19-second handshake manage to soften the blow?
Dear Japan, we have to talk about your weather.
What to do when your friendly neighborino isn't so friendly?
I tried Google Translate's updated feature and may have uncovered a Japanese conspiracy in the process.
What happens in the hot spring stays in the hot spring. But here's what we know.