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Books: History of Modern Manga
By Jonathan Clements. “The history of manga,” notes the back-cover blurb for Matthieu Pinon and Laurent Lefebvre’s new book, “is inextricably tied to Japan’s social, economic, political, and…
Episode 2 - Dr. Christopher Craig (Tōhoku)
In this episode, Dr. Craig offers a glimpse of the Meiji Restoration as it was viewed from peripheral regions, in this case rural Miyagi prefecture. We discuss power…
Yasuke: A Modern Myth From A Little-Known Part of Japanese History
A samurai who hails from Africa tears numerous assailants to shreds in a fluid, yet sterile scene as the crimson blood of his foes dyes the surrounding
Abortion In Japan: A History
A look at how abortion in Japan evolved throughout the ages, from a financial necessity to a call for the acknowledgment of women's rights.
The Snow Monkeys of Japan: A Fascinating History
They were a part of Japanese folklore for centuries before they enjoyed international fame. Learn more about Japan's snow monkeys.
The History of Anime & Japan
Anime or Japanese Animation (アニメ) is perhaps one of the most influential forms of media in the modern world. It has a history spaning over a century and…
History of Ghost Taxis of Japan
Translated and Sourced from Shigeru Mizuki’s Mujara, Japanese Ghost Stories: Spirits, Hauntings, and Paranormal Phenomena, and Other Sources To learn more about Japanese Ghosts, check out my …
Street Fighter 6 and the History of “Modern Controls”
Street Fighter 6 has succeeded in its goal of bringing in new players through a simplified control scheme labeled “Modern.” The signature special inputs that Street Fighter pioneered…
Coffee in Japan: A Short, Tasty History
Did you know canned coffee is a Japanese invention? Learn how coffee went from foreign luxury to everyday staple in Japan.
The Green Tea History You Didn't Know: About the History of Green Tea in Japan & the U.S. (Dr. Robert Hellyer)
On this episode of the Japan Station podcast we're learning about the green tea history you probably didn't know about. There's a fascinating shared history of green tea…
Cautionary Kappa Folktales and Modern Japan
Discover the mischievous water-dweller believed to inhabit Japan's swamps, lakes and rivers.
Rōnin: Why Being a “Masterless Samurai” in Modern Japan Sucks
Saying "rōnin" in English conjures up images of cool, lone-wolf samurai. But in modern Japan, being a rōnin kinda sucks.
Samurai Cultivator: the Birth of Modern Apple Cultivation in Japan
Apples, such as the delectable fuji, are ubiquitous in Japan. Yet cultivation of the fruit began relatively recently - during the waning days of the samurai.
Workshop - Gendering War & Peace in Modern Japan
In this workshop, Dr. Barbara Molony (Santa Clara), Dr. Sabine Frühstück (UCSB), Dr. Sharalyn Orbaugh (UBC), and Dr. Hillary Maxson (Oregon) present their recent research and discuss the…
The History and Benefits of Baby Wearing in Japan
Whether you’re on the go with your little one or staying closer to home, consider wearing your baby—a comfortable, convenient and longstanding choice for parents in Japanese cities.
Post-War Anime: The History of Japanese Animation & Japan
Anime from 1945 to 1963 saw the release of some incredibly influential works. While most begin their anime studies with Astroboy released on January 1st 1963, the history…
Maser Patrol podcast episode 58: A History of Marvel in Japan (Otakon 2023)
Last weekend was Otakon, where I got to give a panel detailing the wild intersection of Japanese pop culture and Marvel comics. This one details Marvel books based…
That Combini Life: Convienence Stores in Modern Japan
Convenience stores ("combini") in Japan are everywhere. But what do people use them for? A look at combini and everyday life in Japan.
In/Spectre – The Birth of a Modern Ghost
I’m a bit of a repeating record lately but there’s a lot to say about myth and magic. And sure, it’s fun to think about the classics but…
Book Review: As If: Modern Enchantment and the Literary Pre-History of Virtual Reality
In an age where the boundary between reality and fantasy is becoming increasingly blurred, the allure of fictional worlds has captured the imagination of millions. In his groundbreaking…
A brief history of Kaname Pro
Unlike other great and influential studios with a distinct animation philosophy, like A Pro, Ghibli, Sunrise or Kyoto Animation, the Kanada school never had a single, durable place…
Dallos, Leda: The Fantastic Adventure of Yohko, Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind, Once Upon A Time
A Brief History of Shoujo Isekai
Today we're taking a look at shoujo isekai, where it started and where it is now. Special thank you to Gaby on my discord who helped me collect some…
A Look at the Print and Material History: A Comparative Exploration of “Medieval” England and Japan
Unearth the poetic treasures of medieval England and Japan with these captivating yet lesser-known works. Immerse yourself in the intricate rhyme schemes of ‘Pearl’ and unravel the spiritual…
Episode 287, "Spandam: It's Not a Metaphor" (with Christopher Smith)
On this episode of The One Piece Podcast we have an interview with the voice of Spandam in FUNimation’s One Piece, Christopher Smith, from Anime USA in Washington,…
Episode 287, "Spandam: It's Not a Metaphor" (with Christopher Smith)
On this episode of The One Piece Podcast we have an interview with the voice of Spandam in FUNimation’s One Piece, Christopher Smith, from Anime USA in Washington,…
Episode 287, "Spandam: It's Not a Metaphor" (with Christopher Smith)
On this episode of The One Piece Podcast we have an interview with the voice of Spandam in FUNimation’s One Piece, Christopher Smith, from Anime USA in Washington,…
Christmas Cakes in Japan: An Affectionate History
Move over cookies! Unlike in many western nations, where Christmas cakes must share their holiday crown with a wealth of other sweets, from candy canes to gingerbread cookies,…
Taiko Drum History and Culture in Japan
What are those big powerful drums you see at festivals in Japan?
Shadows House 2 episode 2 – Christopher
The second season of Shadows House is coming on strong. I love how it's moved from a moody atmospheric mystery to a tense action... mystery.
Animation fundamentals – A short history of Layout
This episode of Animation Fundamentals dives deeper on the history and role of the layout process during the production of anime.
A Brief History of Anime Power Systems
"Make a fun little video on shonen power systems" I said. "It'll be quick and easy" I said. Sponsored by DLSite & Secret With Sophia. Get the FREE PC…
A Brief History of South Korean Animation
In today’s video, we shine a light on a hidden industry, tracing its roots from the birth nation, troubled adolescence and into the modern era. Beyond K-pop, Kimchi…
Pure TokyoScope PODCAST #58: The Secret History of BARBIE in JAPAN!
Matt Alt and Patrick Macias bring you pop culture news from Japan!
Eastern Wisdom in a Modern Context
The wisdom of Japan and China remains valuable for us today. Like the wisdom of Stoicism, we can look toward the past for lessons on how to live…
Mob Psycho 100: A Modern Classic
Hey Guys, Bad anime takes here. Just had some opinions about Mob Psycho 100 that I wanted to share. Mob is a amazing show, that I consider as…
Kuro | A Modern Classic Mystery Manga
Kuro is a fantastic supernatural mystery manga by Somato. The definition of a modern classic for its genre, Kuro has incredible art and a touching story that can…
Cyberpunk Edgerunners Is A Modern Classic
Cyberpunk Edgerunners after a year is still a beloved and recognized anime while only having 10 episodes. Not only becoming a modern classic, but also becoming one of…
Tamura Toshiko: The ‘New Woman’ Feminist in Early Modern Japan
In Taisho era Japan, Tamura Toshiko emerged as one of the preeminent writers of the "New Woman" movement. Her legacy extends beyond Japan's borders.
MAPPA: A look at a modern anime studio
Written by Saumar Praan Saikia MAPPA (Maruyama Animation Produce Project Association) is a Japanese animation studio founded in the year 2011. It was founded by Masao Maruyama, who…
Books: Anime — A History
By Zoe Crombie. Since its initial release in 2013, Jonathan Clements’ Anime: A History has served as a unique resource for anyone looking to contextualise their love of…
Anime Boston 2023: A Brief History of Yokai
Editor: Samantha Ferreira Date: 4/8/2023 Host: Zack Davisson When discussing the topic of Japanese entertainment, it’s difficult to avoid mentioning
A Brief History of Anime Penguins – PART TWO!!
In the light of Polar Bear’s Cafe and it’s high Penguin content, it’s time to look back once again at the penguins through the history of anime. CHECK…
A History of Takarazuka Revue Influences in Anime
The Takarazuka Revue's theatrical adaptation of Rose of Versailles and other plays have been profoundly influential on the aesthetics and narratives of Japanese shoujo stories. ZeroReq011 looks at…
Mugicha: A Short History of Japanese Barley Tea
It's been a staple since Japan's Heian era. Learn about the history of mugicha (Japanese barley tea) and why it remains so popular today.
The Impossibly Modern World of 'Flebus'
On Ernest Pintoff's 1957 Terrytoons classic.
Pick of the Week: Modern Dracula
MICHELLE: It's absolutely Glitch for me this week. Siblings investigating a weird town would be enough on its own even without the goodwill Lost Lad London engendered, honestly,…
The Lazyness of Modern Shounen Jump
Disclaimer: This is all just my opinion. I’m obviously not in the board rooms of Shueisha & I don’t have any specific or unique data to reinforce. Perhaps…
Why 'Invisible' Is a Modern Anime Classic
Plus: global news and a Slovak cartoon.
Re:Zero is a Modern Classic (Part Two)
Where I left last time, I was coming fresh off of watching the second episode of season two part two. It’s only fair that I write this second…