Humans of Japan
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Stories of humans in Japan
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Tips
Medications You Can’t Bring Into Japan: Banned Drugs, Limits & the Yakkan Shoumei (2026)
By the Japan Docum…
Places
Kumano Hongu Taisha: Japan’s Sacred Head Shrine — A First-Hand Visitor’s Guide
Kumano Hongu Taish…
Crafts
Tsumami Kanzashi
Take a single squa…
Crafts
Seki Knives: Why Japan’s 800-Year Blade City Still Makes Exceptional Kitchen Knives
A good kitchen kni…
Humans of Japan
Tochinoshin: The Georgian Sumo Wrestler Who Rose to Ōzeki
Tochinoshin (Levan…
Places
2 Days in Kurashiki: Historic Streets, Mingei, Denim, and Canal-Side Nights
Kurashiki is one o…
Crafts
Browse all crafts
1000+ year heritage, for the present.
Crafts
Seki Knives: Why Japan’s 800-Year Blade City Still Makes Exceptional Kitchen Knives
A good kitchen knife c…
Places
Browse all places
Vibrant spots all across Japan.
Tips
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Cultural notes for navigating Japan.
Tips
Medications You Can’t Bring Into Japan: Banned Drugs, Limits & the Yakkan Shoumei (2026)
Local tip
Iaido vs Battodo: Japanese Sword Arts Explained
Tips
What Does Kamikakushi Mean? Spirited Away and Japanese Folklore
Tips
Japan Power Bank Rules 2026: Can You Bring One on a Plane?
Tips
Bear Attacks in Japan: The 2025 Crisis & How to Stay Alive
Tips
Temple Stay Experience: Why Mt. Minobu Kuonji BEATS Koyasan
About
Japan Documented
Japan Documented is a media platform dedicated to bringing Japan's profound stories to audiences around the world.
Since 2023, we have conducted over 150 interviews with both residents and tourists in Japan. Through this experience, we have grown deeply grateful for the blessings of this beautiful country. We wanted to explore the people, traditions, stories, and cultural backgrounds that shape Japan's identity, which led us to establish this media platform.
From history to local experiences and traditional crafts, Japan Documented elevates the depth of Japanese culture into meaningful, highly accessible storytelling. Our purpose goes beyond simply providing information; we aim to foster emotional connections, deepen understanding, and pass down the value of Japanese culture to future generations.
Josh
Writer
Originally from the United States, Joshua moved to Japan in 2018 and spent three years in Toyama before making Tokyo his home. His work as a writer explores Japan through its food, art, culture, and communities, with a strong emphasis on uncovering the stories and people behind each subject
Aruga Mizuki
Director
South America-raised editor exploring Japan’s 47 prefectures through food, books, design, and craft. Currently living in West Tokyo. Here to help you discover a completely different side of Japan with every visit!
Leo Hirata
Interviewer
Having traveled to over 40 countries, Leo witnessed the global enthusiasm for Japanese culture firsthand. Combining his international marketing background and linguistic insights, he shares Japan's unique heritage with the world through Japan Documented.
Takumi Noguchi
Writer&Photo
A tech and marketing expert previously selected as a Japanese delegate by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Having traveled to over 30 countries, Takumi combines data-driven strategy with a deep respect for Japanese culture to drive content at Japan Documented.