Today, The Japan Times has reported that Akira Toriyama, the legendary creator of "Dragon Ball," had passed away on March 1st, 2023, at the age of 68 due to a brain clot. He left a legacy of over 45 years in the creative industry. His work, including the international hit "Dragon Ball," which started in … Continue reading Toriyama Forever: Dragon Ball Creator Passes, But His Legacy Remains
Understanding “Daijobu Desu” (大丈夫です) in Japanese Culture
At its core, "Daijobu Desu" can be broken down into two parts: “Daijobu,” which signifies “okay,” “fine,” or “good,” and “Desu,” a polite verb ending that can be likened to “is” or “am” in English
How to Handle Your Japanese Mail While Traveling or Visiting Home (for Expats)
Here’s a scenario expats living in Japan might be familiar with: Say you’re living in Japan, either studying here or on a holiday visa, or you’re working here long-term. Perhaps you plan on returning to your home country for the holidays. Or maybe you’re planning an epic journey from Hokkaido to Kyoto to Okinawa, and … Continue reading How to Handle Your Japanese Mail While Traveling or Visiting Home (for Expats)
What is an Anime Body Pillow? (And How to Choose One)
Are you planning on buying your first body pillow? Well, there is lots to consider before you make your first purchase. What size will you get? Have you picked out a design? How about the material? In this article, we will help you narrow down your search and pick out the perfect body pillow. … Continue reading What is an Anime Body Pillow? (And How to Choose One)
Are Tourists Taking Over Tokyo?
Tokyo, the bustling capital of Japan, is a city that harmoniously blends ancient traditions with the innovations of the modern world. It’s been a place of great intrigue among westerners for a long time. Its cultural exports have constantly swayed new generations to visit the exciting country. However, in recent years, there has been a … Continue reading Are Tourists Taking Over Tokyo?
Reviewing Vinland Saga: A Viking Epic of Vengeance, Honor, and Redemption
Vinland Saga is an amazing anime that explores themes of vengeance, honor, and redemption, with stunning visuals and high-caliber voice acting
Oshi No Ko Review: Anime Pilot Reveals the Darkness of Japan’s Idol Industry
A week ago I got a haircut at an old-school Japanese barbershop. It was the type of place where the hairdressers still make small talk, and while cutting my hair he told me about an upcoming anime called Oshi No Ko. He highly recommended it and showed me an image of the anime poster on … Continue reading Oshi No Ko Review: Anime Pilot Reveals the Darkness of Japan’s Idol Industry
A Few Days Left to Get 1000 Yen Off of These Awesome Anime Gifts
Hey Japan Bound fam! One of our partners, ZenPlus, has a limited time offer that we think all Japan Bound readers need to take advantage of. First of all, what the heck is ZenPlus? <- If you click that link you can read my full review of the platform. But all you need to know … Continue reading A Few Days Left to Get 1000 Yen Off of These Awesome Anime Gifts
Suzume No Tojimari Review: Shinkai Explores Disaster & Trauma
Makoto Shinkai’s latest blockbuster anime film, Suzume No Tojimari, could be the acclaimed director’s best film yet. Suzume No Tojimari (literally Suzume’s door locking or Suzume’s door lock in English) is a fantastical film set in present-day Japan. The film follows a high-school girl named Suzume as she travels around Japan sealing away a mysterious … Continue reading Suzume No Tojimari Review: Shinkai Explores Disaster & Trauma
Suzume No Tojimari Full Plot Synopsis, Release Date, Setting
Makoto Shinkai's new blockbuster anime, Suzume No Tojimari, released in Japan on November 11, 2022. Fans living outside of Japan will have to wait until the international release in early 2023. However, since Japan Bound is on the ground we are here to give you our full rundown of the plot (if you want to … Continue reading Suzume No Tojimari Full Plot Synopsis, Release Date, Setting