From Hello Kitty to Pikachu, the country changed what the world considers adorable. But do these characters represent joy — ...

Born from the trauma of World War II, this bow-wearing cartoon icon became a powerful tool for diplomacy, reinvention, and ...

Editor’s note: This series showcases what we are calling “kawaii” (cute) items made locally in the iconic Japanese city. A long-established kimono accessory shop is using traditional ...