Japan is familiar with foreign franchises. McDonald’s arrived in 1971 (PDF) and began like many chains as a high-end fad (in Ginza, nonetheless) before becoming a ubiquitous part of local culture. One ...

Pig cafes are the latest craze pulling in tourists in Japan. The surprisingly quiet, clean and companionable animals have been bringing a smile to people’s faces at Tokyo’s Mipig Café. “It was ...

Kissaten—retro-style cafés—are a beloved part of Japanese dining culture, with a dedicated following. Step into any kissaten—Japanese retro-style cafes—and you're immediately hit with the strong smell ...

TOKYO (AP) — First there were cafés that allowed pets. Then came cat cafés, where lattes took second place to feline interaction. The latest craze in Japan: The pig café. “It was wonderful. Very ...