The road to sumo stardom is changing. While young wrestlers once entered the sport straight out of junior high, today many of Japan’s top rikishi are emerging from powerhouse high school programs. Leading the charge is Saitama Sakae High School, whose alumni include stars like Ozeki Kotozakura and several top-division wrestlers. With elite coaching, a winning tradition, and a growing reputation for producing champions, the … Continue reading From Classrooms to Dohyo: Saitama Sakae’s Sumo Success

Beginning on January 7, 2019, visitors to Japan will need to pay an additional 1,000 yen ($10 US Dollars) departure tax when they leave the country. This tax is meant to expand and enhance Japan’s tourist infrastructure in the following three areas: Create a more comfortable, stress-free tourist environment. Improve access to information about a wide variety of attractions of Japan. Develop tourist resources taking … Continue reading Japan’s International Tourist Tax Begins January 7th!