As their cutesy, cartoon profiles – and fanbases – continue to soar, Japan's cuddly collection of corporate mascots has come to inhabit a central part of the nation's identity. We meet these celebrated creations and the people who bring them to life.

Our March issue focuses on all things Nippon: Japan's foreign ministry, craft capitals, media might, fashion heroes and Olympic odyssey. Oh, and we've thrown in a cartoon robot cat for good measure - [now available online.](https://monocle.com/shop/magazine/other/issue-81/)

Look past the dominance of the big chains in Tokyo and you will find a world of fiercely independent coffee shops. Monocle's Fiona Wilson pays tribute.

Globes, spoons and weaving: Monocle films drops in on three makers helping to reinvigorate the British capital’s artisanal heartbeat.

In the February issue discover the charm, commitment and crudités served by the most hospitable nations. We also visit the world's most dangerous hotels, London's finest embassies and New Orleans' art scene.

Monocle is hosting its first ever conference. This intimate gathering will be hosted by the magazine’s editors, correspondents and key thinkers, with the topics discussed ranging from architecture and city planning to independent retail and national branding.

[Register your interest on conference.monocle.com](http://conference.monocle.com)

With winter in full flow, Monocle's Alpino edition braves the cold to bring you an in-depth report on Nato's cold-weather combat team, the world's best ski-lodges and what to do in the event of an avalanche, plus a whole lot more.

Tyler Brûlé and team got Christmas off to a merry start at Midori House with the third annual Monocle Christmas Market last weekend. Some of our most loved brands shared a mulled wine with stallholders representing our favourite nations – and met a few friendly reindeers, too.

For this Christmas-shopping special, Monocle films drops anchor in the portside city of Antwerp. From hand-crafted mitts to traditional treats, head to local landmarks and hidden treasures with Monocle to get Christmas all wrapped up.

With forward-thinking commentary, long-form articles and fresh ideas from the Monocle editorial team, *The Forecast* is a new annual packed with key insights into the year ahead. Correspondents, business minds, historians, urbanists and diplomats offer their views on everything from balance-shifting defence systems to fresh benchmarks in city planning across this essential companion for 2015. [Buy now](https://monocle.com/shop/magazine/other/the-forecast-01/).