A growing number of vulnerable teenagers and young adults have been gathering around Tokyo’s Kabukicho district, becoming known online as the “Toyoko Kids.” Many are runaways or struggling with abuse, isolation, mental health issues or unstable home lives. This episode looks at how the phenomenon emerged, why it has drawn national attention and what it reveals about the gaps in Japan’s social support system.

Watch the full Japan Today Spotlight series on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLyLmgel-5aDxrGswj_8hRRiUwdm5tGGTH

Japan is introducing major changes to its divorce and child custody system, including the possibility of joint custody after separation. Supporters say the reforms could help parents stay involved in their children’s lives, while critics warn about risks involving domestic abuse and enforcement. This episode examines what’s changing and why the debate has become so divisive.

Watch the full Japan Today Spotlight series on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLyLmgel-5aDxrGswj_8hRRiUwdm5tGGTH

Japan has some of the strictest gun laws in the world, and shootings remain extremely rare. But the country’s low level of gun crime is about more than just regulation. This episode examines the legal system, cultural attitudes and enforcement strategies that make firearms unusually difficult to obtain and use in Japan.

Watch the full Japan Today Spotlight series on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLyLmgel-5aDxrGswj_8hRRiUwdm5tGGTH

Foreigners can legally buy land in Japan, but ownership does not come with residency or visa rights. New reporting requirements and growing political attention have added complexity to the issue. This episode explains what foreigners can and cannot do, how the system works and why the topic is drawing renewed scrutiny.

Watch the full Japan Today Spotlight series on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLyLmgel-5aDxrGswj_8hRRiUwdm5tGGTH

Japan has begun cracking down on cycling behavior, with police issuing fines for violations that were often overlooked in the past. From riding on sidewalks to using smartphones or umbrellas while cycling, enforcement is becoming more visible. This episode looks at what’s changed, why now and whether the crackdown will actually improve safety.

Watch the full Japan Today Spotlight series on YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLyLmgel-5aDxrGswj_8hRRiUwdm5tGGTH

Japan’s idol industry continues to evolve, with new trends reshaping how fans engage with performers. From changing expectations around accessibility to the rise of new fan practices, idol culture is adapting to a different generation.

This episode looks at what’s driving the shift and what it reveals about entertainment and identity in Japan today.

Watch the full Japan Today Spotlight series on YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLyLmgel-5aDxrGswj_8hRRiUwdm5tGGTH

Homelessness in Japan often looks different from what many expect. Beyond those living on the streets, a growing number of people are staying in internet cafés, temporary housing or other unstable situations. This episode looks at the scale of hidden homelessness, who is affected and why it remains largely out of sight.

Watch the full Japan Today Spotlight series on YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLyLmgel-5aDxrGswj_8hRRiUwdm5tGGTH

Renewed pressure from Donald Trump is testing Japan–U.S. relations, from defense spending demands to trade and regional security expectations. This episode examines what Washington is asking of Tokyo, how Japanese leaders are responding and what it could mean for the alliance moving forward.

Watch the full Japan Today Spotlight series on YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLyLmgel-5aDxrGswj_8hRRiUwdm5tGGTH

Japan’s police are often seen as effective and orderly, but a series of recent cases has raised questions about training, accountability and how investigations are handled. From mishandled evidence to internal scandals, deeper issues are starting to surface. This episode examines where the system is falling short and why reform has been slow.

Watch the full Japan Today Spotlight series on YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLyLmgel-5aDxrGswj_8hRRiUwdm5tGGTH

Japan has some of the strictest weapon laws in the world, including limits on what kinds of knives people can carry and why. A blade that seems ordinary in other countries can quickly land someone in trouble with police in Japan.

Watch the full Japan Today Spotlight series on YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLyLmgel-5aDxrGswj_8hRRiUwdm5tGGTH