Motoko Rich and Hikari Hida

In Rare Move, Japanese Pop Star Comes Out Publicly as Gay

The New York Times – Music:

“I don’t want people to struggle like me,” said Shinjiro Atae, making an announcement that is extremely unusual in conservative Japan.

The New York Times – Travel:

Japan reopened its borders just in time for the winter season. The Niseko area is straining to meet the pent-up demand.

The New York Times – Fashion & Style:

The contests reflect a culture that often judges women by their appearance and slots them into rigid, gender-defined roles.