Hiroshi Kai
Over drive
Car sales have collapsed but the economy is not the only problem: too many vehicles are design lemons. This could be the year car design makes its comeback with daring, innovative models.
Peter Pan pensioners
With the world’s fastest ageing population, Japan's businesses are creating stylish care homes and grandchild robots for the elderly. Other nations should take note of the opportunities in this booming sector.
Apgujeong
Seoul is shaking off its reputation as an architectural eyesore, with the southern district of Apgujeong leading the charge. Discover its open-air cafés, boutiques and sought-after apartments near Dosan Park.
Fukuoka: retail city
Friendly, cosmopolitan Fukuoka is tiny in comparison to Tokyo, but it beats the Japanese capital hands down with its cuisine and shopping. That’s why itis Monocle’s choice for our best retail city award.
Asia
Why Asia's capitals have that sinking feeling, the return of the Seoul hank, and why you shouldn't apply make-up on Tokyo's subway.
Robot college
The Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology is Asia’s MIT or Cambridge, determined to be as well-known. Its innovation and robot humanoids prove it worthy of the task.
Going for old
Though the Japanese love vintage, second-hand furniture auctions are new. Now, three entrepreneurs are bringing design classics to market in the country’s first modern and contemporary furniture auction.
Shop flawless
In a world of disposable fashion and bad service, some stores get it right and are seeing their profits boom. We profile five retail giants that are benchmarks for other floundering businesses.
Mode in Japan
Next to the vast Tokyo International Gift Show, a smaller, edited craft and design show called For Stockists has become the hot ticket, thanks to its charismatic founder.
Mountain high
Music festivals are big business in Japan, but the one that started the boom is still the best: Fuji Rock. We head to the countryside to meet the world’s best-behaved music freaks.
