Taro Terasawa
Little by little
In this CGI era when craft means corralling pixels, we visit a traditional animation studio in Tokyo to marvel at mastering the miniature among models and drying paint.
Moving targets
The man who grew United Arrows into a Japanese fashion powerhouse is now reviving the country’s artisanal clothing culture. Osamu Shigematsu talks career choices, retail challenges and recrafting the kimono.
City saviours
It takes just one passionate patron or business owner to start turning round a city’s fortunes. From encouraging back rare birds to battling poverty, meet our crack squad of urban fixers.
Shelf life
Ditch self-checkouts, find ever better products and be nice – here’s how two players are rethinking the supermarket.
Against the grain
Renho Murata is the leader of Japan’s opposition. She talks economics, migration and why she won’t be ‘getting the saké’.
The full package
Yamato Transport is Japan’s largest parcel-delivery service but it's also much more. Its president, Yutaka Nagao, explains how understanding customer needs is key to the brand’s enduring success.
A new leaf
Want to spruce up your barren balcony or bare window box? Look no further as we round up the most luscious – and adventurous – botanical offerings for the home and garden.
Grand plans
Running a city is a daunting task, whether hosting the Olympics or overhauling transport. So who would take it on? We meet seven mayors bearing the weight of a city on their shoulders.
The Interview Series: Michihiro Maeda
As a child, Michihiro Maeda tested toys for his father’s firm. Today, as CEO of Epoch, he has made its key product, Sylvanian Families, a global success destined for a bright future.
Art of the ages
From cedar bentwood to eyewear, Japan’s dedicated craft capitals are an enlightening model of traditional manufacturing. We explore towns keeping ancient skills alive in the modern age.
