The Complete Azabu Juban Guide: The Romantic, International Shopping District
Between the glittering towers of Roppongi and the iconic silhouette of Tokyo Tower lies one of the capital's most enchanting neighborhoods. Azabu Juban is a district where centuries-old traditions seamlessly blend with international sophistication, creating an atmosphere unlike anywhere else in Tokyo. For visitors seeking an authentic yet cosmopolitan Tokyo experience, Azabu Juban offers the perfect introduction to Japan's ability to honor its past while embracing the world. Many expats find their homes in Azabu Juban, comforted by its international and professional atmosphere, balanced out by the charms of local history. For anime fans, Azabu Juban is
the setting of Sailor Moon
, adding to the whimsy of the neighborhood.
Azabu Juban represents something increasingly rare in major world cities: a neighborhood that has successfully preserved its historical character while adapting to contemporary needs. The area's success in balancing tradition with international openness offers visitors insight into how Tokyo maintains its cultural identity while embracing global influences.
For travelers seeking to understand modern Japan beyond the typical tourist sites, few neighborhoods provide such rich experiences in such a compact area. The combination of historical depth, culinary excellence and genuine community spirit makes Azabu Juban an essential stop for anyone wanting to experience the full spectrum of Tokyo life.
List of Contents:
Getting to Azabu Juban
Things To Do in Azabu Juban
A Culinary Journey Through Azabu Juban
Shopping and Local Life in Azabu Juban
Experiencing Azabu Juban Like a Local
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Getting to Azabu Juban: Your Gateway to Traditional Tokyo
Azabu Juban's central location makes it one of Tokyo's most accessible neighborhoods. The area is served by Azabu Juban Station, where the Tokyo Metro Namboku Line and Toei Oedo Line converge, providing direct connections to major destinations across the city.
What sets this area apart is its walkability. Tokyo Tower looms just 10 minutes away on foot, while the upscale shopping and dining complex of Roppongi Hills is an easy 15-minute stroll. This proximity to major landmarks makes Azabu Juban an ideal base for exploring Tokyo, yet the neighborhood maintains a tranquility that feels worlds away from the urban hustle.
Things To Do in Azabu Juban
The soul of Azabu Juban guide lies in the neighborhood's remarkable ability to preserve its historical character. The main artery, Azabu Juban Shotengai, stands as one of Tokyo's most atmospheric traditional shopping streets, teeming with century-old establishments.
The Legendary Shotengai Experience
Walking down the shotengai feels like traveling through time. Among the must-visit traditional establishments,
Mamegen
deserves special attention. Operating since 1865, this remarkable bean snack shop offers an astounding variety of unique treats, each prepared using recipes passed down through generations. The shop's longevity speaks to both the quality of its products and the neighborhood's commitment to preserving its culinary heritage.
Equally impressive is
Naniwaya Sohonten
, where the aroma of freshly made taiyaki has been drawing crowds for over a century, since the Meiji period. Their thin-crusted, fish-shaped cakes filled with sweet red bean paste are not only delicious, but demonstrate how traditional flavors continue to find their place in modern Tokyo.
Sacred Spaces and Green Retreats
Beyond shopping, this neighborhood offers several peaceful sanctuaries.
Zenpuku-ji Temple
stands as one of Tokyo's notable religious sites, featuring magnificent 750-year-old ginkgo trees that create a natural canopy over the temple grounds. The contrast between these ancient giants and the surrounding urban landscape perfectly encapsulates Azabu Juban's character.
For a more intimate spiritual experience, visit
Juban Inari-jinja Shrine
, known for its unique stone statues depicting the Seven Lucky Gods and protective parent-child toads. Local legend credits these statues with protecting the neighborhood from fire disasters, a belief that has strengthened community bonds for generations.
The nearby
Arisugawa-no-miya Memorial Park
provides the perfect escape from city life. This beautifully landscaped Japanese garden features traditional elements like carefully maintained ponds, seasonal flower displays, and winding paths that invite contemplation. During cherry blossom season, the park transforms into one of Tokyo's most picturesque hanami spots.
Naniwaya Sohonten Azabujuban, courtesy of Tokyo Shimbun
A Culinary Journey Through Azabu Juban
No Azabu Juban guide would be complete without extensive coverage of the neighborhood's exceptional dining scene. The area's unique international character has created a culinary landscape where traditional Japanese establishments coexist with world-class international restaurants, often within the same block.
Traditional Japanese Flavors
The neighborhood's culinary heritage runs deep, with several establishments serving dishes that have remained virtually unchanged for decades.
Sohonke Sarashina Horii
continues the centuries-old tradition of handmade soba noodles, using techniques that showcase the subtle complexity of buckwheat. The restaurant's commitment to traditional preparation methods provides diners with an authentic taste of old Tokyo.
For those interested in experiencing traditional Japanese sweets, the area offers numerous options beyond the famous taiyaki. Stop by any local wagashi shops, including
Tsukishimaya
, a historic joint serving up fresh imagawayaki cakes, for a bite into sweet history.
International Sophistication
What truly distinguishes Azabu Juban restaurants from other Tokyo neighborhoods is the seamless integration of international cuisine. The area hosts several Michelin-starred establishments, including exceptional French and Italian restaurants that rival those found in their countries of origin. These high-end establishments cater to the neighborhood's international diplomatic community while maintaining the intimate atmosphere that defines the area.
For more casual international dining, options range from casual Tex-Mex fare at
Frijoles
to the famous pizza at
Savoy
.
Unique Food Experiences
Among the most interesting aspects of Azabu Juban's food scene is
Nissin World Delicatessen
, an international supermarket that serves as a cultural crossroads. Here, diplomats, expats and curious locals browse shelves stocked with products from around the world. The store represents the neighborhood's international character in microcosm, where global tastes are not just accommodated but celebrated.
For those seeking Instagram-worthy treats,
Dumbo Doughnuts & Coffee
has gained a following for both its photogenic creations and exceptional coffee. If you need a spot to caffeinate and get some work done,
Streamer Coffee
is always a great spot.
Shopping and Local Life in Azabu Juban
The shopping experience in Azabu Juban extends far beyond the famous shotengai, encompassing everything from artisanal crafts to modern conveniences that serve the area's diverse population.
Traditional Crafts and Specialty Items
Many shops along the shotengai specialize in traditional Japanese items that make exceptional souvenirs or gifts. Tea shops offer carefully selected varieties alongside the knowledge needed to appreciate their subtle differences. Craft stores sell handmade items that represent regional Japanese traditions, allowing visitors to take home authentic pieces of Japanese culture.
The persistence of these traditional businesses in one of Tokyo's most expensive real estate markets speaks to both community support and the enduring appeal of quality craftsmanship. Many shop owners represent multiple generations of the same family, creating a continuity that adds depth to every purchase.
Modern Conveniences
For practical needs, larger establishments like Daiei Azabu-Juban Store and Seijo Ishii provide everything necessary for daily life. These modern supermarkets stock both Japanese staples and international products, reflecting the neighborhood's diverse population. The seamless integration of traditional shops and modern conveniences exemplifies how Azabu Juban has evolved while maintaining its essential character.
Experiencing Azabu Juban Like a Local
Understanding the rhythm of local life enhances any visit to this unique neighborhood. The annual Azabu Juban Noryo Festival, held on the last weekend of August, transforms the usually serene shopping street into a vibrant celebration featuring local food stalls, traditional performances, and community activities. This festival provides visitors with an authentic glimpse into the strong community bonds that define the area.
Family-Friendly Features
Families will find Azabu Juban particularly welcoming, with several parks designed for children. Ichinohashi Park Playground and Iigura Park are relaxing settings where local children gather. The nearby presence of international schools and family-friendly restaurants creates an environment where diverse families feel comfortable and welcome.
Best Times To Visit
While Azabu Juban rewards exploration year-round, certain seasons offer special attractions. Spring brings cherry blossoms to the local parks, summer features the lively Noryo Festival, autumn colors enhance the temple grounds and winter creates an intimate atmosphere perfect for exploring cozy cafes and shops.
Early morning visits to the shotengai provide the most authentic experience, when shop owners prepare for the day and the neighborhood awakens gradually. Evening strolls reveal a different character, as international restaurants come alive and the area's sophisticated nightlife emerges.
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Tokyo Weekender
2 days ago
- Tokyo Weekender
The Complete Azabu Juban Guide: The Romantic, International Shopping District
Between the glittering towers of Roppongi and the iconic silhouette of Tokyo Tower lies one of the capital's most enchanting neighborhoods. Azabu Juban is a district where centuries-old traditions seamlessly blend with international sophistication, creating an atmosphere unlike anywhere else in Tokyo. For visitors seeking an authentic yet cosmopolitan Tokyo experience, Azabu Juban offers the perfect introduction to Japan's ability to honor its past while embracing the world. Many expats find their homes in Azabu Juban, comforted by its international and professional atmosphere, balanced out by the charms of local history. For anime fans, Azabu Juban is the setting of Sailor Moon , adding to the whimsy of the neighborhood. Azabu Juban represents something increasingly rare in major world cities: a neighborhood that has successfully preserved its historical character while adapting to contemporary needs. The area's success in balancing tradition with international openness offers visitors insight into how Tokyo maintains its cultural identity while embracing global influences. For travelers seeking to understand modern Japan beyond the typical tourist sites, few neighborhoods provide such rich experiences in such a compact area. The combination of historical depth, culinary excellence and genuine community spirit makes Azabu Juban an essential stop for anyone wanting to experience the full spectrum of Tokyo life. List of Contents: Getting to Azabu Juban Things To Do in Azabu Juban A Culinary Journey Through Azabu Juban Shopping and Local Life in Azabu Juban Experiencing Azabu Juban Like a Local Related Posts Getting to Azabu Juban: Your Gateway to Traditional Tokyo Azabu Juban's central location makes it one of Tokyo's most accessible neighborhoods. The area is served by Azabu Juban Station, where the Tokyo Metro Namboku Line and Toei Oedo Line converge, providing direct connections to major destinations across the city. What sets this area apart is its walkability. Tokyo Tower looms just 10 minutes away on foot, while the upscale shopping and dining complex of Roppongi Hills is an easy 15-minute stroll. This proximity to major landmarks makes Azabu Juban an ideal base for exploring Tokyo, yet the neighborhood maintains a tranquility that feels worlds away from the urban hustle. Things To Do in Azabu Juban The soul of Azabu Juban guide lies in the neighborhood's remarkable ability to preserve its historical character. The main artery, Azabu Juban Shotengai, stands as one of Tokyo's most atmospheric traditional shopping streets, teeming with century-old establishments. The Legendary Shotengai Experience Walking down the shotengai feels like traveling through time. Among the must-visit traditional establishments, Mamegen deserves special attention. Operating since 1865, this remarkable bean snack shop offers an astounding variety of unique treats, each prepared using recipes passed down through generations. The shop's longevity speaks to both the quality of its products and the neighborhood's commitment to preserving its culinary heritage. Equally impressive is Naniwaya Sohonten , where the aroma of freshly made taiyaki has been drawing crowds for over a century, since the Meiji period. Their thin-crusted, fish-shaped cakes filled with sweet red bean paste are not only delicious, but demonstrate how traditional flavors continue to find their place in modern Tokyo. Sacred Spaces and Green Retreats Beyond shopping, this neighborhood offers several peaceful sanctuaries. Zenpuku-ji Temple stands as one of Tokyo's notable religious sites, featuring magnificent 750-year-old ginkgo trees that create a natural canopy over the temple grounds. The contrast between these ancient giants and the surrounding urban landscape perfectly encapsulates Azabu Juban's character. For a more intimate spiritual experience, visit Juban Inari-jinja Shrine , known for its unique stone statues depicting the Seven Lucky Gods and protective parent-child toads. Local legend credits these statues with protecting the neighborhood from fire disasters, a belief that has strengthened community bonds for generations. The nearby Arisugawa-no-miya Memorial Park provides the perfect escape from city life. This beautifully landscaped Japanese garden features traditional elements like carefully maintained ponds, seasonal flower displays, and winding paths that invite contemplation. During cherry blossom season, the park transforms into one of Tokyo's most picturesque hanami spots. Naniwaya Sohonten Azabujuban, courtesy of Tokyo Shimbun A Culinary Journey Through Azabu Juban No Azabu Juban guide would be complete without extensive coverage of the neighborhood's exceptional dining scene. The area's unique international character has created a culinary landscape where traditional Japanese establishments coexist with world-class international restaurants, often within the same block. Traditional Japanese Flavors The neighborhood's culinary heritage runs deep, with several establishments serving dishes that have remained virtually unchanged for decades. Sohonke Sarashina Horii continues the centuries-old tradition of handmade soba noodles, using techniques that showcase the subtle complexity of buckwheat. The restaurant's commitment to traditional preparation methods provides diners with an authentic taste of old Tokyo. For those interested in experiencing traditional Japanese sweets, the area offers numerous options beyond the famous taiyaki. Stop by any local wagashi shops, including Tsukishimaya , a historic joint serving up fresh imagawayaki cakes, for a bite into sweet history. International Sophistication What truly distinguishes Azabu Juban restaurants from other Tokyo neighborhoods is the seamless integration of international cuisine. The area hosts several Michelin-starred establishments, including exceptional French and Italian restaurants that rival those found in their countries of origin. These high-end establishments cater to the neighborhood's international diplomatic community while maintaining the intimate atmosphere that defines the area. For more casual international dining, options range from casual Tex-Mex fare at Frijoles to the famous pizza at Savoy . Unique Food Experiences Among the most interesting aspects of Azabu Juban's food scene is Nissin World Delicatessen , an international supermarket that serves as a cultural crossroads. Here, diplomats, expats and curious locals browse shelves stocked with products from around the world. The store represents the neighborhood's international character in microcosm, where global tastes are not just accommodated but celebrated. For those seeking Instagram-worthy treats, Dumbo Doughnuts & Coffee has gained a following for both its photogenic creations and exceptional coffee. If you need a spot to caffeinate and get some work done, Streamer Coffee is always a great spot. Shopping and Local Life in Azabu Juban The shopping experience in Azabu Juban extends far beyond the famous shotengai, encompassing everything from artisanal crafts to modern conveniences that serve the area's diverse population. Traditional Crafts and Specialty Items Many shops along the shotengai specialize in traditional Japanese items that make exceptional souvenirs or gifts. Tea shops offer carefully selected varieties alongside the knowledge needed to appreciate their subtle differences. Craft stores sell handmade items that represent regional Japanese traditions, allowing visitors to take home authentic pieces of Japanese culture. The persistence of these traditional businesses in one of Tokyo's most expensive real estate markets speaks to both community support and the enduring appeal of quality craftsmanship. Many shop owners represent multiple generations of the same family, creating a continuity that adds depth to every purchase. Modern Conveniences For practical needs, larger establishments like Daiei Azabu-Juban Store and Seijo Ishii provide everything necessary for daily life. These modern supermarkets stock both Japanese staples and international products, reflecting the neighborhood's diverse population. The seamless integration of traditional shops and modern conveniences exemplifies how Azabu Juban has evolved while maintaining its essential character. Experiencing Azabu Juban Like a Local Understanding the rhythm of local life enhances any visit to this unique neighborhood. The annual Azabu Juban Noryo Festival, held on the last weekend of August, transforms the usually serene shopping street into a vibrant celebration featuring local food stalls, traditional performances, and community activities. This festival provides visitors with an authentic glimpse into the strong community bonds that define the area. Family-Friendly Features Families will find Azabu Juban particularly welcoming, with several parks designed for children. Ichinohashi Park Playground and Iigura Park are relaxing settings where local children gather. The nearby presence of international schools and family-friendly restaurants creates an environment where diverse families feel comfortable and welcome. Best Times To Visit While Azabu Juban rewards exploration year-round, certain seasons offer special attractions. Spring brings cherry blossoms to the local parks, summer features the lively Noryo Festival, autumn colors enhance the temple grounds and winter creates an intimate atmosphere perfect for exploring cozy cafes and shops. Early morning visits to the shotengai provide the most authentic experience, when shop owners prepare for the day and the neighborhood awakens gradually. Evening strolls reveal a different character, as international restaurants come alive and the area's sophisticated nightlife emerges. Related Posts A Foodie's Guide to Higashi-Azabu: Restaurants Near Tokyo Tower One Day in Roppongi: Tokyo Guide to Shopping, Museums & Nightlife The Ultimate Guide to Nakameguro: Tokyo's Stylish Canal-Side Gem
Tokyo Weekender
01-05-2025
- Tokyo Weekender
Manga Manners: How Sailor Moon and Eren Yaeger Are Teaching Japanese Etiquette in JR Stations
Sailor Moon, Eren Yaeger and Kaneda from Akira have taken on unexpected new roles as etiquette teachers along Japan's busiest rail lines. From April 24 to June 30, characters from 17 beloved manga series are appearing at major Shinkansen stations to show foreign visitors the ins and outs of Japanese customs in a campaign called 'Manga Manners.' Initiated in collaboration with Japanese comic giant Kodansha and JR East, the project first appeared at Narita Airport last year and has now spread to Tokyo, Shinagawa, Nagoya, Kyoto and Shin-Osaka stations just in time for the expected tourist surge during the Osaka Expo. Six new train-specific tips join eleven general pointers on navigating daily life in Japan. List of Contents: From Train Etiquette to Cultural Customs Where to Spot These Manga Guides Related Posts Manga Manners (Waiting Rooms in Kyoto Station) Manga Manners (Shinkansen North Exit in Shinagawa Station) From Train Etiquette to Cultural Customs Walking through these stations, you'll spot familiar faces from Attack on Titan, Cardcaptor Sakura , and Ghost in the Shell delivering practical advice through colorful panels. Each uses a panel from the manga to illustrate everything from essential cultural customs to travel hacks. Some tips focus on train etiquette: The Colossal Titan of Attack on Titan warns against standing too close to the railings, while Migi from Parasyte lines up in a row to remind visitors to wait in line before boarding trains or buses. Others tackle broader cultural differences: Fire Force characters assure visitors that slurping noodles isn't rude (it's encouraged), and Usagi Tsukino and Chibiusa from Sailor Moon demonstrate the correct way to wear a kimono. The advice ranges from practical safety tips to bath etiquette. There's even a tip on how to toast — a panel showing the main trio of Chiikawa raising their glasses with a gleeful 'Kanpai!' Where To Find These Manga Guides If you're traveling on the Tokaido Shinkansen line, you'll find these colorful manga panels strategically placed throughout five major stations. In Tokyo Station, look near the Nihombashi exit gates, inside the waiting room near the Yaesu South exit, and in the second-floor concourse. Shinagawa Station displays panels inside the Shinkansen North entrance, near transfer gates, on the platforms and by the coin lockers near the South exit. Kyoto and Shin-Osaka stations feature the displays in the waiting areas, making them perfect viewing while you're killing time before your train. Meanwhile, Nagoya Station shows the manga guides on digital signage during select periods of the campaign. The displays are impossible to miss with their vibrant colors and recognizable characters, and many are positioned to catch your eye while you're naturally waiting for trains. Some panels require passing through ticket gates to view, but many are accessible in public areas of the stations. If you're passing through, keep an eye out for the limited-edition pamphlets being handed out to international travelers at participating stations. These pocket guides collect all 17 tips in one place — perfect souvenirs that are both useful and uniquely Japanese. Related Posts Tokyo Ghoul Creator Sui Ishida Debuts New Manga Duckweed in Ultra Jump From Nana to Paradise Kiss: Ai Yazawa's Iconic Manga Are Coming to Uniqlo 205 Japanese Manga Artists Contribute to Charity Auction for Noto Earthquake Victims
Japan Times
21-11-2024
- Japan Times
Anime-loving cartoonist from Sweden shares joys of Tokyo life
This is a sponsored story, created and edited exclusively by Tokyo Metropolitan Government's Asa Ekstrom is a Swedish cartoonist whose works are very popular in Japan. Manga and anime are two of Japan's major industries, but while many foreigners read manga written by Japanese artists, it is rare to find a foreign manga artist whose works are widely read in Japan. Her five-volume manga series "Nordic Girl Asa Discovers the Mysteries of Japan" humorously depicts the unique aspects of Japan that stand out to foreigners from a young foreign woman's perspective. Asa achieved her dream of living in Japan when she moved to Tokyo. We asked her about the charms of various parts of the city. A city like a giant amusement park Asa became fascinated by Japanese pop culture when she was a teenager after watching the Japanese anime, "Sailor Moon." She read every single Japanese manga she could find that was translated into Swedish and her style of fashion back then was influenced by Japanese anime. She visited Japan for the first time 20 years ago at the age of 19. Her first impression of Tokyo was that it was "like an amusement park," with glittering neon signs everywhere. The streets were filled with people, and it was large enough to fit several European cities. Coming from a country of forests, she was surprised at the sheer size of Tokyo. She also learned that Tokyo is not just a city of skyscrapers but that it also has many traditional spots like shrines. "The appeal of Tokyo is the contrast between old and new culture," says Asa. The people she met were also surprisingly kind to foreigners. By the time she made her third visit to the country, she thought "I love Japan and am going to move there no matter what," and her heart was set. Incorporating the difficulties of life in Japan Asa found a co-living space in Asagaya, Suginami City, a little to the west of central Tokyo, and began her life in Japan. Her dream of becoming a manga artist came true when she showed her work to a publishing company at their booth in a doujinshi (self-published manga and novels) convention. Although some of her roommates were foreigners, many were locals, and conversation was mainly in Japanese. She recalls those days fondly: "At first, I knew very little Japanese, so I just pretended to understand and laughed. But when I started speaking broken Japanese, my roommates loved it and said, ' Kawaii (cute)!' My Japanese became so popular that it was called "Asa-nese," and they started to imitate me." | © Åsa Ekström / Courtesy of KADOKAWA Corporation As her Japanese gradually improved, Asagaya became her home in Tokyo. There were lush green spaces nearby like Wadabori Park, which stretches along the Zenpukuji River. She often jogged on the pathway along the riverbank, which offers a magnificent springtime view of the many cherry trees blossoming. If you take the Chuo Line train from Asagaya, you will soon arrive at Nakano, where you can find the Nakano Broadway shopping complex. It is home to stores selling anime-related figures and other collectibles and is called a "holy land" by pop culture fans. Asa also likes the non-anime-related stores on the underground floors such as the ice cream shop that serves about 10 flavors of soft serve stacked on a cone and a recycled kimono store. "At night, I like to go to a restaurant with outside seating to enjoy beer, sake, and food. When alcohol is involved, the language barrier disappears and even tourists can get to know the locals," says Åsa. Along the Chuo Line, you can find unpretentious establishments with outside seating in yokocho (alleyways with bars and eateries) under elevated railway tracks and around stations. Ebisu Station on the Yamanote Line is home to many cutting-edge IT companies, but it also has the Ebisu Yokocho near the station, underscoring one of Tokyo's paradoxes. | © Åsa Ekström / Courtesy of KADOKAWA Corporation Asa often visits the places where her favorite manga are set. Of the two iconic radio towers in Tokyo, Tokyo Skytree is newer and taller, but her favorite is Tokyo Tower, which is depicted in the manga X by CLAMP. As an anime fan, Asa finds joy in even the smallest details of everyday life in Tokyo. Walk into any convenience store and you will find onigiri (rice balls), a uniquely Japanese fast food that shows up in anime. The first time she saw onigiri, it really brought to mind a scene in Sailor Moon where the characters ate them, so the onigiri was quite a discovery for her. Living in a foreign country can be difficult at times. When she could not read the Japanese on the onigiri wrapping, she had no idea what was inside until she ate it, and she could not figure out the trick to opening the rice ball without tearing its seaweed wrap. However, when she later made these experiences into manga, Asa's love of Japan and excitement towards a different culture, in spite of her difficulties, were endearing. Deeply moved by 'Nana' original drawing exhibition As a manga artist, one of the main attractions of Tokyo for Asa is that there are so many exhibitions to attend. "Many exhibitions start in Tokyo, and some of them then travel to other parts of the country," she says. Her go-to place is the Mori Arts Center Gallery in Roppongi Hills, where many manga and anime exhibitions are held, but there are so many museums and galleries in Tokyo that she is always finding exhibitions she wants to visit. Asa likes exhibitions of original drawings and was deeply moved by one held in 2022. "I went to this (Yazawa Ai) exhibition of original drawings of my favorite manga, "Nana." I was so moved that I thought, 'Maybe I came to Tokyo just to see this' and felt my heart shout, 'Tokyo is the best!'" "In Sweden, we do not have the opportunity to see original drawings from Japanese manga at all. It is exciting for me as a fan, and there is a lot of study material as a manga artist. There are details that you cannot see in print such as the intensity of the lines, and sometimes you can see things that have been erased." | © Åsa Ekström / Courtesy of KADOKAWA Corporation Asa has two children with her Japanese partner and is raising them while traveling back and forth between Japan and Sweden. She realized from her experiences that Japan's idea of love and marriage is very different from her own country's, and this also became a theme of her manga. Now, she is doing research to compare child-rearing between the two countries. For example, childbirth in Japan is strongly linked to marriage, but in Sweden, there are many children born out of wedlock. Her manga compares details of daily life between different cultures, is easy for anyone to read, and, at some point while you are reading and laughing, you subconsciously learn about a different culture. Hopefully, we will soon be able to read her manga on childcare. Translation by Toshio Endo
