From ramen shops to sushi stands, there’s no doubt that eating out is big business in Japan. But authentic, local dining is off-limits to many foreigners due to the formidable language barrier that persists outside major cities. Could an app get tourists to pick up the chopsticks?

Japan houses one of the most overworked populations on the planet – 60% of workers would describe themselves as stressed. The advent of a new national holiday – Mountain Day – signifies Japan's attempt to progress towards a more realistic and healthy work/life balance.

Driven by an increasing sense of loneliness, the concept of a shared house is being adopted by Japan's young singletons. Yet with so many people in Japan struggling with social anxieties, how are these micro-communities forming?

With an ambitious growth plan to double tourism by 2020, Japan is seeking diversify its appeal as a travel destination. And with a growing market of Muslim tourists nearby, the nation is rolling out the prayer mats and halal menus to cater to them.