CATCH JAPAN

Explore a colorful variety of modern Japan’s most popular topics, including food, technology, ecology and regional promotions, with a focus on the innovative ideas and passionate effort from the people behind it all.

J-HOUSE

Due to the coronavirus crisis, many foreign nationals have been stranded in Japan as flights back to their home countries get cancelled. Guest House Shinagawa-shuku has started to provide free accommodation and support to such travelers. This segment features the voices of people who found themselves in such a predicament and what’s behind the efforts of guest house owner Watanabe Takayuki.

J-TECH

GUDi, a venture company based in Gunma University, developed a copper fiber sheet with antibacterial and antiviral properties based on patent-pending technology from the university. The sheet is expected to be effective for preventing coronavirus infections. This segment documents what’s behind the product development led by Professor Itabashi Hideyuki of Gunma University.

J-VOICES

Oizumi is the smallest town in Gunma Prefecture. Many major companies’ factories are located here, and many of the workers come from overseas. About half of these workers are from Brazil, earning Oizumi the nickname: “Brazil Town.” In this segment, we interview foreign residents in Oizumi about how they are coping with the coronavirus situation.

J-TRIP

Featured on CATCH JAPAN one year ago, the Osaka Wonder Loop Bus supports the bustling tourism business in Osaka, which ground to a halt as the global coronavirus pandemic hit. However, the man behind the Osaka Wonder Loop Bus, Hori Kanji, is turning this dire challenge into a major opportunity. This segment features his initiatives for reenergizing Osaka tourism.