With so many shrines and temples to see in Japan, it can be difficult for some to choose their favorite. However, many people have no trouble choosing at all, as one temple stands supreme.

This month marks the fifth anniversary of the Tohoko earthquake and tsunami and its aftermath. As Japan reflects on the enormity of March 11, 2011, we’ve compiled a list of a few things we remember most from that fateful period.

Celebrated every March 3 in Japan, Hinamatsuri, also known as the Dolls' Festival and Girls’ Day, is a holiday during which dolls in traditional Heian period (794-1185) dress are displayed. Families pray for the prosperity, health, and beauty of their daughters. The dolls are initially put on display in February and are then taken down on March 4; if the dolls are left on display any longer, it is believed that the daughters of the family will marry late. 

Love is in the air here in Tokyo! Although it’s still a bit chilly (and we’re getting some rain this weekend), there are plenty of young couples to be seen whose cheeks are turning rosy from the shyness of having given or received Valentine’s Day gifts. 

In Japan, the name Toei is synonymous with animation, and it is Shinji Shimizu's duty to ensure the studio continues to live up to its strong reputation.With the overwhelming popularity of his latest series, "One Piece," Shimizu proves he is the right man for the job.

You might not know her name. You probably wouldn’t recognize her face. But if Ikue Otani were to speak just one simple word, you’d immediately know who she is. “Pika-CHU!” That’s right; Otani is the voice of everyone’s favorite Pokemon character, Pikachu. As one of Japan’s most in-demand seiyuu, or voice actors, Otani has brought dozens of anime characters to life.

I’d been warned about the craziness that is the morning rush hour in Japan, but I definitely underestimated its severity.

Hello! My name is Elle Chu, and I’m interning with Manga University for this fall semester. As a native Californian, seasonal Boston inhabitant and current Japanese expat, I’ve been doing a lot of traveling lately. 

Manga University is the educational imprint of Japanime Company Ltd., a publishing company based in Kawaguchi, Japan, with offices in California. Our company motto, "Educating With Art," reflects our commitment to creating products that are wholesome, informative and fun. We love manga, and believe it can — and should —€ be used for more than just great entertainment.