Arden Kreuzer
San Diego-born, Tokyo-based Arden is a writer and editor with a master’s in International Relations from Waseda University. With a background in sociology, East Asian history and journalism, she brings a thoughtful, cross-cultural lens to her work. As a senior editor at Metropolis Magazine, Arden works across print, digital and social media platforms, covering everything from cultural deep-dives to international affairs. Rain or shine, she can often be found on a terrace in one of Tokyo’s shitamachi neighborhoods, observing the everyday details that make the city so compelling.
Izu Islands: Tokyo’s Secret Volcanic Archipelago
The far side of Tokyo: nine inhabited volcanic islands stretch south into the Pacific, and all of them are part of the world's largest city.
The Women Reviving Hajichi, Okinawa’s Traditional Hand Tattoos
What the hands remember
Japan vs. Brazil World Cup 2026: Samurai Blue Through to Round of 32 After Sweden Thriller
Daizen Maeda's second-half goal and a string of crucial saves from Zion Suzuki sent Japan through to the knockouts, where a date with Brazil awaits
Things To Do During Rainy Season in Japan
Indoor date spots, cozy escapes and creative ways to stay dry during rainy season
Japan World Cup 2026 Guide: Schedule, Players & Where to Watch in Tokyo
The Samurai Blue are back for their eighth consecutive World Cup—here's how to follow every match from Tokyo
What Japan’s 4-0 Win Over Tunisia Means for Its World Cup Knockout Path
Ayase Ueda scored twice as Japan dismantled Tunisia in the World Cup's 1,000th match, leaving the Samurai Blue on the brink of the knockout stage
Keito Nakamura: The Goalscorer Stepping Up in Mitoma’s Absence
With Kaoru Mitoma out injured, Keito Nakamura took his chance against the Netherlands, scoring Japan's first goal of the tournament
Wataru Endo Is Out of the World Cup, and Japan’s Captain Is Walking Away for Good
Japan captain Wataru Endo is out of the 2026 World Cup with a Lisfranc injury and has retired from international football. Who replaces him, and can Japan still advance?
Japanese LGBTQ+ Films To Watch in 2026
Love, heartbreak and the untold tales of Japan’s queer community
Your Official “Hometown” Is the Imperial Palace? Welcome to Japan’s Honseki System
The bizarre loophole that's turning castles, stadiums and airports into official family homes
Japan Drugstore Guide: Best Japanese Sunscreen
From sunscreen to aftercare, here are the best products for summer in Japan
Does It Feel Weird To Be Naked in an Onsen?
What the Japanese bathhouse can teach us about body image
The Metropolis Agony Aunts
Being Foreign in Tokyo: Our totally unqualified opinions to guide you through it.
Traditional Japanese Performing Arts
A guide to the major styles of Japanese Performing Arts
Beaches, Surf Spots and Pools Near Tokyo
Editor's pick of the best summer escapes around Tokyo
Are Trains in Tokyo Safe for Women? A List of Women-Only Cars in Tokyo
How to ride public transport safely and report an incident
10 Japanese Horror Movies That’ll Make You Switch the “Big Light” On
Eerie films to haunt your nights this spooky season
Japan Now Allows Joint Custody After Divorce—Here’s What Actually Changed
A landmark revision to Japan's Civil Code took effect April 1, 2026, ending a sole-custody system that had been in place for over a century
Tokyo Sumo Tournament 2026: The Complete Guide
Sumo returns to Tokyo from May 10–26, 2026, with newly promoted yokozuna Hoshoryu headlining the tournament
Sumo Tournament Tickets Go on Sale April 4—Here’s How to Get Them
Tickets for Tokyo's May Grand Sumo Tournament go on sale April 4, 2026, and they will sell out fast
Japanese Color Theory: How Japan Sees Color Differently
What a thousand years of Japanese color tradition can teach us about the way we see
Best Sushi Omakase in Tokyo: 6 Editor’s Picks for 2026
We've curated 6 standout selections that truly capture the essence of Tokyo's omakase scene