Location: Tokyo (Remote within Japan considered)
Type: Freelance or Contract, with potential for ongoing work

About the role
Metropolis Japan is looking for a sharp, fast-moving news journalist based in Japan to cover viral, real-world news stories connected to Japanese pop culture, media, internet trends, and everyday life, that has a strong reach among English-language readers.

This role is ideal for someone who understands what’s gaining traction online and can turn it into clear, engaging, fact-checked news reporting for an international English-speaking audience—before it becomes old news.

This is not opinion writing or lifestyle content. You’ll be reporting on real news moments, fast, explaining why they matter, and providing cultural context for readers who may not live in Japan, or may be living here and prefer to read news in English.

What you’ll cover
• Viral news stories emerging from Japan (striking fast before it gets old)
• Pop culture, entertainment, internet trends, and social media moments
• Breaking or fast-moving stories with international interest
• Cultural context behind why a story is resonating
• Occasionally sourcing statements, official responses, or relevant background

What we’re looking for
• Based in Tokyo or elsewhere in Japan
• Strong English writing and headline instincts
• Solid news judgment, you know what’s genuinely newsworthy versus just trending
• Ability to work quickly without sacrificing accuracy
• Comfortable monitoring Japanese and English sources (Japanese ability helpful but not required)
• Familiarity with TikTok, X, Instagram, YouTube, and online communities
• Journalism, media, or digital publishing experience preferred

Nice to have
• Japanese language ability
• Experience covering pop culture, internet culture, or viral news
• Awareness of Japanese media, creators, and entertainment trends
• SEO or digital newsroom experience

What we offer
• Flexible, remote-friendly workflow
• Clear editorial direction and support
• Per-article pay, with the potential for ongoing assignments
• Work published on Metropolis Japan, an established English-language platform covering life and culture in Japan

How to apply
Please send:
• A short introduction
• 2–4 relevant writing samples (news, pop culture, or viral coverage preferred)
• A brief note on why you’re interested in covering Japan-focused viral news, plus your typical turnaround time for a 400 – 600 word article

Apply by emailing editor@metropolisjapan.com