Beyond sushi: Japan expands veggie options to tempt tourists

23 Sept 05:21 Key points summarised by AI

Japan, traditionally renowned for its fish and meat-heavy gastronomy, is actively expanding vegetarian and vegan dining options to better accommodate the increasing number of international tourists.
Cities like Tokyo are spearheading initiatives, including culinary seminars for restaurateurs, expert consultations for menu development, and offering subsidies to promote veggie-friendly establishments.
Popular vegan eateries such as Izakaya Masaka and Saido are thriving by offering plant-based versions of Japanese classics, like soy fried chicken and tofu 'eel,' attracting significant foreign visitor interest.
Despite a rich history of Buddhist vegetarian cuisine ('shojin ryori'), challenges remain in widespread adoption due to local awareness gaps, though ongoing efforts aim to establish Japan as a globally diverse culinary destination.

Bright at Midnight: Conceptual echoes of Bas Jan Ader Arrive in Bangkok

Today 15:13 Key points summarised by AI

"Bright at Midnight" marks the first institutional exhibition in Asia of Dutch conceptual artist Bas Jan Ader, showcasing his enigmatic work at Bangkok Kunsthalle until January 10, 2027.
The exhibition delves into Ader's legacy, exploring themes of vulnerability and the ephemeral, made more poignant by his 1975 disappearance at sea during an art project.
It encourages viewers to engage with art beyond its material form, featuring key pieces like "Thoughts unsaid, Then forgotten," "Light vulnerable objects threatened by eight cement bricks," and the haunting film "Launch of the Ocean Wave."
A highlight is the planned live transformation of "Light vulnerable objects threatened by eight cement bricks" in 2026, where ropes will be cut, creating a new layer of art from the destructive impact.
The exhibition challenges conventional art consumption, advocating for a deeper appreciation of conceptual and research-driven artistic practices over mere fascination with art as an asset class.