In countless everyday settings, individuals, companies, administrative bodies and others in Japan use anthropomorphized 2D characters to enhance communication. Following a recent Japanology Plus devoted to various manifestations of anthropomorphism, this time we delve deeper to explore the historical roots of this quintessentially Japanese phenomenon. Our expert guest, Professor Sadashige Aoki of Hosei University, specializes in "character culture." And in Plus One, a street of monsters in Kyoto.

The many amusement parks around Japan feature thrilling rides, animal attractions and seasonal activities like waterparks. Now these leisure facilities are undergoing a major transformation, and offering totally new concepts of fun. This time on Japanology Plus, our theme is amusement parks. Our expert guest, Takashi Sasaki, is a writer who covers amusement parks for magazines and websites. And in Plus One, virtual reality takes the thrills and entertainment to new heights.