In Japan, ‘cute’ is a big deal. Their own word for it, kawaii (“ka-why-ee”), is more of an ethos than an adjective. Shops and billboards are filled with big-eyed fluffy figures.

Editor’s note: This series showcases what we are calling “kawaii” (cute) items made locally in the iconic Japanese city ... The Kyoto main shop is open from 11 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. It is ...

In recent years, Japan's kawaii culture has exploded in popularity. WSJ's Eric Bellman speaks with author Manami Okazaki about how cuteness has gained a global fanbase.