Editorial Standards
Our Commitment to Quality Journalism
The Standard Japan is committed to editorial independence, accuracy, and ethical journalism. These standards guide every article we publish.
Our Mission
The Standard Japan exists to provide authentic, high-quality English-language journalism about contemporary Japan. We serve readers seeking genuine insights into Japanese culture, society, and lifestyle beyond surface-level tourist content.
The Standard Japan is run from Japan. We check facts against primary sources, correct errors as soon as we find them, and update pages when official information changes.
Editorial Independence
No one pays to be covered. Affiliate links are disclosed at the top of any article that carries them, and education guides carry none.
- •Editorial decisions are made solely by our editorial team
- •Affiliate links are disclosed at the top of every article that carries them
- •We do not accept payment for editorial coverage
- •Partners and sponsors have no influence over editorial content
- •We disclose any potential conflicts of interest
Accuracy and Fact-Checking
We strive for accuracy in all content and verify factual claims before publication.
- •All factual claims are verified through primary sources when possible
- •We cite sources for statistics, quotes, and factual information
- •Dates, prices and timetables are checked against the official source on the day of writing
- •We regularly update articles to maintain accuracy
- •We correct errors as soon as we find them and note the correction on the article
Transparency
We are transparent about our sources, methods, and any limitations.
- •Opinion columns are labeled as opinion, credited to the Opinion Desk, and link every fact they rely on to its source
- •We disclose when content is sponsored or partnered
- •We attribute information to named sources when possible
- •We explain our methodology for guides and rankings
- •Every article is credited to the desk that covers its subject
Corrections
When we get something wrong, we fix the article and say so at the top of it, with the date and what changed.
- •Factual errors are corrected in place, not quietly rewritten
- •A dated correction note at the top of the article states what was wrong
- •Information that changes after publication (prices, dates, rules) is updated and the article's updated date changes
- •Readers can report an error through our contact page
Cultural Sensitivity
We approach Japanese culture with respect and nuance, avoiding stereotypes.
- •We consult Japanese perspectives and sources
- •We provide cultural context for international readers
- •We avoid exoticization and orientalist tropes
- •We represent diverse voices within Japanese society
- •We acknowledge when we lack expertise on specific topics
Ethical Sourcing
We source information ethically and respect intellectual property.
- •We credit all sources, including images and data
- •We obtain permission for quotes and interviews
- •We respect copyright and fair use guidelines
- •We link to original sources when referencing their work
- •We do not plagiarize or misrepresent others' work
Reader Privacy
We respect our readers' privacy and handle data responsibly.
- •We collect only necessary data for site functionality
- •We do not sell reader data to third parties
- •We comply with privacy regulations (GDPR, etc.)
- •Newsletter subscribers can opt out at any time
- •We are transparent about our use of analytics
Corrections Policy
We take accuracy seriously. When we make an error, we correct it promptly and transparently.
Our corrections process:
- Corrections are clearly marked at the top of the article
- We explain what was corrected and why
- We update the article's "Last Updated" timestamp
- For significant errors, we may publish a separate correction notice
Spotted an error? Please contact us with details so we can investigate and correct it.
Questions About Our Standards?
We welcome questions and feedback about our editorial standards and practices.
Contact Editorial TeamLast Updated: July 2026