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.
Our team of journalists lives in Japan and experiences the culture firsthand. We are committed to accuracy, independence, and cultural authenticity in all our work.
Editorial Independence
Our editorial content is completely independent from commercial interests and advertising.
- •Editorial decisions are made solely by our editorial team
- •We clearly separate advertising content from editorial content
- •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
- •Articles are reviewed by editors before publication
- •We regularly update articles to maintain accuracy
- •We promptly correct errors and clearly mark corrections
Transparency
We are transparent about our sources, methods, and any limitations.
- •We clearly identify opinion pieces and analysis as such
- •We disclose when content is sponsored or partnered
- •We attribute information to named sources when possible
- •We explain our methodology for guides and rankings
- •We are transparent about our team and their expertise
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