David - Japan Vault

5 Things to Explore in Tokyo

Japanese Food / Japan Travel / Japanese Culture

ByDavid May 4, 2023

Discover Tokyo’s hidden gems with these 5 fun things to do. From quirky cafes to vibrant nightlife, experience the best of Japan’s capital. 5 Fun Things To Do In Tokyo Japan Looking for a fun-filled adventure in Tokyo, Japan? You’re in luck! This bustling metropolis has something to offer for everyone. From its vibrant culture to its delicious cuisine, Tokyo is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories. Whether you’re traveling solo or with friends and family, these activities are perfect…

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Haiku vs. Senryū Poems: What’s the Difference?

Japanese Culture

ByDavid March 1, 2021March 5, 2021

When most people think they’re writing a haiku, they’re actually writing a form of poetry called senryū. Both are Japanese styles of poetry, and both are very similar in construction, but they’re not the same. Most poetry experts have come to accept that haiku has taken on a much larger meaning as the art form has spread around the planet – but if you want to be correct in the classical sense, it’s important to know the difference between haiku…

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Famous Japanese Authors You Should Try Reading

Japanese Authors

ByDavid February 6, 2021May 3, 2021

Many readers outside of Japan aren’t familiar with Japanese literature. That’s unfortunate because many wonderful authors from Japan exist. Japan has maintained a vibrant literary culture since writing was introduced to Japan from China in the 5th century via Korea. It was during the Meiji Period (1868-1912) when modern Japanese literature grew exponentially. Since that time, Japan has enjoyed a wealth of literature from many different famous Japanese authors. Japan even has the distinction of being the birthplace of the…

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Valentine’s Day in Japan: A Look at Japanese Valentine’s Day Traditions

Japanese Customs

ByDavid February 5, 2021

Most well-traveled, culturally-aware people will know that holidays are not universal. As we approach February 14th, you might wonder: Do they celebrate Valentine’s Day in Japan? And if so, how is it different? Valentine’s Day in Japan: The Basics Most of our readers will be familiar with the Western way of celebrating Valentine’s Day. Generally speaking, it’s a holiday where romantic partners either gift equally, or where the male gifts the female (that all depends on relationship dynamics). In Japan,…

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Why Do Japanese People Bow to Each Other?

Japanese Culture

ByDavid January 25, 2021January 25, 2021

If you’ve ever visited Japan or watched a Japanese TV show, you’ve likely seen people bow to each other. It’s an aspect of Japanese culture that most of us know. There are several reasons people in Japan bow to each other. You might also be surprised there are several different bows for different situations, or to convey something different. Japanese people bow to each other to show respect, to apologize, to greet, or to thank. In this article, we’ll learn…

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Washi Tape: What is Washi Tape & How Do You Use It?

Japanese Arts and Crafts

ByDavid January 18, 2021

If you spend much time in craft stores, stationery stores, or Japanese gift shops, you’ve probably seen washi tape and wondered what it is or what it’s for. Conversely, you might have heard the name, but not made the connection with what it is. What is Washi Tape? Washi tape is a decorative adhesive tape that’s sort of like masking tape, but much, much better. It’s made from natural fibers like ganpi, mistumata, kozo, or even hemp, but it can…

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What is a Tatami Mat?

Japan Travel

ByDavid January 3, 2021January 4, 2021

You’ve likely noticed that the flooring in Japanese rooms looks different than what we are used to in the West. This type of flooring is called tatami and, like many things in Japan, it’s quite interesting. What is Tatami? A tatami is a type of mat used as flooring material in Japanese rooms. Traditionally, the core is made from rice straw. Tatami produced in modern times often uses compressed wood chips or polystyrene foam boards. The History of Tatami Originally,…

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12 Unique Japanese Kit Kat Flavors You Need to Try

Japanese Food

ByDavid December 22, 2020December 22, 2020

The origin of Kit Kat, the chocolate-covered wafer bar, goes back to 1911 when British confectionery company Rowntree trademarked the term. It wasn’t until the 1920s that production started, and became wildly successful. Most people are familiar with the traditional Kit Kat which is milk chocolate over crispy wafers. There have been variations like white chocolate, dark chocolate, and mint. You might be surprised to hear there are a lot more Kit Kat flavors you’ve probably never seen. That is…

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What is Shounen and What Shows Should You Watch?

Anime

ByDavid December 20, 2020December 20, 2020

When browsing for anime shows to watch, you probably come across several genres you’re not familiar with. One of the most popular genres is shounen. You’ll also see this written as shonen or shōnen but they all mean the same thing. Shounen is a genre aimed at a younger male audience and literally translates to ‘few years’. Although that’s the technical definition, in the real world shounen appeals to both men and women of all ages. It’s also much more…

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11 Of the Best Anime Movies to Watch

Anime

ByDavid December 20, 2020December 20, 2020

Anime is a form of art, unlike any other. There are a lot of anime series out there that have amazing animation, stunning character development, and an engaging storyline worthy of a binge-watch. What gets to people about an anime series is the waiting between seasons, and the chance the show will be canceled without a satisfying ending. That is where the anime movies come in! Anime movies are made for fans both young and old. There’s a type of…

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