Do They Have English Signs in Japan? Enjoy Japanglish!

Do They Have English Signs in Japan? Enjoy Japanglish!

You’ve been dreaming of going to Japan for years- but perhaps that enthusiasm for the land of anime and sushi hasn’t quite carried over into your Japanese language studies. Oops! If your Japanese studies are still in the early stages or you don’t speak a word of Nihongo – you’ll need to rely on your English skills to help you navigate the Land of the Rising Sun. Before packing your bags and booking that flight, it’s a smart idea to…

Is it Okay to Slurp Noodles in Japan?

Is it Okay to Slurp Noodles in Japan?

Japanese hospitality, sometimes called omotenashi, is praised as being a step above the rest of the world. With this reputation for elegant respect and ceaseless courtesy, travelers fresh off the plane and hungry for their first authentic bowl of Japanese ramen may be in for a shock.  Lift the curtain and step into any ramen restaurant in Tokyo to be met with a loud symphony of slurping noises as customers happily squelch down their noodles. Your inner etiquette may scream…

Japan’s Cherry Blossoms: When is Cherry Blossom Season in Japan?

Japan’s Cherry Blossoms: When is Cherry Blossom Season in Japan?

A cloud of soft pink petals coating the world in a blanket of springtime joy- it sounds like a fairytale or a scene from an anime. But in Japan, this beautiful dream comes true once a year- during cherry blossom season! Called 桜 sakura in Japanese, cherry blossom time in Japan is without a doubt one of the most famous and celebrated events of the year.  Read on to learn how you can time your trip right in order to…

Where to Find American Comfort Food in Japan

Where to Find American Comfort Food in Japan

Japan has an array of smells and tastes that attract foodies from around the globe. In fact, the city of Tokyo has earned the title of the most Michelin-starred city in the world! But while Japanese cuisine is undeniably delicious, it is true that too much of even the tastiest thing can become tiring over time. Whether you are an American expat craving a taste of home or a fan of the decadent food from the Land of the Free-…

Why is Japanese so Hard to Learn?

Why is Japanese so Hard to Learn?

Why is Japanese so hard to learn? Is Japanese really that difficult? It’s true that Japanese can be a hard language to learn, but it comes with a lot of benefits. You could watch your favorite anime without subtitles, play video games before their international release, no longer have to wait for manga to be translated, and be able to travel comfortably in the Land of the Rising Sun. Learning a new language opens many doors and unlocks countless possibilities-…

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

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

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…

Famous Japanese Authors You Should Try Reading

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…

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

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

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,…

Why Do Japanese People Bow to Each Other?

Why Do Japanese People Bow to Each Other?

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…

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

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

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…