When you speak casual English to friends, you don’t use perfect grammar and full sentences like you would when writing a paper, correct? Japanese is the same way. When speaking conversational Japanese, people rarely use the exact words and long phrases that you’d find in a textbook. Here is a 5-minute mini lesson to help you speak Casual Japanese.
Top 10 Japan Tips That No One Talks About
If you’re planning a trip to Japan, it’s important to be prepared! It’s easy to find information on what to pack, or which sight-seeing spots to visit, but what about where to get wi-fi, or how to contact police if there’s an emergency? Here are 10 Japan tips that no one really talks about.
How to Enjoy Summer Festivals in Japan
Summer in Japan is a season bursting with matsuri celebrations, especially at night when the air cools down. Most of the festivals in the summertime are held outdoors, for the favorable weather allows visitors to enjoy the celebrations both during the day and the nighttime. Summer festivals are characterized by local bon odori (bon dances), the summer version of Kimono called Yukata … Read More
How To Properly Eat Sushi
Sushi (寿司) is a classic Japanese food that is enjoyed by people all around the world. Sushi has quite a long history that dates back thousands of years, and also comes with traditional ways to properly consume it. Following these guidelines ensures that you are offering your greatest respects to the sushi chef who worked to perfect the meal, and … Read More
Japanese Manners You Should Know Before You Visit
Japan is known for its very polite society, and Japanese people are taught from an early age to follow an unspoken set of etiquette rules. The Japanese don’t expect foreign visitors to know all the rules, but a basic understanding of Japanese customs is certainly helpful. Here are some basic Japanese manners you should know before you visit!
How to Keep Cool During Summer in Japan
Summer in Japan packs a serious punch! Especially from late July through August, when temperatures reach an average of 80° Fahrenheit (30C). And, since the humidity during the summer months is about 80%, this can make it feel like 100° outside. Here is how to beat the heat during summer in Japan.
Tsuyu: Japan’s Rainy Season
Does your home country have a rainy season? Japan does, and it occurs every year in the month of June. Here’s everything you should know about tsuyu, Japan’s rainy season.
Must-Have Apps for Your Trip to Japan
If you’re using a smartphone, traveling around Japan has never been easier or more convenient! From helping you read Japanese menus to navigating the Japanese train system, here are the must-have apps to make you get the most out of your trip to Japan!
Onsen/Sentō Manners: Japanese Bathing Etiquette
Japanese onsen (温泉: hot springs) or sentō (銭湯: public baths), are are enjoyed by anyone of all ages. Onsen use hot water taken from a natural hot spring, while sentō use tap water heated by boilers. Both onsen and sentō are very enjoyable to Japanese and foreigners alike, but there is a set of unspoken instructions you should know before you … Read More
Japanese to Know: Common “Matsuri” Words
Matsuri, or festivals, are held all over Japan. They’re lively, fun, entertaining, and a great way to experience Japanese culture. Are you thinking of checking out a Japanese festival when you visit Japan? Here are the words to know before you go!