April is the first full month of Spring! April is also the start of a new year for Japanese schools and companies. All of Japan seems to come alive during this time, and it’s a very fun month to be in Japan. From flower festivals to lively parade, here are 10 fun things to do in Japan in April 2019.
All About Japan’s VENDING MACHINES
Japan is a vending machine heaven! There is about 1 vending machine for every 23 people in Japan. Called jidōhanbaiki (自動販売機) in Japanese, vending machines can be found all over cities, towns and even in the countryside. And, there’s more than just drinks for sale! Here’s everything you need to know about Japan’s amazing vending machines.
Japan’s 7 Most Incredible Castles
Japan has over 200 castles, called shiro (城) in Japanese. Many of these ancient, well-preserved fortresses are Japanese National Treasures. Here are some of the must-see castles in Japan and what they’re famous for!
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!
Back to Basics: Self-Introduction & Useful Japanese Verbs
When learning a new language, no matter how long you’ve been studying, it’s important to review the basics every once in awhile. Let’s review how to introduce yourself in Japanese for the first time, as well as the ten most useful Japanese verbs!
Top 10 Things to Do in Japan in March
March is one of the best months to visit Japan! Not only are the cherry blossoms starting to come into bloom, but there is also an incredible variety of events and festivals happening all across the nation. From the famous “Penis Festival” to ancient fire festivals, here are our top 10 events happening in Japan in March 2019.
Takarazuka: Japan’s Famous All-Female Theatre
Japan’s famous Takarazuka Revue (宝塚歌劇団) is an all-female musical theatre troupe based in Takarazuka City, Hyogo Prefecture. The theatre puts on massive, colorful, Broadway-style productions of Western musicals and famous Japanese plays. All roles are played by women, and these “Takarasiennes” famously claim to “sell dreams”.
Top 10 Tattoo-Friendly Onsen in Japan
Japan’s onsen (温泉) or natural hot springs, have been a part of Japanese culture for thousands of years. Traditionally, people with tattoos were banned from entering onsen in Japan. However, in recent years, more and more onsen facilities are declaring themselves to be more “tattoo-friendly”. Here is a list of the top 10 tattoo-friendly onsen in Japan.
Japan’s Top 10 Plum-Viewing Spots
In Japan, before the cherry blossoms come the plum blossoms! Called “ume” (梅) in Japanese, plum blossoms are associated with the start of spring in Japan, as they start to bloom all around the nation in February and March. Here are 10 places that are famous throughout Japan for their incredible plum blossoms.
Your 2019 Cherry Blossom Viewing Guide
Cherry blossoms, also known as sakura (桜:さくら) in Japan, are the small, delicate, light pink flowers that bloom from cherry blossom trees. This springtime phenomenon is breathtakingly beautiful, but also incredibly brief. After only two weeks, the petals of the soft pink canopy, drop to the ground like snow before they wither. If you visit Japan during cherry blossom season, it is … Read More