Navigating “Kōban Katsudō”: A Guide to Police Encounters in Japan

Living in Japan comes with many delights, but for foreigners, unexpected police encounters can be confusing and even anxiety-inducing. 交番活動 Kōban katsudō, or routine police questioning on the street, is a common practice, but knowing your rights and communicating effectively can make the experience much smoother. A Quick Jump To… What Is 交番活動 Kōban katsudō […]

A Guide to Eyelash and Eyebrow Salons in Japan

Japan is a haven for beauty enthusiasts; eyelash and eyebrow salons are no exception. With meticulous attention to detail and innovative techniques, these salons can transform your eyes and frame your face for a dramatic or natural look, depending on your preference. However, navigating the world of Japanese beauty salons as a non-Japanese speaker can […]

What is the Best City to Learn Japanese in?

Want to learn Japanese? Discover your ideal city with this guide! Explore Tokyo’s education revolution, Osaka’s dialectic differences, Kyoto’s scholarly heritage, and Fukuoka’s student sanctuary. Read on to find the best city for your language journey! A Quick Jump To… Tokyo: The Definitive Language Learning Hub Tokyo’s vast language learning opportunities cater to everyone from […]

Yuzu: Japan’s Popular Citrus

ゆず Yuzu is a citrus fruit that is native to East Asia and is particularly popular in Japan. The scientific name of the fruit is citrus junos. The yuzu fruit is about the size of a tangerine and has a unique flavor profile that combines lemon, mandarin orange, and grapefruit. It is known for its […]

Dive into the Sweetness: A Guide to Strawberry Picking in Japan

The sun glistens on plump, ruby-red strawberries nestled among lush green leaves. The air hums with the buzz of bees, and the scent of summer hangs heavy. This isn’t your average fruit-picking experience – welcome to the world of Japanese strawberry farms! This blog will tell you where to go strawberry picking in Japan! A […]

How To Use すみません Correctly? A Guide To All Meanings of Sumimasen 

Sorry” in English and “Sumimasen” in Japanese. Both expressions have the same function of apology, but there are cultural differences in the situations in which they are used. Here is an actual example from our Coto teacher. “When the teacher gives the instruction, 「この文を読んでください」Kono bun o yondekudasai (Please read this sentence), some learners often say, […]

2024 Coto Travel Guide: Things To Do In Japan In January

January in Japan is a magical time. The country is transformed into a winter wonderland, with snow-capped mountains, glittering illuminations, and the festive spirit of the New Year. Whether you’re seeking cultural immersion, outdoor adventures, or pure relaxation, Japan in January has something for everyone. A Quick Jump To… Experience お正月 Oshogatsu (Japanese New Year) […]