Japanese Blog

Explore Japanese learning resources, Japanese language and culture.

Best Cafes in Shibuya for Studying and Remote Work (with WiFi, Power Sockets)

In this guide, we'll introduce you to the best cafes in Shibuya with free WiFi and power outlets so you enjoy coffee and study in peace.
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Japanese Martial Arts: From spirited Sumo to rhythmic Kyudo

From martial arts like karate, aikido, judo to sports like sumo, traditional Japanese sports are rooted in culture and history.
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9 Ways to Say Happy Birthday in Japanese And How to Celebrate

Ever wondered how to celebrate your birthday in Japan and say “happy birthday” in Japanese? In Japan, birthdays are not celebrated the same way they are in Western countries. For many, birthdays are seen as a time of reflection and renewal rather than a time to party. Children’s birthdays are much more elaborate than those […]
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Unraveling The Kimono: Vocabulary, Symbolism and Different Types

Kimono is so widely known that the word itself has become a part of the English language. From the very heart of Japanese culture, this iconic garment was worn on a daily basis in 19th-century Japan. Its beginnings can be traced back over a thousand years, to the Heian period (794–1185), from what was known […]
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How to Write a Haiku: 14 Beautiful Examples for Inspiration

Haiku are short unrhymed poems composed of only three lines and seventeen syllables.
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Guide to Attending Japanese Wedding: Phrases, Etiquette & Things to Avoid

If you ever get invited to a wedding in Japan, there might be some words and terms that are good to know before you attend.
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Guide to Overcoming Culture Shock in Japan

Believe it or not, culture shock is a common experience for people who encounter a new and unfamiliar environment.
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Japanese Work Culture: How is it Different from The US?

Before you rush to find a job in Japan, you need to get accustomed to the Japanese work culture, which can be different from western countries like America. Find out different ethics and workplace culture in Japan!
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Setsunai (切ない) and Japan’s Countryside

Setsunai (切ない) is a Japanese word that doesn’t have an exact English translation, but it roughly translates to "the pain of things” or even "sweet sorrow".
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Wagashi: All You Need to Know About Traditional Japanese Sweets

Wagashi (和菓子) are traditional Japanese sweets that are often accompanied by a cup of green tea. They're usually made with sweet azuki bean paste, rice cake, rice flour, sesame paste, and chestnuts.
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Kintsugi: the Japanese Art of Mending Broken Pottery with Gold

When you think of Japan, what comes to mind is perhaps the technological prowess of its gadgets and automobiles. Maybe it’s the fascinating pop culture with its unique fashion and music. Or maybe it’s the centuries-old traditions that still play an important role in daily life. Japan is all of these things and more, and […]
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Tabearuki (食べ歩き): Why is it Frowned Upon to Walk While Eating in Japan?

Tabearuki (食べ歩き) is the act of eating while walking, but this practice is greatly frowned upon in Japan. In fact, a lot of places strictly prohibit you from eating while walking. Why is that?
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