The Japanese New Year, also known as 正月 Shogatsu, is a vibrant and culturally rich celebration that stretches from December 28 to January 3. It’s a time for families to reunite, reflect on the past year, and welcome the new one with hope and joy. This guide will walk you through Japanese New Year traditions, […]

Japan’s spiritual landscape is dotted with thousands of 神道 Shinto shrines, each offering a unique and serene experience. One of the most captivating aspects of visiting these sacred places is the act of praying, a ritual that allows you to connect with the divine and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Japanese culture. In […]

Merry Christmas! Christmas in Japan is a magical time of year, filled with twinkling lights, festive decorations, and a unique twist on traditional celebrations. While not a religious holiday, it’s embraced enthusiastically, transforming the country into a wonderland of romance and cozy delights. This blog will tell you about the Christmas traditions in Japan, where […]

Japan is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, technological prowess, and captivating pop culture. But amidst the neon-lit streets of Tokyo and the tranquil shrines of Kyoto, a unique subculture- otaku culture- has captured the hearts of millions worldwide. Defining Otaku: A Spectrum of Passions The term “otaku” originally referred to individuals with a deep […]

Thanksgiving is a time for giving thanks for the blessings in our lives. When discussing Thanksgiving, we usually think of the American style, where family and friends celebrate this day together by holding a turkey and pumpkin pie feast. But did you know Japan has a similar celebration?  In Japan, this gratitude is expressed during […]

Japanese idols and celebrities are everywhere in Japanese media culture, and their influence can be felt in all aspects of Japanese society. But what makes Japanese idols and celebrities so unique? A Quick Jump To… Understanding Idols What are Japanese idols? Japanese idols are young performers, often in their teens or early twenties, who sing, […]

Japan and Britain may seem like very different countries, but they have much in common. Both countries have a long history, rich cultures, and beautiful scenery. Over the years, they have also influenced each other’s cultures, such as tea drinking. This blog will discuss how British influences have subtly shaped various aspects of Japanese society. […]

Imagine you are enjoying a warm cup of matcha tea. As you take that first soothing sip, you are reminded of just how important tea is for many people and cultures. And, nowhere is this more evident than in Japan! Sip. Ever since tea showed up on Japan’s shores hundreds of years ago, you muse, […]

Have you ever sat down to eat at a restaurant, saw your friend’s dish arrive, and then thought, oh, I wish I had ordered that instead? Then perhaps it would have been helpful to see a fake food sample before ordering – aka the menu in the form of hyper realistic plastic food. That is […]

         If you’ve interacted with Japanese media at all, then you are sure to have come across something cute! From famous Sanrio characters (like Hello Kitty) to company logos, you can find cuteness just about anywhere; this is because Japan often uses this concept in many different areas, such as marketing, fashion, and… clip art? […]