Business Japanese can almost feel like an entirely different language. When you first start learning it, it might seem like you’re starting Japanese from scratch all over again. However, once you become familiar, you’ll notice that there are a handful of common corporate-specific Japanese words used repeatedly. For some, business Japanese phrases might seem unimportant […]
A foreigner’s guide to Japanese honorific, humble and polite forms.
Have you ever wondered how to describe a position in Japanese? Picture this: you’re wandering through the busy streets of Tokyo and want to ask a local which way leads to the nearest train station. Or maybe you’re sitting in a Japanese classroom, and the teacher is giving directions like “Look up,” “Turn right,” or […]
When meeting a new client in Japan, one of the first things you need to do is exchange business cards, known as 名刺 (meishi). In many other countries, business cards are often seen as a formality or just a way to pass along your name, title, and company info. But in Japan, meishi exchange is […]
Dining at Japanese restaurants can be a delightful experience, from savoring delicious sushi to enjoying a hot bowl of ramen. However, at the end of the meal, you may find yourself wondering how to ask for the bill. If you’re traveling or living in Japan, dining out is one of the best ways to experience […]
When getting ready for a Japanese job interview, be prepared to answer these 4 key questions to improve your chances of getting the job.
Yoroshiku onegaishimasu (よろしくお願いします) is one of those quintessential Japanese words that is highly ingrained into the culture but very difficult to translate to English.
Knowing how to write a proper Japanese business email is an important skill when working for a Japanese company. In Japanese business culture, email serves as a medium that reflects professionalism and respect for hierarchy. It mirrors the careful etiquette and structure you’d find in face-to-face meetings. Historically, building business relationships in Japan has relied […]
