Japanese Blog

Explore Japanese learning resources, Japanese language and culture.

Japanese for directions: How to ask if a place is nearby

Asking for directions in Japanese is very easy and a good way to meet the locals. Follow our handy vocabulary guide to learning how to ask if a place is nearby.
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Diana: I don't actually look like soy sauce

Diana fell in love with the culture and language of Japan while visiting over ten years ago. She recently decided to continue her studies by taking the Coto Intensive Japanese Language Course.
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“I like” in Japanese: Expressing hobbies and finding new friends

A great way to make a new friend is to share about your interests and things you enjoy. Being able to say ” I like” in Japanese will get you started and warm-up your encounters! (私は)音楽が好きです。((I) like music.) Once again, it will sounds more natural for Japanese to omit the first-person pronoun and topic marker, […]
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Japanese Essentials: Ordering a Pint or Can of Beer in Japan!

A key language lesson to learn in Japan is how to order beers at a restaurant!
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Study Tips to Pass JLPT N3

Studying for the JLPT N3? After working through ‘Minna no Nihongo’, gloriously passing JLPT levels N5 or N4 and mastering the basic grammar needed to order your favourite sushi, your next step should be to level up to JLPT N3. This level is described as ‘the ability to understand Japanese used in everyday situations. Looking […]
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Reading the Atmosphere in Japan – 空気読める (Kuuki Yomeru) "to Read the Air"

Have you ever heard the expression “yuuki yomeru” (空気読める – “to read the air”) in Japanese? Ever stumbled across the expression “Kuuki Yomenai”? This Japanese slang is literally translated as “cannot read the air” and jokingly applies to people who struggle to read social situations. Reading The AtmosphereKuuki Yomenai and Social AwkwardnessHow NOT to be KY? Reading […]
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The Japanese Silver Week, a Rare Five-Day Break

You might have heard of Silver Week (シルバーウィーク), an expression coined in 2009, referring to 3 consecutive Japanese national holidays in early autumn. But did you know that the Japanese Silver Week, in fact, does not occur annually?  The Respect for the Aged Day And… On that day, the Japanese pay their respect to the elderly and […]
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Japanese words for computers: A quick & complete guide in 2023

How often do you use your computer? If you’re learning Japanese, it’s helpful to know some Japanese words for computer. Of ourse, we have an extended list as well. These ones are pretty easy since a lot of them come from English and are written in katakana, so don’t worry about having to memorize too […]
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13 Japanese Chopsticks Taboos You Should Know About

In this blog, we will tell you everything you need to know about taboos to avoid while using chopsticks! We know very well that using Japanese chopsticks is quite a challenge at first. However, with a bit of practice, you will soon be a natural! Did you know? The size of your hands matters when it comes to finding the […]
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What do Itadakimasu (いただきます) and Gochisousamadesu (ごちそうさまです) Mean?

IntroductionItadakimasu (いただきます)Gochisousamadesu (ごちそうさまです) Eating in Japan: Using Itadakimasu and Gochisousamadesu Ever wondered about the meaning of the most important Japanese expressions for meal? Clapping hands together. “Itadakimasu!” This is an aspect of the Japanese culture which is well-known and loved by many. Simply ask any of our students for the reason of coming to Japan, […]
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Japanese summer words: Top 20 most popular words under the sun

Japanese Summer is finally around the corner and despite the heat in this season, there are many things to enjoy. Time for you to boost your conversation with 20 perfect Japanese seasonal words for summer! This time of year, festivals are held continuously which hyped up the summer spirit. What is summer without dressing up in […]
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Japanese Caligraphy: Learn the culture through words

Japanese calligraphy is not only an important part of Japanese culture but also a relaxing and fun way to practice your Kanji! If you are troubled by Kanji studies, why don’t you take a break with some brushes and ink?   Japanese Calligraphy’s History & PhilosophyMore than Holding a Brush and Drawing StrokesTools commonly used […]
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