If you’re living in Japan, chances are that at exactly 5 o’clock in the evening, you’ll hear some music playing in the background.

Did you know how the Chinese zodiac signs are adopted in Japan? While the Lunar New Year is not widely celebrated here, the country adopted the Chinese zodiac around the 6th century, and it now has its own unique Japanese spin. There are 12 animals in the zodiac, with each animal having their own unique […]

When you think of Shinjuku, you might think of this iconic city center as a place known for its landmarks and nightlife, but it is also a place not just for the average businessperson, but for students as well. Naturally, there are many coffee shops and cafés where students can meet to work on assignments […]

Navigating pregnancy and childbirth in Japan can feel overwhelming, especially in a city as busy and diverse as Tokyo, if you are not familiar with the local language. From prenatal checkups to hospital visits and birth planning, knowing the right Japanese vocabulary can make communication with doctors, nurses, and support staff much smoother. Expecting a […]

Have you heard of the term kakkoi (かっこいい)? When you step onto the streets of Tokyo, the fashion alone is enough to stop you in your tracks. You might constantly find yourself doing a double-take at the effortless style surrounding you. In English, you might instinctively reach for a phrase like, “Oh my God, that’s […]

If you are an avid anime viewer, you will probably have the infamous Japanese swear word “baka”, which simply translates to stupid or foolish. It’s one of the most commonly used insults in Japanese, and from the way characters shout it, you may have already guessed that it’s meant as an insult. But did you […]

How do you say “I love you” in Japanese while hitting all the right nuances and intentions? In Japanese, romantic is often viewed through two distinct lenses: 恋 (koi) and 愛 (ai). 恋 (koi) refers to romantic love or the initial spark of attraction. Interestingly, Japanese uses the same figure of speech as English when […]

Have you ever wondered how Valentine’s Day is celebrated in Japan? While we all associate Valentine’s Day with romantic dinners and roses, things take a unique turn in Japan! Forget men giving chocolates; in Japan, on February 14, women give chocolates to their loved ones. This does not always have to be their romantic partner. […]