Japanese people don’t just hear insect sounds, but “hear” insect voices. While most languages treat the chirping of crickets or the buzzing of cicadas as mere noise, Japanese culture has long considered these sounds to be koe (声), voices worthy of deep appreciation. Why do they perceive insect noises as “voices”? Read more to find […]

The JLPT N3 phrase, にしては, is often used to express a contrast or comparison of someone or something. It is similar to saying “for” or “considering that,” and it is often used to express how something or someone is somewhat different from the norm or what is expected. So, let’s learn how to use this […]

Welcome to your free JLPT N3 Kanji mock test! This test is designed to test your ability to use kanji in certain contexts, as well as build the skills necessary to take the actual JLPT N3 test with confidence. While we provide an online quiz version for those who want to get their results instantly, […]

Welcome to your free JLPT N3 Vocabulary mock test! This test is designed to test your vocabulary knowledge in certain contexts, as well as build the skills necessary to take the actual JLPT N3 test with confidence. While we provide an online quiz version for those who want to get their results instantly, we also […]

With a history of almost 1300 years in Japan, we explore the origins of Children’s Day, its connections to China, and some of its most revered traditions.

Celebrated annually on 4th May, this relatively young is linked to one of Japan’s youngest colours.

On 3rd May 1947 the Constitution of Japan, also known as the “Peace Constitution” was signed, and this date has been a national holiday ever since.

The intention of Showa Day is to encourage reflection upon the years 1929-1989, otherwise known as the Showa Era – an intense time in Japan.