News and resources

Conquering the Peaks: A Journey Through Mount Tsukuba

Tucked away in the heart of Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan, stands the majestic Mt. Tsukuba. Unlike the more famous Mt. Fuji, Mt. Tsukuba, with its twin peaks, offers a unique charm that beckons hikers from all corners. As I embarked on this journey, I quickly understood why it’s known as “The Purple Mountain” – a testament […]

Scenic view of Mount Tsukuba with a clear blue sky and scattered clouds, lush greenery in the foreground, and cable car structures visible along the ridge.

Otaku Culture in Japan: A Journey into the World of Passionate Fandom

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 […]

A young woman cosplaying as an anime character in Japan, dressed in a school uniform-style costume with a red wig and makeup, posing with a confident expression in a park with blurred autumn foliage in the background.

Charting Your PhD Journey in Japan: Admission, Lifestyle, and Balancing Work with Study

Japan, with its unique blend of ancient culture and technological innovation, offers a compelling environment for ambitious PhD students. Whether you’re diving into cutting-edge research or exploring the bustling streets, life as a doctoral candidate here is full of potential. But to truly thrive, understanding the ins and outs of admissions, budgeting for your lifestyle, […]

A Guide to Self-Introductions in Japanese Job Interviews

In the competitive world of Japanese job interviews, making a strong first impression is crucial. Your self-introduction, or 自己紹介 (Jiko shōkai), sets the tone for the entire interview and gives the interviewer a glimpse into your personality, skills, and motivations. Understanding the nuances of Japanese etiquette and tailoring your introduction accordingly can significantly enhance your […]

A professional man and woman in formal business attire sit across from each other at a conference table during a job interview, with a laptop and documents in front of them, in a modern office setting with large windows and blinds.

Where to Enjoy American-style Thanksgiving in Tokyo

It’s the most wonderful time of the year (well…almost), and one of the best parts about it is gathering around a table with friends and family to enjoy a delicious Thanksgiving meal. But sometimes, finding a place to dine out for this special occasion can be difficult in Tokyo. Alternatively, perhaps you’ve decided to tackle […]

A traditional American-style Thanksgiving dinner with roast turkey, stuffing, green beans, pie, and wine, beautifully arranged on a festive table decorated with pumpkins and candles.

Thanksgiving in Japan: Kinrō Kansha no Hi

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 Culture: A Deeper Look

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, […]