News and resources

How I Studied and Prepared for JLPT N2

When I arrived in Japan in January 2019, I barely knew Japanese. However, I was determined to learn the language as I thought life would be so much fun and easier if I was able to do basic communication with the locals. I could order food by myself, I could ask for directions if I […]

how i prepared for jlpt n4

Guide to Japanese Cooking and Recipes Vocabulary

From sushi to ramen to mouth-watering gyoza, Japan has an endless list of delicious foods. This leads many of us back to the kitchen in our own homes wondering how we can recreate those umami flavors. Japanese cooking is not only delicious but once you know what to do, well-balanced, incredibly tasty meals can be […]

Japanese chef cooking in a traditional kitchen filled with steam, using chopsticks and surrounded by cooking tools and ingredients — capturing the essence of authentic Japanese cuisine.

9 Ways to Say Happy Birthday in Japanese And How to Celebrate

Ever wondered how to celebrate your birthday in Japan and say “happy birthday” in Japanese? In Japan, birthdays are not celebrated the same way they are in Western countries. For many, birthdays are seen as a time of reflection and renewal rather than a time to party. Children’s birthdays are much more elaborate than those […]

how to say happy birthday in japanese