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What Is Katakana? Complete Katakana Chart & Learning Guide

After mastering hiragana, one of the three Japanese writing systems, the natural next step is to learn katakana, the second Japanese syllabary. Commonly used to write loanwords, katakana represent the same set of sounds as hiragana, but they look completely different. Katakana characters are typically boxier and more geometric, with sharp corners, in contrast to […]

person studying hiragana

Get Tongue-Tied: Trickiest Japanese Tongue Twisters to Try

Looking for a fun way to improve your Japanese enunciation? Japanese tongue twisters, or hayakuchi kotoba (早口言葉), are short, challenging phrases that help train your tongue, improve fluency, and boost confidence when speaking. Try one a day and make it part of your study routine — yes, even while performing your oral hygiene routine ! […]

A language tutor practicing Japanese tongue twisters with a young learner in a cozy home setting.

Your Guide to 花見 Hanami in Tokyo 2025: Stay Under the Pink Canopy

Spring in Japan explodes with the delicate beauty of sakura, or cherry blossoms. This breathtaking spectacle draws locals and tourists to celebrate hanami, the centuries-old tradition of appreciating these ephemeral blooms. Check out this blog for Japan’s Sakura forecast and recommended places to have a hanami around Tokyo! Sakura Forecast 2025 While dates vary slightly […]

2025 Hanami - Sakura or Cherry Blossoms Viewing - In Tokyo