Coto Japanese Academy

This is an older post – to see our upcoming monthly events – click here

Monthly Events at Coto

Japanese

Every month we hold cultural and social events for our students and their friends to discover more about Japanese culture, meet new friends and practice Japanese. We are looking forward to seeing you there!

Lunch Tour – 8/9
Cooking Class (Oshi-Zushi) – 8/15
Beer Garden Party – 8/18
Japanese Sword Experience （Iaido） – 8/28
Calligraphy Class – 8/29

8/9 Thu: Lunch Tour in Kagurazaka Hanakagura


Every month, we organize a lunch tour at one of the many delicious restaurants in Kagurazaka area. This month, we’ll enjoy some delicious food at Hanakagura! If you want to join us make your reservation now!
Book Appointment from Coubic

  • Date: Thursday, Augst 9, 2018
  • 12:30 – 13:50
  • Meeting at Coto Japanese Academy 1F
  • ¥1500
  • Hanakagura
  • upto 16 people
  • Staff: Mutsuki S.

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8/15 Wed: Cooking Class (Oshi-Zushi)

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There are many ways of preparing Japanese sushi and every month we organize a cooking class for you to learn more about it! This month we introduce the way to make 押し寿司 (Oshi-Zushi). Have fun learning how to cook with us and take up the challenge to create beautiful norimaki for the eye and delicious for your palate!

Book Appointment from Coubic

  • Date: Wednesday, Augst 15, 2018
  • 12:40 ~ 13:50
  • Venue: Coto Japanese Academy 1F
  • ¥2500 (including material fee)
  • upto 10 people
  • Instructor：Emiko Shimizu

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8/18 Sat: Beer Garden Party


What do you do in the summer to beat the heat? Come and enjoy our “Beer Garden Party” at Ginza Sky Beer Terrace! It will be a lot of fun and practice your Japanese!
Book Appointment from Coubic

  • Date: Saturday, August 18th
  • Time: 19:30 – 21:30
  • Meeting at 19:00 at Ginza Sky Beer Terrace
  • Address: Tokyo Kotsu Kaikan 2-10-1 Yurakucho Chiyoda Tokyo (Google Map)
  • Transport: 1 min walk from Yurakucho Station (JR Yamanote Line, JR Keihin Tohoku Line, Metro Yurakucho Line)
  • 5,000 yen (food and all-you-can-drink)
  • Up to 60 people maximum

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8/28 Tue: Japanese Sword Experience (Iaido)


A life-time opportunity to experience cutting with a real Japanese sword! Do you know Iaido?
Iaido is a Japanese martial art that “assumes” that you’re in front of a dangerous enemy. This martial art teaches you to be aware, capable of quickly drawing the sword and responding to a sudden attack along with the correct etiquette and postures to do it smoothly.
This kind of dojos rarely allows beginners to use a Japanese sword 真剣 (Shinken). Join us to hold and use a real traditional katana!
Book Appointment from Coubic

  • Date: Tuesday, August 28th
  • Time: 18:15-21:20
  • Meeting point: 18:15 at Coto Language Academy 3F or 19:00 at the dojo (Kanda / Jinbocho)
  • Fee: 5000 yen
  • Number of participants: 15
  • Staff: Kana Sumitani, Kaoru Michiya

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8/29 Wed: Caligraphy Class


If you are interested in learning how to draw each and every stroke in the Japanese Kanji character, this event is for you! Every month, Coto Japanese Academy will hold a calligraphy class. Learn the basics of calligraphy along with the artistic way of writing kanji, you will be practicing on three characters as shown below. The instructor, Wakana Shingae, is a professional calligrapher. Grab this opportunity to experience the traditions of Japan and participate in our calligraphy class!

KANJI of this month：祭　涼　夏

 
Book Appointment from Coubic

  • Date: Wednesday August 29, 2018
  • 12:40 – 13:50
  • Coto Language Academy 1F
  • ¥2500
  • upto 9 people
  • Instructor: Wakana Shingae

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This is an older post – to see our upcoming monthly events – click here

Monthly Events at Coto


Every month we hold cultural and social events for our students and their friends to discover more about Japanese culture, meet new friends and practice Japanese. We are looking forward to seeing you there!

Lunch Tour – 7/12
Cooking Class (Shikai-Maki) – 7/18
All you can drink! Sake Workshop – 7/21
Calligraphy Class 7/25
KENDO WORKSHOP 7/25

7/12 Thu: Lunch Tour in Kagurazaka Hanakagura


Every month, we organize a lunch tour at one of the many delicious restaurants in Kagurazaka area. This month, we’ll enjoy some delicious food at Hanakagura! If you want to join us make your reservation now!
Book Appointment from Coubic

  • Date: Thursday, July 12, 2018
  • 12:30 – 13:50
  • Meeting at Coto Academy 1F
  • ¥1500
  • Restaurant Hanakagura , 10min walk from Soto
  • Up to 16 people
  • Staff: Mutsuki S.

7/18 Wed: Cooking Class (Shikai-Maki)


There are many ways of preparing Japanese sushi and every month we organize a cooking class for you to learn more about it! This month we introduce the way to make 四海巻き (Shikai-Maki). Have fun learning how to cook with us and take up the challenge to create beautiful norimaki for the eye and delicious for your palate!
Book Appointment from Coubic

  • Date: Wednesday, July 18, 2018
  • 12:40 ~ 13:50
  • Venue: Coto Japanese Academy 1F
  • ¥2500 (including material fee)
  • Up to 10 people
  • Instructor：Emiko Shimizu

7/21 Thu: All You Can Drink! Japanese Sake Workshop


This month we will be holding a Japanese Sake Workshop to learn the basics of Japanese rice wine, in partnership with Nomel, a sake shop located in Kanda.
The workshop will begin with an introduction by Yamazaki san, the owner of Nomel and a specialist of sake, followed by a tasting session with 5 different types of Japanese sake. After the workshop, you are free to try more than 50 types of sake specially selected by the Nomel shop. Come join us for a great evening!
Book Appointment from Coubic

  • Date: Saturday, July 21
  • Time: 18:20 – 21:30
  • Meeting at Coto Japanese Academy 3F
  • Place: Shop: Nomel (https://sakenomel.jp/)
  • Fee: ¥4500
  • Details: Finger food will be provided (you can also bring your own food)
  • Limit: Up to 20 people
  • Instructor: Yamazaki (Nomel) /Michael(Coto student)
  • Attendant:Mariko Koide and Kana Sumitani (Coto Staff)

7/25 Wed: Calligraphy Class


If you are interested in learning how to draw each and every stroke in the Japanese Kanji character, this event is for you! Every month, Coto Academy will hold a calligraphy class. Learn the basics of calligraphy along with the artistic way of writing kanji, you will be practicing on three characters as shown below. The instructor, Wakana Shingae, is a professional calligrapher. Grab this opportunity to experience the traditions of Japan and participate in our calligraphy class!
KANJI of this month： 星 愛 海
Book Appointment from Coubic

  • Date: Wednesday July 25, 2018
  • 12:40 – 13:50
  • Coto Japanese Academy 1F
  • ¥2500
  • upto 9 people
  • Instructor: Wakana Shingae

7/25 Wed: KENDO WORKSHOP


First time in Coto cultural events. Kendo is traditional Japanese fencing which is modernized as athletic sports. At this event, you can learn history of Kendo, proper etiquette, basic of posture and swing. Please attend with comfortable clothes.
Book Appointment from Coubic

  • Date: 2018 July 25th (Wed)
  • Time:18:00~20:00
  • Meeting at Coto Japanese Academy 3F at 17:15
  • Place: Yakumo Gym (Meguro Persimon Hall), Toritsu Daigaku Station, Tokyu Toyoko Line.
  • Participants: Max 10 students
  • Fee: 1,000 yen (incl. rental bamboo sword)
  • Attendant: Miki Nakazawa(Coto instructor), Kimie Abo (Coto staff)

「そうだ 京都、行こう。」”Sou da Kyoto, ikou.”

(I know, Kyoto, let’s go there.)

Promoting Tourism?
What does そうだ (Souda) mean?
Examples of そうだ (Souda)

Promoting Tourism?

This sentence is the copy for a famous advertisement promoting tourism to Kyoto by the JR Tokaido Shinkansen (High Speed Bullet Train). (See an example of the advertisement above.) This same slogan and campaign had been running continuously since 1993.
Each year, before the season of cherry blossoms in Spring or Autumn leaves in Autumn, beautiful footage of the scenery in Kyoto is broadcast as a television commercial with a song called “My Favorite Things” as the ば. and large posters with the slogan are displayed at JR stations.

So this is one famous example of Sou da.
But how can we use the phrase sou da in daily communication?

What does そうだ (Souda) mean?

The “sou da” that most people typically learn at the beginner level could refer to the following –

  1. (looking at the sky) 「雨が降りそうだ。」 “Ame ga furisou da.” (It seems like it’s about to rain.)
  2. (listening to the weather report) 「雨が降るそうだ。」”Ame ga furu sou da.” (Apparently it’s going to rain.) …And so on.

Unfortunately, the “souda” in “Sou da Kyoto, ikou.” belongs to neither of these. This “Sou da”, however, is used when a good idea popped up in your head and can be used when there is a need to emphasize something.
(“Sou da” turns up nothing in the dictionary.)

Examples of そうだ (Souda)

Sou Da used in Sentences
「おなかがすいたなぁ。……そうだ！ 先週買ったカップラーメンを食べよう。」
“Onaka ga suita na. … Sou da! Senshuu katta kappu ra-men wo tabeyou.”
(I’m so hungry. …I know! I’ll eat the cup ramen I bought last week.)
「この日本語の宿題、難しいなぁ。どうしよう。……そうだ！ いっしょにアルバイトをしている木村さんに手伝ってもらおう。」
“Kono nihongo no shukudai, muzukashii naa. Doushiyou. …Sou da! Issho ni arubaito wo shiteiru Kimura-san ni tetsudatte moraou.”
(This Japanese homework is so difficult. What should I do? … I know! I’ll get Mr. Kimura, who I work part time with, to help me.)

Back to the Promotional Sentence…

「そうだ 京都、行こう。」 is a short line of text that only consists of ten characters, even with a comma and period. However, I’d imagine that many factors would have been taken into account before this slogan was being decided on.
For example, this slogan is neither
「そうだ、京都行こう。」 (I know, let’s go to Kyoto.)
nor
「そうだ！ 京都行こう！」(I know! Let’s go to Kyoto!).
When written horizontally, there is a little half-width space character in between 『そうだ』”Sou da” and 『京都』 “Kyoto.” Also, Kyoto is in the middle. It is then followed by a comma and 『行こう』”Ikou” (Let’s go).

◎ 「そうだ 京都、行こう。」”Sou da Kyoto, ikou.” (I know, Kyoto, let’s go there.)
⇒ Emphasizes on thinking of “Kyoto.”
△ 「そうだ、京都行こう。」 (I know, let’s go to Kyoto.)
⇒ Emphasizes on thinking of “going to Kyoto.”

When writing like this, it leaves behind a stronger impression of “Kyoto” in the reader’s mind.
Even when written vertically, it gets split into three lines. “Kyoto”, remains to be in the center of the graphic. Take a look at the example below.

(https://souda-kyoto.jp/)

Thus, there are times when Japanese is written not just with emphasis placed on word choice. Thought would also be put into thinking about how the reader would feel whilst reading the text.
For example, amongst the passages written in novels, the impression left on the reader changes. This depends on whether the same word is written in Kanji, Katakana or Hiragana.
(Example … “Hito” (Person): 『人』 『ヒト』 『ひと』)
While Japanese is difficult, don’t you think it’s interesting…?

About the Author: Mr. Matsumoto, was a junior high school Japanese teacher for 23 years before joining Coto Japanese Academy. Therefore, he is a Japanese language pro. He currently teaches Coto’s Intensive Courses (intermediate and advanced), Business Courses and the Part Time N1 grammar and reading classes. He is also involved in developing teaching materials at Coto.

Interested in Part-time Japanese Courses with flexible scheduling? 

Click the link below to find out more!

This is an older post – to see our upcoming monthly events – click here

Monthly Events at Coto

Japanese

Every month we hold cultural and social events for our students and their friends to discover more about Japanese culture, meet new friends and practice Japanese. We are looking forward to seeing you there!

Lunch Tour – 6/7
Cooking Class (Oshi-Zushi) – 6/13
Discover KABUKI 2018 – 6/15
Calligraphy Class – 6/20
Pera-Pera Active Learning Night – 6/23

6/7 Thu: Lunch Tour in Kagurazaka Hanakagura

hanakagura
Every month, we organize a lunch tour at one of the many delicious restaurants in Kagurazaka area. This month, we’ll enjoy some delicious food at Hanakagura! If you want to join us make your reservation now!
Book Appointment from Coubic

  • Date: Thursday, June 7, 2018
  • 12:30 – 13:50
  • Meeting at Coto Japanese Academy 1F
  • ¥1500
  • Hanakagura
  • upto 16 people
  • Staff: Mutsuki S.

6/13 Wed: Cooking Class (Oshi-Zushi)

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There are many ways of preparing Japanese sushi and every month we organize a cooking class for you to learn more about it! This month we introduce the way to make 押し寿司 (Oshi-Zushi). Have fun learning how to cook with us and take up the challenge to create beautiful norimaki for the eye and delicious for your palate!
Book Appointment from Coubic

  • Date: Wednesday, June 13, 2018
  • 12:40 ~ 13:50
  • Venue: Coto Japanese Academy 1F
  • ¥2500 (including material fee)
  • upto 10 people
  • Instructor：Emiko Shimizu

6/15 FRI: Discover KABUKI 2018

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Want to take a step towards understanding more about the Japanese culture? Let us all enjoy and appreciate a Kabuki performance in the National Theater! Watch the performance of a masterpiece depicting the various emotions of ordinary people in the Edo period from the first-floor seats!
PartⅠ: How to Appreciate KABUKI in English
PartⅡ: Experience the live performance of Kabuki “Renjishi”
Book Appointment from Coubic

  • Date: Friday, June 15, 2018
  • Time: 18:30-21:30
  • Venue:National Theater in Hanzomon
  • Meeting time: 18:00, At the entrance
  • Fee: 1st grade 4000 yen → 2500 yen ☆Special price for Coto members☆
  • In order for everyone to get the chance to participate, tickets are limited to 2 per person
  • Audio guide rental service is included. Available languages are Japanese, English, Chinese (Mandarin), Korean, Spanish and French!

6/20 Wed: Caligraphy Class

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If you are interested in learning how to draw each and every stroke in the Japanese Kanji character, this event is for you! Every month, Coto Japanese Academy will hold a calligraphy class. Learn the basics of calligraphy along with the artistic way of writing kanji, you will be practicing on three characters as shown below. The instructor, Wakana Shingae, is a professional calligrapher. Grab this opportunity to experience the traditions of Japan and participate in our calligraphy class!

KANJI of this month： 雨 蛙 楽

 
Book Appointment from Coubic

  • Date: Wednesday June 20, 2018
  • 12:40 – 13:50
  • Coto Language Academy 1F
  • ¥2500
  • upto 9 people
  • Instructor: Wakana Shingae

 

6/23 Sat: Pera-Pera Active Learning Night

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Have you heard of the Japanese word “Perapera” ? It is used to describe someone who speaks a language very well! Coto’s Pera Pera Party is the perfect time for you to have a go at conversation in Japanese. Get the chance to practice your speaking with 20 Japanese native speakers and to chat about many topics in Japanese. During English speaking time… it will be your turn to be a teacher!
Book Appointment from Coubic

  • Date: Saturday, June 23, 2018
  • 18:15 – 21:15
  • Place: Coto Japanese Academy 1F
  • Fee: 1500yen
  • Participants: Japanese Lerners 20 and Native Japanese Speakers 20

Here to celebrate all things gloriously green is Greenery Day (Midoro ni Hi, みどりの日), a Japanese national holiday celebrated annually on 4th May, dedicated to the joys of nature.

Is Greenery Day Just for Green Things?

Although it was Showa Emperor’s love of plants which sowed the first seeds of Greenery Day, the public holiday has become synonymous with appreciating all of Mother Nature’s wonders, which present themselves in limitless colours. In spite of this, Japan’s historical portrayal of the colour green bears more resemblance to blue…

The Fine Line Between Green and Blue

If we took the translation of みどりの日 (Midori no Hi) verbatim, we would probably come up with “Day of Green” or even “Green Day”. Interestingly though, green (midori) only gained “colour status” in its own right during the Heian period (794 AD). Before that, green was considered to fall within the colour range for blue.
An example of this would be the Japanese word for fresh greenery – aoba (青葉), which comprises of two kanji, 青 (ao)- blue and 葉 – leaves (ha – rendaku’d). Although midori is now the standard terminology, there are still traces of blue on the green lines.

Greenery Day (みどりの日): It’s Green and Blue
Greenery Day

The Origins of Greenery Day

Japan’s first Greenery Day took place less than 30 years ago on 29th April 1989. If you are already familiar with Japanese eras, emperors or events, then you may recognise 29th April as once being Tenno Tanjoubi (天皇誕生日) – the public holiday assigned to the reigning emperor’s birthday.
After Emperor Akihito succeeded Emperor Showa and ascended to the Chrysanthemum Throne, Tenno Tanjoubi was rightfully moved to his birthday. However, 29th April still remained a public holiday – with a new new name and new meaning – Greenery Day. It was only in 2007 that the government chose to formally separate Greenery Day from the Showa Emperor by renaming 29th April as Showa Day, and moving Greenery Day to 4th May, where it remains today.

How is Midori no Hi Celebrated?

Because Midori no Hi forms part of one of Japan’s three major holiday periods (Golden Week) many people take this opportunity to visit relatives. Hence, the level of green-activities on this day varies person-to-person. Nevertheless, specific customs can be enjoyed by those who are willing, to honour the intended “nature” of this day.
Commencing with a Greenery Day speech from Emperor Akihito, people convene across the country to plant trees. There are also colourful parades through larger cities, and people will often decorate the streets with paper lanterns. Other people prefer to keep it simple by visiting and appreciating an outdoor space near home.

How to Celebrate Greenery Day in/around Tokyo

    1. Visit a Japanese garden or zoo. Ueno zoo, Rikugien Garden, Hama Rikyu Garden, Jindai Botanical Gardens and more, offer free admission on Greenery Day.
    2. Visit Tokyo Tower. Tokyo Tower is illuminated with vibrant colours to celebrate the vibrancy of nature!
    3. Drink green. The first crop of green tea is harvested during Golden Week and it is said to be the best of the year. Why not visit a Japanese tea house to try some?
    4. Eat green. Eat a vegan or vegetarian meal (I can personally recommend HappyCow.net to help you find your nearest one). Or cook yourself a healthy plant based meal!
    5. Be greener. Greenery Day is about appreciating our planet, which also involves conserving it. Why not see if you can start to live a little greener by wasting less, buying less or walking more?

If you are interested in studying Japanese in Tokyo, find out more about our school by filling out the form below.

[contact-form-7 id=”12634″ title=”Inquiry Form_copy”]
Coto Japanese Academy is a unique Japanese Language School in Iidabashi Tokyo, we offer relaxed and fun conversational lessons for all levels of Japanese learner. Coto Japanese Academy prides itself on its community atmosphere and fun lessons that focus on creation of opportunities to speak and learn Japanese. If you are interested in studying Japanese in Tokyo – please visit our contact page here.

 

Showa Day (Shouwa no Hi, 昭和のひ) is a public holiday observed annually on 29th April. For those of us who aren’t familiar with Japanese eras, Shouwa no Hi may be better recognised as the start of Golden Week – a series of national holidays in Japan.

Officially speaking though, the purpose of Shouwa no Hi is to contemplate the profound events of the 20th century, or more specifically, the Showa era (1926-1989) which was governed by the late emperor, Hirohito.

Why Should We Reflect on the Showa Period?

Marcus Garvey once said that “A people without the knowledge of their past history, origin and culture is like a tree without roots.” Much of the 20th century was tough – not just for the people of Japan, but for many other nations too.

In the 63 years of Emperor Hirohito’s rule, Japan witnessed: devestation through the Second Sino-Japanese War and WWII, several attempted coup d’états, their first foreign occupation in history as well as the “Japanese economic miracle.” The hope is that by thinking about yesterday, we will learn for tomorrow.

Is this Holiday Somewhat Controversial?

Even 70 years later, the extent of Emperor Hirohito’s involvement in WWII is still debateable.

Some argue that the increased militarisation of Japan left the Showa Emperor with little power at all, whereas others claim that he supported Japan’s invasion of Manchuria and attack on Pearl Harbour – albeit reluctantly.

Whichever we choose to believe, the intentions of this holiday were supposed to be for the good – to encourage unity and peace.

Didn’t Showa Day Start as a Different Holiday?

The origins of Showa Day are relatively confusing because it is closely connected with two other holidays: The Emperor’s Birthday and Greenery Day.

The date of The Emperor’s Birthday changes when a new emperor ascends to the Chrysanthemum Throne, and it was from these new enthronements that both Showa Day and Greenery Day were born.

If you liken The Emperor’s Birthday to a tree trunk, then Showa Day and Greenery Day are like the branches. When Emperor Showa passed away, his birthday – 29th April – remained a public holiday but was re-established as Greenery Day (in honour of his love of nature).

Some time later, the government felt it was necessary to separate Greenery Day from the late Emperor and so 29th April became Showa Day, whilst Greenery Day moved to 4th May.

What Does the Japanese Word “Showa” Mean?

The kanji for “showa” are: 昭 (shou,しょう) meaning “shining” or “bright”, and 和 (wa, わ) which means “peace”. Putting them together makes “enlightened peace”.

How is Shouwa no Hi Celebrated?

The intention of Showa Day is for citizens of Japan to think about the Showa era, and as such, it doesn’t conform to the stereotypical style of celebration.

With 29th April indicating the start of Golden Week, many people across Japan leave their hectic city lives behind to reunite with their family and friends somewhere more peaceful.

For those of us who choose to remain in the cities though, there are often public lectures where we can learn more about the Showa Era and the history of WWII.

If you are interested in studying Japanese in Tokyo, find out more about our school by filling out the form below.

[contact-form-7 id=”12634″ title=”Inquiry Form_copy”]
Coto Japanese Academy is a unique Japanese Language School in Iidabashi Tokyo, we offer relaxed and fun conversational lessons for all levels of Japanese learner. Coto Japanese Academy prides itself on its community atmosphere and fun lessons that focus on creation of opportunities to speak and learn Japanese. If you are interested in studying Japanese in Tokyo – please visit our contact page here.

This is an older post – to see our upcoming monthly events – click here

Monthly Events at Coto

Every month we hold cultural and social events for our students and their friends to discover more about Japanese culture, meet new friends and practice Japanese. We are looking forward to seeing you there!

Events List

Lunch Tour – 5/10
Imperial Palace East Garden Tour – 5/12
Cooking Class – 5/16
Mt. Tsukuba Hike and Onsen Visit – 5/20
Calligraphy Class – 5/23

Thursday, May 10: Lunch Tour in Kagurazaka


Every month, we organize a lunch tour at one of the many delicious restaurants in Kagurazaka area. This time we’ll enjoy some delicious food at Torijaya! If you want to join us make your reservation now!
Book Appointment from Coubic
Date: Thursday, May 10
Time: 12:30 – 13:50
Meeting Point: Coto Academy 1st Floor
Price: ¥1500
Restaurant: 鳥茶屋 (torijaya)
Limit: Up to 20 people
Menu : Udonsuki
Staff : Ayaka M, M Sasaki
Back to Events List

Saturday, May 12 : Imperial Palace East Garden tour


Imperial Palace east garden tour – Transport yourself back in time 250 years when Tokyo was known as Edo. Explore the former site of Edo castle with a guide who can share the mindset and history of samurai culture
Book Appointment from Coubic
Date: Saturday, May 12
Time: 13:00-15:30
Meeting at Otemon gate (大手門前）, It’s near Palace Hotel
Fee: ¥1500
Tour guide : Kenta Fukuda  /  Coto Academy Staff: Mutsuki Sasaki
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Wednesday, May 16: Cooking class


There are many ways of preparing Japanese sushi and every month we organize a cooking class for you to learn more about it! This month we introduce the way to make 四海巻き (Shikaimaki). Have fun learning how to cook with us and take up the challenge to create beautiful norimaki for the eye and delicious for your palate!
Book Appointment from Coubic
Date: Wednesday, May 16
Time: 12:40 – 13:50
Location: Coto Academy 1st Floor Room 13
Price: ¥2500
Limit: Up to 10 people
Instructor: Emiko Shimizu (Coto teacher)
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Sunday, May 20: Mt. Tsukuba Hiking & Onsen -One-day bus tour

Every year in May and November, we hold our day trip bus tours.  This spring, we will be going to Mount Tsukuba in the prefecture of Ibaraki.
A long time ago, Mount Tsukuba was so admired that people often called it, the Mount Fuji equivalent of the east side.  The mountain has 2 peaks, called Nantaisan and Nyotaisan.  Since ancient times, it has been known as a mountain of faith.
The hike up the mountain is about 2 hours and the hike down is about 1 hour and half.  Let’s all climb Mount Tsukuba together!  The trek up Mount Tsukuba is a little bit challenging, so we recommend wearing sneakers or hiking boots.  After the hike, we will go relax in the onsen!  The perfect way to help heal our bodies after a difficult hike.
We will also sing karaoke both ways on our bus!
We hope you will be able to join us for this epic trip!

Book Appointment from Coubic
Date: Sunday, May 20
Time: 7:45 – 19:45    (Meeting at 7:45 at Coto Academy 1F )
Place: Mt. Tsukuba Ibaragi prefecture
Participation Fee: 6,500 yen (round trip private bus from Iidabashi, onsen entrance)
Limit: up 42 people
Staff: Ayaka M, Goyu S, Mutsuki S
B.Y.O.: lunch, rain jacket, sunglasses, hiking shoes (jogging shoes are also okay), mats and trash bags (trash can not be discarded and must be taken home) as well as towels for the onsen. Please note that tattooed people might not be able to enter the onsen.
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Tuesday, May 23: Calligraphy class


If you are interested in learning how to draw each and every stroke in the Japanese Kanji character, this event is for you! Every month, Coto Academy will hold a calligraphy class. Learn the basics of calligraphy along with the artistic way of writing kanji, you will be practicing on three characters as shown below. The instructor, Wakana Shingae, is a professional calligrapher. Grab this opportunity to experience the traditions of Japan and participate in our calligraphy class!
May’s kanji: 笑 光 虹
Book Appointment from Coubic
Day: Wednesday, May 23
Time: 12:40 – 13:50
Place: Coto Japanese Academy 1F Room 13
Fee: 2500 yen
Number of participants: up to 10 people
Instructor: Wakana Shingae

  Back to Events List

Tokyo Dome City (東京ドームシティ) & Koishikawa Korakuen Garden (小石川後楽園) are two major tourist destinations located a short 15 minute walk from Coto Japanese Academy – they are also accessible via train – 1 stop away on both the JR Chuo line and the Tokyo Metro Namboku Line.


The dome from which Tokyo dome city gets its name is home to the Yomiuri Giants – one of Japan’s Puro Yakyū (プロ野球) or Professional Baseball teams in Japan’s NPB league (Nippon Pro Baseball).
The dome itself operates as a concert and sporting event venue year round – hosting everything from Professional Wrestling shows to J-Pop music concerts.
If you are interested in buying baseball tickets – we recommend to book them online in advance through a brokerage service as it is hard to find tickets at the box office on game day – especially when they are having a game against their biggest rivals the Osaka Hanshin Tigers.
Tokyo L’Aqua Tokyo is a shopping and Onsen (温泉) Hot Spring complex that is part of Tokyo Dome city and contains 3 levels of shopping, restaurants, and rideable attractions. Nearby you can find everything from Batting Cages to Karaoke, as well as a Horse Track Betting Center.
The L’Aqua Spa and is unique for being an authentic hotspring in Downtown Tokyo – because It sources its bathwater from a hotspring located 1,700 meters below ground.  (That is a long way down to drill!)
It is also one of the most luxurious public baths in Tokyo and offers 3 floors of different baths, saunas, and amenities that will ensure a relaxing and entertaining afternoon or evening. If you are looking for a place to detox after a late night of bar hopping – they are open from 11:00 AM to 9:00 AM the following day.
With all of the variety – there is something for everyone here. Which makes it a must visit destination for anyone who would like a Japanese onsen experience without the pressure of a purely Japanese environment.

Nudity & Tattoos: Because this is a Japanese bath – you must be fully nude – swimsuits are not allowed. It is sex segregated and local regulars are used to seeing foreigners visit here – so even if it is your first time visiting a public bath – you have nothing to worry about.
The spa rules prohibit tattoos – there have been mixed reports of tattoos being okay (covered) and staff asking people to leave.
If you are feeling adventurous and want to risk it – Don Kihote or Donki for short which is located across the street sells tattoo covering kits for this very purpose.
Donkihote sells everything from electric bicycles to designer handbags, and has a grocery section that stocks many different types of Japanese sweets and drinks. Many people go here to stock up on Matcha flavored kit-kats.

This photo of Donkihote is courtesy of TripAdvisor
If you would like to ask for a tattoo covering kit you can say the following.
i.e. “すみません、タトゥーをカバーするためのテープ が ありますか?”  – Sumimasen, tato~ū o kabā suru tame no tēpu ga arimasu ka?
Excuse me do you have tattoo foundation tape?

Tokyo Dome Hotel (46 Stories!)

Between the amusement park, hotel, spa and the choice of internationally accessible restaurants (Shake Shack, Taco Bell, TGI Fridays, Bubba Gump Shrimp Company, Denny’s) – Tokyo Dome City is a go-to location for tourists staying in Tokyo.
The spa can be packed on weekends and during popular tourist seasons (Spring and Fall).  If you are planning on visiting the spa during peak times – we would recommend dedicating the day to it – as it may take time to experience all that you would like to.
Across the street from all of the activity, noise and entertainment options is the peacefully serene 小石川後楽園 – an oasis that could not be more of a polar opposite of the high tech and industrious looking complex across the street.

Koishikawa Korakuen is one of three remaining daimyō (大名) gardens left in Tokyo. (Daimyo were fuedal lords that amassed power and military strength through hereditary land holdings and acted as prefectural kings. Dai (大) means “large”, and myō stands for myōden (名田), which means private land in Japanese.)

The name Korakuen comes from a Chinese Poem that encourages a ruler to only take pleasure for himself/herself after they have completed their duty of providing a good life for their people. The name could be loosely translated as – “The garden of delayed gratification”.
The construction of Korakuen was initiated by Mito Yorifusa in 1629, and completed by his son, Mito Mitsukuni (A member of the Tokagawa clan generally known for his prominent early influence in Edo era politics.)
Popular in both spring during cherry blossom season and fall because of the autumn foliage – it can get packed – so we recommend going early during peak seasons. There are several maple trees planted along the main water pond that turn vibrant shades of red and orange.

The garden is filled with several types of local wildlife – including impressively large koi and sun bathing turtles. It is a great location to wander around on a sunny spring day with a friend – enjoying casual conversation as you stroll along the sun bathed foliage of the garden.
Entry to the garden costs 300 Yen and opening hours are from 9:00 to 5:00 P.M. (17:00) with entry being cut off at 4:30 P.M. (16:30)

Coto Japanese Academy is a Japanese Language School  located in Iidabashi – a 15 minute walk from both Tokyo Dome City & Koishikawa Korakuen.  If you are interested in our Part-Time courses – please click the link below.

Are you looking for Japanese Digital Marketing Vocabulary? Do you work in marketing or online content creation in Japan?  Maybe you are a designer – or a manager that has to work with a marketing team.  Whatever your reason – you may need to know some specific trade jargon in order to conduct business in Japan effectively.

Japanese Digital Marketing Vocabulary List
Flashcards
Example Sentences

One of the unique things about the Japanese language is that it has multiple writing systems for different types of words based on their origination – Katakana is primarily used to describe the pronunciation of loan words (borrowed from other languages) – and this is a huge advantage for us when we learn digitally related vocabulary in Japanese, because many of the concepts originate outside of Japan.
This means that many related words that we would like to know are written in Katakana – which makes them easy to read without memorization of Kanji – and easy to say due to similar pronunciation.
Here is a list of useful Japanese Digital Marketing Vocabulary – as well as flashcards to practice memorizing them.

  • コンテンツ (Kontentsu) – Content
  • コンテンツマーケティング (Kontentsu māketingu) – Content Marketing
  • デジタルメディア – (Dejitaru media) – Digital Media
  • ソーシャルメディア (Sōsharumedia) – Social Media
  • ユーチューブ (Yūchūbu) – Youtube
  • データ (Dēta) – Data
  • コンシューマー (Konshūmā) – Consumer
  • フォーカス (Fōkasu) – Focus
  • ブログ (Burogu) – Blog
  • オウンドメディア (Oundomedia) – Owned Media
  • ブランドの認知 (Burando no ninchi) – Brand Recognition
  • ウェビナー (U~ebinā) – Webinar
  • リスティング広告 (Risutingu kōkoku) – Listing Advertisements
  • ディスプレー広告 (Disupurē kōkoku) – Display Advertisements
  • 交通広告(Kōtsū kōkoku) – Transportation Advertising, Out Of House(OOH)
  • 従来の広告 (Jūrai no kōkoku) – Conventional Advertisement
  • SEO – SEO
  • eコマース (E komāsu) – Ecommerce
  • カスタマージャーニーマップ (Kasutamājānīmappu) – Customer Journey Map
  • アウトソーシング (Autosōshingu) – Outsourcing
  • オピニオンリーダー (Opinionrīdā) – Opinion Leader
  • ファイル (Fairu) – File / Computer File
  • リンク (Rinku) – Link
  • 戦略的 (Senryaku-teki) – Strategic
  • 更新頻度 (Kōshin hindo) – Update Frequency
  • 潜在的顧客 (Senzai-teki kokyaku) – Potential Customer
  • 機会損失 (Kikai Sonshitsu) – Opportunity Loss
  • 予算（Yosan) – Budget
  • 顧客のニーズ (Kokyaku no nīzu) – Customer Needs
  • 検索エンジン最適化 (Kensaku enjin saiteki-ka) – Search Engine Optimization
  • 検索エンジン (Kensaku enjin) – Search Engine
  • 企業の Facebook ページを運用する (Kigyō no feisubukku pēji o un’yō suru) – To operate a companies Facebook page
  • 顧客情報管理 (Kokyaku jōhō kanri) – (CRM) Customer Relationship Management
  • 人口統計 (Jinkō tōkei) – Demographic(s) *For use with ad placement and campaigns
  • 主要業績評価指標 (Shuyō gyōseki hyōka shihyō) – (KPI) Key Performance Indicator
  • 消費者（Shōhisha）- Consumer
  • 顧客満足度 (Kokyaku Manzoku do) – Customer Satisfaction, CS
  • 差別化 (Sabetsu-ka) – Differentiation
  • コモディティー化 (Komoditī-ka)  – Commoditization
  • 顧客価値 (Kokyaku kachi) – Customer Value
  • 経験価値 (Keiken kachi) – Customer Experience
  • 企業の社会的責任 (Kigyōnoshakaitekisekinin) – Corporate Social Responsibility(CSR)

 

Practice Japanese Digital Marketing Vocabulary with Flashcards

(Click the Japanese that corresponds to the English meaning Given)

Example Sentences

Some Example Sentences of Selected Vocabulary words in use:
戦略的 (Senryaku-teki) – Strategic
i.e. 戦略的にマーケティングを考える
Senryaku-teki ni maaketingu o kangaeru
To think about marketing strategically.
更新頻度 (Kōshin hindo) – Update Frequency
i.e. ブログの適切な更新頻度はありますか?
Burogu no tekisetsuna kōshin hindo wa arimasu ka?
Is there a proper update frequency for blogs?
潜在的顧客 (Senzai-teki kokyaku) – Potential Customer
i.e. 潜在的顧客を逃すのも機会損失の一つです
Senzai-teki kokyaku o nogasu no mo kikai sonshitsu no hitotsudesu
Missing potential customers is a type of opportunity loss
経験価値 (keiken kachi) – Customer Experience
i.e. 消費者は、製品やサービスだけではなく、経験価値を求めている。
Shōhisha wa, seihin ya sābisu dakede wa naku, keiken kachi o motomete iru.
Consumers are seeking not only products and services, but customer experience.
Need to learn more business and marketing related Japanese vocabulary? Check out our business courses below.

If you are interested in studying Japanese, find out more about our school by filling out the form below.

This is an older post – to see our upcoming monthly events – click here

Monthly Events at Coto

Every month we hold cultural and social events for our students and their friends to discover more about Japanese culture, meet new friends and practice Japanese. We are looking forward to seeing you there!

Events List

Hanami Party in Kitanomaru Park 4/1
Kagurazaka Lunch Tour 4/5
Cooking Class 4/11
Monikiri Workshop 4/18
Coto Imperial Palace Run 4/21
Calligraphy Workshop 4/25

Sunday, April 1: Ohanami party in Kitanomaru park

Coto Japanese Academy April Events Calendar 2018
Let’s enjoy the beginning of Spring together and have fun in Kitanomaru park, one of the most beautiful parks in Tokyo! Bring your own food and drinks to share a snack with Coto staff and students under the cherry blossoms. Games will be organized to even practice Japanese! Join us!
Book Appointment from Coubic
Attention:This is a pink clothes event- so make sure you are wearing something pink! 
Date: Sunday, April 1
Time: 11:00-16:00
Place: Kitanomaru park (8 min from station Kudanshita exit 2)
Fee: No fee, please bring your own food and drinks!
It might be a little bit cold, make sure to bring a jacket ! In accordance to the theme, let’s all wear something PINK for the day! It could anything from a backpack to your top.

Coto Japanese Academy is a unique Japanese Language School in Iidabashi Tokyo, we offer relaxed and fun conversational lessons for all levels of Japanese learner. Coto Japanese Academy prides itself on its community atmosphere and fun lessons that focus on creation of opportunities to speak and learn Japanese. If you are interested in studying Japanese in Tokyo – please visit our contact page here.

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Thursday, April 5: Lunch Tour

Coto Japanese Academy April Events Calendar 2018
Kagurazaka is an enchanting neighbourhood located 5 minutes from the Coto Japanese Academy, where you can find many shops, fancy cafés, traditional and modern restaurants. Every month, we organize a lunch tour at one of the many delicious restaurants in this area.
If you want to join us and discover Kagurazaka while enjoying some delicious food, make your reservation now!
Book Appointment from Coubic

  • Date: Thursday, April 5
  • Time: 12:30 – 13:50
  • Meeting Point: Coto Japanese Academy 1st Floor
  • Price: ¥1500
  • Restaurant: 花かぐら (Hanakagura)
  • Limit: Up to 16 people
  • Staff: Mutsuki S

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Wednesday, APRIL 11: Cooking Class

Coto Japanese Academy April Events Calendar 2018
Did you know that there are various different ways to make sushi? In this event, we will create an oshi-zushi design that is a real eye-pleaser. Once you’ve learned how to make it, it is easy to make this dish at home too. We can create interesting designs based on your ideas! We look forward to seeing you at this event.
Book Appointment from Coubic

  • Date: Wednesday, April 11
  • Time: 12:40 – 13:50
  • Place: Coto Japanese Academy 1st Floor
  • Price: ¥2500
  • Limit: Up to 10 people
  • Instructor: Emiko Shimizu (Coto teacher)

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Wednesday, April 18: Workshop Monkiri 紋切り体験 class


Monkiri もんきり is a type of Japanese paper cutting art – or kirigami 切り紙. It involves the cutting of a もん – 紋 – this is a type of Family Crest.  This type of paper cutting became a popular amusement called Monkiri Asobi (紋きり遊び) which was taught in schools to primary children all the way up until the late 1980’s. Let’s revive this fading art and have fun while enjoying Japanese culture!
Let’s make beautiful patterns and seasonal greeting cards!
For the official website and more details – https://www.xpl.jp/
Book Appointment from Coubic

  • Day: Wednesday, April 18
  • Time: 12:40 – 13:50
  • Place: Coto Japanese Academy 1F
  • Fee: 1500 yen -Special price !!! 
  • Number of participants: up to 15 people

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Saturday, April 21 : coto Imperial Palace Run

Coto Japanese Academy April Events Calendar 2018

Do you love to run? Are you new to running? Are you looking for an excuse to get some exercise and enjoy the nice scenery of the imperial palace during Cherry Blossom season? Whatever your reason may be – We will be hosting a casual running session on Saturday, April 21.
Showers and lockers are provided for a fee of 1,100 yen at Run Pit near Takebashi Station. If you would like to make other arrangements – feel free to join us in front of Run Pit and run for as long as you like – we will be doing one 5k lap and then people will have the option to leave or continue onwards.
Book Appointment from Coubic

  • Date: Saturday, April 21, 2018
  • Time:  9:30 – 11:00
  • Place: Meet in front of the entrance of Run Pit  Convenient Access from: Tokyo Metro Tozai Line Takebashi Station & Jimbocho Station on the Tokyo Metro Hanzomon, Shinjuku Line, Mita Line
  • Fee: FREE EVENT * RunPit Use of Showers / Locker : ¥1,100yen
  • Limit: Max 20 people
  • Distance: 5KM 1 Lap (Additional Distance Optional)
  • Staff: Sam B, Ayaka M, Mutsuki S

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us anytime!
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Wednesday, April 25: Calligraphy class

Coto Japanese Academy April Events Calendar 2018
If you are interested in learning how to draw each and every stroke in the Japanese Kanji character, this event is for you! Every month, Coto Japanese Academy will hold a calligraphy class. Learn the basics of calligraphy along with the artistic way of writing kanji, you will be practicing on three characters as shown below. The instructor, Wakana Shingae, is a professional calligrapher. Grab this opportunity to experience the traditions of Japan and participate in our calligraphy class!
February’s kanji: 花  輝  桜
Book Appointment from Coubic

  • Day: Wednesday, April 25
  • Time: 12:40 – 13:50
  • Place: Coto Japanese Academy 1F
  • Fee: 2500 yen
  • Number of participants: up to 10 people
  • Instructor: Wakana Shingae

Back to Events List

Coto Japanese Academy is a unique Japanese Language School in Iidabashi Tokyo, we offer relaxed and fun conversational lessons for all levels of Japanese learner. Coto Japanese Academy prides itself on its community atmosphere and fun lessons that focus on creation of opportunities to speak and learn Japanese. If you are interested in studying Japanese in Tokyo – please visit our contact page here.