Yoshuku（予祝）～ celebrate something before it even happens ～
☆ What is Yoshuku (予祝)? What if I told you there’s a tradition where people celebrate something before it even happens?In Japan, there’s a beautiful custom called Yoshuku (予祝) — …
Why Is Japan So Clean? I’ll Tell You The Secret.
Many people say, “Japan is so clean, you can’t find any trash on the road.” Do you want to know the secret? Of course, it’s important for the country’s garbage …
“Aha!” in Kanazawa
One winter day at the end of the year, I opened a door to an authentic oden restaurant in Kanazawa. “Irasshaimase! (Welcome!)” I received the staff members’ energetic greetings. This …
Personal Pronouns and Social Roles in Japanese
Learning a foreign language is always a challenge. However, in the process, we sometimes come to realize just how complex our native language can be. In this blog, I’d like …
ATTACK ON OITA
“Dedicate your heart” This is a very familiar phrase to anyone who knows the Japanese anime Attack on Titan. It tells the story of people who have escaped from a …
The Three Best Hidden Gems for Visiting in Tokyo!
Getting warm and balmy weather makes me want to get out of my apartment. In May, it’s a good time to hang out around the city. My wife and I …
A Laid-back Hanami Journey: A Half-day Casual Route in Asakusa!
You might be tired of a lot of tourists seeing cherry blossoms this season. There are a lot of crowds, especially in popular spots. Luckily, you can see sakuras here …
Huis Ten Bosch
Huis Ten Bosch, the largest theme park in Japan, is located in Sasebo City, Nagasaki Prefecture. It is designed to resemble a Dutch town and has a European vibe. You …
Cherry Blossoms Viewing Spots in Oita Prefecture Vol.3: The Ruins of Oka Castle
The cherry blossom viewing spot I will introduce this time is Oka Castle, which was said to be impregnable in Taketa City, Oita Prefecture. The stone walls are especially beautiful …
KANJI’S COLORS: LIFE IN PALETTE
Have you ever tried checking out a Japanese book and been attracted by kanji? One day, I spotted a kanji calligraphy hanging on the wall in an American couple’s living …