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## Posts

- [10 things must you know about Golden Week](https://howtojapan.net/2023/06/02/10-things-must-you-know-about-golden-week/) - This Golden Week, it’s been a while since I last saw many people enjoying traveling. It seems like it's getting back to normal for many people. I was glad to see many foreign tourists visiting Japan. So today I’m going to share my tips on this holiday for foreign guests. Let’s get started. 1. What
- [“Asagao Ichi” Festival, at Iriya, Tokyo](https://howtojapan.net/2023/05/29/asagao-ichi-festival-at-iriya-tokyo/) - The History of Asagao, Morning Glory, in Japan History shows that the plant “Asagao” (known as “morning glories” in English) was brought to Japan from China through the Envoy to Tang Yao (遣唐使) as a medical plant in the Nara Period (around 700 A.D.). Since this plant is relatively easy to take care of, it
- [Mini World Trip in Tokyo DisneySea](https://howtojapan.net/2022/03/28/mini-world-trip-in-tokyo-disneysea/) - ♪Disney Walt Disney ー There is no doubt that he is a world famous entertainer who created "Disney World." Disney films, music, musicals, goods and places related to them have been fascinating people around the world. Also, Disney's theme parks have had a great impact on the amusement park industry. Walt Disney first made his
- [Let’s Travel Back in Time With Chin-den to Sakai.](https://howtojapan.net/2023/05/25/lets-travel-back-in-time-with-chin-den-to-sakai/) - A streetcar leaves a station with a "ching-ching" sound. Osaka users who love these streetcars call them "chin-den.” (This is a short form of "chin-chin tram :ちんちん電車.") There are many sightseeing spots along the streetcar line, making it perfect for a leisurely and slow trip. These days, with convenience and efficiency, this retro and leisurely
- [Mini Getaway to Shizuoka In May!](https://howtojapan.net/2026/06/30/mini-getaway-to-shizuoka-in-may/) - For those who don’t know me, I really love IPA beers. These days, there are many micro breweries in Japan, even giant companies are selling IPA or craft beers at convenience stores. Whenever I visit local places, I get their local beers and stock up my fridge. This Golden Week, my wife and I decided
- [A Vending Machine That Chants Sutras — And Other Reasons to Love Kyoto](https://howtojapan.net/2026/06/02/a-vending-machine-that-chants-sutras-and-other-reasons-to-love-kyoto/) - There are tons of posts and blogs about Kyoto. To be honest, I avoided going there because of over-tourism, but I got a chance to visit there this time. Looking back, I lived in Osaka for 20 years, and I visited Kyoto many times. I loved the vibes of mixed historical sites and modern, simple
- [Shime Parfaits - End the Night with a Special Dessert](https://howtojapan.net/2026/05/28/shime-parfaits-end-the-night-with-a-special-dessert/) - In this article, I’d like to introduce shime parfaits, which is part of a relatively new food culture in Japan. If you’re a fan of sweet things, why don’t you finish off the night with a beautiful delicious parfait? Even if you don’t like them very much, you can still enjoy it because the taste
- [How to Enjoy Public Baths in Japan](https://howtojapan.net/2026/05/22/how-to-enjoy-public-baths-in-japan/) - ■Types of Public Baths in Japan Japan has several types of public bathing facilities. Each offers a slightly different experience. 1. Sento (Public Bathhouse) A sento is a traditional public bath used by local residents. It is usually simple and affordable, and does not use natural hot spring water. This was the only style of
- [The Yoyogi Park -What do you want to do here?-](https://howtojapan.net/2026/05/19/the-yoyogi-park-what-do-you-want-to-do-here/) - One thing I noticed since I started running is how beautiful the winter sky is. I used to hate the cold and gloomy winter weather, but running changed my perspective. Back then when I was in elementary and junior high school, I always wondered why the marathon competitions were held on cold winter days. I
- [Welcome to Enoshima island.（江ノ島）Each one may be small, but there are many little points of beauty there. Please enjoy!](https://howtojapan.net/2026/04/29/welcome-to-enoshima-island-（江ノ島）each-one-may-be-small-but-there-are-many-little-points-of-beauty-there-please-enjoy/) - Enoshima is a small island connected to the mainland by a long bridge.There are three shrines and a lighthouse at the top of the hill. In the past, people could only reach the island when the tide was low. It’s very similar to Mont Saint-Michel in France, isn’t it? As the island had been considered
- [Furikake — The Tiny Topping That Transforms Rice Amazingly!](https://howtojapan.net/2026/04/16/furikake-the-tiny-topping-that-transforms-rice-amazingly/) - Furikake (ふりかけ). It’s a magic powder to change your ordinary rice into amazing cuisine. When I was a kid, one of my dreams was filling up my stomach with furikake and rice. My mom would often point out not to eat too much because I sprinkled furikake too much on the rice. Furikake transforms your
- [Iroha Poem (いろはうた）](https://howtojapan.net/2026/03/25/iroha-poem-いろはうた）/) - If you are learning Japanese, you are probably familiar with the hiragana order that begins with “a i u e o.” However, have you ever heard of another order that starts with “i ro ha ni ho he to?” In fact, until the Meiji period (the mid-19th century), the “i ro ha” order was commonly
- [Chow Chow? Chau Chau! Unique Osaka-ben (Part 3)](https://howtojapan.net/2026/03/20/chow-chow-chau-chau/) - Have you ever heard someone from Osaka say “chau chau”? “Chau chau”??? It’s not a word you’ll find in Japanese textbooks. Translated into standard Japanese, “chau” corresponds to “chigau,” meaning “it’s wrong” in English. “Chau chau” repeats “chau” twice and is used when your conversation partner has said something incorrect, gently denying their opinion. For
- [Karaage: Japan’s Obsession with Perfect Fried Chicken](https://howtojapan.net/2026/03/14/karaage-japans-obsession-with-perfect-fried-chicken/) - Well, most Japanese love 唐揚 (karaage) so much, I’d say. Nowadays, you can get them everywhere, like restaurants, bento shops, izakaya, Convini (i.e., convenience stores), and grocery stores. At the homemade cook, that is one of the most favorite dishes, not only kids but also adults would name it if you asked them. So, today
- [What Messaging App Do You Use?](https://howtojapan.net/2026/03/10/what-messaging-app-do-you-use/) - TALK Talk is a main feature of LINE. You can send text messages to someone, like Messenger.There are two types of talk. One is a one on one chat, and the other is a group chat.You can easily imagine a one on one talk, but can you imagine a group chat?Group chat is a private
- [Hatsumode: Japan’s Magical New Year Shrine Visit Tradition](https://howtojapan.net/2026/02/25/hatsumode-japans-magical-new-year-shrine-visit-tradition/) - Every New Year comes, and when you ring in the New Year in Japan, hatsumode (初詣) is a must-do. It might be a good idea to wait in a long line at the famous shrine while listening to the New Year’s Bell. It sounds a little bit tough, but definitely rewarding. Or you could choose
- [The Art of Japanese Knives](https://howtojapan.net/2026/02/18/the-art-of-japanese-knives/) - What kind of kitchen knife do you usually use? Lately, I often see the knife shops in the tool district crowded with foreign tourists. Why have Japanese knives recently begun to attract attention from around the world? It can be said that the boom in delicate Japanese cuisine sparked the world's recognition of the excellence
- [Kimono in Modern Japan](https://howtojapan.net/2026/02/10/kimono-in-modern-japan/) - Occasions How do you feel when you see people wearing kimonos? As a kimono wearer, I always pay attention to the people who are wearing them. When I help someone dress up, I also feel excited. Kimonos have a long history and several kinds, but this time, I decided to omit the history and small
- [Nengajo: Japan’s Beautiful New Year’s Card Tradition](https://howtojapan.net/2026/01/16/nengajo-japans-beautiful-new-years-card-tradition/) - Do you know about “Nengajo (年賀状)”? It’s New Year’s greeting cards in Japan. It is safe to say that it’s one of the biggest headaches at the end of the year for Japanese people. Around Christmas holidays, Japanese people often say, “No, I haven’t written Nengajo yet…” It’s a kind of homework for us. Why
- [Roadside Station (Michi-no Eki ) Hota Elementary School and Hota Kindergarten](https://howtojapan.net/2025/12/31/roadside-station-michi-no-eki-hota-elementary-school-and-hota-kindergarten/) - Have you ever heard of “Roadside Station (Michi-no Eki)?”It was first established in 1990 in Un-nan City, Shimane Prefecture, as a rest area for drivers. The site was originally used as a place to put on and take off tire chains. As a matter of fact, it is said that the roadside station in Niigata
- [Beyond the Surface: Honne and Tatemae in Japanese Communication](https://howtojapan.net/2025/12/18/beyond-the-surface-honne-and-tatemae-in-japanese-communication/) - It is said that there is honne(本音) and tatemae(建前) in Japan, and it can confuse foreigners in conversation. One day, I was wondering if it was only in Japanese culture? Sure, I’ve heard it’s hard for foreigners to communicate with Japanese people because they don’t understand what Japanese people are really thinking in their minds.
- [One-of-a-Kind Treasure: Create Your Own Special Randoseru!](https://howtojapan.net/2025/03/04/one-of-a-kind-treasure-create-your-own-special-randoseru/) - The History of Leather Craft in Japan The history of leather craftsmanship in Japan dates back to the Nara period (around the 8th century). Leather was primarily used for samurai armor and horse gear. By the Edo period (17th–19th century), leather became more common in everyday items such as wallets and shoes. In the Meiji
- [Japanese Proverbs and Expressions](https://howtojapan.net/2025/11/29/japanese-proverbs-and-expressions/) - Imagine attending a class reunion and spotting someone you recognize, but you just can’t recall his name. Who is he? It’s on the tip of my tongue! This expression is common in English. Interestingly, in Japanese, the phrase is “It’s almost there in my throat” (のどまで出かかっている nodo made dekakatteiru). The meaning is the same, but
- [Sekigahara（関ケ原）](https://howtojapan.net/2025/11/20/__trashed/) - Do you know Sekigahara (関ケ原)? If you are Japanese, I think the answer would be “Yes” because the biggest battle in Japanese history took place here, and we learn about it in social studies in elementary school. Well then, have you ever been to Sekigahara? I guess not so many people have actually been there.
- [How to Slurp Food in Japan!](https://howtojapan.net/2025/11/12/how-to-slurp-food-in-japan/) - When you hear a slurping sound, how do you feel? Is it rude or uneducated? Or do you feel uncomfortable? When you visit ramen or soba restaurants in Japan for the first time, you might be surprised that Japanese people slurp. Today I’m going to share my opinion about this. Let’s dive in! Rude or
- [What messages will the EXPO 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan leave us with? Part 2](https://howtojapan.net/2025/10/29/what-messages-will-the-expo-2025-osaka-kansai-japan-leave-us-with-part-2/) - The EXPO 2025 in Osaka, Kansai, Japan, has concluded with great success.This is a continuation of Part 1. I wrote about the highlights of the EXPO 2025 in my previous article. In this section, I'll focus on the appeal of EXPO from a different point of view. Now, let's look back on the fascinating situation
- [Let’s Purikura!](https://howtojapan.net/2025/10/24/lets-purikura/) - Have you ever tried Purikura in Japan? If you haven’t, you’re missing one of the perks of visiting Japan! What is Purikura? And how to enjoy it? No worries! Let’s take a peek at one of the biggest parts of Japanese kawaii culture with me today! ♪What is Purikura? Purikura stands for Print Club (purinto
- [My Go-to Onigiri in Japan](https://howtojapan.net/2025/10/17/my-go-to-onigiri-in-japan/) - When it comes to Japanese food, onigiri is a very Japanese thing, I’d say. According to Wikipedia, it is called onigiri (おにぎり), omusubi (お結び), or nigirimeshi (握り飯). I usually call it onigiri. Nowadays, I’ve heard that onigiri is getting popular all over the world. For me, personally, onigiri is very convenient, and what is more,
- [From Kaomoji to Emoji: Japan’s Emotional Text Culture](https://howtojapan.net/2025/10/15/from-kaomoji-to-emoji-japans-emotional-text-culture/) - These days, emojis are used all over the world as if they’ve always been around.But did you know that they actually originated in Japan?And before emojis were born, Japan had its own unique culture called kaomoji. These text-based faces, made by combining symbols and characters, were widely used in emails and online communities to add
- [What message will the EXPO 2025 Osaka, Kansai, Japan, leave us?](https://howtojapan.net/2025/09/02/what-message-will-the-expo-2025-osaka-kansai-japan-leave-us/) - The Osaka World Exposition opened to the public on April 13th on the artificial island of Yumeshima. It is being held for six months and has 160 countries and regions attending. The theme of EXPO 2025 is "Designing Future Society for Our Lives" with the sub-themes: Saving Lives, Empowering Lives, and Connecting Lives. I'm so
- [Narita Taiko Festival（成田太鼓祭）](https://howtojapan.net/2025/09/02/narita-taiko-festival（成田太鼓祭り）/) - Every April, Narita Taiko Festival takes place over two days at the famous Naritasan Shinshoji Temple (成田山新勝寺) in Narita City, Chiba Prefecture. It is one of the top wadaiko (Japanese drum) festivals in Japan. A variety of about 60 groups from all over Japan, mainly from the Kanto area, gather here to perform. It started
- [How Amazing Gacha Gacha Is!](https://howtojapan.net/2025/09/02/how-amazing-gacha-gacha-is/) - Gacha Gacha(ガチャガチャ) means capsule toys in Japanese and has been around for nearly 60 years since it came to Japan. Now, you can see the vending machines of Gacha Gacha in many places. Have you already tried it? I’ll definitely recommend this experience if you ever come to Japan. It’s easy to feel Japanese subculture
- [What’s Japanese Gen Z Slang? — Clear, Simple Guides to Their Meanings and How to Use Them!!](https://howtojapan.net/2025/09/02/whats-japanese-gen-z-slang-clear-simple-guides-to-their-meanings-and-how-to-use-them/) - You’ve probably heard the term “Gen Z” at least once.The idea of “Gen Z” actually comes from “Generation X.” That name became popular thanks to Douglas Coupland’s book “Generation X” from the late ’60s. Just like how “X” means something unknown in math, “Generation X” was named because people weren’t really sure what defined that
- [Enjoy a Shopping Spree at Donki!](https://howtojapan.net/2025/07/31/enjoy-shopping-spree-at-donki/) - Do you want to go on a shopping spree somewhere when you visit Japan? It might be a good idea to go to upscale places like Ginza, Omotesando, Shinjuku, etc. Yeah, sounds like a plan, too! But sometimes, you might want to look for something unique about Japanese culture? Then, I’ll tell you a perfect
- [Why Is Japan So Clean? I’ll Tell You The Secret.](https://howtojapan.net/2025/06/30/why-is-japan-so-clean-ill-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 collection system. It’s really helpful to keep our daily lives clean and comfortable, thanks to diligent sanitation staff. Actually there is more to the secret
- [Yoshuku（予祝）～ celebrate something before it even happens ～](https://howtojapan.net/2025/06/30/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) — the act of celebrating future happiness or success as if it has already come true, believing that such positive energy helps make it a reality.
- ["Aha!" in Kanazawa](https://howtojapan.net/2025/06/30/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 is a story about Kanazawa, I learned there. To start with, let me order some oden.
- [Personal Pronouns and Social Roles in Japanese](https://howtojapan.net/2025/06/30/personal-pronouns-and-social-rolesin-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 to share some thoughts on the intricate ways Japanese speakers use personal pronouns, especially for referring to oneself and others, which can be quite confusing
- [ATTACK ON OITA](https://howtojapan.net/2025/06/16/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 world inhabited by Titans and are living within their walls only to be attacked by Titans once again and become embroiled in war. At the
- [The Three Best Hidden Gems for Visiting in Tokyo!](https://howtojapan.net/2025/06/03/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 went to watch a professional volleyball game for the first time. The game was amazing, plus I found there was a nice place where I
- [Huis Ten Bosch](https://howtojapan.net/2025/05/07/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 can enjoy exploring this park as if you were in the Netherlands. I’d like to show you the second day of our trip here in
- [A Laid-back Hanami Journey: A Half-day Casual Route in Asakusa!](https://howtojapan.net/2025/05/09/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 and there in Tokyo instead of visiting famous places. You can appreciate how sakuras are beautiful in ordinary parks. Today, I’m going to share my
- [KANJI’S COLORS: LIFE IN PALETTE](https://howtojapan.net/2025/05/07/kanjis-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 room, and it really got me thinking. Japanese is like a beautiful quilt, stitched together with different elements. Kanji and hiragana are the main pieces,
- [Cherry Blossoms Viewing Spots in Oita Prefecture Vol.3: The Ruins of Oka Castle](https://howtojapan.net/2025/05/07/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 and fascinating. Let’s check it out. Overview of Oka Castle Oka Castle in Taketa City (竹田市), located in the southwest of Oita Prefecture, is surrounded
- [道 - The Japanese spirit of “Dō”](https://howtojapan.net/2025/04/02/道-the-japanese-spirit-of-do/) - Do you like karate (空手、空手道) or judō (柔道)? Are you familiar with sadō (茶道), the tea ceremony, or kadō (華道), the art of flower arrangement? Many people have seen matches of kendo, judo, or karate and are familiar with these martial arts. Over time, they have gained recognition as popular sports worldwide. Watching them, I
- [Cherry Blossoms Viewing Spots in Oita Prefecture Vol.2: Ruins of Usuki Castle](https://howtojapan.net/2025/04/02/cherry-blossoms-viewing-spots-in-oita-prefecture-vol-2-ruins-of-usuki-castle/) - I believe that cherry blossoms, which have existed in Japan since ancient times, can be enjoyed in four stages: when they first begin to bloom and you can feel the budding of life, when they are at half-bloom, when expectations are rising, when they are in full bloom, a filled space spreads out in silence,
- [What an Amazing Curry Roux (カレーのルー)!](https://howtojapan.net/2025/04/02/what-an-amazing-curry-roux-カレーのルー/) - Have you ever noticed a specific area in Japanese grocery stores that sells many types of packages with pictures of curry and rice? That's a curry roux area. This is because Japanese people love "curry rice" so much. Many companies are pitching their special features to consumers. Today, I'm going to introduce why Japanese people
- [Visiting Nagasaki](https://howtojapan.net/2025/04/02/visiting-nagasaki/) - Nagasaki (長崎) is located in the southwest of Japan. It is an important port city and the capital of Nagasaki Prefecture. Its rich history, culture, and attractive locations around the city make Nagasaki one of Japan’s most fascinating travel destinations. In this article, I’d like to share my weekend trip to Nagasaki, during which I
- [Packed Like Sardines - In Japanese -](https://howtojapan.net/2025/04/02/packed-like-sardines-in-japanese/) - "I hate this train line! We're packed like sardines!!" My British coworker grumbled in the jam-packed train. Unfortunately, it happens a lot for us to become like sardines when we commute in Tokyo. Sardines???
- [How Amazing Cup Ramen Is!](https://howtojapan.net/2025/03/04/how-amazing-cup-ramen-is/) - There are a lot of places where instant cup noodles are sold, like convini, grocery stores, and supermarkets. Are you underrating this amazing food? This food can be not only emergency food, but also great souvenirs. Sometimes it might be fancy dinner. Today, I'm going to share how amazing cup ramen is. Let's go! A
- [Cherry Blossoms Viewing Spots in Oita Prefecture Vol.1: The Ruins of Hiji Castle](https://howtojapan.net/2025/03/04/cherry-blossoms-viewing-spots-in-oita-prefecture-vol-1-the-ruins-of-hiji-castle/) - Japan has many famous cherry blossom viewing spots at the ruins of castles from the Sengoku period. I feel like cherry blossoms are an indispensable part of a castle. The sight of the stately castle towering majestically among the pale pink cherry blossoms continues to fascinate us. So why are there so many famous cherry
- [Harvest season ～Rice～](https://howtojapan.net/2022/12/02/harvest-season-～rice～/) - New crop rice. We Japanese people love the sound of these words. Japanese people have been eating and living together with rice from time immemorial, and somehow we know since birth that shinmai is really delicious. Shinmai means rice that is harvested in the fall every year. When I see the sticker of “shinmai” on
- [[History of Japanese Swords] Funassyi as a Japanese Sword Enthusiast](https://howtojapan.net/2025/01/23/history-of-japanese-swords-funassyi-as-a-japanese-sword-enthusiast/) - This time, I would like to tell you about Funassyi as a Japanese sword enthusiast. As I mentioned before, he is a local mascot, the pear fairy in Funabashi City, Chiba Prefecture. First of all, I think I need to provide a brief summary of the history of Japanese swords. Around 300 AD, during the
- [Must go places in Kiyosumi-Shirakawa: Tokyo’s Hidden Gem](https://howtojapan.net/2025/01/23/must-go-places-in-kiyosumi-shirakawa-tokyos-hidden-gem/) - Kiyosumi-Shirakawa (清澄白川) is well known a place where Blue Bottle Coffee has opened in Japan for the first time. Aside from that, there are many places that you will agree find worth visiting. If you are a frequent traveler in Japan, you might want to visit here. I’m going to suggest a half-day walking route.
- [A Small Literary Boom of Self-Expression](https://howtojapan.net/2025/01/23/a-small-literary-boom-of-self-expression/) - Have you ever heard the word “ZINE?” The term “ZINE” comes from the word “magazine.” It’s said to have originated from “fanzines,” which were magazines that sci-fi fans used to create and distribute themselves. When you hear “magazine,” you might picture fashion or business publications. Those types of magazines target a general audience and often
- [Japanese Writing System](https://howtojapan.net/2025/01/23/japanese-writing-system/) - Learning a foreign language is a challenge for anyone. Japanese, in particular, has its own unique writing system, and the associated pronunciation and grammar rules can be a headache for Japanese language learners. In this blog, I want to help you learn Japanese by providing information on the differences between Japanese and English and their
- [♪Japanese phrase having a good ring♪ 〜Eh〜](https://howtojapan.net/2025/01/23/♪japanese-phrase-having-a-good-ring♪-〜eh〜/) - Welcome to the 5th edition of "Japanese language fun time!" Today, I will introduce the very short word, "Eh(え)." 1. Picture When you pronounce it briefly without intonating, it has a kanji letter 絵 (Eh), and it means a picture or a painting. ★★★★★ なんて素敵な絵！(Nante suteki na eh!) What a nice picture! ★★★★★ 2. Yes!
- [Fukui Part 2〜Local Specialties and Products](https://howtojapan.net/2025/01/08/fukui-part-2〜local-specialties-and-products/) - Hello, it's a pleasure to see you again. This will be a continuation of part 1.I would like to talk more about Fukui to you. In this section, I'll highlight the local specialties and products. Please accompany me as we discover the charm of Fukui. Local Specialties: The finest from the sea Fukui is well-known for
- [The Disappearing Japanese Culture “Nengajo”](https://howtojapan.net/2025/01/08/the-disappearing-japanese-culture-nengajo/) - One aspect of Japanese culture is on the verge of disappearing. In Japan, many people have traditionally written numerous letters toward the end of the year. These letters are not sent immediately; instead, they are all delivered on January 1st or later. Each letter carries New Year’s greetings, and this custom is known as “Nengajo.”
- [Waribashi～Disposable chopsticks~](https://howtojapan.net/2025/01/07/waribashi～disposable-chopsticks/) - If you have visited Japan, you have probably used waribashi: disposable chopsticks at places like restaurants, cafes and convenience stores. The culture of using chopsticks exists in many parts of Asia, but Japan has a unique chopstick culture, including the use of disposable chopsticks, or waribashi. Today, I’d like to talk specifically about waribashi. History
- [ORIGAMI JOURNEY](https://howtojapan.net/2025/01/08/origami-journey/) - I have received permission to publish the image of Sweet Lips from the Ochanomizu Origami Kaikan. Here is the link to The Ochanomizu Origami Kaikan (museum). At the International Airport: Imagine you are at an international airport. What if you are given a piece of charming paper with the words "Welcome to Japan" and were
- [Let’s Go To Mt. Takao!](https://howtojapan.net/2025/01/07/lets-go-to-mt-takao/) - To be honest, I’m not a big fan of hiking in the mountains. As opposed to me, my wife has been wanting to do it for many years. Finally, I agreed with her. I ended up going to Mt. Takao, 高尾山 (Takao-san). It’s really been a while since I last went hiking, maybe 20 years
- [Sanpo in Ghibli Park](https://howtojapan.net/2024/12/08/sanpo-in-ghibli-park/) - Animation is one of the most important aspects of Japanese culture in Japan. There are a number of animations, and some of them are very well-known around the world. Recently, ONE PIECE, MY HERO ACADEMIA, and Knights of the Zodiac were made into live-action movies. That’s how much Japanese animation has been drawing increasing attention.
- [Fujiidera City Part 3 〜City's ambassador enka singer Yuto Tatsumi (辰巳ゆうと)](https://howtojapan.net/2024/12/08/fujiidera-city-part-3-〜citys-ambassador-enka-singer-yuto-tatsumi-辰巳ゆうと/) - Hello, everyone. This is my third time writing about Fujiidera City. I would like many people to know how wonderful my hometown is. Today, I'll be introducing an enka singer, "Yuto Tatsumi," who is from Fujiidera City. His splendid works were recognized, and he was selected as the city's ambassador in 2022. You are interested
- [Welcoming the New Year: Japanese Greetings](https://howtojapan.net/2024/12/08/welcoming-the-new-year-japanese-greetings/) - It’s Already the Last Month of 2024! In no time, we’ve arrived at the final month of 2024. In English-speaking countries, people often say “Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!” starting around mid-December. How do Japanese people exchange during the New Year holiday season? Year-End Greeting: “Yoi otoshi wo omukae kudasai” If you were living
- [How To Enjoy Kaitenzushi](https://howtojapan.net/2024/12/08/how-to-enjoy-kaitenzushi/) - Kaitenzushi is really popular in Japan and many people like it. This is because you can eat fresh seafood and sushi at reasonable prices. Plus, it’s fun to see moving sushi in front of you. Today, I’m going to share how to enjoy Kaitenzushi, let’s get started. 1. What is Kaitenzushi(回転寿司)? When it comes to
- [Trip to Miyagi: Day 2-Matsushima-](https://howtojapan.net/2024/12/08/trip-to-miyagi-day-2-matsushima/) - Hello again, from Miyagi! I wrote about my exciting first day in Miyagi in my previous article. And it’s my second day here. ♪Day 2: Sendai→Matsushima ☆Go for a morning walk I started my Day 2 by taking a walk to enjoy more of Sendai, which is called Mori no Miyako (杜の都), the tree-clad city.
- [How to enjoy your time to the fullest in Fukui](https://howtojapan.net/2024/10/28/how-to-enjoy-your-time-to-the-fullest-in-fukui/) - Fukui Prefecture is a part of the Hokuriku Region, which is located along the Sea of Japan and is surrounded by mountains. The area has a long history and can be traced back to the Stone Age. Fukui has been thriving due to the creation of the Hokuriku Shinkansen, and the number of tourists is
- [Japanese Pop Culture](https://howtojapan.net/2024/08/27/japanese-pop-culture/) - There is currently a lot of noise in the media about Japan’s relative standing in the world declining in various ways. On the other hand there seems to be a huge Japanese boom happening around the world in some way. Is it good cuisine? The great service without a tip? Is it the variety of
- [[Japanese Pop Culture]大和魂と判官贔屓Yamato Spirit & Houganbiiki(Hanganbiiki)](https://howtojapan.net/2024/10/28/japanese-pop-culture大和魂と判官贔屓yamato-spirit-houganbiikihanganbiiki/) - A Bold Challenge This time let me talk about Japanese Pop culture through Funassyi. Before I tell you about this episode, I would like to talk about the core of his actions and the emotions that were generated in the hearts of those who were impressed by his actions. They can be described as Yamato
- [How to Enjoy Daiso!](https://howtojapan.net/2024/10/29/how-to-enjoy-daiso/) - First of all, you might know about Daiso (ダイソー), one of the most famous dollar stores in Japan. I often go there to buy daily necessities or find new things. Also, we usually call dollar stores “hyakkin” (100均) means that most items are sold JPY100 at the stores. Other than Daiso, Seria and Cando are
- [Ōyamazaki Villa Museum of Art (大山崎山荘美術館)](https://howtojapan.net/2024/10/28/oyamazaki-villa-museum-of-art-大山崎山荘美術館/) - Aren’t you intrigued by a Western-style house on the lower slope of Tenno-zan (天王山) (Tenno Mountain), blending in with nature in the south of Kyoto? This house used to be a villa built by a wealthy businessman, but now, it is open to the public as a museum with its surrounding gardens. I would like
- [Trip to Miyagi: Day1-Sendai-](https://howtojapan.net/2024/10/28/trip-to-miyagi-day1-sendai/) - During my summer break, I took a two-day trip to Miyagi Prefecture and visited Sendai and Matsushima. In this article, let me share my Day 1 in Sendai with you! Sendai is the capital city of Miyagi Prefecture, which is located in the northern part of the main island of Japan, facing the Pacific Ocean.
- [How to Cook Delicious Japanese Rice](https://howtojapan.net/2024/10/02/how-to-cook-delicious-japanese-rice/) - Hot summer is gone. The sky color has changed, the clouds have changed, and the wind has changed.Yes! The beautiful autumn is here!I was born and raised in Ikaruga in Nara Prefecture, where there is Horyuji Temple, which is the oldest wooden structure in the WORLD, and the first World Heritage site in Japan. When
- [Famous Spots for Viewing Autumn Leaves in Osaka](https://howtojapan.net/2024/10/28/famous-spots-for-viewing-autumn-leaves-in-osaka/) - The hot summer has gone and it's starting to feel like autumn here. Autumn in Japan has a comfortable climate and people enjoy many things such as traveling, playing sports and eating seasonal food. On top of that, they really love to see autumn leaves in various ways. You might imagine Osaka as an urban
- [10 Must-Buy Items at Donki](https://howtojapan.net/2024/10/02/10-must-buy-items-at-donki/) - Do you know of a supermarket that is one of the most exciting in Japan? Now, I swear, it’s Don Quixote. These iconic blue penguin stores are getting popular and there is one in my neighborhood. It has become my weekend routine to hang out there. One day my wife said, “ Hey, look at
- [A Unique Way of Climbing Mt. Fuji](https://howtojapan.net/2024/10/02/a-unique-way-of-climbing-mt-fuji/) - Hello again, Mt. Fuji! This is my third time climbing this popular mountain, but my goal this year is not to reach the summit. If you're planning to climb to the top of Mt. Fuji, please check out my past article! ★My past article★→Climbing Mt. Fuji -Fujinomiya route- ☆Mt. Hoei Did you know that Mt.
- [Japanese Pop Culture: Funassyi](https://howtojapan.net/2024/10/01/japanese-pop-culture-funassyi/) - There is currently a lot of noise in the media about Japan’s relative standing in the world declining in various ways. On the other hand there seems to be a huge Japanese boom happening around the world in some ways. Is it good cuisine? The great service without a tip? Is it the variety of
- [Three Best Bookstores in Kyoto](https://howtojapan.net/2024/08/27/three-best-bookstores-in-kyoto/) - Introduction What comes to mind when you hear the word KYOTO? Temples, Kimono, or Japanese traditional sweets? You are absolutely right! However, there is one more thing that makes your trip to Kyoto more fun. If you have a flexible schedule, you should go bookstores because there are some individual ones in Kyoto. In this
- [Enjoy Ashiyu with a beautiful view](https://howtojapan.net/2024/07/27/enjoy-ashiyu-with-a-beautiful-view/) - Have you ever heard of the Japanese word "ashiyu 足湯" that means footbath? Ashiyu are often available in hot spring facilities or at hot springs in hot spring resorts, but recently there are more and more places outside of hot spring resorts where you can enjoy them. After all, the appeal of ashiyu is that
- [Somen Delight: How to Enjoy Japan’s Delicious Summer Noodles](https://howtojapan.net/2024/09/02/somen-delight-how-to-enjoy-japans-delicious-summer-noodles/) - What kind of noodles would you like to try when you come to Japan? Ramen, udon, or perhaps soba? When asked about summer, many Japanese people would mention a food called somen (そうめん). While I’m not sure how familiar people from other countries are with it, today I’d like to talk about somen, a quintessential
- [How to enjoy soup curry](https://howtojapan.net/2024/08/27/how-to-enjoy-soup-curry/) - What food do you think of when it comes to Sapporo? As you know, there are many attractive meals such as miso-flavored ramen, Genghis Khan, and raw seafood on rice. If you have never eaten soup curry, which originated in Sapporo, I highly recommend trying it. Surprisingly, there are over two hundred soup curry restaurants
- [How To Enjoy Natsumatsuri](https://howtojapan.net/2024/09/02/how-to-enjoy-natsumatsuri/) - When you visit Japan, you might have seen a summer festival. It might be a famous one or a very local one. Right, Natsumatsuri (夏祭り) is a summer festival that takes place all over the Japan from summer to autumn. Today, I’m going to share some tips on how to enjoy it to the fullest.
- [Enjoying Yukata in Summer: A Guide to Rental Casual Kimono Services](https://howtojapan.net/2024/08/27/enjoying-yukata-in-summer-a-guide-to-rental-casual-kimono-services/) - Yukata, a popular and casual summer kimono, is something that many people want to try. Today, let's talk about rental services that make it easy to enjoy wearing a yukata. A Brief History of Yukata The yukata is a traditional Japanese summer garment. Its name comes from "yukatabira (湯帷子)," which was worn by nobles in
- [Ohagi & Botamochi, Japanese Seasonal Treats](https://howtojapan.net/2024/08/27/ohagi-botamochi-japanese-seasonal-treats/) - General Description of Ohagi and Botamochi Ohagi and Botamochi are traditional Japanese sweets made from glutinous rice covered with sweet red bean paste. These sweet rice balls are called different things depending on whether it is made in autumn or spring. During autumn, this sweet rice ball is called Ohagi (おはぎ) because it resembles the
- [What are your most nostalgic snacks?](https://howtojapan.net/2024/08/23/what-are-your-most-nostalgic-snacks/) - Hi, everyone! I’m Mikaze! Welcome back to my blog ! What are your memories of favorite snacks with important people in your life?For example, eating chocolate with cousins, candy or cookies with grandparents, fruits in the morning, etc…Today, I’ll share with you my memories of some snacks!This time my blog is shorter than usual, but
- [5 Things Japanese Cultural Differences in the Workplace](https://howtojapan.net/2024/07/27/5-things-japanese-cultural-differences-in-the-workplace/) - Each company has a unique culture as I’ve seen from working for a long time. Especially, from the perspective of foreigners, there might be weird culture in our workplace. There is a moment that you might have been confused. Today, I’m going to tell you about some unique customs. In case you might have to
- [Household Chores Unique to Japan](https://howtojapan.net/2024/07/27/household-chores-unique-to-japan/) - Do you like housework? Housework is an essential part of our lives, but the way we do it varies from country to country. In this article, I would like to introduce you to some of the unique ways of doing housework that are associated with the Japanese way of life. Of course, ways of doing
- [Kennin-ji Temple (建仁寺); Birthplace of Zen and Tea](https://howtojapan.net/2024/07/01/kennin-ji-temple-建仁寺-birthplace-of-zen-and-tea/) - While Kyoto boasts numerous temples, iconic sites like Kiyomizu-dera Temple and Golden Pavilion have huge crowds. However, nestled in Kyoto's downtown, Kennin-ji Temple stands as a serene oasis. Here, amidst the bustling streets, visitors can immerse themselves in the tranquility of this Zen temple. As you stroll south on Hanamikoji-dori, Gion’s main street renowned for
- [How to Enjoy a Themed Izakaya](https://howtojapan.net/2024/07/01/how-to-enjoy-a-themed-izakaya/) - Are you sure to drink at an elementary school? Of course, you’re not supposed to do that in general. Today, I’m going to share a place where you can feel like you’re students in a Japanese elementary school. There are many types of izakaya in Japan, and this place is a themed izakaya that offers
- [The Shinto Wedding Ceremony with Traditional Japanese Beauty](https://howtojapan.net/2024/07/01/the-shinto-wedding-ceremony-with-traditional-japanese-beauty/) - If you were to have a wedding ceremony in Japan, would you prefer to have a Western-style wedding ceremony wearing a wedding dress or a Japanese-style wedding wearing a kimono? I suppose you can't answer that without knowing what kind of kimono you would be wearing and how the ceremony would be conducted. So, I’d
- [The Hozuki Ichi Festival and the Arrival of Summer](https://howtojapan.net/2024/07/01/the-hozuki-ichi-festival-and-the-arrival-of-summer/) - The Hozuki Ichi festival is a traditional summer event held annually at the Sensoji Temple in Asakusa, Tokyo. This vibrant festival has been celebrated since the Edo period and takes place on the 9th and 10th of July. The color of hozuki (orange) has been believed to ward off evil spirits. Several beliefs and episodes
- [The Unique Curriculum at School in Japan](https://howtojapan.net/2024/07/01/the-unique-curriculum-at-school-in-japan/) - In Japan, school starts in April. Children between the ages of 6 and 12 attend elementary school. During these six years, children learn and develop a lot, both physically and mentally. This article focuses on the unique curriculum of Japanese elementary schools. In addition to the school buildings, most elementary schools have a playground, gymnasium,
- [When it comes to June…](https://howtojapan.net/2024/07/01/when-it-comes-to-june/) - When it comes to June, many people probably think of Japan as being hot and humid, which can be quite unpleasant. Yes, that’s correct. Since ancient times, the Japanese have lived in harmony with nature and weather. And that way of living has passed down till now and still remained in our daily traditions. With
- [Ghibli Museum](https://howtojapan.net/2024/07/01/ghibli-museum/) - "Studio Ghibli won the Palme d'Or award at the Cannes International Film Festival!!" In May 2024, just around the time I'm writing this article, the big news captured many people's hearts. A variety of Japanese anime works have attracted lots of people in the world. Among them, we cannot help but mention Ghibli. In Japan,
- [Umbrella Stories](https://howtojapan.net/2024/05/28/umbrella-stories/) - Do you like rainy days?I guess most people don't really like rain. Particularly in Japan, since it rains a lot throughout the year. It's common to commute to work or school by public transportation. However, nearly 50% of commuters depend on bicycles to get to the station. For that reason, umbrellas are a living necessity
- [Let’s Enjoy the Cool Air ~Stay Cool in Japan’s Humid Summer~](https://howtojapan.net/2021/07/02/lets-enjoy-the-cool-air-stay-cool-in-japans-humid-summer/) - Japanese people have lived with the heat in summer since the old days. Our ancestors have always thought about how to live close to nature, and in the summer, that is to endure the heat and humidity. They didn't have any technology and convenient appliances back then. However, Japanese people have always had rich senses
- [Wafugetsumei 和風月名　～Japanese names of months～](https://howtojapan.net/2024/05/28/wafugetsumei-和風月名　～japanese-names-of-months～/) - I've previously highlighted the beauty of the Japanese language in a few “How To Japan” articles. Yet, you can feel its richness everywhere in Japan. Though I hear less and less nowadays, there are traditional Japanese names for the months. I love the sound of each name. I believe many countries have their own name
- [What does “おつかれさま(Otsukaresama)” mean?](https://howtojapan.net/2024/05/28/what-does-おつかれさまotsukaresama-mean/) - In the previous article, I explained the phrase "よろしくお願いします (yoroshiku onegaishimasu)" . This time, I would like to talk about another frequently used term among Japanese people, one that you might find interesting and confusing: "おつかれさま (otsukaresama)". 1) Origin of the Word First, let's examine the origins of the term "おつかれさま (otsukaresama)." "お (O)" This is
- [Unique Way to Count Things in JapanPart Ⅱ ～ Vehicles～](https://howtojapan.net/2024/05/28/unique-way-to-count-things-in-japanpart-ⅱ-～-vehicles～/) - In my last article, I told you that there are more than 500 counter words, and about 100 of them are actually used in everyday life. However, I could only share some of them last time. Therefore, I’d like to share with you counter words this time, especially related to vehicles, which is commonly used
- [Strolling around Gion (祇園)](https://howtojapan.net/2022/04/20/strolling-around-gion-祇園/) - Gion, the entertainment district with the atmosphere of ancient Kyoto. You’ve seen pictures or movies of maiko walking briskly along a stone-paved path, haven’t you? We could say this is what Kyoto is all about. I’ll introduce how to stroll around Gion District after leaving Kiyomizudera Temple (清水寺) here. Please check out my other blog
- [Let’s Enjoy Kameido](https://howtojapan.net/2024/05/28/lets-enjoy-kameido/) - Let’s be honest, you might be a bit bored of visiting typical tourist spots in Japan. For beginners, they’re a good entry to know about Japan, I agree with that. Today, for those people who have come to Japan many times, I’ll introduce a bit of a deeper spot instead of such major, high-traffic places
- [♪Japanese phrase having a good ring♪～Yoshi～](https://howtojapan.net/2024/05/28/♪japanese-phrase-having-a-good-ring♪～yoshi～/) - Are you interested in an easy Japanese expression that fills you with positive vibes? I'm here for you! Welcome to “Japanese language fun time!” Yoshi! All right. Let's get started! “Yoshi (よし)” is a casual versatile word that you can say to yourself or others. Let me introduce some of the situations where you can
- [♪Japanese phrase having a good ring♪ ～Jyan～](https://howtojapan.net/2022/12/22/♪japanese-phrase-having-a-good-ring♪-～jyan～/) - “Ta-da!” Can you imagine how surprised and amazed I was when I first heard this English phrase? It was one of the moments that I felt learning foreign languages was so fun. As you know, this is the phrase you use when you show something to surprise someone, right? We Japanese people never say it
- [Experience Making Echizen Washi](https://howtojapan.net/2024/04/30/experience-making-echizen-washi/) - Hello. Are you interested in Washi (和紙)? Washi is traditional Japanese paper.I’ve been fascinated with Japanese traditional paper for a long time because paper is one of the important tools for my calligraphy which I write with my whole heart.In this article, I will describe my experience making Japanese traditional paper by hand. Where is
- [Color Names](https://howtojapan.net/2024/04/30/color-names/) - Hi everyone! I’m Mikaze.What color do you like?I like orange and light green. Probably, I like contrasting these colors! I’d like to introduce you to a Japanese color name that has been around for a long time.For instance, blue has many colors: light blue, deep blue, pale blue, etc. Have you heard the Japanese old blue
- [“Don'ts” You Should Know in Japan](https://howtojapan.net/2024/04/30/donts-you-should-know-in-japan/) - It doesn’t need to be said, but each country has a unique culture that you should respect. When you travel abroad, you have to be aware of the cultural differences. For me, whenever I travel abroad, I always learn the culture and taboos of the country where I’m going to travel in advance. I want
- [Wonderful FudePen 筆ペン (Brush Pens)](https://howtojapan.net/2024/04/30/wonderful-fudepen-筆ペン-brush-pens/) - When I was thinking about another cultural item to introduce to the world, one thing came to my mind! It is fudepen 筆ペン, a Japanese brush pen! Of course, Japanese calligraphy and brushes are well known to be amazing, but fudepen especially fits the modern times we live in in my opinion. So today, let
- [Nijo-jo Castle; Witness to the birth and demise of the Edo shogunate](https://howtojapan.net/2024/04/30/nijo-jo-castle-witness-to-the-birth-and-demise-of-the-edo-shogunate/) - Nijo-jo Castle is located on the west side of where Nijo Street meets Horikawa Street in Kyoto. It was built in 1603 by Tokugawa Ieyasu (1542-1616), the first shogun of the Edo shogunate. Its purpose was to serve as a protector of the Kyoto Imperial Palace where the emperor lived and as a lodging place
- [Recommended Parks to Visit in Osaka](https://howtojapan.net/2024/04/30/recommended-parks-to-visit-in-osaka/) - Osaka is an urban city, and there are a lot of sightseeing spots here and there. I imagine you would like to visit USJ or Kaiyukan Aquarium, but it doesn't hurt to spend time in a beautiful park.Today, I'll introduce some awesome parks to walk around in Osaka. Let's dive into it. Osaka Castle Park
- [MY favorite local areas and spots in FUKUOKA](https://howtojapan.net/2024/04/08/my-favorite-local-area-and-spot-in-fukuoka/) - Hi everyone! Have you ever been to Fukuoka? It’s in the western area of Japan. It takes 3 hours to fly from Fukuoka to Korea or Osaka.I have three favorite spots and areas to recommend, and if you read this article, you will definitely want to come on a trip here. 1. NAKASU It has different
- [What does “よろしくおねがいします(Yoroshiku onegaishimasu)” mean?](https://howtojapan.net/2024/04/13/what-does-よろしくおねがいしますyoroshiku-onegaishimasu-mean/) - If you've lived in Japan for even a short period, you've probably encountered the phrase "よろしくおねがいします (yoroshiku onegaishimasu)." Japanese people love this phrase, whether in work or private life. Grammatically, "よろしく(yoroshiku)" is a word attached when making a request or asking for a favor, while "お願い" (onegai) is a polite expression with the meaning of
- [The Colors of Takatsuki - Music and Carp Streamers](https://howtojapan.net/2024/04/16/the-colors-of-takatsuki-music-and-carp-streamers/) - Takatsuki is a city located just at the halfway point between Osaka and Kyoto. Conveniently, both JR and Hankyu express trains stop at it. Today, I’d like to introduce two cultural events held during “Golden Week” in Takatsuki. If you want to know about the historical aspect of Takatsuki, please check my previous article. Takatsuki
- [How Do You Free Yourself From Your Luggage When Traveling in Japan?](https://howtojapan.net/2024/04/13/how-do-you-free-yourself-from-your-luggage-when-traveling-in-japan/) - Would you like to know where to leave your luggage when traveling around Japan? It’s pretty annoying to carry around your luggage, isn’t it? Today, I’m going to share how to free yourself from your luggage. There are many coin lockers and cloak services in many places. Let’s get started. Coin Lockers Most stations, themed
- [How to walk around the Sapporo Snow Festival](https://howtojapan.net/2024/03/26/how-to-walk-around-the-sapporo-snow-festival/) - Do you know about the Sapporo Snow Festival? It is an annual festival which is held in February in Sapporo, which is located in the center of Hokkaido and has a lot of snow in winter. Today, I’ll introduce this festival and how to enjoy it. The Snow Festival is normally held in early February.
- [Unraveling the Unique Osaka-ben (Part 2)](https://howtojapan.net/2024/02/29/unraveling-the-unique-osaka-ben-part-2/) - Hello, everyone! In the previous article, I wrote about "-nen (ねん)" and "-yanen (やねん)," which correspond to the Osaka dialect's well-known sentence endings in standard Japanese for the present tense, such as "-yo (よ)" and "-nda (んだ)." This time, I'd like to talk about "-ten -(てん)," which is used for the past tense. 1. Review
- [Sakura: The Eternal Cycle of Beauty - Blossoms, Greens, and Renewal](https://howtojapan.net/2024/03/26/sakura-the-eternal-cycle-of-beauty-blossoms-greens-and-renewal/) - Cherry Blossom Rolled Cake made by minosuke* After a long, cold winter, under the blue sky, people walk while looking up at cherry trees. In the stores, there are various types of Japanese sweets and Western-style pastries with cherry blossoms or its leaves. If you feel the vibe in Japan, spring is just around the
- [Japanese Melon Pan](https://howtojapan.net/2024/03/26/japanese-melon-pan/) - What is Melon Pan? Japanese Melon Pan is a sweet bread pastry that originated in Japan. Despite its name, it doesn't usually contain melon flavor. Instead, it's characterized by its cookie crust that resembles the texture of a melon's skin. The inner bread is soft and fluffy, creating a delightful contrast with the crispy exterior.
- [Unique Train Stations Part 2](https://howtojapan.net/2024/03/28/unique-train-stations-part-2/) - Hello, it's great to see you again. This will be a continuation from part 1. In this section, I'll be introducing some more interesting stations and railways. Then, please accompany me as we discover more lovely stations to visit. All aboard! Stations that are close to Mt. Fuji When Japanese people talk about a magnificent
- [Let’s Collect the Special Stamps!! (Goshuin: 御朱印)](https://howtojapan.net/2021/03/14/lets-collect-the-special-stamps/) - Many Japanese people love collecting stamps and points that shops and restaurants give us when we buy something there. Do you know about the cards on which you can collect stamps or points? I think it's a very good system, because you can make good relationships with shop staff and you can buy anything using
- [My Year - from a tree -](https://howtojapan.net/2024/03/26/my-year-from-a-tree/) - Hi! I'm a tree. I live in a park in Japan. Here's my year-round diary. ♪April Excited and a bit nervous first graders with yellow hats and brand-new randoseru show it's the beginning of the new school year. ♪May Golden Week is one of the most enjoyable holidays with the perfect warm weather for many
- [What I do within 3-minute walk of the Ginza 4th Block's Intersection](https://howtojapan.net/2024/01/16/what-i-do-within-3-minute-walk-of-the-ginza-4th-blocks-intersection/) - If you plan to visit Tokyo for your next trip, you might come across the place “Ginza” in your search engine. Ginza has been one of the most elegant and luxurious spots and famous as a high-class shopping district in Tokyo. Ginza Yonchome intersection, or Ginza 4th block’s intersection, is well known as the most
- [How To Enjoy Yatai In Fukuoka](https://howtojapan.net/2024/03/05/how-to-enjoy-yatai-in-fukuoka/) - Today, I'm going to tell you about how to enjoy Yatai. What’s Yatai? They are stalls, the places where you can eat food outside. The traditional stall Japanese stall style has the lights that are shining on top of them. When you visit Fukuoka in Kyushu, it’s one of the bucket lists that you must
- [Fermented enzyme lemon syrup](https://howtojapan.net/2024/02/22/fermented-enzyme-lemon-syrup/) - Fermented foods are deeply permeated into daily life in Japan. There are many kinds, such as miso, natto, and pickled vegetables. I make my homemade miso every year, and I’ve been into making an enzyme syrup in the last several years. My father is a farmer, and he grows rice, vegetables, and some fruits. We
- [Auspicious Plants ー Pine, Bamboo, and Japanese Plum](https://howtojapan.net/2024/02/27/auspicious-plants-ー-pine-bamboo-and-japanese-plum/) - Are you familiar with these three Japanese plants 松 (matsu), 竹 (take), and 梅 (ume)? These are pine, bamboo, and Japanese plum respectively. Japanese people often refer to them altogether as 松竹梅 (shou-chiku-bai), a combination symbolizing longevity, vitality, and grace. In this article, I would like to share with you some interesting meanings related to
- [Japanese Hayashi Rice](https://howtojapan.net/2024/02/22/japanese-hayashi-rice/) - Hayashi Rice is a popular and comforting dish in Japanese cuisine. It is a Western-style dish with Japanese adaptations, typically featuring a thick, flavorful beef and onion stew served over rice. Generally speaking, it is recognized by its dark brown sauce with rice. However, the true origins of Hayashi Rice are not confirmed… There are
- [Unique Train Stations in Japan](https://howtojapan.net/2024/02/19/unique-train-stations-in-japan/) - Traveling is one of the most enjoyable things in one's lifetime. What do you enjoy doing during your trip? Could it be sightseeing, food, an attraction, or simply meeting someone? Public transportation is well developed in Japan, so it is easy to travel without a car. Today, I'll introduce some unique train stations which may
- [How to take up a boxed lunch lifestyle](https://howtojapan.net/2021/02/12/how-to-take-up-a-boxed-lunch-lifestyle/) - Why boxed lunch? Have you seen a Japanese boxed lunch called a “bento” ? Many Japanese bring their boxed lunches to school and the office. If you took up a boxed lunch lifestyle, your daily life would be more wonderful! Are you working from home? I guess it’s for you too! Do you think it’s
- [Unique Way to Count Things in Japanese](https://howtojapan.net/2024/01/30/unique-way-to-count-things-in-japanese/) - How do you count in English? In English, you can add "One, two, three, four…" in front of the object for most things, except for some peculiar circumstances when wanting to count uncountable nouns, such as “one piece of～“”a pair of～“, etc. However, in Japanese, you need to use counter words (助数詞) when you count
- [How to Enjoy Tsukiji Outer Market](https://howtojapan.net/2024/02/08/how-to-enjoy-tsukiji-outer-market/) - Tsukiji Outer Market is known as “Tsukiji Jogai Shijyo (築地場外市場). Shijyo (市場) means market. The market have been transferred to Toyosu (豊洲) in 2018. Even now, there are a lot of professional stores out of the market where many tourists visit to see. You mustn't miss this market if you have time for a half
- [How To Enjoy Nebuta Festival, Summer Festival in Aomori](https://howtojapan.net/2024/01/30/how-to-enjoy-nebuta-festival-summer-festival-in-aomori/) - Have you ever participated in a summer festival in Japan? I will introduce one of Japan's most passionate summer festivals, which you can even participate in, Aomori Nebuta Festival. What is Nebuta (ねぶた)? A Nebuta is a human-shaped float. The large ones are nine meters wide, seven meters deep, five meters high, and weigh four
- [Why do Japanese people…?"Putting your palms together: 手を合わせる＝合掌"What does it mean in Japan?](https://howtojapan.net/2024/01/26/why-do-japanese-peopleputting-your-palms-together-手を合わせる＝合掌what-does-it-mean-in-japan/) - In situations where we Japanese say “Itadakimasu: いただきます," “arigatou: ありがとう,” and “gomennasai: ごめんなさい,” we put our hands together. That is a custom not only in Japan, but also over Asia. But what does it mean to have our hands together, particularly for Japanese people? Today I’ll share about “gasshou: 合掌,” which in Japanese means “putting
- [Discover Teatopia Wazuka (和束), the Hidden Gem of Kyoto!](https://howtojapan.net/2024/01/15/discover-teatopia-wazuka-和束-the-hidden-gem-of-kyoto/) - Do you see the serene and artistic beauty of these tea fields? This is Wazuka, a small town in the southern part of Kyoto Prefecture, which is renowned for its Uji tea production. Wazuka is home to hundreds of tea plantations, which cover the town's hillsides and valleys. This scenic landscape of the tea fields
- [Bridging Tradition and Next Generation - Revival Sake from Ibaraki, Osaka](https://howtojapan.net/2024/01/12/bridging-tradition-and-next-generation-revival-sake-from-ibaraki-osaka/) - When it comes to sake in the Kansai area, places like Nada in Hyogo and Fushimi in Kyoto are well-known, but did you know that the sake brewing in Ibaraki City, Osaka has a history of over 400 years? In the Edo period (1603-1868), alongside Tonda, Ikeda, and Itami, Ibaraki was recognized as a sake-producing
- [Kitsune (Fox)? Tanuki (Raccoon dog)? 〜Tokyo vs. Osaka～](https://howtojapan.net/2022/12/03/kitsune-fox-tanuki-raccoon-dog-〜tokyo-vs-osaka～/) - Hi! I’m Rei. I’m in Tokyo. One day, I was talking with my best friend Chisato who lives in Osaka. Rei: It’s getting colder, isn’t it? Winter is just around the corner!Chisato: Yeah! I feel like eating hot udon today.Rei: Right! Or soba! They make us warm!Chisato: Exactly! We can eat Kitsune or Tanuki easily
- [Ryu 龍 (Dragons)](https://howtojapan.net/2023/12/21/ryu-龍-dragons/) - Hello. Do you know what the zodiac animal will be in 2024? 2024 is the year of Ryu 龍 (dragons). In Japan, the twelve Chinese zodiac signs are called Junishi, 十二支 (じゅうにし) where one of the twelve animals is responsible for each year. Also, foreign tourists have often asked me why dragons are here and
- [How to Enjoy New Year’s Holiday (お正月) in Japan](https://howtojapan.net/2023/12/30/how-to-enjoy-new-years-holiday-お正月-in-japan/) - Starting the day after Christmas, there is going to be Kadomatsu (門松) and Shimenawa ( しめ縄) here and there. You can see many stuff for New Year’s at convinis and grocery stores. You feel the holiday spirit. People try to finish their work until the end of the year with a final push. Today, I
- ["Have a seat!" in Ginza](https://howtojapan.net/2022/01/26/have-a-seat-in-ginza/) - ☆Welcome to Ginza! Ginza is one of the big, bustling and lively areas in Tokyo. It is famous for having the most expensive land as well. If you get a chance to visit there, what do you want to do? You can find plenty of fancy restaurants there. Would you like to experience the cuisine
- [Let’s eat eeeeels! 〜Tokyo vs. Osaka～](https://howtojapan.net/2023/07/24/lets-eat-eeeeels-〜tokyo-vs-osaka～/) - Hi! I’m Rei. I’m in Tokyo. The other day, I was talking with my best friend Chisato, who lives in Osaka. ★★★★★Rei: It’s hot and muggy, isn’t it? I’m going to melt!! Chisato: Yeah! It’s scorching hot. How can we survive? Rei: Hmm…we need to build up stamina by eating something… Chisato & Rei: Unagi!!
- [Minoh Park (箕面公園)](https://howtojapan.net/2023/12/30/minoh-park-箕面公園/) - Have you ever heard of Minoh City? It's located in the northern part of Osaka Prefecture and is surrounded by an abundance of nature. Today, I'll introduce Minoh Park, which is recognized as one of the top "100 Spots For Forest Bathing," used in the figurative sense. You can enjoy the famous waterfall, the temples,
- [Japanese Experiences in Temples](https://howtojapan.net/2023/12/26/japanese-experiences-in-temples/) - Welcome to my new blog post about Japanese experiences. Many HTJ writers have posted pictures of various shrines and temples and explanations of them in wonderful articles. I had the idea to attend some about Buddhist rituals. The rituals I attended are called Zazen “坐禅” and Syakyo “写経”. Some temples allow guests to do them.
- [The Yodo River](https://howtojapan.net/2023/12/26/the-yodo-river/) - The Yodo River (淀川) originates in Lake Biwa (琵琶湖), the largest lake in Japan, and is called the Seta River (瀬田川) in its upper reaches and the Uji River (宇治川) in the middle. After joining the Katsura River (桂川) and the Kizu River (木津川) at the Kyoto-Osaka border, it becomes the Yodo River and flows
- [Weekend Trip to Kanazawa in Autumn](https://howtojapan.net/2023/12/06/weekend-trip-to-kanazawa-in-autumn/) - I’m ashamed to say that I haven’t known much about Kanazawa until recently. Thanks to new transportation, you can get there from Tokyo within three hours by Shinkansen now. So if you visit Tokyo, you can go to Kanazawa too. There are many tourist spots like historical sites, seafood markets, and beautiful parks. Today I’m
- [Unraveling the Unique Osaka-ben (Part 1)](https://howtojapan.net/2023/12/08/unraveling-the-unique-osaka-ben-part-1/) - Japan has many different dialects. One reason for this is that words originated in the capital or cultural centers and spread to the regions through transmission. This happened because the method of language transmission at that time was mainly on foot. As a result, words lost in the capital took root and were adopted in
- [Japanese seasonal beautiful words ~Autumn~](https://howtojapan.net/2023/11/27/japanese-seasonal-beautiful-words-autumn/) - Do you know what the shortest form of poetry in the world is? It is the haiku, a three-line poem of only 17 syllables (5-7-5) that describes a natural scene or a scene from daily life. It usually includes one seasonal word called “Kigo” (季語). Currently, there are more than 5,000 seasonal words. Seasonal words
- [The Beauty of Miso’s Mix of Old and New ; Hatcho Miso (八丁味噌)](https://howtojapan.net/2023/11/27/the-beauty-of-misos-mix-of-old-and-new-hatcho-miso-八丁味噌/) - What’s miso? Miso is the traditional Japanese fermented condiment made of soybeans, water, and koji mold. The way of making it is not rocket science, so you can make it from scratch by yourself even at home. Therefore, I introduced you to how to make homemade miso in my previous article on this site. I’d
- [Sumimasen Culture in Japan](https://howtojapan.net/2023/11/27/sumimasen-culture-in-japan/) - Have you often heard or been called “sumimasen すみません” in public places or stores? When you’ve heard the word "sumimasen" as an apology, did you wonder, “Why do Japanese people always apologize by saying, “sumimasen.” “ Why do Japanese people apologize in such situations?” This word is one of the most commonly used by many
- [The Essence of Kyoto: Yasaka Shrine (八坂神社) and Its Surroundings](https://howtojapan.net/2023/11/21/the-essence-of-kyoto-yasaka-shrine-八坂神社-and-its-surroundings/) - This is the West Gate of Yasaka Shrine. This beautiful gate stands at the east end of Shijo Street, which runs through the center of Kyoto. Actually, this West Gate is not the main gate. If you are going to visit Yasaka Shrine, it is still better to visit from the main gate, the South
- [Climbing Mt. Fuji -Fujinomiya route-](https://howtojapan.net/2023/09/19/climbing-mt-fuji-fujinomiya-route/) - In August, 2023, I climbed Mt. Fuji, and this is my record. If climbing Mt. Fuji is on your bucket list, I hope this article will help you. ☆Who am I? Office worker in my 40s Have climbed to the top of Mt. Fuji once when I was 20 Not so much exercising regularly Like
- [♪Japanese Phrase Having a Good Ring♪ 〜Ton〜](https://howtojapan.net/2023/11/27/♪japanese-phrase-having-a-good-ring♪-〜ton〜/) - ♪Ton, Ton, Ton♪ Welcome to the third edition of “Japanese language fun time!” Today’s sound is ”Ton(とん/トン)!" First of all, it has nothing to do with a big amount of something. I’m going to introduce some situations where this sound is used in Japan. Imagine each situation and bend your ear! Situation1: Cutting green onions
- [“Osechi,” Traditional Japanese New Year’s Dishes](https://howtojapan.net/2021/09/26/osechi-traditional-japanese-new-years-dishes/) - In Japan, we celebrate various events throughout the year. For each event, there is a custom to eat a particular food or dish. It is often a traditional dish that has been around for a long time. One of the most important holidays of the year for Japanese people is New Year’s Day, Oshogatsu（お正月). Today,
- [What Is Kotteri?](https://howtojapan.net/2023/11/01/what-is-kotteri/) - Kotteri (こってり) means “rich and condensed taste” in Japanese. However, among ramen lovers, the taste that crosses their minds when they hear “kotteri” would be a ramen by Tenka Ippin (天下一品). Tenka Ippin is well known as one of the most famous chain restaurants, and it was established in Kyoto. Now, they have their restaurants
- [Exploring Nature on My Favorite Island: Shishijima Island](https://howtojapan.net/2023/11/01/exploring-nature-on-my-favorite-island-shishijima-island/) - Welcome to my first blog Hello, and nice to meet you! I want to talk about the nature of my favorite island. This island in the Seto Inland Sea is situated about 6 kilometers from a port in Takuma city in the west of Kagawa prefecture. The circumference is 3.8 kilometers. When I visited for
- [Dohade Osaka Downtown, SHINSEKAI](https://howtojapan.net/2023/10/24/dohade-osaka-downtown-shinsekai/) - If you come to Japan, Osaka is the place to be. You will not be able to resist but will fall in love with Osaka when you meet the friendly, fun-loving people and enjoy the lively town and delicious food. And if you want to experience the atmosphere of Osaka up to the hilt, Shinsekai
- [Do You Have the Disaster Risk Management Capacity?](https://howtojapan.net/2023/10/24/do-you-have-the-disaster-risk-management-capacity/) - As you know, in recent years, the frequency and intensity of disasters, heat waves, torrential rains, wildfires, etc., are on the rise worldwide due to climate change. In addition, there have been reports of earthquake damage not only in Japan but also in other parts of the world. Do you think you will never encounter
- [What to See, Do, and Eat in Kyoto Tower!](https://howtojapan.net/2023/09/19/what-to-see-do-and-eat-in-kyoto-tower/) - Kyoto Tower: the iconic landmark of Kyoto that stands right in front of Kyoto Station. Can you guess what inspired its design? You might think it resembles a candle since Kyoto is famous for its many temples, but that's not the case. Kyoto Tower, which can be seen from far away, is meant to symbolize
- [Japanese Traditions in November](https://howtojapan.net/2023/10/25/japanese-traditions-in-november/) - Welcome to my new blog post about Japanese lifestyle and traditions in November. Speaking of November, shichi-go-san”七五三” is a famous event in Japan. It is the ceremony for 7-year-old girls, 5-year-old boys, and 3-year-old girls and boys. Shichi means “seven,” go means “five,” and san means “three.” We tend to put our kids in Japanese
- [Let's enjoy Hato Bus!](https://howtojapan.net/2023/10/19/lets-enjoy-hato-bus/) - Welcome to Tokyo! Is it your first visit to Tokyo? Are you on a business trip? Do you have a half-day off? If you want to use your pocket of time and visit some major spots in Tokyo, the English Hato Bus tour is right up your alley! The trained English tour guide will help
- [Japanese Lifestyle ― Sitting on the Floor](https://howtojapan.net/2023/10/24/japanese-lifestyle-―-sitting-on-the-floor/) - The Japanese lifestyle of taking off one’s shoes and sitting on the floor cannot be described without mentioning tatami. The widespread use of tatami plays an important role in the Japanese lifestyle. In this article, I would like to dive into the Japanese culture related to tatami. History of Tatami Tatami is a unique architectural
- [What is a Japanese university entrance exam like?](https://howtojapan.net/2023/10/06/what-is-a-japanese-university-entrance-exam-like/) - In Japan, the university enrollment rate exceeds 56.6%. This means that one out of every two individuals attends a university, so universities are familiar to Japanese. However, the process of "entrance exams" for university admission is an extremely challenging ordeal. In Japan, it's not uncommon for people to say, "It's more difficult to get into
- [Fruit Kingdom of Japan Part 2: From Autumn to Winter](https://howtojapan.net/2023/10/24/fruit-kingdom-of-japan-part-2-from-autumn-to-winter/) - The long summer has finally come to an end and autumn is here now. Autumn in Japan has a comfortable climate and people enjoy things such as traveling, sports and viewing art. On top of that, we can enjoy autumn fruit or sweets made of seasonal ingredients. Today, I'll introduce some common types of fruit
- [How Amazing Gyoza Is In Japan](https://howtojapan.net/2023/09/26/how-amazing-gyoza-is-in-japan/) - Since my wife and I work until late, we often eat gyoza (餃子) as a simple dinner. Then, we were talking about how amazingly developed frozen gyoza did compared to the ones before. So, today I’m going to talk about frozen gyoza in Japan. Let’s get started. The History Gyoza is a dumpling in Japanese.
- [The Basics of Evacuation in Japanese Culture](https://howtojapan.net/2023/09/28/the-basics-of-evacuation-in-japanese-culture/) - Did you know Japan is a country with a lot of natural disasters such as earthquakes, and there are many tremors happening every single moment? Do you know what you should do in case of an emergency? Please finish reading this article so that you may stay and live safely in Japan, and can take
- [Matsuri (Fukagawa Hachiman Festival)](https://howtojapan.net/2023/09/27/matsuri-fukagawa-hachiman-festival/) - Index About Fukagawa Hachiman Festival What is “Mikoshi”?"Wasshoi, Wasshoi!": What does it mean?Meaning of water splashing. How to participate in the Fukagawa Hachiman Festival. Interview with “Mutsumi,” a person involved in the festival. 1. About Fukagawa Hachiman Festival The festival of Tomioka Hachimangu, a shrine in downtown Tokyo, is also known as the Fukagawa Hachiman
- [Kyoto International Manga Museum](https://howtojapan.net/2023/10/05/kyoto-international-manga-museum/) - Do you like Japanese manga? Japanese manga is highly popular worldwide and serves as one of the gateways for people from overseas to learn about Japanese culture. Furthermore, many Japanese manga are adapted into anime or movies, allowing them to be enjoyed by people all over the world in various forms. There is a highly
- [Japanese Traditions in October](https://howtojapan.net/2023/09/27/japanese-traditions-in-october/) - Welcome back to my blog about Japanese lifestyle in October. Autumn has just begun, and it is said to be the best season for reading, appetite, sports and art in Japan. October, we have another saying“神無月” which means “month without gods”. In Japan it is said that many gods are living everywhere, and in this
- [Japanese Subculture - Oshikatsu](https://howtojapan.net/2023/09/04/japanese-subculture-oshikatsu/) - Do you know what Japanese subculture is? It mainly implies anime and manga. So some of you may think that it is mainly popular among younger generations and it seems like rather a niche and nerdy culture. However, looking at the recent worldwide Japanese anime and manga boom, it is obvious that it actually has
- [What is Obon in Japan?](https://howtojapan.net/2023/09/05/what-is-obon-in-japan/) - What is Obon? Generally speaking, Obon is held from the 13th to the 16th of August. Some areas hold it in July and September. Most companies are closed, and in addition to Obon holidays, people tend to take paid leave, so they have long holidays. Next to New Year’s holiday and Golden Week, Obon has
- [Exploring Hirakata City Station](https://howtojapan.net/2023/09/05/exploring-hirakata-city-station/) - Hirakata City is located in the northeastern part of Osaka Prefecture, about halfway between Osaka City and Kyoto City on the Keihan Railway. Hirakata is famous for its amusement park, Hirakata Park. However, less is known about its culture and other areas of the city. So, why not explore the area around Hirakata City Station
- [Walking the Skyline Ridge - Traversing Mt. Tsurugi and Mt. Jirogyu](https://howtojapan.net/2023/09/05/walking-the-skyline-ridge-traversing-mt-tsurugi-and-mt-jirogyu/) - Japan is a country where three-quarters of its land is covered by mountainous terrain.Although Mt. Fuji is famous, Japan boasts numerous other breathtaking mountains, each with its own unique appeal.
- [Exploring ～Summer～ in Japan Through the Five Senses](https://howtojapan.net/2023/09/04/exploring-～summer～-in-japan-through-the-five-senses/) - I have just come back home from a 40-minute walk this morning in July. According to the Meteorological Agency, the rainy season has not gone yet as of July.16, 2023, but it will be scorching today, but I don’t feel like turning on the air conditioning now because I feel like hearing and touching the
- [Japanese History Trivia -Three big men of Sengoku period (戦国時代);The age of civil wars-](https://howtojapan.net/2023/08/25/japanese-history-trivia-three-big-men-of-sengoku-period-戦国時代the-age-of-civil-wars/) - I guess that many foreigners know Tokugawa Ieyasu who founded the Edo era. However, how about other famous people in Japan? I want to introduce three big men who represent the Sengoku era (戦国時代), including Ieyasu. They are Oda Nobunaga, Toyotomi Hideyoshi and Tokugawa Ieyasu. There was an old saying about each of them. It’s
- [Japanese Traditions in September](https://howtojapan.net/2023/08/25/japanese-traditions-in-september/) - Welcome to my blog about enjoying the Japanese lifestyle in September. It is so hot this year, isn’t it? The WMO, World Meteorological Organization, said, “The highest global average temperature may be recorded this year. António Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations, said, “The idea of global warming has ended, and the era of global
- [The Celebration of The First Birthday](https://howtojapan.net/2023/08/25/the-celebration-of-the-first-birthday/) - Regardless of the country, a child’s first birthday is a special occasion. There are many ways to celebrate it. Some decorate the room with many colorful balloons, and others let the baby eat a cake by hand, things like that. These days, the way to celebrate the first birthday is changing to a more western
- [Firework displays in Japan](https://howtojapan.net/2023/08/25/firework-displays-in-japan/) - Fireworks have a long history in Japan and are an integral part of many summer festivals. Firework festivals are a summertime tradition where people in Japan enjoy watching great works displayed in the night sky. Fireworks vs hanabi (花火) Fireworks are made from gunpowder which was invented in China and brought to Europe. Gunpowder is
- [Zoorasia](https://howtojapan.net/2023/08/24/zoorasia/) - What can you see? Can you find something cool in this picture? Today, I’m walking in a huge zoo. In my eyes, this is not just an ordinary zoo but somewhere that makes me feel as if I were strolling on a world map blessed with nature. By the way, did you find the black
- [Tofu Boy guides you through the world of tofu](https://howtojapan.net/2023/08/24/tofu-boy-guides-you-through-the-world-of-tofu/) - Have you ever seen me on a rainy night? I’m Tofu Boy 豆腐小僧, one of the Japanese specters. I show up on a rainy night and offer tofu to anyone who walks by. I often walk after humans, but don't worry, I don't do anything bad. In fact, I am sad to say that it
- [Cooling down with some Japanese desserts for summer](https://howtojapan.net/2023/08/24/cooling-down-with-some-japanese-desserts-for-summer/) - Hello. How have you been doing? Are you enjoying the summer? It's so hot and humid in Japan that it makes everyone more stressed. In such a situation, you might want to have some desserts to cool yourself down. Today, I'll introduce some Japanese summer desserts for you to try in this blog. Shaved ice
- [How to Enjoy a Beer Garden in Japan](https://howtojapan.net/2023/08/01/how-to-enjoy-a-beer-garden-in-japan/) - It's a really humid Japanese summer, isn’t it? Nothing beats cold beer on such a hot, humid day. Craft beer has been getting popular here and there, and every place boasts their local beers, but today I’m not going to talk about them. I am going to talk about about beer gardens (ビアガーデン) in Japan.
- [Fruit Kingdom of Japan: From Spring to Summer](https://howtojapan.net/2023/08/01/fruit-kingdom-of-japan-from-spring-to-summer/) - As you know, Japan runs from north to south, so the weather is totally different depending on the region. Therefore, Japan is able to cultivate a number of agricultural products. Today, I'll introduce some fruits which are seasonal in Japan. I'm going to focus in particular on spring and summer this time. You might be
- [Welcome to the “Owl Café”!](https://howtojapan.net/2023/07/24/welcome-to-the-owl-cafe/) - “Hey, guys! I’m an Indian Eagle Owl. When you think of owls, do you probably think of the Snowy Owl from Harry Potter? Of course, there's a Snowy Owl that joined our group this past May, but we have all kinds of owls in our group. Actually, the reason why our owner started this cafe
- [Exploring the Hidden Gems of Kyoto Station!](https://howtojapan.net/2023/07/19/exploring-the-hidden-gems-of-kyoto-station/) - Have you seen the stunning glass structure at Kyoto Station? It's hard to believe it's part of the ancient capital, right? This uniquely innovative, aesthetic, and eccentric Kyoto Station Building faced some controversy over its design when it opened to the public in 1997. It was built to celebrate the 1,200th anniversary of the Heian
- [Dear Starbucks Lovers](https://howtojapan.net/2023/07/19/dear-starbucks-lovers/) - Starbucks in Japan is an interesting subject to delve into. With its unique offerings, exceptional service, and differences compared to its international counterparts, the Japanese Starbucks experience is worth exploring. Starbucks is a global coffeehouse chain with a significant presence in Japan. The first Starbucks store in Japan opened in1996, and since then, the company
- [Let's explore the island! ~Enoshima Island~](https://howtojapan.net/2022/06/30/lets-explore-the-island-enoshima-island/) - ☆Legend of Enoshima Island Once upon a time, there was a dragon called Gozuryu (五頭龍). It ruined mountains, caused floods and scared people. One day, after a ten-day earthquake, a tennyo, a heavenly maiden called Benzaiten (弁財天) appeared, dropped stones from the sky and created a new island. Gozuryu fell in love with Benzaiten and
- [How to Enjoy Summertime Hanabi Festivals in Japan](https://howtojapan.net/2023/07/10/how-to-enjoy-summertime-hanabi-festivals-in-japan/) - After a long, tough period, it’s time to go somewhere this summer. You might want to go sightseeing, outdoor activities, music festivals, and so on, but why don’t you go see fireworks this summer? You wouldn’t miss the fireworks festival if you were in Japan. “Fireworks” translates into hanabi (花火) in Japanese. Also, 花 (hana)
- [Cranes ー Wishing for Peace](https://howtojapan.net/2022/05/23/cranes-ー-wishing-for-peace/) - The crane has long been a symbol of good fortune and is a bird well-known in Japanese culture. Although most cranes are known to be migratory birds, the "tancho," a species of crane native to Japan, does not migrate. Instead, it lives and breeds in eastern Hokkaido year-round. The tancho, also called the red-crowned crane
- [Michinoku Gold Rush](https://howtojapan.net/2023/06/23/nhk-tv-program-rekishi-tantei-zipangu/) - The famous explorer, Marco Polo, is well known in Japan for the legend of Zipangu. In the 13th century, he traveled across Asia and talked about the golden island Zipangu to his friends. Here is a quote from “Description of the world:”“...On this island there is a very large palace, the floor and all the
- [What is Kokumin Nenkin? Do I have to pay for it?](https://howtojapan.net/2023/07/07/what-is-kokumin-nenkin-do-i-have-to-pay-for-it/) - Have you ever heard of “Kokumin Nenkin”? “Kokumin” means “nation”, “Nenkin” means ”pension” and “Kokumin Nenkin” is the Japanese National Pension System. 【What is Kokumin Nenkin?】 The National Pension system, Kokumin Nenkin, is one of Japan's national social security systems, created based on the concept that all people support each other for when we become
- [A Summer Evening Stroll Along the River, Feeling the Spirit of Awa Odori](https://howtojapan.net/2023/07/05/a-summer-evening-stroll-along-the-river-feeling-the-spirit-of-awa-odori/) - "Festivals" are an integral part of people's lives, representing a place's local customs and culture. Japan has a rich array of festivals, each with its own unique characteristics. “Bon Odori” is one such festival held nationwide during the summer, featuring traditional dances to welcome and honor ancestral spirits. How long do you think each "ren"
- [Strolling Nara-machi](https://howtojapan.net/2023/06/23/strolling-nara-machi/) - Nara has many temples and shrines along with Kyoto. Nara, where the first capital of Japan was established, offers an ancient ambience that cannot be found in Kyoto. For example, there is one of the most famous temples, Todaiji Temple, and Nara Park is popular for its deer where you can touch them and feed
- [Let's talk using “cushion words”!](https://howtojapan.net/2023/06/26/lets-talk-using-cushion-words/) - Have you ever heard of the Japanese word "cushion words"? Today, I want to talk about some of the most polite Japanese words, “cushion words.” The Japanese language has honorific language that clarifies differences in position, and expresses respect and concern for others. In addition to this, You can use "cushion words" to softly convey
- [Japanese Traditions in June](https://howtojapan.net/2023/06/26/japanese-traditions-in-june/) - Welcome to my blog about enjoying the Japanese lifestyle in June. Rainy season has come in June in almost all of Japan except for Hokkaido in the northern part of Japan. It is humid and wet, and some people feel depressed, so they don't want to go outside. However, rainy season has a bright side
- [Osaka Castle Part 4](https://howtojapan.net/2023/06/23/osaka-castle-part-4/) - This is the last installment of the Osaka Castle Tour. I guided you from the entrance of Osaka Castle to here. If you would like to look back on this tour again, please check my last three articles Part 1, Part 2, and Part 3, as linked here. I hope you enjoy this tour of
- [Messages from Tokyo DisneySea](https://howtojapan.net/2023/06/26/messages-from-tokyo-disneysea/) - In March, 2022, I wrote about Tokyo DisneySea and introduced some places where we can feel as if we are taking a world trip. This article is a side story of it. Today, let me see this fascinating place from another perspective and share my favorite messages that I didn’t mention in my past article.*
- [Uniquely Osakan Products and Places](https://howtojapan.net/2023/06/23/uniquely-osakan-products-and-places/) - Why not stop and visit Osaka while you are in Japan? Osaka is one of the biggest urban cities and there are a lot of attractive tourist spots. You'll have a great time anywhere in Osaka. However, I guess you might have a difficult time deciding where you should go and what you should buy.
- [Kyushoku ー School Lunch in Japan](https://howtojapan.net/2023/06/23/kyushoku-ー-school-lunch-in-japan/) - School lunches are common around the world, but Japan’s school lunches are without question one-of-a-kind. Not only is the food tasty, but all the systems involved are incredibly well-organized. Let’s dig deeper into what Japanese school lunches are all about and how they work. School lunch, also known as “kyushoku” (給食) in Japanese, is now
- [The Authentic Sushi Restaurant Closest to the Sky](https://howtojapan.net/2023/05/29/the-authentic-sushi-restaurant-closest-to-the-sky/) - Most Japanese cities' airports usually have several sushi restaurants. I love eating sushi at the airport because the restaurants there gather the finest ingredients, flown in from all over Japan, to offer delicious sushi to foodies from all over the world. I'd say it's a special experience to taste sushi at an airport sushi restaurant.
- ["Hi! I'm a box!"](https://howtojapan.net/2022/04/21/hi-im-a-box/) - Hi! I’m a box. I don’t know my name, but I have many friends. They don’t know their names either, but the writer of this article loves to name them. Today, some of my friends want to talk to you. I'll be glad if you listen to their stories. ☆BOX1 Did you call me? I’m
- [Osaka Castle Part ３](https://howtojapan.net/2023/05/29/osaka-castle-part-３/) - In this article, I’d like to introduce the most popular historical sightseeing spot in Osaka, Osaka Castle! This is my third article continuing from Part 1 and Part 2, as linked here. I hope you enjoy joining the tour of Osaka Castle, Part 3. Let's get started. Nishi-no-maru Garden This area is called Nishi-no-maru Garden.
- [Japanese traditions in May](https://howtojapan.net/2023/05/22/japanese-traditions-in-may/) - Welcome to my first commemorable blog! It has been almost a half-century since I was born. However I don’t know much about many traditional costumes and events that are held in Japan. So, I would like to share new discoveries that are originally from old Japanese traditions. Today, I would like to write about 3
- [How to Enjoy Buddhist Statues in Kyoto!](https://howtojapan.net/2023/05/19/how-to-enjoy-buddhist-statues-in-kyoto/) - Buddhist statues, which were introduced to Japan in the 6th century from the Korean peninsula via India and China along with the arrival of Buddhism, have been objects of Japanese people’s faith and beliefs for a very long time. Kyoto, home to over 1500 temples, has been a hub for creating and worshiping various Buddhist
- [Let's Enjoy Japanese Literature! 〜 Annani Annani 〜](https://howtojapan.net/2023/05/19/lets-enjoy-japanese-literature-〜-annani-annani-〜/) - Did you have a moment when you were irritated with your kid today? Are you tired of caring for your elderly parents? This book might help you pause your hectic days for a while. How to feel about a book differs from person to person, so explaining the details of a book is not my
- [“Randoseru”ー a Japanese backpack for elementary school children](https://howtojapan.net/2022/03/24/randoseruー-a-japanese-backpack-for-elementary-school-children/) - Have you ever heard of randoseru? Randoseru is a Japanese backpack for elementary school students. If you have ever lived in Japan, you may have seen elementary school students going to and from school with box-shaped backpacks on their backs. These backpacks are somehow becoming popular among adults abroad. They try to get them as
- [The traditional vegetable of Osaka City: Naniwa Yasai (なにわ伝統野菜　大阪市)](https://howtojapan.net/2023/05/04/the-traditional-vegetable-of-osaka-city-naniwa-yasai-なにわ伝統野菜　大阪市/) - Introduction When you think of Osaka City, what do you picture? You might think of high-rises, Osaka Castle, Universal Studio Japan (USJ), the Kaiyukan Aquarium, and things like that. They are all symbols of Osaka’s urban area. However, there are still a few fields and farmers that produce vegetables in the city. In this blog,
- [How to enjoy playing the UFO Catcher Machine](https://howtojapan.net/2023/05/02/how-to-enjoy-playing-the-ufo-catcher-machine/) - What do you come up with when you hear “UFO Catcher?” It’s not people who geek about unidentified flying objects, it’s a kind of amusement machine that consumers play for fun. You might see the photo above here and there in Japan. You might think that is full of cheap stuff. Today I’m going to
- [Which is right, the right or the left?〜How to ride escalators in Japan](https://howtojapan.net/2023/04/26/which-is-right-the-right-or-the-left〜how-to-ride-escalators-in-japan/) - "Which side am I supposed to stand on—right or left?"Whenever I travel from Osaka to Tokyo or from Tokyo to Osaka, the different rules for escalator etiquette in each city always confuse me. Did you know that the position for standing on an escalator is different in Tokyo and Osaka? In the Tokyo area, it
- [How do guests prepare for a wedding in Japan?](https://howtojapan.net/2023/04/20/how-do-guests-prepare-for-a-wedding-in-japan/) - I participated in a wedding of my friend the other day. It was held at a hotel which means most people were in western clothes, but Japanese weddings have some customs. Today, I want to talk about preparing to participate in it. However, I won’t mention about the very Japanese style called “shinzenshiki” (神前式). If
- [Japanese seasonal beautiful words ~Spring~](https://howtojapan.net/2023/04/18/japanese-seasonal-beautiful-words-spring/) - As a lover of spring, I feel my heart leaping with excitement when spring arrives. Plants and trees sprout new shoots, and flowers bloom. It is the season that warm and gentle colors permeate our lives, replacing the cold and monotone world of winter. Naturally, we want to wear bright and pastel colored clothes and
- [Masking up in Japan](https://howtojapan.net/2023/04/20/masking-up-in-japan/) - The outbreak of COVID-19 in 2020 has had a significant impact on our daily lives. Some of the most notable changes include social distancing, remote work, mask-wearing, travel restrictions, and remote learning. While many of these pandemic-related restrictions have gradually been lifted, most Japanese people are still wearing masks as of March1, 2023. Why is
- [Let's enjoy the special artwork! 〜Jagariko〜](https://howtojapan.net/2023/04/13/lets-enjoy-the-special-artwork-〜jagariko〜/) - Welcome to this auspicious art exhibition!! The awards ceremony for artwork starts in a second. Please gather wherever you can see the stage. You don't have to dress up here. Let your hair down, and grab some beer, wine or whatever you like! ☆Awards Ceremony☆ Thank you for joining this ceremony! I'm honored to be
- [“Nippon” ー the Land of the Rising Sun](https://howtojapan.net/2022/01/28/nippon-ー-the-land-of-the-rising-sun/) - Japan is located at the eastern edge of Asia on the world map and has been called the land of the rising sun. The word "Nippon" (日本) literally means the source of the sun. And because of its shape stretching from north to south and its position on the earth, Japan can get the benefit
- [Try these on!  Denim that is Manufactured in Japan](https://howtojapan.net/2021/12/26/try-these-on-denim-that-is-manufactured-in-japan/) - It's difficult to argue that jeans are, in fact, the most popular form of casual clothing regardless of age or gender. The process of making jeans has many steps, which include making fabric, dyeing it, shrink-proofing and so on. I'd like to start with the high quality that denim companies in Japan provide. So, let's
- [Nakatsu (中津) is the Place to Be Now](https://howtojapan.net/2023/03/28/nakatsu-中津-is-the-place-to-be-now/) - Osaka has been pressing forward in light of EXPO 2025. The construction of various venues is progressing rapidly, and some train lines are under construction for easier access to many parts of Osaka. This fact is especially true with the north side of Umeda station. It is in the middle of being redeveloped. The new
- [Ski and Onsen, Weekend Trip to Kusatsu Onsen in March](https://howtojapan.net/2023/03/28/ski-and-onsen-weekend-trip-to-kusatsu-onsen-in-march/) - Do you like to go skiing and to an onsen? In March, it’s getting warm in Tokyo. Spring comes, and people change their clothes from heavy outerwear to lighter jackets. Don’t worry about it. You probably love skiing or snowboarding like me, but you can go on ski trips in Japan. Today, I’m going to
- [Fushimi Sake District in Kyoto](https://howtojapan.net/2023/03/22/fushimi-sake-district-in-kyoto/) - Fushimi (伏見), in the southern part of Kyoto City, has long been a town of sake breweries and is known as one of the three major sake brewing areas in Japan. As it was once written 伏水, literally meaning underground water, Fushimi has an abundance of soft water, which is essential for sake brewing and
- [Two Sakura Mochi Named After Temples](https://howtojapan.net/2023/03/28/two-sakura-mochi-named-after-temples/) - Sakura-mochi is a popular Japanese sweet that can be considered a symbol of spring. It is sold in various shops including traditional Japanese confectionery stores, supermarkets, and convenience stores. “Sakura” means cherry blossom, which is the national flower of Japan and a seasonal symbol of spring. Have you ever eaten sakura mochi?If you have eaten
- [Why conbinis are really called conbinis?](https://howtojapan.net/2023/03/22/why-conbinis-are-really-called-conbinis/) - Most of you reading this probably know what “conbini” is. Yes, it is a convenience store. Nowadays, a lot of people recognize the word globally. Surely a lot of you might already know we Japanese like to shorten words like “conbini,” right? Japan is flooded with these words. Why do we do this anyways? Where
- [Hi! I'm an owl!](https://howtojapan.net/2023/03/14/hi-im-an-owl/) - "Hoot, hoot…!" Hi! I'm an owl. I live in Japan. I have a lot of relatives all around the world. Did you know that owls are believed to bring luck in many countries? Japan is one of them. Will you listen to my story? ☆Fukuro Owls are called fukuro in Japanese. Let's see how it
- [Ozoni: A mochi soup bowl filled with family history and local Japanese culture.](https://howtojapan.net/2023/03/01/ozoni-a-mochi-soup-bowl-filled-with-family-history-and-local-japanese-culture/) - Ozoni is a mochi soup eaten on New Year’s Day in Japan. Japanese New Year's events and food originated in Shintoism, and various customs were born from the idea of "kami-jin-kyoshoku (神人共食)," which means to eat food offered to the gods to receive the power of the gods and to be more energetic. Ozoni began
- [How to Enjoy Tokyo Station](https://howtojapan.net/2023/03/07/how-to-enjoy-tokyo-station/) - Total area of this station is about 182,000 square meters. 460,000 people use it per day on average, and around 4,000 trains run per day. The most famous station in Japan is Tokyo Station. It seems like really complicated shopping malls, so even Japanese people don’t know much about it. Post pandemic, it looks like
- [The No.1 Mom’s Home Cooking: Curry Rice](https://howtojapan.net/2022/12/23/the-no-1-moms-home-cooking-curry-rice/) - In my childhood, if I smelled curry when I came home from school or a friend's house in the evening, I was over the moon. For me and a lot of Japanese people, curry rice is one of our favorite home cooking dishes. I want to say “curry rice is the No.1 mom’s home cooking!!”
- [Poke-futa Tour Part.1 (in Nara)](https://howtojapan.net/2023/03/01/poke-futa-tour-part-1-in-nara/) - Hello Pokémon fans around the world! How do you like playing with Pokemon? I think everyone knows “Pokémon Go!” which is not only a game inside your house but also outside. There is no age boundary. By the way, do you know what a “Poke-futa ぽけふた” is? In Japan, there are a lot set up
- [The difference in perception as expressed in Japanese](https://howtojapan.net/2023/02/21/the-difference-in-perception-as-expressed-in-japanese/) - When you ask Japanese people, "How many fingers do you have?" most people will answer 10 or, after some thought, proudly 20. This is surprising for English-speaking people, isn’t it? This is due to the difference in perception between Japanese- and English-speaking people. In this blog, I would like to introduce such differences between Japanese
- [Step Back in Time to the Showa Era in Nakazaki-Cho (中崎町)](https://howtojapan.net/2023/02/20/step-back-in-time-to-the-showa-era-in-nakazaki-cho-中崎町/) - I'll be introducing a unique area called Nakazaki-Cho which retains its downtown atmosphere. It's located only one stop away from the bustling city of Umeda, or fifteen minutes on foot. Nakazaki-Cho is a place where you can see a traditional townscape lined with refurbished old stores. There are some galleries, variety stores, secondhand clothing shops,
- [How to enjoy Haneda Airport](https://howtojapan.net/2023/02/21/how-to-enjoy-haneda-airport/) - If you need to kill time at airports, how do you usually spend time? Now I’m at Terminal 2 at Haneda Airport. Will you come with me if you are bored? ☆Haneda Airport is… While walking, let me briefly talk about this airport. Haneda Airport is the nickname of Tokyo International Airport, which opened in
- [Spaghetti Napolitan, a Japanese Pasta Dish](https://howtojapan.net/2023/02/20/spaghetti-napolitan-a-japanese-pasta-dish/) - Spaghetti Napolitan is a type of pasta dish which has been a signature item on the menu of “Kissaten,” old Japanese style cafes for a long time. Many people in Japan recognize “Napolitan” as the name for spaghetti prepared using ketchup. It is a widely accepted menu item for anyone from kids to adults at
- [A Guide to Alcohol for Foreigners in Japan](https://howtojapan.net/2023/02/13/a-guide-to-alcohol-for-foreigners-in-japan/) - You might know it already, but you can buy alcohol anywhere in Japan. Most Japanese people don’t know that this is unusual all over the world. When we travel abroad, we realize the fact. If you look like an adult, you don’t have to show your ID card, and you can buy whatever you want. Sometimes
- [Fujiidera City (藤井寺市) Part 2: Ways to enjoy the modern-day Fujiidera](https://howtojapan.net/2023/01/23/fujiidera-city-藤井寺市-part-2-ways-to-enjoy-the-modern-day-fujiidera/) - This will be a continuation from Part 1. I wrote about the history and sightseeing spots of Fujiidera City. On top of that, I focused on the World Heritage Site in "Mozu, Furuichi Kofun Group". However, This city has different things that attract various kinds of people. In this section, I'll be introducing some events
- [Kansai People Call Candy “Ame-chan”, like a person](https://howtojapan.net/2023/01/19/kansai-people-call-candy-ame-chan-like-a-person/) - “Chan” “San” I’ve called hard candies “Ame-chan”, and I have lived my life without questioning it. As I have more opportunities to talk about cultural differences with people who live in other prefectures, I have come to know that Osaka has some unique customs. It’s very interesting to research the meanings and history of some
- [Circles in Japan](https://howtojapan.net/2023/01/19/circles-in-japan/) - "I’ve got a lot of circles!!" If you hear a Japanese kid saying something like this with a big smile, can you guess what the circles are? Circles play an important role in Japan. Today, let me show you some circles in Japan. ☆Correct! Take a look at the photo below. Let’s say this is
- [The birth of “Anpan,” a sweet bun with red bean paste](https://howtojapan.net/2023/01/19/the-birth-of-anpan-a-sweet-bun-with-red-bean-paste/) - Generally speaking, “anpan” is a small bun filled with red bean paste which has been quite popular as a sweets amongst Japanese people. “An” means the filling inside the bread, and “pan” means bread, originally derived from the Portuguese word “pão.” Bread is widely accepted as a staple food in the world, however in Japan,
- [Roll Up For the Mystery Tour!](https://howtojapan.net/2023/01/18/roll-up-for-the-mystery-tour/) - “Roll up! Roll up for the magical mystery tour! Step right this way!” (lyrics from Magical Mystery Tour from the album Magical Mystery Tour) This year (2022) the Beatles celebrated exactly 60 years since the release of their debut single Love Me Do in October 1962. I truly believe that the Beatles are the fathers
- [Uji City ~ the town of history and tea ~](https://howtojapan.net/2023/01/18/uji-city-the-town-of-history-and-tea/) - Byodo-in Temple, one of the World Heritage Sites in Uji, was originally a villa of Fujiwara no Michinaga (藤原道長), an aristocrat in the Heian period. The aristocrats preferred Uji, as well as Arashiyama, as their resort area. Look at the photo below! It’s somewhat similar to the view of Arashiyama, isn’t it?! Literary scholars in
- [How to Enjoy Japanese Izakaya!](https://howtojapan.net/2023/01/12/how-to-enjoy-japanese-izakaya/) - What is Izakaya (居酒屋)? How does it differ from Western pubs and bars? According to Wikipedia, they are Japanese-style pubs and bars. Compared to Western bars, Izakaya offers a wider variety of foods. So, you can fill yourself up while drinking alcohol. Except for typical Japanese izakaya, there are a lot of styles like Western,
- ["I can see Mt. Fuji!"](https://howtojapan.net/2022/02/22/i-can-see-mt-fuji/) - "I can see Mt. Fuji from my balcony." Imagine your Japanese friend told you this. How would you reply? "So…what?" I'm afraid that isn't the right answer to let the person be satisfied. Some compliments with a little surprise like "Wow!" "Really?!" "How nice!" are the better choices to make the conversation smooth. What does
- [Nengajo - New Year’s postcards in Japan](https://howtojapan.net/2022/12/25/nengajo-new-years-postcards-in-japan/) - One of the traditional Japanese New Year's customs is sending New Year's greeting postcards called nengajo (年賀状). Many people write and send nengajo to their friends, relatives, and coworkers in December and look forward to receiving nengajo on New Year's Day. Nengajo have a long history, and the way of writing cards has been changing
- [<strong>What is “My Number Card”?</strong>](https://howtojapan.net/2022/12/25/what-is-my-number-card/) - Have you heard the words "My number" and “My Number Card”? It may sound more like “my-none-bar” and “my-none-bar-car-dough.” What is “My Number”? "My number" is an individual number given to each person who has a resident registration in Japan. It is similar to the Social Security Number in the U.S. What is “My Number
- [Osaka Castle Part 2](https://howtojapan.net/2022/12/26/osaka-castle-part-2/) - This is the main gate of Osaka Castle, Otemon-gate. It was built in 1628 by the second owner of this castle, the Tokugawa shogunate. Many other parts of its construction have burned down, but this gate has remained. I'll talk about part 2 of the story of Osaka Castle which follows the one I wrote
- [Tarai Udon たらいうどん](https://howtojapan.net/2022/12/28/tarai-udon-たらいうどん/) - Udon is the longest-loved noodle dish among Japanese people, and it is popular throughout Japan. It is usually served in a noodle bowl. I am involved in this magazine as an editor. This issue features Tokushima noodles.If you see this magazine anywhere, please pick it up and take a look. https://meguru2020.thebase.in/items/50576190
- [Tokyo Disney Hotels](https://howtojapan.net/2022/12/23/tokyo-disney-hotels/) - You can still feel the magic even after stepping away from the parks. Dreams never fade away. If you are big on Disney, even not so much, it’s worth staying there for sure. Right now we have 5 Disney Hotels in the Tokyo Disney Resort area. Tokyo Disneyland Hotel, Disney Ambassador Hotel, Tokyo DisneySea Hotel MiraCosta,
- [The Story of Yokohama Three Towers](https://howtojapan.net/2022/12/22/the-story-of-yokohama-three-towers/) - The story of Yokohama three towers (横浜三塔物語) is a kind of urban legends that if you go to the three spots where you can see all three towers at the same time, your wish will be granted. Visiting these three spots is a great experience to savor the day trip in Yokohama. Yokohama Three Towers
- [Weekend Trip to Karuizawa in Autumn](https://howtojapan.net/2022/12/26/weekend-trip-to-karuizawa-in-autumn/) - Karuizawa—known as one of the most famous resort areas in Nagano prefecture in Japan. There are a lot of vacation homes. It takes around one hour by Shinkansen JR. According to Wikipedia, it has been called Karuizawa “Western culture areas in Japan” from the Meiji period (1868-1912) to the beginning of the Showa period (1926-1989).
- [Toire no Kamisama (トイレの神様） God in the restroom](https://howtojapan.net/2022/10/30/toire-no-kamisama-トイレの神様）-god-in-the-restroom/) - What is God in the restroom? You may have no idea what I’m talking about. Today, I would like to talk about 8 million divine spirits from ancient times and our Japanese people’s lives, including my own experiences. Do you believe there are gods everywhere? Before we get into our main topic, God in the
- [Explore Arashiyama to your heart’s content! 〜part 1〜](https://howtojapan.net/2022/10/24/explore-arashiyama-to-your-hearts-content-〜part-1〜/) - Arashiyama, where we can indulge in the colors of the four seasons with its mountains and rivers, has undoubtedly been one of Kyoto’s most iconic tourist spots. When I think of how this magnificent landscape has remained unchanged since ages ago, it’s no wonder that aristocrats used this place as a resort area during the
- [“Hirakata Park” – Amusement Park in Osaka](https://howtojapan.net/2022/09/25/hirakata-park-amusement-park-in-osaka/) - Many people have fond memories of amusement parks from their childhood. When it comes to amusement parks in the Kansai region, Universal Studios Japan (USJ) is undoubtedly the most popular. However, I would like to introduce another amusement park, Hirakata Park, to you. Hirakata Park is the oldest existing amusement park in Japan, with a
- [Expo ’70 Commemorative Park](https://howtojapan.net/2022/07/27/expo-70-commemorative-park/) - In 1970, the Japan World Exposition was held in Suita City, Osaka. It was the first Expo in Asia. This world fair lasted for 183 days and turned out to be a great success. Seventy-seven countries participated in this big event, which attracted over 64 million visitors in total from all over the world. The
- [Let’s walk across the bridge!~The Rainbow Bridge~](https://howtojapan.net/2022/02/04/lets-walk-across-the-bridgethe-rainbow-bridge/) - ☆Bridges in Japan Japan is a mountainous island country. It is rich in nature, such as mountains and rivers. Also, we are surrounded by indented coastlines. It means we have a bunch of bridges all around Japan. According to the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT), in Japan, there are about seven hundred
- [Naru-Churu Udon 鳴ちゅるうどん](https://howtojapan.net/2022/11/29/naru-churu-udon-鳴ちゅるうどん/) - Udon is a Japanese noodle made from wheat flour. Did you know that there are various types of udon depending on each local area? Sanuki udon, which originated in Kagawa Prefecture, is the most famous and popular udon in Japan, characterized by its chewy, firm noodles. Osaka has its own unique udon culture, and Fukuoka
- [Explore Arashiyama to your heart’s content 〜part 2〜](https://howtojapan.net/2022/11/26/explore-arashiyama-to-your-hearts-content-〜part-2〜/) - I introduced several spots in the center of Arashiyama in “Explore Arashiyama to your heart’s content ~part 1~.” In this part 2, I’ll share some beautiful and deep sites in Hozukyo (保津峡) and the north Sagano(嵯峨野) area, just a little further from Arashiyama. 〜Hozukyo〜 1. JR Hozukyo Station (JR 保津峡駅) JR Hozukyo Station, a secluded
- [Delicious Japanese Food For Autumn In Japan](https://howtojapan.net/2022/12/01/delicious-japanese-food-for-autumn-in-japan/) - This time, I want to share delicious Japanese foods that suit the autumn. The term cools down; there is delicious food in Japan! I’m confident that you would want to eat the foods which I recommend after reading my article! I want to eat them right now, even though I’m just thinking about those foods.
- [<strong>Hidden Kyoto, Yawata City</strong>](https://howtojapan.net/2022/11/30/hidden-kyoto-yawata-city/) - In the Kansai region, Osaka and Kyoto are well known cities that many tourists visit. However, have you ever heard of Yawata City? It is located in the middle of the Keihan Railway, halfway between Osaka and Kyoto, away from the hustle and bustle of both major cities. If you prefer a place with fewer
- [The Origin of Ningyoyaki](https://howtojapan.net/2022/11/27/the-origin-of-ningyoyaki/) - Ningyoyaki (人形焼) is one of the most famous types of confectionery or souvenirs of Tokyo. It is a tiny cake baked in a small mold, and it’s filled with sweet red bean paste. At some of the shops you can watch Ningyoyaki being made and try them fresh. For souvenirs you can buy anything from
- [Sports In Japan](https://howtojapan.net/2022/11/01/sports-in-japan/) - Today, I want to share information about "sports in Japan." Sometimes, we call autumn "the season of sports." That's why I want to tell you about sports now in October. I also like doing sports, especially tennis! I think many readers love sports too! And when you were young, did you belong to a club
- [Let’s feel the sea!~Minatomirai~](https://howtojapan.net/2022/10/31/lets-feel-the-seaminatomirai/) - Finally, the hot, scorching summer is over in Japan. Fall is the best season to enjoy food, nature, and strolling towns. Look! I’m in Minatomirai today. Minatomirai is a beautiful port area in Yokohama, Kanagawa Prefecture. It has a lot to offer and attracts a huge number of tourists and locals. I have an idea!!
- [How to Enjoy Japanese Halloween](https://howtojapan.net/2022/11/02/how-to-enjoy-japanese-halloween/) - Summer is over, and from the end of September, cities are having a Halloween mood. In retrospect, there were Halloween events at theme parks, restaurants and bars in the early 2000’s. They have already offered special menus for at least 20 years. Today I’m going to talk about how to enjoy Japanese Halloween. Let’s get
- [How to Ask for a Redelivery & History of TA-Q-BIN](https://howtojapan.net/2022/10/27/how-to-ask-for-a-redelivery-history-of-ta-q-bin/) - When you start living in Japan, you will probably have a time when you are receiving important documents and packages. For delivery to Japanese households, there are three main mail delivery and courier companies: Yuu-Bin-Kyoku (JAPAN POST Co., Ltd.,) The first is JAPAN POST which is called “Yuu-Bin-Kyoku” in Japanese. It was formed in 2007
- [Randoseru 2022  / Rankatsu - How to select and buy Randoseru](https://howtojapan.net/2022/10/29/randoseru-2022-rankatsu-how-to-select-and-buy-randoseru/) - Do you want to try Randoseru? Or do you want to know how kids use Randoseru in Japan? Actually, I'm a mom of two kids, so I'd like to share my thoughts on Randoseru as a mom in Japan I can also share the actual experience of using Randoseru and the status after using it
- [Nakanoshima (中之島): The symbolic area of aquatic metropolis in Osaka](https://howtojapan.net/2022/10/28/nakanoshima-中之島-the-symbolic-area-of-aquatic-metropolis-in-osaka/) - Introduction Today, I'll be introducing a unique area, Nakanoshima where tourists rarely go. What comes to mind when you hear typical things from Osaka? Maybe you would imagine attractive sightseeing spots such as USJ, Osaka Castle, and the Kaiyukan Aquarium. What is Nakanoshima like? Let's dive into it. Nakanoshima has been the economic center in
- [The Birth of “Katsu-Sando,” a Sandwich with a Deep Fried Cutlet.](https://howtojapan.net/2022/10/26/the-birth-of-katsu-sando-a-sandwich-with-a-deep-fried-cutlet/) - Katsu Sando (カツサンド) is probably one of the most popular sandwiches in Japan. “Sando” is a Japanese Katakana word for sandwich. You can find them at the convenience stores, supermarkets and they are especially popular at train stations or the airports. The first Katsu Sando was sold at the Tonkatsu, a deep-fried pork cutlet restaurant,
- [Pilgrimage lodge with delicious food and wonderful hospitality.](https://howtojapan.net/2022/10/25/pilgrimage-lodge-with-delicious-food-and-wonderful-hospitality/) - There are various types of accommodations in Japan, such as business hotels, ryokan, minshuku, and guesthouses. What kind of accommodation do you prefer? If you want to stay at a ryokan (Japanese-style inn) where you can enjoy authentic Japanese cuisine and feel the spirit of Japanese hospitality at an affordable price, there is wonderful accommodation
- [Tsukimi: a moon-viewing tradition in Japan](https://howtojapan.net/2022/09/22/tsukimi-a-moon-viewing-tradition-in-japan/) - “Tsuki-mi” (月見), literally meaning “to look at the moon,” depicts the traditional moon-viewing events or autumnal customs in Japan. Since Japan has four distinct seasons, people have cherished the seasonal taste which deeply exists in our hearts. Now let us trace the history of Tsukimi and pick up its influence in our life. The beginning
- [One-day Trip to Toyosu, Tokyo](https://howtojapan.net/2022/09/28/one-day-trip-to-toyosu-tokyo/) - Generally speaking, Tokyo is home to a bunch of places where you should go to. Like, go shopping, eating out and visiting tourist places just to name a few. In another words, you might not know where you should go because there are a lot of places to go to. So today, I’ll prepare for
- [Must-Go Udon Shops in Osaka](https://howtojapan.net/2022/09/23/must-go-udon-shops-in-osaka/) - Introduction Osaka is a great diverse city, especially regarding food, it's the best place in Japan for it. There are various kinds of delicious food which is priced from a little more expensive to cheaper. People living in Osaka are particular about the taste and are often said to be "kuidaore" which translates to spoiling
- [On the Japanese sense of beauty](https://howtojapan.net/2022/09/27/on-the-japanese-sense-of-beauty/) - Hi! I can feel the coming of autumn recently. The temperature is cooler than before. Anyway, today, I'd like to talk about Japanese people 's beauty sense. In the past Japanese people sometimes would be thought of as "clean freaks'', or "want to be stylish". What happened to it now? Not Only Women But Also
- [Osaka Castle Part 1](https://howtojapan.net/2022/09/26/osaka-castle-part-1/) - Osaka Castle is the most popular historical sightseeing spot in Osaka. Have you ever been to Osaka and visited Osaka Castle? Many foreign visitors used to visit Osaka Castle before the corona pandemic. I will introduce some parts among many Osaka Castle's seeing spots in several installments. I hope you have a feeling you're joining
- [Melody or Noise? ~Insects’ voice~](https://howtojapan.net/2022/09/24/melody-or-noise-insects-voice/) - In September, when the air is turning from summer to autumn, we know that autumn came. Speaking of autumn in Japan, autumn is a season of various activities. We call them many things, such as “the appetite of autumn,” “the arts of autumn,” “reading of autumn,” and “sports of autumn.” How about you? When do
- [How to Enjoy Your Spare Time in Kyoto ～Taxis are more than just a means of transportation～](https://howtojapan.net/2022/09/21/how-to-enjoy-your-spare-time-in-kyoto-～taxis-are-more-than-just-a-means-of-transportation～/) - What kind of service do you think of when you hear the word "taxi"? Is it only as a means of transportation? Today I’d like to introduce you to some unique services a taxi company provides in Kyoto. You can experience those services in an amusement facility operated by Kyoto MK Taxi in the suburbs
- [How about taking a break in a rooftop garden, an urban oasis?](https://howtojapan.net/2022/09/19/how-about-taking-a-break-in-a-rooftop-garden-an-urban-oasis/) - What do you do when you are tired of walking around town or shopping and want to kill some time? Do you want to find a stylish cafe in which you can rest? That's a good idea, but why not take a break in a place where there is greenery and the sky is close
- [Magical item for students 〜Red Sheet〜](https://howtojapan.net/2022/09/20/magical-item-for-students-〜red-sheet〜/) - It's quiz time! Question 1: What's this? Answer: It's just an orange pen. Question 2: What are these? Answer: They are special red and green pens. Question 3: What's this? Answer: It's a magical red sheet. Have you ever heard about this red sheet? It has been a common item for Japanese people for decades,
- [Dashi influenced by the culture](https://howtojapan.net/2022/08/28/dashi-influenced-by-the-culture/) - Introduction Today, I'll be introducing a Japanese broth called "dashi" in this blog. As you might know, washoku, or Japanese cuisine, was recognized as an Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2013. One of the features of washoku is using dashi, which is both rich and savory. On top of that, dashi brings out the flavor of
- [8 Tricks to Deal with Japanese Summer](https://howtojapan.net/2022/09/01/8-tricks-to-deal-with-japanese-summer/) - Hot, humid, damp, and muggy. When it comes to Japanese summer, you might feel like this. “暑い(Atsui)” is kind of how people say hello in this season. You might hear it here and there. These days, there are a lot of places where they break the record of the hottest temperature. People are suffering from
- [Treasure Hunting at Flea Markets in Kyoto!](https://howtojapan.net/2022/08/24/treasure-hunting-at-flea-markets-in-kyoto/) - Antiques, ceramics, second-hand kimonos, handicrafts, bonsai (盆栽), and other Japanese things. Are you interested in these kinds of items? Or, are you looking for a kind of unique souvenir from Japan to gift to someone—or maybe for yourself? There is no better place for it! If these markets I introduced here coincide with your stay
- [Things you shouldn't do in 3 situations in Japan](https://howtojapan.net/2022/08/31/things-you-shouldnt-do-in-3-situations-in-japan/) - When you visit Japan, you may wonder, “ How do I use this?” or “ Why did Japanese people around me give me the side-eye?" The reason for them can be derived from religious rituals and Japanese customs that have been handed down for centuries in Japan. So, I’ll take 3 typical situations and introduce
- [Education in Japan](https://howtojapan.net/2022/08/30/education-in-japan/) - This time I’d like to share about the education style in Japan. Japanese are thought to have high academic ability, but why? Of course, I’m Japanese, but I have not thought about Japanese education much. Then, I suddenly wanted to think about the Japanese education system, and I wanted to research other countries' education systems.
- [Fujiidera City 藤井寺市: My city became a world heritage site finally?](https://howtojapan.net/2022/08/01/fujiidera-city-藤井寺市-my-city-became-a-world-heritage-site-finally/) - Introduction Today, I'll be introducing Fujiidera City, where I currently live. The total area of the city is calculated to be about 8.89 ㎢, which is the smallest city in Osaka and the 5th smallest city in Japan. However, for such a small city, it has a very deep and important role in Japanese history.
- [A museum where you can enjoy masterpieces from around the world〜The Otsuka Museum of Art](https://howtojapan.net/2022/08/29/a-museum-where-you-can-enjoy-masterpieces-from-around-the-world〜the-otsuka-museum-of-art/) - Do you like art?If so, in Tokushima, Shikoku, there is an art museum where you can enjoy first-class art from around the world. "The Otsuka Museum of Art" has collections of works by great Western artists such as Picasso, Renoir, Vermeer, and Leonardo de Vinci. However, there is no original work.Why is that? Run by
- [♪Japanese phrases have such a good ring to them♪ 〜Huuuuu!!〜](https://howtojapan.net/2022/08/27/♪japanese-phrases-have-such-a-good-ring-to-them♪-〜huuuuu〜/) - Welcome to the "Japanese language fun time!" First, I’d like to mention that while I'm not a Japanese language teacher, I am happy to deliver fun words and expressions that I think you will enjoy and find useful! Are you good to go? Let's get started! Today, I'm happy to introduce a Japanese phrase, "Huuuuu!!
- [Love Osaka Konamon Part 2 ~Takoyaki~](https://howtojapan.net/2022/08/26/love-osaka-konamon-part-2-takoyaki/) - Osaka offers tons of delicious foods, especially so-called “Konamon”. I’ve written about another Konamon cuisine, Okonomiyaki, on HTJ before. Love Osaka Konamon ~Okonomiyaki~ Everyone knows that Osaka is famous for Takoyaki as one of its soul foods. There are many Takoyaki shops all over Osaka. I highly recommend eating Takoyaki when you visit Osaka. Today,
- [The Seven Autumn Flowers (or Herbs)～Let’s Enjoy Seeing Flowers in the Fields of Autumn～](https://howtojapan.net/2022/08/25/the-seven-autumn-flowers-or-herbs～lets-enjoy-seeing-flowers-in-the-fields-of-autumn～/) - As you know, Japan has four distinct seasons. Each season is very different from the other, so since ancient times, people in Japan have enjoyed each season’s characteristics, such as the weather, the scenery, the seasonal flowers, or the seasonal foods. I’m writing this article on the day of Risshu (立秋), the beginning of autumn
- [Blue in Japan](https://howtojapan.net/2022/08/23/blue-in-japan/) - I like blue. The color blue is associated with the vast ocean and the clear sky on sunny days. However, there are some interesting Japanese words that call something blue that’s not actually blue! What on earth is going on? ☆How do we say "blue" in Japanese? Before digging into this issue, let me introduce
- [Sushi: A Sophisticated Delicacy or a Fast Food?](https://howtojapan.net/2022/08/22/sushi-a-sophisticated-delicacy-or-a-fast-food/) - Sushi, generally consisting of vinegared rice and a topping, is a traditional Japanese delicacy and is now a well recognized cuisine worldwide. However, the word “sushi” has been typed differently in three ways in kanji over the years plus in one way in Roman letters: 鮓, 鮨, 寿司, and “sushi.” These expressions include some meanings
- [Japanese style all-you-can-eat Yakiniku and Shabu Shabu restaurant ～焼肉・しゃぶしゃぶ食べ放題～](https://howtojapan.net/2022/07/30/japanese-style-all-you-can-eat-yakiniku-and-shabu-shabu-restaurant-～焼肉・しゃぶしゃぶ食べ放題/) - It’s natural that chefs cook meals that you order and you eat that when you go to a restaurant. But how about a restaurant where you cook for yourself? That's a Japanese style yakiniku and shabu shabu restaurant. If you come to Japan, I highly recommend going to this Japanese style all-you-can-eat yakiniku and shabu
- [Chopstick rest](https://howtojapan.net/2022/07/26/chopstick-rest/) - Chopstick rest - What image do these words bring to you? Today, let me introduce one of the beautiful aspects of Japanese culture, using chopstick rests. ☆History First, this is what I learned about the history of chopsticks and chopstick rests in Japan. Around the 7th century: Chopsticks began to be used for Sinto rituals.
- [Spine-Chilling Stories in Japan](https://howtojapan.net/2021/08/22/spine-chilling-stories-in-japan/) - Do you believe in ghosts or paranormal activity? Let's take a look at some examples of paranormal stories from Japan that you may or may not know about. Premodern I'm going to introduce to you the three most infamous ghosts from the Edo period in Japan. 〜Tokaido-Yotsuya Ghost Story〜Oiwa 東海道四谷怪談 お岩 There was a woman named Oiwa
- [What is Donki?](https://howtojapan.net/2022/08/05/what-is-donki/) - Have you ever seen this penguin? This is “Don Quixote,” which is the Japanese discount store whose headquarters is in Tokyo. Now it has 604 stores in Japan and 96 stores overseas, such as in the U.S., Singapore, Hong Kong, Taiwan and so on as of June in 2022. We usually say “Donki” as its
- [Why are there so many pine trees around Japanese castles?](https://howtojapan.net/2022/08/04/why-are-there-so-many-pine-trees-around-japanese-castles/) - Do you know why there are a lot of pine trees in Japanese castles? You find many pine trees around castles all over Japan. There are a few reasons why a lot of pine trees were planted around Japanese castles. First, the pine tree is considered a celebration symbol in Japan as it represents perpetual
- [Seasonal Work of Side-Job Farming in June](https://howtojapan.net/2022/08/03/seasonal-work-of-side-job-farming-in-june/) - June in Japan is a humid season with a lot of rain and high temperatures. During this period, persimmons absorb a lot of water, and the fruits grow bigger. If you leave too many fruits on the branches at this time of year, something called “physiological loss” will occur. This is a natural phenomenon in
- [Handa Somen〜 Thick, chewy, delicious somen noodles.](https://howtojapan.net/2022/08/02/handa-somen〜-thick-chewy-delicious-somen-noodles/) - Somen is the most representative noodle of summer in Japan. Somen, with its pure white, delicate noodles and refreshing taste, is a typical summer dish in Japan. Japan is home to a large number of somen producing regions, each with its own unique characteristics.Map of Somen production areas in Japan. Hand-pulled noodles〜The origin of Handa
- [Very Hard!? Working for a Japanese Company](https://howtojapan.net/2022/07/31/very-hard-working-for-a-japanese-company/) - I'd like to talk about Japanese companies and professional manners. I'm going to tell you what are important things to know when you work in Japan or for a Japanese company. I have never worked abroad, but from reading articles about working styles overseas, I can guess that the Japanese working style is very different.
- [Japanese gods lived in Miyazaki.](https://howtojapan.net/2022/07/29/japanese-gods-lived-in-miyazaki/) - Do you know the Japanese myths written in Japanese oldest history books Kojiki (古事記) and Nihonshoki (日本書紀)? There are a lot of unique and cute gods in the myths. One of them, Amaterasu-Omikami (天照大神), is handed down as an ancestor of Japanese imperial family. She is the goddess of the sun. In Miyazaki Prefecture, there
- [Bon Festival in Kyoto ～How to Welcome and Send Back One’s Ancestors' Spirits～](https://howtojapan.net/2022/07/28/bon-festival-in-kyoto-～how-to-welcome-and-send-back-ones-ancestors-spirits～/) - Now I’m writing this in the scorching hot mid-July. With August approaching, most Japanese people look forward to the Bon holiday which is the second biggest holiday after the New Year’s holiday. During the Bon holiday, Japanese family members are customarily supposed to celebrate the Bon Festival by getting together and honoring their ancestors. Then,
- [Maneki Neko, the Beckoning Cat](https://howtojapan.net/2022/07/25/maneki-neko-the-beckoning-cat/) - Manekineko, a beckoning cat, is well known as a figure which you can find at the entrance of the shops or restaurants in Japan. It can be found with either the right or the left paw raised. A common belief is that the left paw raised brings in customers, while the right paw brings wealth.
- [Make the Most of Natsu Doyo (夏土用), the Hottest Days in Japan](https://howtojapan.net/2022/07/09/make-the-most-of-natsu-doyo-夏土用-the-hottest-days-in-japan/) - Have you ever eaten Unagi, or eel? It looks really delicious, doesn’t it? There is a Japanese custom of eating eel on a certain day during the hottest days of summer to prevent summer heat fatigue. The day is called Doyo no ushi, or the Day of the Ox. There are other customs practiced during
- [The 13 Best Products to Buy at Daiso](https://howtojapan.net/2022/07/08/the-13-best-products-to-buy-at-daiso/) - Hyakkin literally means “one hundred yen” (in Japanese, hyaku-en, and also represented as ¥100 or 100円). Hyaku means “one hundred,” and “yen” is the English pronunciation of the Japanese currency, en. In a hyakkin store, all items are selling for only 100JPY. Despite earlier reputations, hyakkins are no longer places known as where you can
- [Ohenro (お遍路) -88 Temples Pilgrimage- in Kyoto](https://howtojapan.net/2021/05/31/ohenro-お遍路-88-temples-pilgrimage-in-kyoto/) - Pilgrimage in Kyoto? As you know, Kyoto has a lot of sightseeing spots, such as Kinkakuji temple, Kiyomizudera temple, Bamboo forest in Arashiyama and Fushimi-Inari shrine. Each is absolutely stunning, but at the same time, always crowded. You might be overwhelmed with the crowd. Today I’d like to take you off the beaten track in
- [High-Rise Buildings in West Shinjuku, Tokyo](https://howtojapan.net/2022/03/25/high-rise-buildings-in-west-shinjuku-tokyo/) - General Overview of Shinjuku Shinjuku is regarded as the metropolitan city of Tokyo. There is the metropolitan government office on the west side of Shinjuku. Shinjuku Station is the world's busiest hub station with several major railway lines such as JR East, Odakyu, Keio, and several subways. Probably it is the place that most people
- [Manazuru is a small town for living a quiet life with sea, forest, and stones.](https://howtojapan.net/2022/07/03/manazuru-is-a-small-town-for-living-a-quiet-life-with-sea-forest-and-stones/) - Manazuru is a small port town on the Manazuru Peninsula, located in the southwestern part of Kanagawa Prefecture. It’s a 1.5 hour local train ride from Tokyo. The town has a long history and is surrounded by the sea and mountains. You can enjoy fresh and delicious fish. As there are no hot springs or
- [“Una-ju,” a box of rice with glaze-grilled eel](https://howtojapan.net/2022/06/28/una-ju-a-box-of-rice-with-glaze-grilled-eel/) - Unaju (鰻重) is a special food for Japanese people. It is a grilled freshwater eel over charcoal on top of white rice with eel sauce. Eel sauce is a great combination of soy sauce and mirin, sweet cooking sake. Unaju is widely recognized as a gorgeous delicacy. People consume “unaju” at anniversaries or some special
- [Spice Curry, The New Wave From Osaka](https://howtojapan.net/2022/07/02/spice-curry-the-new-wave-from-osaka/) - Introduction Nowadays, curry and rice are very popular regardless of age or gender and are considered national dishes in Japan. You can find good curry shops here and there easily. Then, I'll be introducing to you a dish known as "Spice Curry" that originates from Osaka. You would think using spices for curry goes without
- [Undersea Walk at Kaiyukan](https://howtojapan.net/2022/07/01/undersea-walk-at-kaiyukan/) - When I was a child, I liked to go to the zoo rather than the aquarium because I wanted to watch animals more clearly with my eyes. That means the tank glass of an aquarium was not very clear at that time. When I went to an aquarium after growing up, I was really surprised
- [Understanding Road Signs in Japan](https://howtojapan.net/2022/07/07/understanding-road-signs-in-japan/) - Let’s learn the road signs in Japan Do you want to drive around Japan? If so, I highly recommend investing some time into learning as many road signs as possible before driving here. Many road signs in Japan follow international standards but if you are unfamiliar with Japanese, especially written Japanese, you may encounter some
- [Cheers with Non-alcoholic drinks!](https://howtojapan.net/2022/07/06/cheers-with-non-alcoholic-drinks/) - Compared to the past, non-alcoholic beer, wine, and chuhai have become much more common. You can often find them in supermarkets and liquor stores. I used to rarely drink non-alcoholic drinks, but thanks to their frequent appearance, I have recently started drinking them. So today, I would like to talk about non-alcoholic drinks in Japan!
- [Welcome to “Shigaraki,” the City of Ceramic Art](https://howtojapan.net/2022/07/05/welcome-to-shigaraki-the-city-of-ceramic-art/) - Have you been to Shiga prefecture? Most of the foreigners don’t know about Shiga, although a few people might know about the biggest lake, Lake Biwa. Shiga is located on the west side of Japan. It is close to Kyoto Prefecture, so a lot of workers go to work in Kyoto and Osaka. It is
- [Taka-jizou(高地蔵）Story](https://howtojapan.net/2022/07/04/taka-jizou高地蔵）story/) - Have you seen the cute-looking "Ojizo-san" statues before? They can be found in many places, for example, at Buddhist temples, graveyards, and on the side of the road in Japan. Ojizo-san's real name is "Jizo Bosatsu（地蔵菩薩" a type of Buddhist statue.They are believed to be the guardians of children and travelers. Ojizo-san, standing by the
- [Work of Japanese side-job farmer](https://howtojapan.net/2022/06/29/work-of-japanese-side-job-farmer/) - May It's time for new sprouts to grow gradually on the trees. My persimmon variety is called “Jiro persimmon,” and it features a square shape. Persimmon trees are very vital, and a lot of sprouts grow from where they are pruned in winter. At the same time, flowers bloom. Sprouts that are too long block
- [Nishiki Market (錦市場, Nishiki Ichiba) and Vicinity](https://howtojapan.net/2022/06/27/nishiki-market-錦市場-nishiki-ichiba-and-vicinity/) - Tasting local delicacies or specialties is one of the purposes of travel, right? Here, Nishiki Market is the place for it! The market is often called “Kyoto’s Kitchen,” as all of Kyoto’s ingredients, such as Kyoto vegetables, dried food, pickles, fish, and more, can be found here. So I’d like to share some tips on
- [How to understand hannarism in Kyoto](https://howtojapan.net/2021/06/28/how-to-understand-hannarism-in-kyoto/) - What is “hannari”? Have you heard the word, hannari (はんなり)? Hannari describes people's impression of the Kyoto dialect. It is used to describe a person who is graceful, natural, and self-paced. It also depicts a calm and gorgeous appearance, and elegant, bright and cheerful behavior. It's like an onomatopoeic description of the ambience of Kyoto.
- [How to Use SUMIMASEN Practically](https://howtojapan.net/2022/06/07/how-to-use-sumimasen-practically/) - You definitely have heard that Japanese people often say “sumimasen.” Probably you know it means “sorry.” This is true, but actually, it also has another two definitions, like “excuse me“ and “thank you.” Where should you use it? You can use it at the workplace, shopping, restaurants or with strangers. This useful phrase would be
- [Breathtaking Night Views in Kansai](https://howtojapan.net/2022/06/06/breathtaking-night-views-in-kansai/) - If you want to see night views in the Kansai region, we all recommend you see the night view from the top of Mt. Rokko. It seems to be in the top three night views in Japan. However, I dare to recommend two other places if you come to Osaka. Today, the places I’ll tell
- [Exploring the Authentic Premium Hamburgers in Tokyo!!](https://howtojapan.net/2022/06/05/exploring-the-authentic-premium-hamburgers-in-tokyo/) - Have you ever tried premium hamburgers in Tokyo? These days, there are many authentic hamburger shops here and there in Tokyo. If you try eating one once, you will become addicted. I know it’s a bit pricey compared to the ones from franchise fast food restaurants such as McDonald’s or Burger King. However, the premium
- [♪Matcha, Matcha, Matcha♪ ～Tea Ceremony～](https://howtojapan.net/2022/06/04/♪matcha-matcha-matcha♪-～tea-ceremony～/) - What are your favorite drinks? Coffee, tea, water, pop, beer, wine, milk, juice…there are many kinds of drinks here and there. Even though the variety of drinks might differ from country to country, I guess people enjoy drinking something every single day. In Japan, we can get our favorite drinks easily at convenience stores, supermarkets,
- [Suica, a Pre-paid IC Card in Japan](https://howtojapan.net/2022/06/03/suica-a-pre-paid-ic-card-in-japan/) - Pre-paid IC cards are indispensable items to carry with you to live an urban life in Japan. Above all, “Suica,” run by JR East Co., is fairly familiar with people not only as a commuter pass but as a rechargeable prepaid card to support our daily lives. Suica, which started its function as a prepaid
- [How to enjoy Tokushima Station area, as navigated by locals](https://howtojapan.net/2022/06/02/how-to-enjoy-tokushima-station-area-as-navigated-by-locals/) - Tokushima Prefecture is located in the east of Shikoku.Tokushima has several famous tourist attractions, such as the tidal whirlpools of Naruto and the Kazura-bashi Bridge in the unexplored Iya Valley, but the public transportation system is not well developed, making travel from Tokushima City, the prefectural capital, inconvenient. What would you do if you had
- [Gokigen-you!~Useful Expressions That Make You Sound Sophisticated~](https://howtojapan.net/2022/06/01/gokigen-youuseful-expressions-that-make-you-sound-sophisticated/) - Do you have any plans to visit Japan? Are you interested in the Japanese language? If so, I'd like to introduce some expressions that make you sound elegant, polite, and sophisticated. Gokigen-you(ごきげんよう) "Gokigen-you" is a greeting for wishing good health for the other person when you meet or say "Goodbye". The word is an abbreviated
- [Japanese stationery](https://howtojapan.net/2022/05/27/japanese-stationery/) - I would like to introduce you to a few kinds of Japanese stationery, from a reasonable one to a little expensive one. I know many great pen companies around the world, because I work at an importing company, but I have recently found that Japanese stationery is awesome and interesting. My favorite Japanese pen I
- [Five-Storied Pagoda](https://howtojapan.net/2022/05/26/five-storied-pagoda/) - There are many three- or five-storied pagodas in Japanese temples. This style was introduced to Japan (and South Korea) from India via China. The Indian original was made of stone. However, due to the humid weather in Japan and the earthquakes that frequently occur in Japan, wood was chosen instead. Construction systems are said to
- [Wonderful! Railroads in Japan](https://howtojapan.net/2022/05/25/wonderful-railroads-in-japan/) - Many Japanese use railroads to commute, to go somewhere for leisure. Of course, some people use cars as a means of transportation, but using railways is basically cheap, so anybody can use them easily. So, I would like to share about Japanese railways, especially in Tokyo and the Kanto area. Japan's first railroad service opened
- [Maido! (Hello) Greetings from Yao (八尾) City!](https://howtojapan.net/2022/05/24/maido-hello-greetings-from-yao-八尾-city/) - Introduction Today, I'll be introducing Yao City where I was born and raised. It might be a run-of-the-mill town, but it has a warm feeling and is convenient to live in. I hope this article makes you feel a little nostalgia and reminds you of your hometown as well. What's Yao like? Yao City is
- [Onji Jinja, one of the oldest Shinto shrines in Japan](https://howtojapan.net/2022/05/04/onji-jinja-one-of-the-oldest-shinto-shrines-in-japan/) - Welcome to Shinto shrines introduction page!! This is a page of Shinto shrines introduced by me, a Shinto priest. This time, I am going to talk about Onji Jinja, one of the oldest Shinto shrines in Osaka. It may not be so famous today, but in the Nara period (710-794), there were eight major Shinto
- [Shigisan Chogosonji Temple (信貴山朝護孫寺)〜A big tiger gives you a hearty welcome](https://howtojapan.net/2022/04/24/shigisan-chogosonji-temple-信貴山朝護孫寺〜a-big-tiger-gives-you-a-hearty-welcome/) - Introduction It's the year of the tiger in Chinese zodiac, so I'll tell you how to have your prayers heard this year. According to legend, if people who were born in the year of the tiger, if they visit a temple dedicated to the tiger, they will be blessed with a good future. Shigisan temple
- [Amazing Japanese Vending Machines Part 2](https://howtojapan.net/2022/05/01/amazing-japanese-vending-machines-part-2/) - There are a lot of vending machines in Japan. A vending machine is called “jihanki” which is an abbreviation for “jido hanbaiki.” The benefits for owners are that they can save space and resources to sell their items because they don’t need to hire someone for its sales. They have to pay some running costs
- [Onigawara, the Guardian Deity of the Japanese House](https://howtojapan.net/2022/04/28/onigawara-the-guardian-deity-of-the-japanese-house/) - In Japanese we have the word “Satsuki Bare” that means a bright clear day in May, and we have more opportunities to look up at the sky than on dark winter days. The other day, I noticed there's an onigawara(鬼瓦) on top of the roof when I looked up, and I thought, “Is it one
- [Why do Japanese people go to shrines?](https://howtojapan.net/2022/04/27/why-do-japanese-people-go-to-shrines/) - This time, I would like to introduce you to the mysterious power spot called a "shrine" in Japan. Why do Japanese people go to shrines so often? Sometimes we are asked,”Who is the god you are following?” On the other hand, even though it is difficult to think of a special god, we feel that
- [Introduction to Traditional Crafts of Japan](https://howtojapan.net/2022/04/25/introduction-to-traditional-crafts-of-japan/) - When you hear Japanese Traditional Crafts “Dentou Kougei” (伝統工芸), what items or techniques come to mind? There are various traditional crafts called “Kougeihin” (工芸品) in Japan, such as Kokeshi dolls which are popular Japanese souvenirs, textiles and dyed products used for kimono, glass work, wood work, and even buddhist altars. Today, I will explore those
- [Sumiyoshi Neighborhood](https://howtojapan.net/2022/04/23/sumiyoshi-neighborhood/) - If you visit Japan, you’ll have a lot of places you’ll want to go. You may want to go to some famous sightseeing spots, however, when you have time and want to walk around on a whim, I know the best spots to recommend. Today, I’ll tell you about my neighborhood, Sumiyoshi. Sumiyoshi Park (住吉公園)
- [Rainy Season “Tsuyu” in Japan](https://howtojapan.net/2022/04/22/rainy-season-tsuyu-in-japan/) - “Tsuyu” is Coming Soon! There are four seasons in Japan. Spring, summer, autumn and winter. The changing of the seasons is ambiguous these days though. We have "tsuyu" between the end of spring and the start of summer. It's the rainy season. Not only in Japan, other countries also have rainy season. For example, China,
- [Taiyaki: A Baked Pancake Shaped Like a Sea Bream](https://howtojapan.net/2022/04/19/taiyaki-a-baked-pancake-shaped-like-a-sea-bream/) - “Taiyaki” literally means “grilled sea bream” in Japanese. However, in this case, this is not a fish delicacy, but one of the most popular Japanese sweets: a pancake shaped like a sea bream with red bean paste inside. This is a quite popular sweet or a kind of snack at food stalls at a festival
- [The feature of New Year “Hakone Ekiden”](https://howtojapan.net/2022/04/17/the-feature-of-new-year-hakone-ekiden/) - Hakone Ekiden is the most popular Ekiden (marathon relay race) in Japan. It is held on January 2nd and 3rd every year. About twenty universities participate and compete in the race. Ten runners from each university team run the round-trip distance in a relay from the center of Tokyo to Hakone, Kanagawa prefecture. This two-day
- [Interesting Japanese Souvenirs](https://howtojapan.net/2022/04/14/interesting-japanese-souvenirs/) - What do you imagine when you think of Japanese souvenirs? In this article, I’d like to introduce Japanese souvenirs from a Japanese perspective. ⭐︎classic souvenirs⭐︎ These souvenirs are really famous in Japan and also cute. These are considered good luck. 1. Kiborinokuma 木彫りの熊 Kiborinokuma is a wood carving bear. It's a famous Hokkaido souvenir. It
- [Wonderful Traditional Cloth “Furoshiki”(風呂敷)](https://howtojapan.net/2022/04/02/wonderful-traditional-cloth-furoshiki風呂敷/) - Have you heard of Furoshiki(風呂敷)? Have you ever used one? Furoshiki is a thin cloth which is shaped close to a square for wrapping, carrying or decorating something. Furoshiki is often thought of as an old traditional thing by Japanese people nowadays. However, It’s wonderful and enjoyable because one furoshiki can change its form depending
- [How to Enjoy Japanese Vending Machines!](https://howtojapan.net/2022/04/04/how-to-enjoy-japanese-vending-machines/) - We call vending machines “jihanki(自販機)” which is an abbreviation for “jidohanbaiki(自動販売機).” You might say there are many vending machines all over the world, and yes, that’s right, but I bet you found many “jihanki” within a short-distance when you visited Japan. A jihanki seems to me like a cafe where you can wind down when
- [Things commonly in Hawaii unexpectedly originally from Japan](https://howtojapan.net/2022/04/01/things-commonly-in-hawaii-unexpectedly-originally-from-japan/) - As you may know, Japanese products have gained worldwide recognition. What comes to mind when you hear wonderful things from Japan? Maybe you would say TOYOTA, SONY, Nintendo and possibly Cup Noodles, animation, karaoke as well. Of course, there's no doubt that they are incredible. However, I'll introduce to you something that originated in Japan—something
- [Must-Go Places in Ishigaki Island in Okinawa](https://howtojapan.net/2022/03/31/must-go-places-in-ishigaki-island-in-okinawa/) - Ishigaki Island is a part of Okinawa Prefecture and the second-biggest remote island in the prefecture. It’s 400 km away from Okinawa's mainland. There are about 50 thousand people there. Okinawa has a lot of kinds of nature and culture. Ishigaki Island also has these things too. Today, I will show you some parts of
- [The Three Best Cafes in Osaka](https://howtojapan.net/2022/03/30/the-three-best-cafes-in-osaka/) - In fact, I could not drink coffee without sugar and bitter tea until lately, but why do I love cafes now? Because I discovered these great cafes. At this time, I’ve discovered three cafes, especially the shops that help me get away from the noise of the city. TAKAMURA COFFEE ROASTERS—For coffee and wine lovers—
- [The Reason Why Japanese “Dashimaki-Tamago”Omelets Are Delicious!](https://howtojapan.net/2022/03/29/the-reason-why-japanese-dashimaki-tamagoomelets-are-delicious/) - "Did you order [dashimaki-tamago] & [karaage] & [ramen]? Whenever I went to the Japanese restaurant with a few British friends, they always asked this. These 3 dishes use some special Japanese spice. It’s a very popular seasoning in Japan. We call it "DASHI." Dashi is a basic soup. It is used in various dishes. Whether
- [Enjoy Viewing Cherry Blossoms in Kyoto](https://howtojapan.net/2022/03/26/enjoy-viewing-cherry-blossoms-in-kyoto/) - You may know that viewing cherry blossoms is one of the most pleasurable springtime activities in Japan. Since cherry blossoms start blooming in the early spring when it’s getting warmer, the people in Japan are eagerly waiting to see them and feel that spring has come. The elegance of the cherry blossom trees is shown
- [3 best spots for Hanami](https://howtojapan.net/2022/03/22/3-best-spots-for-hanami/) - As the sunlight becomes brighter and the temperature warmer in March, Japanese people become excited and begin to think, "When will cherry blossoms bloom this year?" "Where should we go for cherry blossoms viewing this year?" There are many good places for Hanami in Japan, but today, I'll pick three great spots for you in
- [How To Deal with Hay Fever in Japan](https://howtojapan.net/2022/03/23/how-to-deal-with-hay-fever-in-japan/) - Time of Hay Fever From the middle of February to the end of April, hay fever becomes active. We have to take measures against the Coronavirus, and we also need to deal with hay fever at this time. The major cause of hay fever in Japan is cedar. Cedar pollen leads to intense symptoms of
- [Must Go Places in Kawagoe!](https://howtojapan.net/2022/03/03/must-go-places-in-kawagoe/) - 1. What’s Koedo(小江戸）? It means “small Edo（江戸).” In the Edo period (1603-1867), Kawagoe was called Koedo because it flourished as a castle town of Kawagoe Domain. At the time, General Ieyasu Tokugawa ordered them to protect the north part of Edo city, and they developed as a commercial city for business people by supporting the
- [How to enjoy Japanese Sake in Japan! Vol.1](https://howtojapan.net/2022/03/02/how-to-enjoy-japanese-sake-in-japan-vol-1/) - Which kind of Japanese sake do you usually have in your country? Do you know about some special sake which is very hard to get outside of Japan? When you visit Japan, I strongly recommend you to drink Nama-zake! Before describing the details, please be informed about two types of Japanese sake. Nama-zake and Hiire
- [Soul Food for the People of Ise](https://howtojapan.net/2022/03/01/soul-food-for-the-people-of-ise/) - Have you ever been to Ise, or have you ever heard of it? Ise is a coastal city in the middle of Mie Prefecture. I've never lived there, but I've often visited because it's my late husband's hometown. Ise is well known for its shrines (Ise Jingu, 伊勢神宮) which are Japan's most sacred Shinto shrines.
- [Various Colors of Soba Noodles](https://howtojapan.net/2022/02/28/various-colors-of-soba-noodles/) - Soba, buckwheat noodles, is one of the essential Japanese dishes like sushi, tempura, or udon. And there are so many ways of eating this dish cold or hot with various condiments or toppings. Please check this link: https://youtu.be/I4-55GjZMAU Especially in this article, let us focus on the colors of the soba noodles which tell us
- [The Allure of Kiyomizu-dera Temple](https://howtojapan.net/2022/02/27/the-allure-of-kiyomizu-dera-temple/) - “Take a chance as if you were jumping off the stage of Kiyomizu!” This is a famous saying, meaning “Put yourself out there, even if you are taking a risk.” Yes, this temple is famous for its stage! However, you shouldn’t be satisfied with just seeing it. Kiyomizu-dera is full of things to draw visitors!
- [Basic Onsen Etiquette](https://howtojapan.net/2022/02/26/basic-onsen-etiquette/) - Visiting an onsen is one of the important activities in Japan one must try to understand Japanese culture. You can not only relax but also have a chance to communicate with other people. It’s important to use good manners to have a good time with other people wherever you go. Take off your clothes. This
- [Phrases popping out of Japanese people's mouths](https://howtojapan.net/2022/02/25/phrases-popping-out-of-japanese-peoples-mouths/) - This time, I'd like to Introduce 3 phrases that Japanese people use frequently. 1. “Sumimasen” I guess that many foreigners know this phrase because it's famous. Sumimasen is really useful. Japanese people, especially adults, use it more than 20 times a day! Sumimasen has several meanings. It is used as “excuse me” mainly, but sometimes
- [Corrugated Cardboard Opens a Whole New World](https://howtojapan.net/2022/02/24/corrugated-cardboard-opens-a-whole-new-world/) - Introduction When you hear the word corrugated cardboard, usually the words brown, package, or mundane come to mind. Anything else? No? Then, I'll introduce to you some wonderful products made from corrugated cardboard. I bet you will be awakened to the truth of its qualities. This time, I received cooperation from HOWAY Co.Ltd and I'm
- [Dried Vegetables](https://howtojapan.net/2022/02/23/dried-vegetables/) - Vegetables have their seasons. It's a happy thing eating in-season vegetables which are nutritious and rich, isn’t it? I was born and raised in a farmer’s house. I could eat fresh and delicious vegetables. However, I had to eat dishes which my mom cooked with the same vegetables every single day during the season. I
- [The 3 Best Foods in Kobe](https://howtojapan.net/2022/02/21/2922/) - There are many famous sweets and bread shops in Kobe. Let’s introduce my recommended top three foods in Kobe. Let’s get started! First is the “pork bun.” There is a Chinatown where “pork buns” are sold at the shop called Motomachi in Kobe-city. The shop has a long line every time. There are several other
- [Kinkakuji  -how to enjoy Kinkakuji 10 times more-](https://howtojapan.net/2021/12/21/kinkakuji-how-to-enjoy-kinkakuji-10-times-more/) - See how brilliant it is! As you know, this is Kinkakuji temple (金閣寺, Temple of the Golden Pavilion), which is one of the most worldwide attractive sights. Most tourists will visit this temple while in Kyoto and must be struck by the beauty. However, this temple doesn’t only show us its splendor here. I can’t
- [Age-old but still popular snacks ~It’s Dagashi~](https://howtojapan.net/2022/02/05/age-old-but-still-popular-snacks-its-dagashi/) - I wonder what little things kids want to buy with 100 yen. Kids must be super excited and jump into “Dagashi ya” with a small coin in their hands. “Dagashi-ya” are kids'-oriented snack shops. If I explain the word in detail, “Dagashi” is a general term for cheap and little snacks, and “ya” means shops.
- [The 8 Japanese Virtues From My Perspective](https://howtojapan.net/2022/02/03/the-8-japanese-virtues-from-my-perspective/) - When I think of Japanese virtues, I always remember a book, Nanso Satomi Hakkenden(南総里見八犬伝), by Takizawa Bakin. I read it in elementary school, and through the story, I learned about Japanese virtues which, I think, are very important traits to keep good order in Japanese society. I’d like to tell you about Japanese virtues that
- [My Way to Enjoy Hot Springs!](https://howtojapan.net/2022/02/02/my-way-to-enjoy-hot-springs/) - There are a lot of hot springs which are called Onsen in Japan. You don’t necessarily need to go to a fancy hotel or Ryokan to use them. You have an option that you can use only Onsen without staying at the hotel. It’s called “日帰り温泉“: Day trip Onsen, you might want to search on
- [Coffee ― Loved by Many Japanese](https://howtojapan.net/2022/02/01/coffee-―-loved-by-many-japanese/) - Coffee, in my opinion, is an indispensable beverage for most Japanese people. In fact, I myself am a big coffee lover, probably drinking seven or eight cups a day. So, I decided to write about coffee this time. The History of Coffee in Japan It is said that coffee was first introduced to Japan by
- [Japanese traditional decorations of New Year, Shimekazari and Kagamimochi](https://howtojapan.net/2022/01/29/japanese-traditional-decorations-of-new-year-shimekazari-and-kagamimochi/) - Happy New Year! Finally, 2022 has started. Japanese women are busy from the end of year to the beginning of the year because there are many traditional things that we prepare for the New Year. In contrast to a Western culture where Christmas is a big deal, New Year’s is the biggest holiday in Japan.
- [Washi  和紙　(Japanese paper)  Take a look, touch and enjoy it in your own way](https://howtojapan.net/2022/01/31/washi-和紙　japanese-paper-take-a-look-touch-and-enjoy-it-in-your-own-way/) - As you may know, two-thirds of the land in Japan is composed of mountains and forests. A lot of areas are blessed with abundant timber and clear water. For that reason, the paper industry has been flourishing for millenia and has continued to thrive into the modern times. I assume we are going to become
- [The birth of "Japanese Ramen Noodles"](https://howtojapan.net/2022/01/27/the-birth-of-japanese-ramen-noodles/) - Japanese ramen noodles have attracted many people from all over the world. Generally speaking, their origin is Chinese noodles, however, the actual dish is not exactly the same. Like “curry” or “pasta,” Japanese ramen noodles came from abroad, went beyond the copy and became the original dish. Born as Another Kind of Soba Noodles for
- [How Amazing is Japanese stationery!](https://howtojapan.net/2021/12/31/how-amazing-is-japanese-stationery/) - What you have tells a lot about who you are. It’s not necessarily fancy things. Stationery is a good example because everyone uses it every day. Of course, there are many fine kinds of stationery all over the world. What is unique about Japanese stationery? I think Japanese stationery is well-thought-out and affordable. You can
- [Millions of “Thank yous!”](https://howtojapan.net/2021/10/23/millions-of-thank-yous/) - Have you ever thought that Japanese people find it hard to express their feelings? Actually, many of us rarely gesture, hug, kiss and speak out loud our feelings in public. Of course, we have a lot of feelings in mind. Today, I’d like to pick out one of the most heart-warming feelings - “gratitude.” If
- [Amazing! Yuzu and Lemon](https://howtojapan.net/2021/12/29/amazing-yuzu-and-lemon/) - There are so many kinds of citrus fruits in Japan that it is no exaggeration to say Japan is a citrus kingdom. Citrus fruits can be enjoyed in each season, but the citrus representative of winter is yuzu (柚子). Yuzu (citron) is the most popular citrus fruit in winter, and surprisingly, Japanese lemons are in
- [Gift-Giving Culture in Japan](https://howtojapan.net/2021/12/28/gift-giving-culture-in-japan/) - I’m writing this article between the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays, and I have a question for you. Did you have a good time on Thanksgiving with your family and get a good deal on Black Friday or Cyber Monday? Even though we Japanese are not familiar with those North American cultures, showing gratitude for someone
- [How does “Ginza” sound to you?](https://howtojapan.net/2021/12/27/how-does-ginza-sound-to-you/) - What is “Ginza?” In general, “Ginza” is a district of Chūō City, inside Tokyo. This is a popular upscale shopping area which has numerous internationally renowned department stores, boutiques, restaurants, and coffee shops. And it’s also one of the famous touring destinations for those coming to visit the Tokyo area. Please check this link: Tokyo
- [What is Oshogatsu？ ―　Japanese Happy New Year](https://howtojapan.net/2021/12/24/what-is-oshogatsu？-―　japanese-happy-new-year/) - Japanese decorations for new year Oshogatsu ― it’s a special occasion for celebrating a new year. First, let me tell you the original meaning of this New Year's event and how to celebrate it in Japan. Originally, it’s to celebrate the gods of harvest and family ancestors. There are special decorations for those. Kadomatsu and
- [Do you believe that Japanese sake is most popular in Japan?](https://howtojapan.net/2021/12/23/do-you-believe-that-japanese-sake-is-most-popular-in-japan/) - Everyone knows Japanese sake is an original Japanese drink and is one of Japan’s representative alcohols. On the other hand, probably nobody would doubt that Japanese sake is most popular in Japan. Is it true? A few decades ago, it was the number one alcohol choice for Japanese people. Unfortunately, it gradually changed and is
- [Let’s walk up the stairs! ～Tokyo Tower～](https://howtojapan.net/2021/12/22/lets-walk-up-the-stairs-～tokyo-tower～/) - It goes without saying that Tokyo is one of the most exciting and enchanting places in the world. Although there are plenty of amazing tourist spots, there are two towers that are the gold standard there – Tokyo Tower and Tokyo Skytree. Tokyo Skytree was built in 2012 and has been attracting the spotlight since
- [Explore a town  ~Koenji~](https://howtojapan.net/2021/12/20/explore-a-town-koenji/) - Have you ever fallen in love with a town at first sight? This whole town is a mixture of old-world sights and alternative youth cultures. When you stand in this town, you may just feel nostalgic or the vibrant neighborhood may inspire you. Of course, you may see various kinds of new aspects as well,
- [I want to tell you about the fascinating Senbei!](https://howtojapan.net/2021/11/29/i-want-to-tell-you-about-the-fascinating-senbei/) - Do You Know SENBEI? As you know, there are many fantastic foods in Japan. Sushi, Sake, Japanese sweets…. But I think something is forgotten! That is SENBEI! It is a kind of cracker but the taste isn’t sweet, because it is made with rice and soy sauce, and cooked simply. Do you know about SENBEI?
- [How to Enjoy Japanese Winter](https://howtojapan.net/2021/11/27/how-to-enjoy-japanese-winter/) - How do you spend wintertime in Japan? Today, I’m going to share how to enjoy Japanese winter locally instead of going to touristy places. If you want to see more touristy places, you can search on Google then. After reading my article, you will get to know more information about local people and definitely have
- [Junishi- TheTwelve Signs of the Japanese Zodiac-](https://howtojapan.net/2021/11/26/junishi-thetwelve-signs-of-the-japanese-zodiac/) - Has anyone heard of 十二支 (Juni-shi)? Junishi is the twelve animal signs of the Japanese zodiac that are used for directions and the almanac, which have been commonly used in Japan. Some of its essence is still influencing Japanese society and its people. In this article, you’ll find the origin, historical meaning of it. We’ll
- [“Akiyoshi”  Fukui local yakitori restaurant](https://howtojapan.net/2021/11/26/akiyoshi-fukui-local-yakitori-restaurant/) - Do you know “yakitori?” It is one of the most famous Japanese foods and is eaten all over the world. Today, I would like to introduce a Fukui local yakitori restaurant spreading to Tokyo, Akiyoshi. Oh, sorry. Fukui is not as famous as yakitori. Fukui is located in the center of Japan, next to Kyoto.
- [A Carpet of Flowers 〜Living with Flowers〜 Part 2 : Fall and Winter](https://howtojapan.net/2021/11/25/a-carpet-of-flowers-〜living-with-flowers〜-part-2-fall-and-winter/) - Introduction This will be a continuation from part 1. In this section, I will be introducing flowers that are commonly seen in fall and winter. In order to blooming flowers, fall and winter are tough season but flowers that appear in such harsh environment make people encourage to live on. Let's focus on some flowers
- [A Carpet of Flowers 〜A Gift from Nature〜 Part 1: Spring and Summer](https://howtojapan.net/2021/10/21/a-carpet-of-flowers-〜a-gift-from-nature〜-part-1-spring-and-summer/) - There are four seasons in Japan, and you can see a variety of flowers every time here and there. Do you think that being around flowers makes people happy? Speaking of flower viewing, you must imagine cherry blossoms, but I'd like to introduce a carpet of flowers which is considered to be breathtaking both in
- [On a Rainy Day](https://howtojapan.net/2021/11/21/on-a-rainy-day/) - Do you like to ride a bicycle? Do you ride a bicycle on rainy days? Have you ever felt in danger riding a bicycle while holding an umbrella? Today I’ll tell you something unique in Osaka. I live in Osaka. When you walk around in Osaka, you notice that there are many bicycles here and
- [Differences between Curry Rice and Curry Don](https://howtojapan.net/2021/11/19/differences-between-curry-rice-and-curry-don/) - If you visit one of the Soba restaurants, especially in the Kanto area of Japan, you’ll notice that there are very similar dishes on the menu, ‘Curry Rice and Curry Donburi’. Are there any differences between these two, or is it just a matter of tableware? Curry Donburi was a shop owner’s idea to fight
- [Japanese Slang](https://howtojapan.net/2021/11/18/japanese-slang/) - You won’t typically hear Japanese slang in formal places. However, you may use slang if you are a colleague or a good trading partner, and a lot of slang flies around in everyday conversations between friends. If you hear a lot of slang, it might seem impossible to understand what they are saying. Even if
- [Wishing for Children’s Healthy Growth](https://howtojapan.net/2021/11/17/wishing-for-childrens-healthy-growth/) - The birth of a baby is a great joy for everyone. Every parent wishes for their children to be healthy and happy regardless of where they live. However, the rituals and ways of celebrating vary from country to country. Firstly, I would like to introduce some traditional events that celebrate the growth of a child
- [The Celebration of The Life’s Milestones](https://howtojapan.net/2021/10/22/the-celebration-of-the-lifes-milestones/) - Happy Birthday to you♪ Happy Birthday to you♪ Your own birthday is a very important day for everyone. I always thank my parents for giving birth to me. Birthdays have the most number of celebrations for everyone. When I was a kid, my family, sisters, friends and relatives celebrated me on every birthday. It’s the same all
- [What is Gacha Gacha?](https://howtojapan.net/2021/10/26/what-is-gacha-gacha/) - Why don’t you buy Gacha Gacha as a Japanese souvenir for your family and friends? I think it's an iconic item of Japanese culture because we’re good at turning something big into something small precisely. I’d say it feels like a sense of beauty that everything is packed into such a small place. You can
- [How Amazing Japanese Food Packaging Is!](https://howtojapan.net/2021/10/25/how-amazing-japanese-food-packaging-is/) - A plastic package is still useful for our life, I’d say. Have you ever thought about why these packages use plastic material? What for? Using too much plastic packaging is not good for our environment. I have no doubt about that. But there is no denying that a plastic package has made your life more
- [Too Many in Japan? Onomatopoeia](https://howtojapan.net/2021/10/13/too-many-in-japan-onomatopoeia/) - Japanese people use onomatopoeia very often in conversations. There are about 3,000 of these words in the United States and about 12,000 in Japan. People's voices, animals, and other sounds like natural phenomena are mimetic words, and things and emotions are imitation sound words. Why does Japanese have a lot of onomatopoeia? There is one
- [The 3 Best Places to Work and Study for Free in Downtown Kyoto](https://howtojapan.net/2021/02/03/the-3-best-places-to-work-and-study-for-free-in-downtown-kyoto/) - Kyoto is known as the most popular tourist spot in Japan because you can experience a whole bunch of historic locations and various traditional Japanese activities. But at the same time, it offers very urban aspects in its downtown area. Actually, I am a kind of digital nomad worker who just lives in and around
- [How to Enjoy the Fall in Kyoto](https://howtojapan.net/2021/10/20/how-to-enjoy-the-fall-in-kyoto/) - As you may know, there are so many places where you can enjoy the fall in Japan. But today, I’d like to introduce one of my favorite routes for a walk in my hometown, Kyoto. It’s the Philosopher's Walk, or Tetsugaku no Michi. What is the Philosopher's Walk? The Philosopher’s Walk is a pedestrian path
- [True Features of Tokyo Skytree](https://howtojapan.net/2021/10/19/true-features-of-tokyo-skytree/) - Tokyo Skytree, a recent-born landmark of Tokyo since 2012, is a high-rise, self-standing digital broadcasting tower with an inherited ancient architectural wisdom and a formative art. Inherited from the ancient wooden architecture Tokyo Skytree is famous for its height (at 634 meters) and two observatories (at 350 meters and 450 meters) which provide visitors a
- [The Difference between Hotels and Ryokans](https://howtojapan.net/2021/10/18/the-difference-between-hotels-and-ryokans/) - Where do you make a reservation when you visit Japan? In Japan, there are hotels and ryokans. I think that you know hotels very well, but if you want to feel authentic Japanese culture and atmosphere, I recommend ryokans. What is the difference between hotels and ryokans? In this next part, I will introduce them
- [The complex first person in Japanese](https://howtojapan.net/2021/08/26/the-complex-first-person-in-japanese/) - If you talk about yourself in English, you only need to use one letter: “I.” However, there are various first person pronouns in Japanese. When translating into a foreign language, all have the same translation, but each has its own subtle nuance differences, identity differences, and era differences. Especially in Japanese anime, it is very
- [Get wrapped up in Japanese hand towels “Tenugui”](https://howtojapan.net/2021/05/31/get-wrapped-up-in-japanese-hand-towels-tenugui/) - Towels made with cotton are comfortable to use, aren’t they? You use it every morning, right? Today, I will introduce you to Japanese hand towels. How do you imagine Japanese hand towels? Fluffy and thick? When you see Japanese hand towels I say, you may have a different impression. I will take you into the
- [Do you know which bread you should eat when you come to Japan?](https://howtojapan.net/2021/10/03/do-you-know-which-bread-you-should-eat-when-you-come-to-japan/) - There are a lot of delicious foods in Japan, such as sushi, ramen, udon and so on. But don’t forget about bread. Some people may think that bread is not from Japan. Exactly! But now, many kinds of bread are completely changed in a Japanese way, and I can say for sure that bread is
- [Ueno Onshi Park - Tips & History for Authentic Visitors](https://howtojapan.net/2021/09/27/ueno-onshi-park-tips-history-for-authentic-visitors/) - Ueno Park is famous as one of the cherry-blossom viewing spots or cultural venues which has several amusement facilities such as museums, a zoo, and a concert hall. Beyond that, Ueno Park has a long and winding road and there exists people’s strong will and enthusiastic behavior behind its history. Here are some tips for
- [Classical Music Fills the Air](https://howtojapan.net/2021/09/26/classical-music-fills-the-air/) - Do you like classical music? It's always somewhere around you without you always realizing it. We often hear it being played in commercials, movies, etc. Our ears already have a bit of training towards classical music. I'd like to recommend some ways on how you can choose a method that best fits your needs. History
- [Japanese Comfort Food, Onigiri](https://howtojapan.net/2021/09/24/japanese-comfort-food-onigiri/) - Introduction Hi everyone! What do you think this is? It's a Japanese comfort food, called onigiri. Today, I’d like to introduce onigiri, or rice balls, to the world. I don't think it's too much to say onigiri is a part of Japanese life, like the hamburger in the US, the sandwich in the UK, or
- [Gyoza ~Japanese Dumplings~](https://howtojapan.net/2021/09/24/gyoza-japanese-dumplings/) - Welcome to an authentic gyoza world! Today, let me talk about Japanese dumplings, known as gyoza. History Is gyoza a Chinese food? To answer this question, let’s turn the pages of the history of gyoza. It is said that dumpling-like food was eaten around 3000 B.C. in China. The food, whose ingredients were wrapped with
- [The Feeling from the Name of Winds](https://howtojapan.net/2021/09/23/the-feeling-from-the-name-of-winds/) - Do you think knowing the name of something changes the way you think about it? I think that the impression you have of something can change based on what you call it. We Japanese people have been feeling and enjoying the various tiny changes of the four seasons since ancient times. Wind, color, cloud, sun,
- [How To Order With Meal Ticket Machines](https://howtojapan.net/2021/09/06/how-to-order-with-meal-ticket-machines/) - Have you ever seen a meal ticket machine? There are a lot of machines here and there in Japan. Have you tried one before? Was there a multi-language display? If you don’t read any Japanese, don’t worry about it. Most of them are used in the same way. I’m sure it will be fun once
- [The 3 Best Hot Spring Resorts in Japan](https://howtojapan.net/2021/08/28/the-3-best-hot-spring-resorts-in-japan/) - Some of the biggest attractions in Japan are hot spring resorts, which are called “onsen-chi” in Japanese. Staying at a “ryokan,” which is a Japanese style hotel, and enjoying hot springs with great scenery is a moving experience. There are 2971 hot spring resorts in Japan, and more than 9 milion people visit hotels there
- [The unknown sites of Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto](https://howtojapan.net/2021/07/20/the-unknown-sites-of-fushimi-inari-shrine-in-kyoto/) - It’s no secret that Fushimi Inari Shrine attracts a great number of tourists from around the world. Everyone knows the iconic vermilion torii gates called Senbon Torii (千本鳥居,thousands of torii gates) that makes this shrine so special. However, what draws visitors isn’t just its Senbon Torii. Speaking confidentially, I will take you to some uniquely
- [Amazing Japanese Hamburg Steaks](https://howtojapan.net/2021/08/27/amazing-japanese-hamburg-steaks/) - When I was a child, I was always looking forward to eating out at restaurants. The reason was so that I could eat many kinds of western foods that my mom couldn't make. To my mom's credit, she is really good at cooking, but I really wanted to eat some special dishes using a fork
- [How to Predict the Gender of the Coming Baby: Old Wives’ Tales in Japan.](https://howtojapan.net/2021/08/25/how-to-predict-the-gender-of-the-coming-baby-old-wives-tales-in-japan/) - For most moms/dads-to-be, guessing the gender of the coming baby is very exciting. Of course, you will know it by a particular medical check up like a blood test or an ultrasound examination. But there are a bunch of old wives’ tales around the world when it comes to gender prediction. We, Japanese, also have
- [Love Osaka Konamon~Okonomiyaki~](https://howtojapan.net/2021/05/03/love-osaka-konamonokonomiyaki/) - There are a variety of delicious foods in Osaka. Especially “konamon” which is a soul food for Osaka people. Do you know “Konamon”? “Konamon” is a dish made with wheat flour. Udon noodles, pizza, pasta, etc. could be one of Konamon dishes. The culture of this konamon has been developing in Osaka. As you know,
- [How to Do "Rajio Taisou” Exercises](https://howtojapan.net/2021/08/20/how-to-do-rajio-taisou-exercises/) - I can say that Radio Exercise or “Rajio Taisou” (ラジオ体操 ) is one of the characteristic parts of Japanese culture. It is one of the common features of summer in Japan. It’s not too much to say that Japanese, young and old, know about calisthenics to radio music and can do it. Our bodies move
- [Some tips in Japan](https://howtojapan.net/2021/08/03/some-tips-in-japan/) - Let me show you some tips for when you visit Japan! We have convenience stores and ￥100 shops, also known as hyakkin, here and there in Japan. So, if you go sightseeing and you need something, like if it starts to rain, for example, you can get an umbrella in a nearby convenience store. When
- [Let’s look into the inside stories of national holidays observed in Japan: Part 4](https://howtojapan.net/2021/08/01/lets-look-into-the-inside-stories-of-national-holidays-observed-in-japan-part-4/) - Here comes the seemingly endless sequel again! Are you excited to read part 4 or are you fed up with it? Ready to find trivia about national holidays observed in Japan? One way or the other, let’s take a look! Around September 23rd: 秋分の日（Shubun no Hi: Autumnal Equinox Day） According to the “Act on national
- [The Fascinating Izakaya Culture Of Japan](https://howtojapan.net/2021/07/31/the-fascinating-izakaya-culture-of-japan/) - Do you often drink alcohol? If your answer is yes, where do you usually prefer to drink? It’s of course OK that you drink at home, but I prefer to drink at an izakaya (居酒屋), which is a style of Japanese bar. In an izakaya, I’m sure that you’ll experience many unique things that you
- [When You Wish upon the Stars ~七夕 ”Tanabata”~](https://howtojapan.net/2021/07/24/when-you-wish-upon-the-stars-七夕-tanabata/) - There is a traditional star festival that takes place on July 7th in Japan. On that day, people put up a lot of decorations made from origami paper and colorful strips on which you write your wishes, on bamboo branches. Have you heard of the “Tanabata” legend? What is this star festival about? Today I
- [Useful Apps for your time in Japan](https://howtojapan.net/2021/07/24/useful-apps-for-your-time-in-japan/) - The more popular Smartphones become, the more convenient our life is. So Apps are really essential for our life these days. When it comes to traveling around Japan, there are a lot of useful Apps that people recommend. Today, I’m sharing how useful these Apps are from my perspective who’s living in Japan by using
- [“Daruma” - A Familiar Item To Japanese People](https://howtojapan.net/2021/07/23/daruma-a-familiar-item-to-japanese-people/) - Do you know what this is? It is called “daruma.” Daruma looks scary, but this red doll is very familiar to Japanese people, from little children to adults. Why is it so familiar? Let me explain how daruma is involved in our daily lives. As a lucky item Daruma dolls are treated as things that
- [Soba - The Noodle With a Thousand Faces - Part 2](https://howtojapan.net/2021/07/22/soba-the-noodle-with-a-thousand-faces-part-2/) - I'd like to introduce to you some localized varieties of soba found in different parts of Japan. Some of them are standard, but there are some unique alternatives. Let's explore the wonderful world of soba. Fascinating Noodle Combinations 1. Cha-soba in Kyoto This type of soba commonly seen in Kyoto is made by adding green
- [How To Dive Into the BLUE!! -＃2 How to Join Scuba Diving](https://howtojapan.net/2021/07/21/how-to-dive-into-the-blue-＃2-how-to-join-scuba-diving/) - Ishigaki Island is the most famous diving site in Japan, enjoyed not only by qualified divers but by a wide range of ages. As an active diving instructor, please allow me to introduce you to how to join diving programs. I hope this will help your travels, but please remember that diving programs are always
- [How to enjoy skiing and snowboarding in Japan.](https://howtojapan.net/2021/07/12/how-to-enjoy-skiing-and-snowboarding-in-japan/) - Why don't you go skiing or snowboarding in winter in Japan? Are you afraid that you're too much of a beginner? Or maybe you don't really like outdoor activity? If you're not from Japan, you might feel that it’s too hard to go to the mountains while traveling abroad in Japan. It’s true that it
- [How to use restrooms](https://howtojapan.net/2021/07/04/how-to-use-restrooms/) - Look for these pictograms when you go out in Japan. Almost 100% of the time, these signs will lead you to restrooms. I took these pics in Koenji (located near Shinjuku) which is famous for the Awa Odori festival every summer. The two pics on both lower sides show a man and a woman dancing
- [Let’s look into the inside stories of national holidays observed in Japan: Part 3](https://howtojapan.net/2021/07/03/lets-look-into-the-inside-stories-of-national-holidays-observed-in-japan-part-3/) - I feel like some of the readers here aren’t particularly excited to see this series of the holidays observed in Japan every single month, but it is my responsibility to finish this sequel till the end no matter how you feel about it. Let’s take a deep breath and take a look at the rest
- [How To Call Japanese Rain](https://howtojapan.net/2021/06/30/how-to-call-japanese-rain/) - How many rain expressions do you imagine in Japanese? It is said that there are more than 100 words related to rain in Japanese. Those expressions can be seen not only in classical literature but also in daily life even now. The Japanese art print “Ukiyoe” (浮世絵) by the artist Hiroshige Utagawa (歌川広重) has been
- [Let’s look into the inside stories of national holidays observed in Japan: Part 2](https://howtojapan.net/2021/06/01/lets-look-into-the-inside-stories-of-national-holidays-observed-in-japan-part-2/) - This is the sequel to a previous article that introduced national holidays observed in Japan from January to April. Let’s continue our endeavor of finding the significant meanings behind Japanese holidays by looking at holidays in May!! May 3rd :憲法記念日 (Kenpou Kinenbi: Constitution Memorial Day) This is the day to celebrate the enactment of the
- [Soba: the lesser-known member of the noodle family -Part 1: Delicacy of Soba](https://howtojapan.net/2021/06/29/soba-the-lesser-known-member-of-the-noodle-family/) - Soba is one of the traditional noodles in Japan made from buckwheat flour. You can enjoy hot soba with Dashi-soup and cold soba with dipping soup. However, we have a unique way when we eat soba. I'd like to introduce some delicacy flavors. 1. Soba-sushi Soba-sushi is a type of sushi roll with soba noodles
- [Ekiben 〜Amazing boxed lunches〜](https://howtojapan.net/2021/06/28/ekiben-〜amazing-boxed-lunches〜/) - I’m big on ekiben. It’s not just because they taste good, but because they are associated with my memories of fun trips with my family, and make me feel nostalgic and excited. Of course, regular bentos (boxed lunches) also taste good, but ekiben are a special treat for me and make the time I spend
- [Do you know Japanese wine tastes very good?](https://howtojapan.net/2021/06/28/do-you-know-japanese-wine-tastes-very-good/) - Bordeaux, Bourgogne, Napa Valley and more are well known for their production of fine wine. Japan is not a big player yet, but there are good Japanese wineries that wine lovers are paying attention to. In recent years, Japanese wines have been highly appreciated in competitions around the world. While there are wineries all over
- [Let’s take a road trip: Camper version](https://howtojapan.net/2021/06/25/lets-take-a-road-trip-camper-version/) - When you hear the word "camper," what's the first thing that comes to mind? You might think of a big camper, like a house on wheels with a bedroom, kitchen, shower, and living room. Hmm, that makes sense... But I would like to introduce you to more unique campers designed specifically for Japanese lifestyle. Miniature
- [The Japanese Guide to Gift-Giving](https://howtojapan.net/2021/06/26/the-japanese-guide-to-gift-giving/) - Just like in western countries, Japan also has a gift-giving culture. However, there are some complex customs and points of caution which I would like to introduce to you. Other than Christmas and birthdays, here are some examples of prominent times of gift-giving: In summer, we have Ochugen (お中元) and at the end of the
- [So Glad To Have You Back! Holy? Ugly?  Recommendations For Seasoned Travelers.](https://howtojapan.net/2021/06/25/so-glad-to-have-you-back-holy-ugly-recommendations-for-seasoned-travelers/) - Places To Go Next. Have you been to Japan? Have you explored shrines and temples while in Japan? Visiting the historical buildings in Japan is an amazing experience, since they are dating back to the ancient era. In most cases, people who have visited Japan would’ve probably experienced it because the history of over a
- [How to Koban](https://howtojapan.net/2021/05/02/how-to-koban/) - If you take a walk, you might see a sign that says "koban". What is a koban? A koban is a police box. It's the smallest unit of each prefectural police and the concept is unique to Japan. Since I had once been a police officer working at a koban, let me introduce you to
- [3 most common helpful Japanese words ~For super beginners in Japanese~](https://howtojapan.net/2021/06/02/3-most-common-helpful-japanese-words-for-super-beginners-in-japanese/) - Today most foreign tourists in Japan usually have a cell phone, so it seems to be easy to get various kinds of information such as famous sightseeing spots and restaurants. Translation sites also may help them a lot. However, they might need locals’ help while travelling. You might be confused when you come across Japanese
- [3 Best Foods in Fukuoka](https://howtojapan.net/2021/06/02/3-best-foods-in-fukuoka/) - Thank you for dropping by this article! I’m going to introduce the three best signature foods in Fukuoka. As some of you may already know, Fukuoka is known for its variety of delicious local foods. As I was born and raised here, I’m familiar with them and I’m sure they are all good! I hope
- [A Must-see suburb of Tokyo, Chichibu Part 2](https://howtojapan.net/2021/06/01/a-must-see-suburb-of-tokyo-chichibu-part-2/) - This is the second half of ”A must-see suburb of Tokyo, Chichibu.” In my previous blog, I shared some information; how to access Chichibu and introduce some places where you enjoy beautiful fields of flowers. This time, I would like to tell you about some shrines and a renowned festival where you feel Japanese culture
- [Amazing Japanese magazine giveaways!](https://howtojapan.net/2021/06/01/amazing-japanese-magazine-giveaways/) - "Not for reading to buy books, for giveaways." In this day and age, it's no exaggeration to say that a quite appealing giveaway boosts sales during the depression of the publishing industry caused by e-books and depopulation. You might be surprised by seeing giveaways like toys for kids, pouches for young girls and card cases
- [3 hidden spots in the center of Tokyo  (Slip back to Old Japanese Houses and Gardens)](https://howtojapan.net/2021/05/31/3-hidden-spots-in-the-center-of-tokyo-slip-back-to-old-japanese-houses-and-gardens/) - When thinking of Tokyo, what picture do you have in mind ? You might imagine a big city with high buildings crammed side by side, rail tracks throughout there, city lights never turn off (twenty-four seven) and a ton of people coming and going along the streets. Would you like to get away from the
- [Todoroki Valley ― Wonderland in Setagaya, Tokyo](https://howtojapan.net/2021/05/31/todoroki-valley-―-wonderland-in-setagaya-tokyo/) - Unique Natural Features Tokyo is a land with many small height differences, so you would encounter a lot of slopes when you take a walk. You may find many similar names of places here and there in Tokyo, like Fujimi-saka (富士見坂) or Fujimi-dai (富士見台) which means an excellent point for viewing Mt. Fuji. You could
- [Imperial burial mound “Kofun” in Takatsuki, Osaka](https://howtojapan.net/2021/05/28/imperial-burial-mound-kofun-in-takatsuki-osaka/) - Takatsuki is a city located just at the halfway point between Osaka and Kyoto. Both JR and Hankyu express trains stop at it. There are large shopping areas around the station, mountains in the northern areas, and large rivers running through the city. And also Takatsuki has a long history from ancient times. Today, I’d
- [The words which express Japanese spirit ;おもてなし (Omotenashi), いただきます(Itadakimasu), ご馳走様(Gochisosama), 侘(wabi), 寂(sabi) and 花冷え(Hanabie)](https://howtojapan.net/2021/05/27/the-words-which-express-japanese-spirit-おもてなし-omotenashi-いただきますitadakimasu-ご馳走/) - The Japanese language has a lot of beautiful and particular words and also has deep meaning. I want foreigners who are interested in Japanese to know, so let me introduce some words. The word “おもてなし (Omotenashi)” was used when Tokyo took part in the competition to get the right to hold the Olympics. So maybe
- [♪Matcha, Matcha, Matcha♪ 〜Häagen-Dazs〜](https://howtojapan.net/2021/05/27/♪matcha-matcha-matcha♪-〜haagen-dazs〜/) - I bet everyone knows that Häagen-Dazs is a popular ice cream brand worldwide. It is originally from the USA, but did you know there are 40 original flavors made in Japan? Today, let me tell you about my favorite flavor, GREEN TEA! The origin of "Häagen-Dazs" In 1961, the founder, Reuben Mattus, launched his business
- [A Local Shows You the Way: Three Magic Compliments That Please People From Osaka.](https://howtojapan.net/2021/02/10/a-local-shows-you-the-way-three-magic-compliments-that-please-people-from-osaka/) - As you may or may not know, Osaka is a very popular city for tourists. However, the charm of Osaka comes not only from the sightseeing spots—but from the people here, too!. Osaka people are generally friendly, lively, and chatty. If you have a chance to visit Osaka and end up having a chat with
- [The difference between a Shinto shrine and a Buddhist temple](https://howtojapan.net/2021/02/03/the-difference-between-a-shinto-shrine-and-a-buddhist-temple/) - I am a Shinto priest who works at Onji Shrine in Osaka Prefecture. It was built around 470 A.D. and is one of the oldest Shinto shrines in Japan. The enshrined gods (kami) are named "Omiketsuhiko no Okami" and "Omiketsuhime no Okami", and they guide visitors to happiness. This area has been inhabited since ancient
- [Things about Japanese people and its society that might help you capture the general image of how we live daily life](https://howtojapan.net/2021/02/03/things-about-japanese-people-and-its-society-that-might-help-you-capture-the-general-image-of-how-we-live-daily-life/) - It might be helpful for anyone who is interested in Japan and Japanese people to know the cultural and social differences between Japan and their own country. Here are some examples that might help you understand our general ways of acting and our social customs. 1. No talking on the phone! You are not supposed
- [3 Tips you need to know before going to a dentist in Japan](https://howtojapan.net/2021/02/03/3-tips-you-need-to-know-before-going-to-a-dentist-in-japan/) - Generally speaking, going to the dentist is one of the most difficult things you face when you live abroad, even if you can speak the local language to some extent. Especially in Japan, there are two main factors that make it more difficult. The first one is the matter of language. Most Japanese people, including
- [Welcome to Japan’s Wonderful Fish Culture ~Where are fish caught?~](https://howtojapan.net/2021/05/02/welcome-to-japans-wonderful-fish-culture/) - Japan is one of the world's leading maritime nations and is blessed with abundant marine resources. The Japanese have benefited from marine resources and have eaten various marine products since ancient times. These marine products are caught by various methods in various parts of Japan, and the aquaculture industry is thriving from the viewpoint of
- [How Tonkatsu Was Born](https://howtojapan.net/2021/05/03/how-tonkatsu-was-born/) - Back to the Meiji era Hi! I’m Tonkatsu, a nice and crispy, deep-fried pork cutlet and one of the most popular dishes in Japan! I always help someone re-energize somewhere. In 1872, the Meiji government announced that Emperor Meiji had eaten beef. Therefore, the government would finally and officially allow the people to eat meat,
- [Enjoy the Local Cuisines of Old Town - Koto City, Tokyo: Fukagawa Meshi and Third-Wave Coffee](https://howtojapan.net/2021/05/03/enjoy-the-local-cuisines-of-old-town-koto-city-tokyo-fukagawa-meshi-and-third-wave-coffee/) - Koto City Why don't you explore an old town in Tokyo? I highly recommend Koto City. First, let’s talk a little bit about its history. Koto City is the eastern part of Tokyo, surrounded by the Sumida and Arakawa rivers and facing Tokyo Bay. Because of that location, it is called the “Waterfront City.'' Most
- [The Three Rudest Behaviors in Public](https://howtojapan.net/2021/05/02/the-three-rudest-behaviors-in-public/) - Many people have mentioned that rude behaviors are different depending on the country and the generation. You might think of one behavior as rude but other people don't think so. In this day and age, since how we think about rude behaviors has been changing, we can't decide on it one-sidedly. Plus, there are a
- [“Itadakimasu!”（いただきます！）](https://howtojapan.net/2021/05/02/itadakimasu（いただきます！）/) - I love eating! Eating with someone, or enjoying food itself must be a great joy for many people. If you have a chance to eat something with Japanese people or eat out in Japan, you might have heard the Japanese expression, “Itadakimasu.”（いただきます！）Let me introduce the deep meaning of it. Original meaning The core of the
- [Top 5 Annoying Sounds in Japan](https://howtojapan.net/2021/05/02/top-5-annoying-sounds-in-japan/) - When most people think of Japan, they imagine an elegant and quiet country with a culture that emphasizes good manners. However, there are some surprisingly common and annoying sounds that many Japanese people take for granted. Here are the worst ones. 1. Slurping noodles On their long awaited trip to Japan, many tourists want to
- [Welcome to Japanese “Onomatopoeia-Sound Expression” World !!](https://howtojapan.net/2021/05/02/welcome-to-japanese-onomatopoeia-sound-expression-world/) - Do you know what an onomatopoeia is? If you have read Japanese manga, you would have seen a lot of them there. This time, I'll introduce the differences of onomatopoeias between English and Japanese by talking about some words and some unique Japanese onomatopoeia. 1. What is "Onomatopoeia"? Onomatopoeia is the process of creating a
- [Let’s enjoy the styles of drinking Japanese sake!!](https://howtojapan.net/2021/05/02/lets-enjoy/) - Welcome to the wonderful Japanese sake (日本酒) world!! As you probably know, sake is the signature traditional Japanese alcohol beverage fermented from rice. Sake is actually the generic name for a wide variety of similar beverages. It is divided into varieties of products depending on how much the rice for sake is milled or how
- [Shinjuku Transport Hub](https://howtojapan.net/2021/05/02/shinjuku-transport-hub/) - Let's remember this nickname. This is an abbreviation of a bus terminal’s name. We call this "Basuta Shinjuku'' which is “the Shinjuku Expressway Terminal” and the main transport hub in service for all over Japan besides Narita and Haneda airports. It is located in one of the station buildings and directly connected to the "New
- [Onsen Etiquette - The Dos and Don’ts at Japanese Onsen](https://howtojapan.net/2021/05/02/onsen-etiquette-the-dos-and-donts-at-japanese-onsen/) - Have you ever been to an Onsen in Japan? It’s a Japanese hot spring where you remove all of your clothes. Onsen are familiar to Japanese people and they’re linked to Japanese culture deeply. Japan has more than 20,000 Onsen sources and facilities, and many of them have been developed as tourist spots called Onsengai.
- [Convenient Payment Options in Japan](https://howtojapan.net/2021/05/03/convenient-payment-options-in-japan/) - Hello, and thank you for dropping by my article. While cashless payment has already been prevailing in South Korea, China, and many of the European countries, Japan has been called a “cashless-underdeveloped country”. In 2018, however, the Japanese government established a goal of raising the cashless payment rate up to 40% by 2025, considering inbound sales
- [Welcome, All Vegetarians!  No Need to Worry about Food in Osaka.](https://howtojapan.net/2021/05/03/welcome-all-vegetarians-no-need-to-worry-about-food-in-osaka/) - Being vegetarian is definitely more common in the world than one might think. Vegetarians make up less than 5% of the population in Japan and, to be perfectly honest, I actually had no idea until I wrote this article! I personally don’t have any vegetarian friends, so the topic of vegetarianism didn’t translate into my
- [Koban: 9 Cautionary Tales for Keeping Your Valuables Safe While in Japan, and Japan’s Impressive Culture of “Lost and Found”](https://howtojapan.net/2021/05/03/koban-9-cautionary-tales-for-keeping-your-valuables-safe-while-in-japan-and-japans-impressive-culture-of-lost-and-found/) - Today, we’re going to talk about Koban. But before we can talk about what Koban is, let’s take a closer look at something that will help you better understand Koban later: your valuable items. Your Valuables What do you do when you lose or leave your valuables, not only being in your country but during
- [Feel free to explore `Kawaii' culture in Japan](https://howtojapan.net/2021/05/03/feel-free-to-explore-kawaii-culture-in-japan/) - 〜Girl's Talk〜 In recent times, the Japanese word `kawaii' has been appearing in mainstream pop culture, all the way from mangas to fashion trends. The term `kawaii' refers to something that is cute, cool, adorable etc. What comes to mind when you hear the word `kawaii'? Usually, people would answer ‘babies’ or ‘small animals’. However,
- [How to explore Forests in Okinawa](https://howtojapan.net/2021/05/03/how-to-explore-forests-in-okinawa/) - Okinawa is known for its beautiful coral sea. In Okinawa, we have three national parks, and about half of the area of the parks are ocean. Okinawa is the most famous destination for doing marine activities in Japan. Each island has different characteristics, such as being good for cave diving, having undersea ruins, seeing large
- [Let’s look into the inside stories of national holidays observed in Japan: part 1](https://howtojapan.net/2021/05/03/lets-look-into-the-inside-stories-of-national-holidays-observed-in-japan-part-1/) - Do you know there are 16 national holidays observed in Japan? Although it is said that Japan has the highest number of national holidays among major developing countries, in my eyes, most Japanese people, including myself of course, aren’t really aware of the original meanings of each holiday. I will introduce the meanings behind them
- [Welcome to the land of green tea!](https://howtojapan.net/2021/03/22/welcome-to-the-land-of-green-tea/) - I assume that you probably know all about matcha (Ma-cha 抹茶), a powdery grated green tea. You might also have tried some matcha-flavored sweets. Now, they are very popular throughout the world. However, there are so many other kinds of Japanese tea, and each has their own value and benefits. In fact, although ma-cha is
- [Love Story of Panda "Hama Family"](https://howtojapan.net/2021/03/27/love-story-of-panda-hama-family/) - 〜Prologue〜 Adventure World is a theme park with animals which consists of a safari, aquarium, and amusement park in Shirahama, Wakayama Prefecture. You can see animals from a short distance in a safari car, enjoy dolphin shows, and children can pet and feed animals. Wakayama is surrounded by mountains and the sea, and there are
- [To All Sports Lovers! - Live Sports You Can Enjoy in Japan](https://howtojapan.net/2021/03/26/to-all-sports-lovers-live-sports-you-can-enjoy-in-japan/) - Hello, sports enthusiasts from all over the world! We all know how wonderful sports are, right? I’m writing this article because I want you to enjoy live sports here in Japan as well! If you have a chance to visit Japan, why don’t you consider watching live sports? I’m going to introduce some sports you
- [Brief Introduction to the Kanji of the Year](https://howtojapan.net/2021/03/26/brief-introduction-to-the-kanji-of-the-year/) - Welcome to kanji (漢字) world!! If you’ve studied Japanese as a second language, I’m pretty positive that you’ve had to face the adversities of learning kanji at least once (unless you are from China or Taiwan where people also use Kanji in their languages). For people from non-kanji cultures, the fact that each kanji has
- [A Must-see Suburb of Tokyo: Chichibu,Part 1](https://howtojapan.net/2021/03/25/a-must-see-suburb-of-tokyo-chichibupart-1/) - Chichibu is an area on the outskirts of Tokyo which is about one and half hours away from Ikebukuro, a big hub station in Tokyo. It's quite accessible. In Chichibu, you’ll be able to have fresh air, experience other parts of Japanese culture, and appreciate beautiful nature. If you have some time during your stay
- [How to enjoy a Hyakkin!](https://howtojapan.net/2021/03/25/how-to-enjoy-a-hyakkin/) - What does "Hyakkin" mean? It's an abbreviation for "Hyaku en kinitsu shop", which means a 1 dollar store in Japan. I know there are a lot of one dollar stores around the world. But Hyakkin are only in Japan. What’s the difference? Nobody cares about the quality because everything is cheap, only 100YEN; 100JPY. If
- [Welcome to Japan’s Wonderful Fish Culture ~When Is a fish in Season?~](https://howtojapan.net/2021/03/22/welcome-to-japans-wonderful-fish-culture-when-is-a-fish-in-season/) - Japan is one of the world's leading maritime nations and is blessed with abundant marine resources. The Japanese have benefited from marine resources and have eaten various marine products since ancient times. Fish is also indispensable for various events such as New Year's, weddings, and coming-of-age ceremonies. Fish is closely related to the daily lives
- [Let’s enjoy traditional Japanese sweets (Part 1): “WAGASHI!!!”](https://howtojapan.net/2021/03/23/lets-enjoy-traditional-japanese-sweets-part-1-wagashi/) - Have you ever tasted wagashi? Do you like them? I love most kinds of sweets! I work as a Japanese sweets confectioner in a small town, so I’d like to tell you all about the good parts of wagashi. Wagashi refers to traditional Japanese sweets. It’s basically made from plant-derived ingredients. There are a bunch
- [How To Dive into the BLUE !](https://howtojapan.net/2021/03/23/how-to-dive-into-the-blue/) - #1 How to Join Snorkeling Ishigaki Island is a mecca for marine leisure that Japan is proud of. Not only qualified divers but people from a wide range of ages can play in the same place. Today, I'll show you how to join snorkeling in the Yaeyama area as an active diving and snorkel instructor!!
- [SDGs : a second Earth is needed.](https://howtojapan.net/2021/03/23/sdgs-a-second-earth-is-needed/) - Considering our consumption, we need a second Earth. Simply said, we are consuming the Earth too much. I am writing this article in order to 1, have you know about SDGs and the serious situation we are in. 2, spread several ideas which each of you can do to make the world a better place.
- [The Dos and Don’ts of the Deer in Nara Park](https://howtojapan.net/2021/02/11/the-dos-and-donts-of-the-deer-in-nara-park/) - Nara Park is a five minute walk from Kintetsu Nara Station, or about a twenty minute walk from JR Nara station. It is well known for having over one thousand free-roaming deer. It is one of the must-see areas in Nara city, which has a certain charm that draws you in. Even though they are
- [Let’s Enjoy the Sushi Train (Kaiten-sushi, 回転ずし)!](https://howtojapan.net/2021/03/15/lets-enjoy-the-sushi-train-kaiten-sushi-回転ずし/) - “Sushi” is now well known as a type of traditional Japanese food and is accepted by many people worldwide. In the past, sushi was considered to be a high-class dish served only on special occasions. However, “Kaiten-sushi” (Revolving Sushi Restaurants) is gaining popularity these days. Kaiten-sushi（回転ずし） The direct translation is “revolving sushi.” As you can
- [Let’s go to Sankei-en, unwind and enjoy a great Japanese garden in Yokohama](https://howtojapan.net/2021/03/10/lets-go-to-sankei-en-unwind-and-enjoy-a-great-japanese-garden-in-yokohama/) - There is a Japanese garden called "Sankei-en" in Yokohama, Though it might not be so famous because it is local, it is loved by the people who live in Yokohama. It's a huge garden and a ton of flowers and trees are planted there. You can enjoy four seasons of flowers. For example, various kinds
- [Let’s take a day trip to Arima hot springs!](https://howtojapan.net/2021/02/28/lets-take-a-day-trip-to-arima-hot-springs/) - Japan’s oldest hot-spring resort is Arima Onsen, located partway up Mt. Rokko near Kobe and to the west of Osaka, it takes about one hour and 30minutes to go to Arima Onsen from Osaka station or Shin Osaka station (the station where the Shinkansen stops) by express bus. It’s the easiest way to go there without
- [10 Helpful Medicines from Drugstores in Japan](https://howtojapan.net/2021/02/22/10-helpful-medicines-from-drugstores-in-japan/) - What would you do when you fly all the way to Japan and suddenly feel unwell, feverish, or have a sore throat the next morning at your hotel? Japanese drugstores are well-stocked with OTC (over-the-counter) medicine, which you can purchase without a prescription. You don’t have to worry about finding drugstores near your hotel or
- [How to make homemade miso](https://howtojapan.net/2021/02/20/how-to-make-homemade-miso/) - Do you know that miso is a traditional Japanese seasoning? It’s as well known as soy sauce or natto, and is a fermented food made from soybeans. We not only put miso into miso soup, but also in various kinds of Japanese cuisine, including noodles, hot pot, fried pork, oden, and other things like that. This means
- [Why not try some variety of Japanese bread?](https://howtojapan.net/2021/02/18/why-not-try-some-variety-of-japanese-bread/) - When you drop by a Japanese bakery, there might be some interesting and unfamiliar kinds of bread. For example,“Melon-pan, Yakisoba-pan, An-pan, etc.” In Japanese, the word for “bread” is pan. (Just like in Spanish!) Let’s try some unique bread. Those features are covered by fluffy bread. You can get these not only in any bread
- [The Present Situation of Rented Apartments in Japan When You Want To Have Pets](https://howtojapan.net/2021/02/18/the-present-situation-of-rented-apartments-in-japan-when-you-want-to-have-pets/) - Living in Japan, you might want to have pets. Almost all people who are living in Japan rent an apartment. Is it easy to have pets at your apartment? There are a few apartments where you can have pets in Japan In fact, there are a few apartments where you can have pets in Japan.
- [The Locals Know Kobe](https://howtojapan.net/2021/02/15/the-locals-know-kobe/) - Kobe is known as a tourist spot. There is all kinds of information. You don’t know what to choose. If you read the report I wrote, you can catch recent trends. I want to really recommend these spots. - View - Shiosai Park I highly recommend this great view there!! Seeing the mountain and Kobe’s downtown night
- [How to Enjoy Izakaya](https://howtojapan.net/2021/02/17/how-to-enjoy-izakaya/) - Do you like izakaya? Have you experienced one before? Are you interested in going to one? Izakaya is a Japanese bar culture where you can not only enjoy alcohol and food but also local specialties. Especially in rural areas, it's also fun to communicate with the locals. Additionally, each izakaya has its characteristics and strength,
- [How to enjoy a Convini!](https://howtojapan.net/2021/02/15/how-to-enjoy-a-convini/) - What is a "Convini"? It's an abbreviation for “convenience store” in Japan. When you visit Japan, you'll find convenience stores here and there. Of course, there are a lot of convenience stores all over the world, I'd say. What is the difference between Japanese Convinis and convenience stores abroad? Well, when you find you don't
- [To All Ramen Lovers! How To Order / Enjoy Ramen in Fukuoka](https://howtojapan.net/2021/02/16/to-all-ramen-lovers-how-to-order-enjoy-ramen-in-fukuoka/) - 1. ”What Is Tonkotsu Ramen”? Hello ramen lovers all over the world! As some of you know, here in Japan, we have several kinds of local ramen, like “Sapporo ramen” for Hokkaido, “Kitakata ramen” for Fukushima, and so forth. In Fukuoka, we’re so proud of our special local ramen - tonkotsu ramen! (*The term “tonkotsu”
- [Tips to enjoy your time in Fukuoka](https://howtojapan.net/2021/02/13/tips-to-enjoy-your-time-in-fukuoka/) - Have you ever been to Fukuoka? What comes to your mind when you hear Fukuoka? Fukuoka is located in the north of Kyushu island and is one of the largest cities in Japan. There are so many delicious foods, beautiful nature, and hidden spots! I will tell you some tips to enjoy your time in
- [Enjoy the Eizan Railway, enjoy my hometown Ichijoji](https://howtojapan.net/2021/02/13/enjoy-the-eizan-railway-enjoy-my-hometown-ichijoji/) - “Onoriyasu” Eiden, “Oideyasu” to my hometown Ichijoji! Hi everyone! Today I’d like to introduce a small local railway which runs through my home town. It is called the Eizan Dentetsu or Eizan Electric Railway, but we call it Eiden for short. In the title, “Onoriyasu” means “Let’s get on” and “Oideyasu” means “Welcome” in traditional
- [Let's enjoy March](https://howtojapan.net/2021/02/12/lets-enjoy-march/) - March is the season for students to finish their school year, or graduate. They prepare for a new school or a new school year. The settlement of a company’s accounts will also be done in March. In Japan, March is the last month of the year. To give a brief background behind that, there is
- [Basic business manners which might be helpful to know before starting your business career in Japan.](https://howtojapan.net/2021/02/16/basic-business-manners-which-might-be-helpful-to-know-before-starting-your-business-career-in-japan/) - Have you ever wondered what customs and manners are commonly shared with people who are working for Japanese companies? What are the appropriate ways you need to react to your Japanese customers, bosses and colleagues in certain situations? There are more and more Japanese companies that are willing to hire non-Japanese nationals due to the severe
- [How To Enjoy Koshien Ballpark ~From one baseball lover to all baseball lovers~](https://howtojapan.net/2021/02/12/how-to-enjoy-koshien-ballpark-from-one-baseball-lover-to-all-all-baseball-lovers/) - What Is Koshien? Koshien is a baseball park located near Kobe in Nishinomiya, Hyogo prefecture. The stadium was built to host the national high school baseball tournaments and opened on August 1st, 1924. It is the oldest and largest stadium in Japan with a maximum capacity of 55,000 people. It’s famous for being the home
- [Japanese Style Garden in Downtown Kansai Area](https://howtojapan.net/2021/02/09/japanese-style-garden-in-downtown-kansai-area/) - Tennoji park is one of the popular sightseeing spots of Osaka, which consists of a zoo, municipal museum, greenhouse, Chausuyama Tomb and Keitakuen Garden. It's located Tennoji, and easy to access right by the station. Men and women of all ages can enjoy a good time all day long. What I recommend most is "Keitakuen"
- [3 Places to Enrich Your Trip among Mountains](https://howtojapan.net/2021/02/03/3-places-to-enrich-your-trip-among-mountains/) - If you get tired of noisy and busy Tokyo, why don't you get out of the city and go on a trip to mountain areas? After that, soaking your tired muscles in hot springs sounds nice, doesn’t it? Japan has a lot of picturesque trails and beautiful spots among mountains. You may have unforgettable experiences
- [How to Spend Your “Uchinah-OKINAWAN Time”](https://howtojapan.net/2021/02/03/how-to-spend-your-uchinah-okinawan-time/) - Hello, everyone! How are you doing? I’m Yuka. Nice to meet you! けーらんねーら くよーまなーら！みしゃーりーるんねーら？ばーなーや Yukaゆー。はじみてぃゆんらー。みーっし とーんなーら。 Okinawa is the 4th smallest prefecture in Japan. It is made up of about 160 large and small islands, and each region and each island has its own unique language and culture. Okinawa was an independent kingdom for about 450 years. As

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- [Shinto shrine](https://howtojapan.net/tag/shinto-shrine/)
- [Buddhist temple](https://howtojapan.net/tag/buddhist-temple/)
- [Onji Shrine](https://howtojapan.net/tag/onji-shrine/)
- [worship](https://howtojapan.net/tag/worship/)
- [dental offices](https://howtojapan.net/tag/dental-offices/)
- [insurance](https://howtojapan.net/tag/insurance/)
- [Dentist](https://howtojapan.net/tag/dentist/)
- [Mountains](https://howtojapan.net/tag/mountains/)
- [Nikko](https://howtojapan.net/tag/nikko/)
- [Lake Kirikomi](https://howtojapan.net/tag/lake-kirikomi/)
- [Oze](https://howtojapan.net/tag/oze/)
- [High Rise Marsh](https://howtojapan.net/tag/high-rise-marsh/)
- [Mt. Nasu](https://howtojapan.net/tag/mt-nasu/)
- [Tochigi](https://howtojapan.net/tag/tochigi/)
- [Gunma](https://howtojapan.net/tag/gunma/)
- [Okinawa](https://howtojapan.net/tag/okinawa/)
- [Yaeyama archipelago](https://howtojapan.net/tag/yaeyama-archipelago/)
- [Miyako archipelago](https://howtojapan.net/tag/miyako-archipelago/)
- [Ishigaki Island](https://howtojapan.net/tag/ishigaki-island/)
- [trekking](https://howtojapan.net/tag/trekking/)
- [beaches](https://howtojapan.net/tag/beaches/)
- [canoeing](https://howtojapan.net/tag/canoeing/)
- [SUP](https://howtojapan.net/tag/sup/)
- [coral seas](https://howtojapan.net/tag/coral-seas/)
- [snorkel](https://howtojapan.net/tag/snorkel/)
- [Osaka](https://howtojapan.net/tag/osaka/)
- [Garden](https://howtojapan.net/tag/garden/)
- [Tennoji Park](https://howtojapan.net/tag/tennoji-park/)
- [Kansai](https://howtojapan.net/tag/kansai/)
- [Nara](https://howtojapan.net/tag/nara/)
- [Nara Park](https://howtojapan.net/tag/nara-park/)
- [Koshien](https://howtojapan.net/tag/koshien/)
- [Baseball](https://howtojapan.net/tag/baseball/)
- [Kobe](https://howtojapan.net/tag/kobe/)
- [Boxed lunch](https://howtojapan.net/tag/boxed-lunch/)
- [Bento](https://howtojapan.net/tag/bento/)
- [Cooking](https://howtojapan.net/tag/cooking/)
- [Meal](https://howtojapan.net/tag/meal/)
- [March](https://howtojapan.net/tag/march/)
- [Spring](https://howtojapan.net/tag/spring/)
- [sweets](https://howtojapan.net/tag/sweets/)
- [Railway](https://howtojapan.net/tag/railway/)
- [Ichijoji](https://howtojapan.net/tag/ichijoji/)
- [ramen](https://howtojapan.net/tag/ramen/)
- [Kyushu](https://howtojapan.net/tag/kyushu/)
- [Udon](https://howtojapan.net/tag/udon/)
- [Hakata](https://howtojapan.net/tag/hakata/)
- [Kitakyushu](https://howtojapan.net/tag/kitakyushu/)
- [Kurume](https://howtojapan.net/tag/kurume/)
- [Restaurant](https://howtojapan.net/tag/restaurant/)
- [Souvenir](https://howtojapan.net/tag/souvenir/)
- [View](https://howtojapan.net/tag/view/)
- [Convenience store](https://howtojapan.net/tag/convenience-store/)
- [Convinni](https://howtojapan.net/tag/convinni/)
- [greeting](https://howtojapan.net/tag/greeting/)
- [Food](https://howtojapan.net/tag/food/)
- [Izakaya](https://howtojapan.net/tag/izakaya/)
- [Kanto](https://howtojapan.net/tag/kanto/)
- [Drink](https://howtojapan.net/tag/drink/)
- [alcohol](https://howtojapan.net/tag/alcohol/)
- [Sake](https://howtojapan.net/tag/sake/)
- [Bread](https://howtojapan.net/tag/bread/)
- [pastries](https://howtojapan.net/tag/pastries/)
- [pastry](https://howtojapan.net/tag/pastry/)
- [Apartments](https://howtojapan.net/tag/apartments/)
- [Pets](https://howtojapan.net/tag/pets/)
- [Cats](https://howtojapan.net/tag/cats/)
- [bakery](https://howtojapan.net/tag/bakery/)
- [Miso](https://howtojapan.net/tag/miso/)
- [homemade](https://howtojapan.net/tag/homemade/)
- [Medicine](https://howtojapan.net/tag/medicine/)
- [Drug](https://howtojapan.net/tag/drug/)
- [Arima](https://howtojapan.net/tag/arima/)
- [Hotspring](https://howtojapan.net/tag/hotspring/)
- [Hot springs](https://howtojapan.net/tag/hot-springs/)
- [Yokohama](https://howtojapan.net/tag/yokohama/)
- [Sushi](https://howtojapan.net/tag/sushi/)
- [fish](https://howtojapan.net/tag/fish/)
- [Green tea](https://howtojapan.net/tag/green-tea/)
- [tea](https://howtojapan.net/tag/tea/)
- [Snorkeling](https://howtojapan.net/tag/snorkeling/)
- [Wagashi](https://howtojapan.net/tag/wagashi/)
- [Chichibu](https://howtojapan.net/tag/chichibu/)
- [Kanji](https://howtojapan.net/tag/kanji/)
- [Sports](https://howtojapan.net/tag/sports/)
- [Bbaseball](https://howtojapan.net/tag/bbaseball/)
- [Soccer](https://howtojapan.net/tag/soccer/)
- [Football](https://howtojapan.net/tag/football/)
- [Basketball](https://howtojapan.net/tag/basketball/)
- [Rugby](https://howtojapan.net/tag/rugby/)
- [Sumo](https://howtojapan.net/tag/sumo/)
- [Esports](https://howtojapan.net/tag/esports/)
- [theme park](https://howtojapan.net/tag/theme-park/)
- [Shirahama](https://howtojapan.net/tag/shirahama/)
- [Shinjuku](https://howtojapan.net/tag/shinjuku/)
- [Onsen](https://howtojapan.net/tag/onsen/)
- [Etiquuette](https://howtojapan.net/tag/etiquuette/)
- [Police](https://howtojapan.net/tag/police/)
- [Payment](https://howtojapan.net/tag/payment/)
- [Kawaii](https://howtojapan.net/tag/kawaii/)
- [ice cream](https://howtojapan.net/tag/ice-cream/)
- [yakitori](https://howtojapan.net/tag/yakitori-2/)
- [Ohenro](https://howtojapan.net/tag/ohenro/)
- [custom](https://howtojapan.net/tag/custom/)
- [soba](https://howtojapan.net/tag/soba-2/)
- [gift](https://howtojapan.net/tag/gift-2/)
- [summer](https://howtojapan.net/tag/summer-2/)
- [dialect](https://howtojapan.net/tag/dialect-2/)
- [shrine](https://howtojapan.net/tag/shrine/)
- [Japanese History](https://howtojapan.net/tag/japanese-history/)
- [Japanese Style Restroom](https://howtojapan.net/tag/japanese-style-restroom/)
- [Koshu](https://howtojapan.net/tag/koshu/)
- [Japanese Wine](https://howtojapan.net/tag/japanese-wine/)
- [Season](https://howtojapan.net/tag/season/)
- [Japanese Art](https://howtojapan.net/tag/japanese-art/)
- [Rainy Season](https://howtojapan.net/tag/rainy-season/)
- [Snow](https://howtojapan.net/tag/snow/)
- [Winter](https://howtojapan.net/tag/winter/)
- [Winter sports](https://howtojapan.net/tag/winter-sports/)
- [Scuba Diving](https://howtojapan.net/tag/scuba-diving-2/)
- [Tanabata](https://howtojapan.net/tag/tanabata-2/)
- [Daruma](https://howtojapan.net/tag/daruma/)
- [Onigiri](https://howtojapan.net/tag/onigiri/)
- [Rice ball](https://howtojapan.net/tag/rice-ball/)
- [Nature](https://howtojapan.net/tag/nature/)
- [New Year’s holiday](https://howtojapan.net/tag/new-years-holiday/)
- [Gyoza](https://howtojapan.net/tag/gyoza/)
- [Music](https://howtojapan.net/tag/music/)
- [Ueno](https://howtojapan.net/tag/ueno/)
- [History](https://howtojapan.net/tag/history/)
- [Park](https://howtojapan.net/tag/park/)
- [Accommodation](https://howtojapan.net/tag/accommodation/)
- [#Noodle](https://howtojapan.net/tag/noodle/)
- [#Curry](https://howtojapan.net/tag/curry/)
- [Coffee](https://howtojapan.net/tag/coffee/)
- [New Year](https://howtojapan.net/tag/new-year/)
- [Ginza](https://howtojapan.net/tag/ginza/)
- [Japanese snacks](https://howtojapan.net/tag/japanese-snacks/)
- [Mt. Fuji](https://howtojapan.net/tag/mt-fuji/)
- [Ise](https://howtojapan.net/tag/ise/)
- [Hay Fever](https://howtojapan.net/tag/hay-fever/)
- [DisneySea](https://howtojapan.net/tag/disneysea/)
- [Disneyland](https://howtojapan.net/tag/disneyland/)
- [Cherry Blossoms](https://howtojapan.net/tag/cherry-blossoms/)
- [Hawaii](https://howtojapan.net/tag/hawaii/)
- [Public transportation](https://howtojapan.net/tag/public-transportation/)
- [Hamburger](https://howtojapan.net/tag/hamburger/)
- [Enoshima Island](https://howtojapan.net/tag/enoshima-island/)
- [Aquarium](https://howtojapan.net/tag/aquarium/)
- [Shikoku](https://howtojapan.net/tag/shikoku/)
- [Manazuru](https://howtojapan.net/tag/manazuru/)
- [Non-Alcoholic Drinks](https://howtojapan.net/tag/non-alcoholic-drinks/)
- [Japanese Sake](https://howtojapan.net/tag/japanese-sake/)
- [Pottery](https://howtojapan.net/tag/pottery/)
- [Drive in Japan](https://howtojapan.net/tag/drive-in-japan/)
- [Japanese Garden](https://howtojapan.net/tag/japanese-garden/)
- [Chopsticks](https://howtojapan.net/tag/chopsticks/)
- [Yakiniku](https://howtojapan.net/tag/yakiniku/)
- [Fruits](https://howtojapan.net/tag/fruits/)
- [world heritage site](https://howtojapan.net/tag/world-heritage-site/)
- [Takoyaki](https://howtojapan.net/tag/takoyaki/)
- [Autumn](https://howtojapan.net/tag/autumn/)
- [Shopping](https://howtojapan.net/tag/shopping/)
- [onomatopoeia](https://howtojapan.net/tag/onomatopoeia/)
- [Museum](https://howtojapan.net/tag/museum/)
- [Art](https://howtojapan.net/tag/art/)
- [School](https://howtojapan.net/tag/school/)
- [Education](https://howtojapan.net/tag/education/)
- [Shibuya](https://howtojapan.net/tag/shibuya/)
- [Noodles](https://howtojapan.net/tag/noodles/)
- [Amusement Park](https://howtojapan.net/tag/amusement-park/)
- [Japanese castle](https://howtojapan.net/tag/japanese-castle/)
- [Ryokan](https://howtojapan.net/tag/ryokan/)
- [Pilgrimage](https://howtojapan.net/tag/pilgrimage/)
- [Katsu](https://howtojapan.net/tag/katsu/)
- [Halloween](https://howtojapan.net/tag/halloween/)
- [Asakusa](https://howtojapan.net/tag/asakusa/)
- [Japanese Traditional Sweets](https://howtojapan.net/tag/japanese-traditional-sweets/)
- [Arashiyama](https://howtojapan.net/tag/arashiyama/)
- [Karuizawa](https://howtojapan.net/tag/karuizawa/)
- [Tokyodisneyland](https://howtojapan.net/tag/tokyodisneyland/)
- [Hotels](https://howtojapan.net/tag/hotels/)
- [Beer](https://howtojapan.net/tag/beer/)
- [Matsuri](https://howtojapan.net/tag/matsuri/)
- [Cafe](https://howtojapan.net/tag/cafe/)
- [airport](https://howtojapan.net/tag/airport/)
- [Pokemon](https://howtojapan.net/tag/pokemon/)
- [NewYear](https://howtojapan.net/tag/newyear/)
- [culture](https://howtojapan.net/tag/culture/)
- [Station](https://howtojapan.net/tag/station/)
- [Fushimi](https://howtojapan.net/tag/fushimi/)
- [temple](https://howtojapan.net/tag/temple/)
- [COVID-19](https://howtojapan.net/tag/covid-19/)
- [Tram](https://howtojapan.net/tag/tram/)
- [Japanese Festival](https://howtojapan.net/tag/japanese-festival/)
- [Train Station](https://howtojapan.net/tag/train-station/)
- [Zoo](https://howtojapan.net/tag/zoo/)
- [Firework](https://howtojapan.net/tag/firework/)
- [Fall](https://howtojapan.net/tag/fall/)
- [September](https://howtojapan.net/tag/september/)
- [climbing](https://howtojapan.net/tag/climbing/)
- [earthquakes](https://howtojapan.net/tag/earthquakes/)
- [manga](https://howtojapan.net/tag/manga/)
- [subculture](https://howtojapan.net/tag/subculture/)
- [flower](https://howtojapan.net/tag/flower/)
- [June](https://howtojapan.net/tag/june/)
- [Wedding](https://howtojapan.net/tag/wedding/)
- [Seafood](https://howtojapan.net/tag/seafood/)