All About Japan All About Japan

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Do You Need a Tourist Visa to Visit Japan?

One question we get all the time is regarding tourist visas. Read on to find out if you'll need to obtain a visa or not before planning your trip to Japan.

5 Things to Expect During a Teaching Interview

With the increasing demand for Japanese people to speak English fluently, there's also the need for English teachers to help them achieve this goal. But if you think simply being a native speaker is all it takes to get a teaching job, think again.

A One-of-a-Kind Pottery Adventure in Miyagi

When you're ready to take a break from the sparkling winter snow, why not try making Japanese pottery in Miyagi.

What's the Average Cost of Living in Japan?

So, how expensive is Japan really? Read on to find out the average cost of living in Japan in comparison to the US dollar and the UK pound sterling to see if a potential move to Japan is within your budget!

The Weird Art of Everyday Life

This Japanese artist uses their keen photographic eye to capture strange, intimate moments of everyday life found on city streets.

How to Navigate a Japanese Washlet Toilet

If you're confused by all the buttons on a modern Japanese toilet, we're here to decipher all those mystifying symbols.

'Itadakimasu!' Basic Japanese for Dining Out

Japan has an almost overwhelming amount of delicious food to choose from when dining out, but the language barrier can be intimidating. With these helpful phrases for navigating Japanese restaurants deciding what to eat will be the hardest part!

Answers to Common Questions for First-Timers

Ever wondered about vending machines or all the cute characters on signage in Japan? What's up with capsule toys? Tokyo Girls' Update has some insight into simple aspects of Japanese life that can surprise first-time visitors.

Preparing to Drive Around Snowy Areas in Japan

When traveling around snowy regions in Japan by car, you'd better prepare your vehicle in advance to survive scary road conditions and frosty weather. Check out our to-do list before departing for snow-covered lands such as Hokkaido, Tohoku and Hokuriku.

Kairo: Japan's Top Secret to Warmth in Winter

Here's our quick guide to the different heating pads you can purchase in Japan to keep your whole body warm.

How to Bathe in 'Sento' for Beginners

Have you ever bathed in a public bath in Japan? While it may seem cool for international travelers, some hesitate at the idea of stepping inside because the rules and manners of 'sento' are veiled, creating an air of mystery.

Use a Japanese 'Hottie' to Keep Warm in Winter

Survive the harsh Japanese winter by cuddling up in bed with this hot little number.

An Innovative 'Nueu' Braille Typeface

A Japanese designer has created a new braille typeface that communicates in unexpected and innovative ways.

Japan vs. China — Preserving Traditional Roots

Japan and China share traditional roots, but Japan preserves those roots to the present day.

The Subtle Difference Between 'Yes' & 'No'

Un! Uun! Un? Three words that sound awfully similar but have totally different meanings.

How Hard Is It to Live in Japan as a Foreigner

You asked us, and we heard you. A few of our writers are offering their thoughts on being a foreigner living in Japan.

All About Karaoke

The five Ws about Japan's real national pastime.

How to Sit on a Japanese Cushion

If you live in Japan, there's a good chance you'll eventually have to sit on a Japanese cushion, or 'zabuton.' So how do you do it? There's more to it than just plopping down your bum!

10 Ways to Save Money on Electricity in Winter

Electricity costs in winter can go through the roof because more energy is needed for heating and your time spent indoors increases. If you want to survive winter in Japan at the lowest possible cost, follow these helpful tips for saving on electricity.

5 Reasons to Visit Tohoku in Summer

Summer is the season where things really heat up in Japan's northern region of Tohoku. Here's why you definitely don't want to miss it!

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