All About Japan All About Japan

Fresh start every Monday!

8 Unique Rules of Japanese Public Spaces

While breaking these rules won’t send you to jail, you should know what behavior to avoid before bringing it to Japan.

These English Words Don't Mean What You Think!

Avoid miscommunication by learning about some Japanese loan words that are borrowed from English before your next trip!

Don't Be Too Proud to Ask

Learning a new language has its own lessons in humility. AAJ writer Nicholas Rich learned the tough way why he shouldn't be too proud to say, "Once more, please."

Survival Japanese for Shopping

Since most shop clerks don't speak English, it's very useful to know a few sentences in Japanese to get what you want!

10 Things That'll Surprise You in Japan!

Are these normal Japanese things weird to you? Here are the 10 things that might surprise you when you visit Japan for the first time.

Essential Tips for Navigating Trains

Day-to-day transit in Japan can be confusing for the uninitiated. Don't worry! We're here to help.

A Japanese Share-House Tour

Renting in Japan can be expensive, due in large part to that pain-in-the-butt key money. This exorbitantly expensive fee is a major reason why some foreigners may feel hesitant about moving to a new place. So what's the alternative?

7 Steps to Bringing Your Pets to Japan

Having pets is great, but traveling overseas with them can be a pretty tricky process. Here are some helpful things to know before bringing your pets into Japan.

A Helpful Guide to Healthcare in Japan

No matter where you live, it's good to have at least a general sense of how the health and medical care system works.

Internet on Your Phone: A Guide for Residents

In Japan, connecting your phone to the internet is almost easier as a tourist! Once you're a resident, it can quickly become a frustrating experience. However, there are several options out there, and you'll surely be able to find a suitable one.

100 Japanese Foods to Try

Find out which 100 recommended Japanese foods you should try at least once!

First Day for a ‘Shakaijin’

So you've been hired to be part of Japan's work force? Congratulations! Check this out for some helpful tips and explanations about your first day.

10 Japanese Business Etiquette Rules

Learning business manners can make or break a deal, so before you head over to Japan on your business trip, it may be worthwhile to learn about some Japanese business etiquette.

Top 5 Job Sites in Japan

We've gathered the best English-language sites to help you with your job search in Japan!

How to Enter Hot Springs Like a Pro

Fool other onsen goers into thinking you have mastered the art of bathing in Japanese hot springs by following these helpful tips.

Things We Wish We Knew Before Moving to Japan

Rachel of vlogger team Rachel & Jun teams up with Sharla from Sharla in Japan to riff on train passes, humidity, onion-free burgers and more.

8 Accommodation Options in Japan

So, you're planning your first trip or long-term move to Japan and you’re afraid you’ll end up under a bridge, alone and cold, unable to find a roof? This article is for you!

The Bilingual Epic of a Ramen Adventurer

Brian MacDuckston has devoured more than 1,000 bowls of ramen since arriving in Japan in 2006.

Getting a Visa for Japan

Want to come to Japan but don't know where to start? Here's our quick overview of the visa process. Check it out, apply, and pack your bags!

Where to Buy Cheap Stuff around Tokyo

Because shopping in Tokyo isn't only for the spendthrift, but also for the budget-conscious buyer, we give you a lowdown on where to get good stuff and great deals in and around Japan's capital city.

know-before-you-go