The 6 Main Types of 'Omamori'
Temples & Shrines Life in Japan
These good luck charms can provide you with all kinds of special help!
The Custom of Communal Cleaning
While the spirit of cleaning is taught in Japanese schools, the principle very likely originated in Zen Buddhism, and continues on into adulthood.
When You Wish Upon a Pun
There’s a special reason why Japanese people offer ¥5 coins at temples and shrines.
The Dos & Don'ts of Staying at a 'Ryokan'
Before staying at a traditional Japanese 'ryokan' inn, you may want to brush up on these etiquette rules.
How & When to Apologize in Japan
Learning Japanese Life in Japan
Apology is a kind of social currency in Japan. But using it well isn't just about knowing what words to use—you also need to know when and how to use them!
The 4 Faces of Lawson
Can you name Lawson's four different store types? And did you know you can get Lawson products automatically delivered to your door?
7 Japanese Gadgets You Can't Live Without!
During your stay you may come in contact with these seven gadgets that help make life in Japan a little bit easier. But as soon as you leave, you'll be wishing you had one at home, too!
10 Ambiguous Phrases That Mean NO in Japanese
Learning Japanese Life in Japan
Take these words as a rejection!
Intro to the Japanese Writing System: Katakana
Learning Japanese First Time in Japan
Let's take a look at perhaps the most puzzling type of Japanese text: 'katakana.'
How to Use Lawson Free Wi-Fi
Smartphones Convenience Stores
How do you make a convenience store even more convenient? By providing free Wi-Fi to your patrons, that's how!
How to Choose Your Apartment in Japan
First Time in Japan Life in Japan
There's nothing more satisfying than finally settling down in your new pad. Here are some useful tips that can help you when choosing your new apartment in Japan.
The Secrets of the Lawson Copy Machine
More than making copies, these machines can also fax, scan, and print PDFs or photos from a memory device or the internet. And you don't need Japanese to make them work!
A 13-Point Guide to Japanese Alcohol
Walk through 13 of the most fundamental types of alcohol in Japan. You know what's at the top of the list—but do you know the other 12?
10 Ways to Improve Your Japanese with Karaoke
How do you level-up your Japanese with karaoke? First read the advice, then check out our list of 10 karaoke songs that will wow your singing partners and build your language skills at the same time!
Visiting 5 Landmarks of Haruki Murakami
Explore five Hanshin-area locations that appear as settings in Haruki Murakami's novels, as well as the landmarks of his life.
Driving in Japan
As in many countries, city traffic in Japan may be congested and not much fun. But once you get into the countryside and the mountains, driving in Japan can be a real pleasure.
9 Cleaning Supplies from the ¥100 Store
These inexpensive products are perfect for your New Year's cleaning!
The Ins & Outs of 'Omotenashi'
'Omotenashi' is often defined as the spirit of hospitality, but it encompasses so much more.
Intro to the Japanese Writing System
Learning Japanese First Time in Japan
Can you spot the differences between each of Japan's three different characters?
Japan's First Hedgehog Café has Arrived!
You can now add hedgehogs to the list of cute animals to visit on your next trip to the Japanese capital.
