
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!
How to Play 'Jan-Ken-Pon'
In Japan, paper-rock-scissors is known as 'jan-ken-pon.' Children here use it to decide virtually everything—and this means that if you're a schoolteacher, 'janken' is one of the very first skills you need to pick up!

6 Tips for Shopping in Japan
Japan is definitely not short of shopping malls and arcades, and you're bound to wind up in a store amazed at the amount of cool stuff you can buy! Here are a few tips to guarantee an amazing shopping experience while in Japan.
Don't Be Too Proud to Ask
Learning Japanese First Time in Japan
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."
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.
How to Use 'Omiyage' in the Workplace
Effective 'omiyage' use can actually play a big part in getting ahead at work!
These English Words Don't Mean What You Think!
Learning Japanese First Time in Japan
Avoid miscommunication by learning about some Japanese loan words that are borrowed from English before your next trip!
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.
100 Japanese Foods to Try
Food & Drink First Time in Japan
Find out which 100 recommended Japanese foods you should try at least once!
4 Easy Phrases to Rock Your Japanese Workplace
Learning Japanese Life in Japan
Japan has a number of set phrases that are used a lot in the workplace. Make a good impression on day one by knowing exactly what to say!
5 Fantastic Websites for Fall Foliage
These five sites will make sure you don’t miss a beat as the leaves change color from north to south across the country!
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.
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?
Getting a Visa for Japan
First Time in Japan Life in 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.
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.
How to 'Hanami' Like A Pro
Whether you're going with your family, friends or co-workers, here's what you need to know to enjoy your cherry blossom viewing to the fullest!
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.
Understanding Japanese Phone Culture
Before heading off to Japan, you may want to check out these keen observations by visitors from overseas regarding Japanese smartphone etiquette.
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.