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."
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!
Don't Fall into this Miscommunication Loop!
Learn how to avoid this common misunderstanding between Japanese and English by learning about situations where "yes" means "no."
How do You Define 'Kawaii'?
Ad agency Dentsu seeks to visually define the term 'kawaii.' Do you agree? Watch the video and find out!
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!
10 Ambiguous Phrases That Mean NO in Japanese
Learning Japanese Life in Japan
Take these words as a rejection!
7 Toy Winners of the Good Design Award
Take a look at seven extraordinary award-winning toys that deserved design certification.
Learn Japanese Calligraphy at Your Hotel
This workshop at the Shiba Park Hotel covers a single basic but fun point: how to write your name in katakana, hiragana and phonetic kanji. Best of luck with your brush technique!
36 Japanese Words to Describe Train Otaku
Are you into collecting train stamps, or is taking pictures of trains more your thing? No matter what your passion for trains may be, the Japanese language has a word for it!
The Many Meanings of 'Mottainai'
Something you might hear everyday in Japan is the word 'mottainai.' And without mincing words, we present to you three ways to use this useful expression!
Key Japanese for the Cherry Blossom Season
Cherry Blossoms Learning Japanese
Do you know your 'sakura' vocabulary?
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!
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!
Helpful Healthy Tips When Ordering Sushi
When it comes to calorie intake, not all sushi is created equal. So if you're looking for healthier options, be sure to follow these tips!
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.
6 Cool Japanese Words for Snow
Japan has more than 100 ways to describe snow. Here are six of the most interesting varieties!
Read 141 GB of Ancient Japanese Texts Online
Access ancient Japanese texts at a click of a button with a new database courtesy of The National Institute of Japanese Literature.
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!
Japanese & English Drunken Tongue Twisters
The Texan in Tokyo duo set out to attempt the impossible: Not only will they say bilingual tongue twisters, but they will also try them while drunk. Find out if they survive the test!
Want to Wow Your Japanese Friends?
Learning Japanese Deeper Japan
Casually toss out these idiomatic expressions to get your Japanese acquaintances' jaws dropping.