All About Japan

How to Mind Your Business English

Looking for a way to get out of the classroom and into the boardroom as an English teacher? This guide will give you the basics to know if it's right for you.

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!

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.

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.

Teaching at a Japanese University

For many, getting a job at a Japanese university is like hitting the teaching jackpot. What makes it so difficult, and why is it so highly sought after?

Teaching Elementary School 101

Thinking about teaching English at an elementary school in Japan? Here are the basics you need to get to know the lay of the land!

JR East to Use New Station Numbering System

From October 2016, a new numbering system for JR trains will be introduced making it a little easier (we hope!) to navigate the complex Tokyo rail network.

6 Surprising Things about Japanese Schools

We've outlined six things that might surprise you in Japanese public schools—from the interesting to the practical to the downright shocking!

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.

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.

Why I Stopped Teaching as an ALT

The Japan Guy explains his reasons for ending his career as an Assistant Language Teacher in Japan.

New Magnitude 7.3 Quake Hits Kyushu

A magnitude 7.3 earthquake struck the Kyushu region at 1:25 a.m. on Saturday, April 16. This follows the strong April 14 quake that killed nine and left over 1,000 injured. With tremors continuing, there are now 41 dead and 2,000 injured since Thursday.

Teachers: Beware the 'Kancho'!

There are no winners in the 'kancho' game. But lots of kindergartners and elementary school students love playing it. Find out how to spot it before you, too, become a victim!

Magnitude 7 Quake in Kumamoto

The Japan Meteorological Agency has reported that an earthquake with a magnitude of 7 on the shaking intensity scale struck Kyushu at 9:26 p.m. on April 14. We recommend using social media and disaster message boards to check on loved ones in the area.

7 Key Resource Sites for English Teachers

Moving thousands of miles to teach in a new country can be scary, but luckily these sites should help ensure a smooth transition to life in Japan.

Stay Connected! Phone Service for Tourists

Finding a way to stay connected using your smartphone abroad is always bothersome, and Japan is no exception. Read on to learn all you'll need to know to ease the process!

4 Easy Phrases to Rock Your Japanese Workplace

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!

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."

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.

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!

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