When I say Villa Azalea is the best Airbnb I’ve ever stayed at, I don’t say that lightly. I’ve stayed in some incredible places all over the world. But this one? This one sticks with you. It’s not just a stay — it’s an experience and sightseeing spot in its own right. Located in Okaya-shi, … Continue reading Villa Azalea: The Best Airbnb in Nagano Prefecture Japan
Fact Check: Japan Breeding Visa and the “Future Creation Individual” Visa on MOFA
The Japan breeding visa allows foreigners to come... and make babies? - That's the claim. Here are the facts... If you’ve spent any time on TikTok, YouTube shorts, or even Reddit lately, you’ve probably seen some version of this claim. Supposedly, Japan—desperate to solve its declining population crisis—is opening its borders to young, fertile foreigners to, … Continue reading Fact Check: Japan Breeding Visa and the “Future Creation Individual” Visa on MOFA
Laid-Back Anime Locations: Yamanashi Prefecture
When it comes to Yamanashi Prefecture locations, one anime stands out — Yuru Camp, a.k.a. Laid-Back Camp. Without Yuru Camp, many anime fans wouldn’t know that this rural, inland, and mountainous prefecture even existed. That’s understandable, because Yamanashi isn't as touristy as Hakone (Kanagawa) or Nikko (Tochigi). But Yamanashi does feature the scenic and natural … Continue reading Laid-Back Anime Locations: Yamanashi Prefecture
What is Tanabata in Japan? – Understanding Japanese Myths
Out of all of Japan’s major holidays, Tanabata has the most interesting story behind it. It’s a tale written in the stars, about a princess in a doomed romance, and it ends with making wishes come true. It should come as no surprise that this holiday shows up in anime and manga a lot. If … Continue reading What is Tanabata in Japan? – Understanding Japanese Myths
How Does Japan Celebrate Christmas?
It may sound strange to some, but Japan does celebrate Christmas. Of course, the Japanese version of Christmas is different from the Western one — but it's also similar in many ways. Since Japan is not a predominantly Christian society, they don't associate Christmas with any religious beliefs in their present-day celebration of the holiday. … Continue reading How Does Japan Celebrate Christmas?
What are Yokai and Kaiju?
If you’re a fan of Japanese culture, you have probably run across yokai and kaiju. From anime to books to video games, these fictional creatures make frequent appearances in Japanese storytelling. It’s hard to imagine Japan without them. And yet, what exactly are yokai and kaiju? Are they good or evil? Are kaiju and yokai … Continue reading What are Yokai and Kaiju?
Valentine’s Day in Japan: Anime vs. Reality
If you’re a fan of romantic comedy or slice-of-life anime, you’ve probably seen at least one Valentine’s Day episode. To a certain degree, these plots reflect the popularity of this Western holiday in Japan. But, at the same time, comedies do tend to exaggerate. How accurate are Valentine’s Day anime episodes? What do they get … Continue reading Valentine’s Day in Japan: Anime vs. Reality
What Are Japanese Temples and Shrines? A Guide
If you’re planning a trip to Japan, you will definitely want to visit some Japanese temples and shrines. Temples and shrines are beautiful places. More than just religious places, many are also historically or culturally significant as well. So, what is a Japanese temple? And how does a temple differ from a shrine? At first … Continue reading What Are Japanese Temples and Shrines? A Guide
Understanding Japanese: Sumimasen (済みません) vs. Gomenasai (御免なさい)
Two essential phrases When it comes to understanding Japanese, few phrases are more essential than sumimasen and gomenasai. Both of these are frequently translated as “I’m sorry.” Naturally, given Japan’s well-deserved reputation as a polite society, these two phrases will get you through a lot of situations in Japanese culture. But which one should you … Continue reading Understanding Japanese: Sumimasen (済みません) vs. Gomenasai (御免なさい)
What Was the Showa Era (Period) in Japan?
The Showa Era is an interesting period in Japanese history. However, it can also be confusing to understand. In many ways, there were actually two Showa eras. World War II is the obvious dividing point between early and late Showa. These two periods are diametrically opposed. The military expansion and war years (1926-1945) bear little … Continue reading What Was the Showa Era (Period) in Japan?