Here’s a scenario expats living in Japan might be familiar with: Say you’re living in Japan, either studying here or on a holiday visa, or you’re working here long-term. Perhaps you plan on returning to your home country for the holidays. Or maybe you’re planning an epic journey from Hokkaido to Kyoto to Okinawa, and … Continue reading How to Handle Your Japanese Mail While Traveling or Visiting Home (for Expats)
Are Tourists Taking Over Tokyo?
Tokyo, the bustling capital of Japan, is a city that harmoniously blends ancient traditions with the innovations of the modern world. It’s been a place of great intrigue among westerners for a long time. Its cultural exports have constantly swayed new generations to visit the exciting country. However, in recent years, there has been a … Continue reading Are Tourists Taking Over Tokyo?
An Overview of the Edo Period (Era) in Japan
The Edo Period is one of the more famous eras in Japanese history. It is also one of the more misunderstood periods. In pop culture, Edo is associated with sword-swinging samurai, feudal lords, and castle towns. While that image is not false, it's not completely accurate. However, Edo was a time when Japan isolated itself … Continue reading An Overview of the Edo Period (Era) in Japan
What Was the Meiji Era (Period) in Japan?
The Meiji Era is an extremely popular period of Japanese history. This period has inspired everything from books to plays to anime — and with good reason. Meiji times featured revolutionary changes to Japan’s government, and huge advancements in culture and technology. It was also a time of military expansion. For better or for worse, … Continue reading What Was the Meiji Era (Period) in Japan?
What Was the Taisho Era (Period) in Japan? – A Complete Overview
When it comes to Japanese history, the Taisho Era sometimes gets overlooked. For one thing, the Taisho Era is not as long as the Meiji Era which came before it, or the Showa Era which followed. However, the period is worth knowing about — and not just because of a certain anime series about a … Continue reading What Was the Taisho Era (Period) in Japan? – A Complete Overview
5 Best Japanese Soda (Japan-Exclusive Beverages) and Where to Buy Them
Japanese people may consume a lot of tea, but they make some really good soda, too. If you’re thirsty for a soft drink, we can help you find the best Japanese sweetened and/ or carbonated beverages, and where to purchase some. By the way: These are all nonalcoholic drinks. If you want alcohol, read our … Continue reading 5 Best Japanese Soda (Japan-Exclusive Beverages) and Where to Buy Them
5 Types of Japanese Noodles: Top Brands, and Where to Buy
When people think of Japanese food, noodles are probably high on the list. From instant ramen to yakisoba to somen, noodles make up a huge part of Japanese food culture. If you want to know more about the many different kinds of Japanese noodles, and where you can get them, read on. Japanese Noodle Basics … Continue reading 5 Types of Japanese Noodles: Top Brands, and Where to Buy
5 Best Japanese Beer Brands and How to Buy Them
When it comes to alcoholic beverages, beer has become a very popular choice among Japanese drinkers. And some non-Japanese people have learned to appreciate Japanese beer as well. Let’s take a look at this drink, and learn which Japanese brands are the best to try. We’ll also explain how you can legally purchase Japanese beer … Continue reading 5 Best Japanese Beer Brands and How to Buy Them
5 Biggest Japanese Chocolate Companies and the History of Chocolate in Japan
If you want to understand Japanese chocolate, it helps to learn about the various chocolate companies in Japan. Ever since chocolate was introduced to Japan, Japanese companies have created all sorts of unique and tasty forms of chocolate. Some of these varieties have become quite famous internationally. Others are relatively obscure outside of Japan, but … Continue reading 5 Biggest Japanese Chocolate Companies and the History of Chocolate in Japan
What is a Happi Coat? – An Intro to Japanese Traditional Clothing
The happi coat is probably the most informal and casual traditional Japanese garment you will ever find. It’s best known as a festive, festival outfit. Outside of Japan, it hasn’t gotten as much attention as the kimono or yukata. Internet search engines don’t help matters by misreading the name "happi" as “happy” (which makes it … Continue reading What is a Happi Coat? – An Intro to Japanese Traditional Clothing
