Culture
What Does “Irasshaimase” Mean? – Why Japanese Staff Say It So OftenNew!!
If you visit Japan, one of the first Japanese words you will hear is “Irasshaimase.”You’ll hear it the moment you step into a shop, restaurant, izakaya, or convenience store. Staff may say it loudly, cheerfully, or even in unison. For many visitors, it can feel surprising or even overwhelming. So what does irasshaimase actually mean—and […]
What Does “Yabai” Mean? – Understanding One of Japan’s Most Versatile WordsNew!!
If you spend even a short time in Japan, you’ll almost certainly hear the word “yabai.” You might hear it in restaurants, on the street, in anime, or from young people chatting with friends. At first, it can be confusing—sometimes it sounds good, sometimes bad, and sometimes both at once. So, what does yabai actually […]
Setsubun – Welcoming Good Fortune in JapanNew!!
Setsubun is a traditional Japanese event that marks the transition from winter to spring.It is usually celebrated on February 3rd, depending on the year, and symbolizes a fresh start. The word Setsubun literally means “seasonal division.” The Meaning of Setsubun In Japanese culture, seasonal changes are believed to be important moments for spiritual cleansing.During Setsubun, […]
Kintsugi – The Japanese Art of Embracing ImperfectionNew!!
Kintsugi is a traditional Japanese technique of repairing broken pottery using lacquer mixed with gold, silver, or other metals.Instead of hiding cracks, Kintsugi highlights them—turning damage into beauty. This philosophy reflects a uniquely Japanese way of seeing the world: imperfection is something to be valued, not erased. The History of Kintsugi Kintsugi dates back to […]
“Mottainai” – A Japanese Philosophy of Respect and GratitudeNew!!
“Mottainai” is a Japanese word often translated as “what a waste,” but its meaning goes much deeper.It expresses respect for objects, resources, time, and the effort behind them. In Japan, wasting something usable is not just inefficient—it feels disrespectful.This mindset has shaped Japanese daily life for centuries. The Cultural Roots of “Mottainai” The idea of […]
Exploring Japan’s Broth-Free Ramen Styles – Tsukemen, Mazesoba, and Aburasoba
When people think of ramen, they often imagine a steaming bowl of soup.However, Japan also has several popular broth-light or broth-free noodle styles that are especially loved in Tokyo: tsukemen, mazesoba, and aburasoba. These styles focus on noodles, texture, and concentrated flavors rather than large amounts of soup. They are filling, customizable, and perfect for […]
Sake vs Shochu – Understanding Japan’s Two Iconic Alcoholic Drinks
When people think of Japanese alcohol, sake often comes to mind first. However, shochu plays an equally important role in everyday Japanese life. While both are traditional drinks, they differ greatly in ingredients, production methods, storage, and drinking styles. Understanding these differences helps travelers enjoy Japanese food and nightlife more confidently. What Is Sake (Nihonshu)? […]
Ume (Plum Blossoms) – Japan’s Elegant Flowers Often Mistaken for Cherry Blossoms
When visiting Japan in late winter or early spring, many travelers are surprised to see pink or white blossoms blooming before cherry blossom season. These flowers are often mistaken for sakura, but they are actually ume (plum blossoms)—a flower with a much longer history and deeper cultural roots in Japan. Understanding ume offers a richer […]
5 Must-Visit Gaming Spots for Game Otaku in Tokyo
Tokyo is a dream destination for video game fans and gaming culture enthusiasts. The city blends retro nostalgia with cutting-edge franchises, offering everything from old arcade machines to flagship brand stores. Here are five essential spots every game otaku should visit when in Tokyo. 1. Super Potato (Akihabara) – Retro Game Treasure Trove Address: 3-5F […]
How Japanese People Keep Warm – From Hibachi to Heattech
Japan’s winters can be surprisingly cold, especially before the spread of modern insulation and central heating.Instead of heating entire buildings, Japanese people traditionally focused on warming the body and immediate living space—an approach shaped by climate, architecture, and lifestyle. From ancient hearths to modern high-tech clothing, Japan’s methods of staying warm reveal much about its […]