Life Guide
Popular Guides
Emperor’s Birthday in Japan – Date, Meaning, and Traditions
Japan’s Emperor’s Birthday is a national holiday that celebrates the birthday of the reigning Emperor. It’s a quiet holiday for many people, but it carries a lot of cultural weight,…
What to Do in Kumamoto: A Guide to Castles, Craters, and Culture
Located in the center of Kyushu, Kumamoto is a prefecture defined by dramatic contrasts. It is known as the "Land…
Japow: Enjoy a Unique Japanese Ski Experience in Hokkaido
Winter in Japan has (finally) well and truly arrived! Along with the new bite in the air and the chic-yet-cozy…
Tokyo Comic Con 2025 – What to Expect
Japan has a number of events for anime and manga enthusiasts throughout the country. From Comiket to the World Cosplay…
Shunbun no Hi: Japan’s Spring Equinox Day
Shunbun no Hi (春分の日), or Vernal Equinox Day, is a Japanese national holiday that falls on March 20 or 21…
Gyaru Explained: Style, Makeup, and Fashion
Gyaru (ギャル) is a Japanese youth fashion and lifestyle subculture that became a huge deal in the 1990s and 2000s.…
Yanki Meaning in Japanese – What This Term Refers to in Japan
In Japan, yankii refers to a delinquent youth subculture, not just a general troublemaker. The term is used for teenagers…
Shoganai Meaning: Understanding Japan’s “It Can’t Be Helped” Mindset
You’ll often hear Japanese people say shoganai (しょうがない / 仕方がない) when plans go wrong—like when it rains on a holiday…
Nanpa Meaning: Japan’s Pickup Spots and Culture
You’ll often hear stories of people being approached by strangers in Tokyo or Osaka — a bold move known as…
Maji Meaning: How This Simple Japanese Word Expresses Emotion
If you’ve ever watched Japanese dramas, scrolled through anime clips, or overheard a group of teens chatting in Shibuya, you’ve…
Shimbashi Guide: Top Things to Do in Tokyo’s Salaryman District
Known affectionately as the "holy ground for salarymen," this bustling area offers a fascinating glimpse into Japan's post-war economic engine,…
Daikanyama – Tokyo’s Stylish Neighborhood Guide
Daikanyama, often called the “Brooklyn of Tokyo,” is a chic yet laid-back neighborhood filled with trendy cafés, fashion boutiques, and…
Roppongi Guide, Nightlife, Culture and Things to Do in Tokyo’s Entertainment Hub
Roppongi is one of Tokyo’s most famous districts, blending international nightlife, world-class art, and upscale dining. Known for its cosmopolitan…
White Day in Japan: What It Is and How to Celebrate
White Day is a Japanese holiday celebrated on March 14th where men give gifts to women who gave them chocolates…
Lunar New Year in Japan 2026: Is It Celebrated?
If you're planning to visit Japan during Lunar New Year or wondering whether Japanese people celebrate this festival, the short…
Valentine’s Day in Japan: A Complete Guide to Japanese Valentine’s Traditions
Valentine's Day in Japan offers a fascinating twist on the Western celebration of love. Unlike the mutual gift-giving tradition familiar…
Real Experiences
Studying for a Master’s in Journalism in Japan as a Chinese Student: Keith’s Journey
Keith is originally from China and came to study in Japan through a university exchange program. What started as a…
Working in Tokyo as a IT Consultant: Keith’s 10+ Year Story
Meet Kieth, a Chinese professional who has lived in Japan for over 10 years and now works as an IT…
Moving to Tokyo as a Chinese Exchange Student: Keith’s Story
Meet Keith, originally from China, who moved to Japan around 2015–2016 and has now lived here for over 10 years.…
