About Life in Japan

Have you ever heard of the word "idiom"? An idiom is an expression that is used in a figurative sense that is different from the original meaning of the word. For example, "to be smart," "to act like oneself," and "to cut corners" are expressions that we often hear in our daily lives. However, if you think about it, "to cut one's head" is a little

Do you know what a "kotatsu" is? A kotatsu is a warm table that is essential in the Japanese winter. Many Japanese households bring out a kotatsu when the cold season arrives. It's like having a little sun in your home, and it warms your heart. [What is a kotatsu?] A kotatsu has a heater underneath the table,

Have you ever seen a large pot of steam rising from it next to the cash register at a Japanese convenience store during the cold season? It contains a variety of foods, including daikon radish, eggs, konjac, and chikuwa. This is the classic Japanese winter dish, "Oden." [What is Oden?] Oden is made by slowly simmering fish in dashi (fish and kelp soup).

Do you know about the traditional Japanese event called "Shichigosan"? Every year around November 15th, small children in Japan dress up in kimonos and visit shrines. It is a day to give thanks to the gods for the children's growth and pray for their future health and happiness. [What kind of event is Shichigosan?] "Shichigosan" is a traditional Japanese event for children aged 7, 5, and 3.

Do you know what flowers bloom in autumn in Japan? In Japan, many beautiful flowers can be seen from September to October. Among them, the flowers that represent autumn are "cosmos" and "cluster spider lilies." [Cosmos - Gentle flowers swaying in the autumn sky] Cosmos come in a variety of colors, including pink, white, red, and orange.

Have you ever used Japanese stationery? Japanese stationery is popular all over the world for being "cute" and "easy to use." Today, we will explain why Japanese stationery is so popular and introduce some recommended items. [Why is Japanese stationery so popular?] ① From cutely designed notebooks, pens, stickers, and erasers,

In the previous blog, we posted a feature on autumn fruits that allow you to experience the power of Japan's seasonal produce, but this time we'll be introducing some seasonal autumn foods that can be enjoyed all over Japan! [Sanma (Pacific saury)] When you think of autumn, the first thing that comes to mind is sanma (Pacific saury). Its name comes from its long, slender body and shiny silvery appearance. Grill the fatty sanma until golden brown and serve with grated daikon radish.

In today's world where food from all over the world is available in supermarkets all year round, what is your favorite fruit? In fact, in Japan, there are fruits that can be purchased all year round, but there are also fruits that have a "flavor that can only be enjoyed at a certain time of year." These are "seasonal" fruits. "Season" refers to the best time when ingredients are at their most delicious, nutritious, and inexpensive. This time, we will introduce fruits that can only be enjoyed in Japan.

Due to the 2025 Kansai Expo and the weak yen, many foreigners are now visiting Japan. Even when walking around town, you are increasingly likely to be asked for directions in broken Japanese or spoken to in stores. If you are going to come to Japan, learning even a little Japanese will make your stay more enjoyable and safer. This time,

September is the season when the autumn sky is clear and the moon is beautiful. In 2025, Jugoya (the 15th night of the full moon) will be on September 29th. It is an event that has been loved by people since ancient times, and the custom of enjoying the moon continues in many households today. [Difference between Jugoya and the Harvest Moon] Although they are often used interchangeably, there is actually a slight difference. Jugoya (the 15th night of the full moon):