Maru

Event

4 Major Festivals in Kyoto You Can’t Miss

As you stroll through the streets of Kyoto, you may unexpectedly feel the weight of its history. Once the capital for ov...
Transportation

Bike Share Japan: 3 English-Friendly Services

Cycling is a fun, flexible, and eco-friendly way to see the country, especially those little backstreets and hidden gems...
Vocabulary

Frequently Used Japanese Nouns 101-200

Have you already mastered the "First 100 Frequently Used Japanese Nouns"? If so, let's move on to the next 100! Once you...
Travelling

Legoland vs. Ghibli Park: Which Theme Park in Nagoya is Better?

Often overshadowed by Tokyo and Kyoto, Nagoya is a hidden gem, especially for families. Two theme parks that have been g...
Grammar

Te-form Conjugation and Usage Patterns by Level

The te-form (て form) is one of the most important and versatile verb forms in Japanese. If you master it early on, it wi...
Having a fun

How to Enjoy Kabuki in Japan: A Guide for Foreign Visitors

Discover how to enjoy Kabuki in Japan as a first-time visitor. This guide covers theatre info, ticket tips, and English support for an unforgettable cultural experience.
General info

Japanese Taboos: Customs and Etiquette That May Surprise You

As an island nation, Japan has developed a unique culture with many customs and manners that may surprise visitors from ...
Transportation

Major Taxi Apps Available in Japan

Taxis are one of the most convenient ways to get around. Using taxi apps makes booking a ride even easier, especially fo...
Eating

Kyoto Food Specialities: Must-Try Local Dishes and Sweets

The charm of Kyoto goes far beyond its historic temples and shrines. As one of Japan's most iconic traditional cities, K...
Eating

Cost of Meals in Japan: Is Eating Out Expensive or Cheap?

"Isn't eating out in Japan expensive?" If that's what you're thinking, let me share some facts about Japan's dining scen...
Grammar

Differences Among Hiraku, Akeru, Aku (open) and Tojiru, Shimeru, Shimaru (close)

In Japanese, some verbs are quite similar but have slightly different meanings and usages. For example, differentiating ...
Learning Japanese

10 Major Japanese Dialects

There are a vast number of dialects in Japan, and each of them reflects the culture and daily lives of the people in its...
Having a fun

How to Enjoy Karaoke Boxes in Japan

Have you ever tried karaoke? In Japan, where karaoke originated, it has become an integral part of everyday life. Even i...
Health and Safety

Japanese Medical Departments Guide: Where to Go When You’re Sick

When you suddenly fall ill or get injured in Japan, figuring out which hospital to visit can be confusing. This guide ex...
Eating

Popular Fast-Food Chains in Japan

Discover Japan’s fast-food scene from local favourites like MOS Burger to regional gems like Lucky Pierrot and A&W and enjoy Japanese-original menus from globally famous hamburger chains.
Learning Japanese

List of Japanese Nouns with the Prefix “お (o)”

Have you ever wondered why some Japanese nouns start with "お (o)" while others don’t? This simple prefix can alter a wor...
Transportation

Osaka’s Train Lines (Metro, JR, and Private Railways)

Explore Osaka’s train network, including Metro, JR, and private railways, for easy access to the city’s top attractions and nearby destinations.
Event

17 Popular Hatsumode Spots in Japan

Check 17 popular hatsumode destinations in Japan and learn about New Year's shrine and temple visits, including visiting etiquette and tips for a smooth experience.
Eating

17 Must-Try Traditional Japanese Sweets (Wagashi)

Discover the world of wagashi, Japan's traditional sweets, such as mochi, senbei, taiyaki and anmitsu. Find your favourite treat on your next visit!
Transportation

Highway Bus (Coach) Companies and Major Routes in Japan

Find Japan’s top highway bus companies and routes, offering affordable, comfortable travel from Tokyo to Kyoto, Mount Fuji, and beyond.