Maru

Property

Up-front Costs for Renting an Apartment in Japan

When renting an apartment in Japan, various up-front costs are required, including a security deposit, key money, agency fee and more. Here, we provide details on these move-in costs and their typical amounts.
Property

Things to Check During a Property Viewing When Renting an apartment in Japan

What are the crucial considerations before renting an apartment in Japan? When inspecting a property, it's important to assess not just the room's condition, but also the surrounding environment and infrastructure.
Eating

Family restaurants in Japan | Japanese, Western, and Chinese Chains

Japanese family restaurants offer a diverse range of cuisines, including Japanese, Western, and Chinese dishes. This article introduces some popular chains in Japan such as Ootoya, Saizeriya, Gusto, Bamiyan and more.
General info

Major payment method in Japan 2024

In Japan, in addition to cash and credit cards, a wide variety of payment methods such as Suica, PayPay, and Edy, which are the latest electronic money and mobile payment systems, are rapidly becoming popular.
Travelling

Tokyo Fish market Guide: The difference between Tsukiji and Toyosu

There are two fish markets in Tokyo, Tsukiji and Toyosu, but how are they different? This article will explain the differences between the two markets, including atmosphere, facilities, restaurants, and overall experience.
Eating

What is Dango? The Deep Guide to Traditional Japanese Sweets

Delve into the world of dango, traditional Japanese sweets, exploring their types, culture, and where to enjoy them. This is a guide to help you have a better dango eating experience.
Eating

Japanese Ingredients & Seasonings You Must Try in Japan

Japanese ingredients and seasonings are renowned worldwide for their uniqueness, aroma, and nutritional value. This guide introduces typical ingredients, detailing their taste and characteristics.
Vocabulary

Japanglish: A List of Japanese-English Words That Puzzle Native English Speakers

Do you know what 'Japanglish (Wasei-eigo)' means? Japanglish refers to Japanese words that sound like English. This article introduces commonly used Japanglish words in daily life. It's a must-read guide for Japanese language learners and those interested in Japanese culture.
Travelling

The Best Okinawa Islands to Visit: Chosen by Local Travel Planner

Discover the best islands in Okinawa chosen by local travel planners and plan your perfect Okinawa trip! This article covers the cream of the crop in Okinawa, from the main island, where there are plenty of activities, to the untouched jungles of Iriomote Island and the breathtaking beaches.
General info

Climate of Major Cities in Japan: Hokkaido, Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and Okinawa

The article introduces and compares the diverse climates of major Japanese cities such as Hokkaido, Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and Okinawa. Use it to choose where to live in Japan and find the best season to visit.
General info

Electricity in Japan: Plug Type, Voltage, and Frequency

Discover Japan's plug types, voltage, and frequency for a safe stay. Essential information for residents and travelers.
General info

Japanese Amulet, “Omamori” Guide: Types, Meanings, and Benefits

Japanese amulet, called Omamori in Japanese, come in various types, each with a special meaning. Learn about the different types of Japanese amulets, their meanings, and the unique benefits they offer for health, success, love, and more.
Travelling

Where are the Best Hot Springs (onsen) destination in Japan?

Japan leads as the world's premier hot spring (onsen) destination, boasting approximately 3,000 resorts. But which are the best? This article introduces Japan's top-tier hot spring resorts, considering factors such as water quality, ambiance, accessibility, and nearby attractions.
Travelling

Itinerary in Japan: 10 Days Immersion of Japanese Subculture and High-tech

For those who love subcultures like anime, manga, and games, Japan is a dream travel destination. Tokyo, of course, is fantastic, but there are also incredibly fun subculture spots scattered all over the country. Let us introduce you to a 10-day trip itinerary that will thoroughly satisfy otakus from around the world.
Travelling

Itinerary in Japan: 10-Day Immersion of Traditional Culture and Zen

Do you have a strong interest in Japanese traditional culture and Zen spirit? This 10-day itinerary will take you on a deep historical journey, exploring the origins of Japan's soul. A trip to Japan with special themes will leave you with deeper memories.
Travelling

First-time in Japan: 10-Day Itinerary Exploring All the Highlights

Looking for the perfect itinerary for your first trip to Japan? This guide suggests the perfect 10-day itinerary to experience all of Japan's highlights including Tokyo, Kyoto, Nara and Osaka.
Learning Japanese

Effective Japanese learning: 13 steps From Beginner to Pre-intermediate

How can we begin learning Japanese? Grammar, vocabulary, kanji – how much do we need to learn to be able to speak? This article will outline effective and efficient steps to take you from being a complete beginner to engaging in simple everyday conversations.
Communication

28 Basic Japanese Phrases and Greetings With Native Pronunciation

Learn basic greetings like "hello" and "goodbye," as well as simple and useful phrases such as "where is it?," "Sorry" and "please," all with native pronunciation!
Shopping

All about 100 Yen Store in Japan: Daiso, Seria, Can-do and 300 coins

At 100 yen stores in Japan, you can find a wide variety of products, including stationery and cleaning supplies, as well as stylish interior goods, clothing, and food. It's also a good place to look for souvenirs, such as Japanese-patterned products. Enjoy a Japanese cultural experience at Japan's leading 100 yen shops such as Daiso, Seria, Can-Do, and 300 coins.
Event

Japanese Cultural Events: Annual Traditions and Popular Events in Japan

In Japan, traditional annual events and customs are held each month, reflecting the Japanese lifestyle and way of thinking. These events provide good opportunities to gain a deeper understanding of Japanese culture. In this article, we will introduce events that are particularly important to Japanese people.