A Deep Look Into Japan’s “Omotenashi”
- 01-15-2022
The concept of Japanese hospitality, otherwise known as omotenashi (お持て成し), has come to light recently due to its use in the Tokyo Olympics 2020 talks. Though translated simply as hospitality, the word omotenashi has a meaning deeply rooted in the Japanese psyche. It’s not simply being kind to guest... READ MORE
4 Easy-To-Learn Points For The Japanese Language
No language is easy. Not really. That said, the difficulties of learning a particular language are often exaggerated. Whenever I mention that I study Japanese, most people look horrified. “That must be so difficult!” “How long does it take to learn?” “Is that even a real language?!”
Japanese is, ... READ MORE
What’s Happening Now in Fukuoka & Japan December 2021
- 01-01-2022
Japan launches COVID-19 vaccine certificate app – Nationwide
The Japanese government launched a smartphone app that allows people to display proof of vaccination that can be used for multiple purposes, including immigration procedures. The app, called the COVID-19 Vaccination Certificate Applicatio... READ MORE
Innovative Living Art of Ikebana
- 12-15-2021
Japanese flower arranging, or Ikebana, has come a long way from its humble roots as temple offerings centuries ago. Today it is a popular and innovative living art, unique to Japan, that is cherished by both experts and novices.
In this article, we will discuss the origins of Ikebana, and include... READ MORE
What’s Happening Now in Fukuoka & Japan November 2021
- 12-01-2021
Japan considers letting more skilled foreign workers stay indefinitely – Nationwide
Japan is considering expanding the scope of fields for foreign workers skilled in specific blue-collar jobs that will allow them to stay in the country indefinitely, the justice minister said. The move aims to addre... READ MORE
Celebrating Birthdays in Japan
- 11-15-2021
How Birthdays Are Celebrated in Japan
Just like in English, it can be a bit too straightforward to ask for someone’s age on their birthday. But you can definitely ask about their birthday wishes! Because of customs like this, it’s extremely important you understand basic cultural etiquette befo... READ MORE
What’s Happening Now in Fukuoka & Japan October 2021
- 11-01-2021
Scholars urge Japan to restart issuing visas to foreign students – Nationwide
Over 650 academics and students from universities in the United States, Japan, Britain and other countries have called on the Japanese government to resume issuing student and researcher visas, a process currently suspend... READ MORE
The COVID-19 Situation in Japan
- 10-15-2021
On Jan. 31, 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the outbreak of COVID-19 or the coronavirus a global emergency. After a surge in cases, several prefectures in Japan entered the fourth state of emergency. On Aug. 18, 2021, the state of emergency was extended until Sept. 12, 2021, but w... READ MORE
What’s Happening Now in Fukuoka & Japan September 2021
- 10-01-2021
Japan's universities tightening background checks on foreign students – Nationwide
Japan's major universities including those with close ties with China are moving to tighten background checks on foreign students seeking to study civil-military technologies, according to a Kyodo News survey. Their ... READ MORE
Mental Health In Japan
- 09-15-2021
Keeping Your Mental Health in Check
Depression is a very serious issue that affects every nation. As a foreigner in Japan, however, the adjustment to a new lifestyle, the culture shock, the long working hours and work and society-related stress can easily pile up. If you live alone here, it is beyo... READ MORE
