Do you know how to count in Japanese? Along with keigo, counting in Japanese is often considered one of the most difficult aspects of the language to learn. Because of the historical influence of Chinese vocabulary, the Japanese language actually has different ways of counting in different contexts. If you’re confused, that’s okay. I’m going…
The Silent Disappearance – About the Phenomenon of Hikikomori
They sit in their tiny rooms, in front of their computers, and lie on their beds during the day. They only go outside at night, and only if they can’t avoid it. Out into life? No, not at all. For these young people, life takes place in a few square meters. It is a life…
What is the Status of Abortion in Japan? An Overview of Women’s Reproductive Rights
The US Supreme Court’s overturning of Roe v. Wade in June has turned the spotlight on reproductive and women’s rights worldwide. Under Roe v. Wade, access to abortion was a constitutional right in the US, even if only in theory. Since the draft of the decision was leaked in May, protests across the US erupted…
Volunteering at Animal Shelters in Japan: What You Need to Know
Are you interested in volunteering for animals in Japan? Volunteering at animal shelters is one of the most heartbreaking yet rewarding activities I have taken part in. I am a massive dog lover, and I first volunteered at an animal shelter when I was about 10 years old. During my last year in college, I…
Japanese Family Names and Their Meaning
Some time ago, we introduced the most popular Japanese first names and their meaning. But what about Japanese family names? Read along for an introduction to the most common family names in Japan, and a history of how family names evolved over time. This article was kindly provided to Kokoro Media by our partner the German-Japanese…
Who Are the Ainu, and What’s Their Story?
Did you know that Japan has been a multi-ethnic country since its inception? If your response is “no,” you’re not alone. Apart from the Yamato (the dominant ethnic group in Japan, often just known as “the Japanese”), there are three other indigenous ethnic groups in Japan: the Ainu, the Bonin (also known as the Obeikei),…
Japan on the International Stage: A Brief Explainer
From economic sanctions to meetings with NATO, Japan’s response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine has been making headlines. This has spawned international curiosity about Japan’s role as a global power, especially when it comes to geopolitical conflict. In this brief Q&A, I’ll answer three common questions about Japan’s relationship with global powers and organizations….
Why Are Japanese Women Divorcing Their Dead Husbands?
It’s a simple, albeit controversial, concept: Irreversibly rocky marriages may end in divorce, and nowadays, more than ever before. However, in Japan, there is a growing trend of even happy couples ending their relationships–but only after one of them dies. What is this phenomenon of divorce after death, and what has caused its surge in…
How to Fit in Workouts (Beyond Just Ambient Exercise) in Japan
It’s not always easy to stay healthy and fit in Japan. When you change occupations, often your entire lifestyle shifts, and this is particularly so when you move to a new country. The food, environment, and even your schedule are likely to be different. Even perceptions about weight and health are often intrinsically tied with…
Three Great Japanese Novels by Female Authors
I have always loved reading as far as I can remember. As I kept asking, “What’s written here?” and “What’s written there?”, my grandfather decided to teach me how to read way before I entered elementary school. As a result, I was able to read what I wanted before I was five years old. It…