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…
A Quick Guide to Public Holidays in Japan (2022 Edition)
Despite the country’s reputation for long hours at the office, Japan has 16 annual public holidays—more than any other G8 nation. Whether you’re a new resident or an aspiring tourist, it’s important to know at least a little about Japan’s public holidays, as they can have a significant impact on your experience. For some holidays,…
How to Become a CIR in Japan: Focusing Your JET Program Application Statement of Purpose
The JET Program: Most people who have considered working in Japan have probably considered applying. While it is most known for the role of ALT (Assistant Language Teacher), roughly 8% of participants move to Japan as a CIR (Coordinator for International Relations). Although there is a wealth of information available for ALT applicants, there is…
Top Japanese Names in 2021: What Are New Parents Naming Their Children?
So much can go into picking the right name for a child. You may think of choosing a name inherited from a cherished family member or friend, a name that represents an admirable characteristic, or a name that simply sounds nice. In Japan, people consider these factors as well as the kanji used to represent…
Why Japanese Mayo Is So Good and How to Make It at Home
Japanese mayo is very popular among customers in the United States—so much so that it even ranked number one in its category on Amazon US in 2010. What is Japanese mayo? What makes Japanese mayo different from its US counterpart? And how can you make it at home? What Is the Original Mayonnaise? The origins…
The Best Ways to Stay Healthy in Japan, the Land of the Rising Carbs
Before I went to Japan for my first time as an exchange student, I believed the generalization that Japan is extremely healthy and that I would lose several pounds by not even trying. Although I spent my normal weeks walking to class every day around my massive American college campus, generally eating healthy meals, and…