Every year, for a few days before and after August 15, trains and tourist resorts overflow with people. Not only are hotels and flights expensive, but they also become fully booked well ahead of time. For the Japanese, this period is the peak of summer vacation. But this period, called obon, is also much more….
Why Do Japanese Shop Doors Have Curtains?
Store curtains are often hung at the entrances of shops and restaurants in Japan. Here is the role of these curtains and their origin. What are these curtains? You may have noticed flag-like curtains hanging in front of Japanese shops or restaurants. These are called noren in Japanese. In Japanese, this word is written with…
Yes, You Can Eat Anglerfish: Here Is How the Japanese Do It.
Despite its terrible looks granted by nature and its slimy texture, anglerfish is actually edible. The monster is turned into a delicacy by Japanese cooks. The Difference between Anglerfish, Monkfish, and Footballfish Before talking about cuisine, a distinction should be made between the terms anglerfish, monkfish, and footballfish. Although the fish look similar, the words…
How to Say ‘Sorry I’m Late’ in Japanese Depending on Your Situation
It is a well-known fact that being late is frowned upon in Japanese culture. Being late when you meet friends will not hurt your friendships badly as long as you apologize and don’t try to make up excuses. Your Japanese friends might very well be the ones who are late. But in business culture, it’s…
The History of Hanami: The Japanese Tradition of Cherry Blossom Viewing
In Spring in Japan, cherry blossom trees are in bloom for about two weeks. During this very short period of time, Japanese people enjoy the traditional activity called hanami, which can be literally translated as “viewing the flowers.” Read on to discover the origins and meanings of this celebration and how it is celebrated today….
A Family of Fingers! How to Name Each Finger of the Hand in Japanese
The Fingers’ Names in Japanese Originate from Size or Usage In Japan, fingers’ names are called the following: #1 The thumb is oyayubi (親指), the “parent finger”.#2 The index finger is hitosashiyubi (人差し指), the “pointing finger”.#3 The middle finger has the same meaning as in English, and is called nakayubi (中指).#4 The ring finger is called,…
Japanese Miso Soup: its Origins and Why Japanese People Like it so Much
When and where was miso soup invited? What is it made of? Why is it so important to the Japanese people? Is there a correct way to eat it? Is it really good for your health? Here are some answers to the most commonly asked questions related to the most famous soup of Japanese cuisine….
Japanese Colors and Their Symbolism
Japanese colors and their symbolism are different than the West’s since perceptions of colors are a cultural construct. They reflect the country’s history and beliefs. Read on to discover the Japanese culture’s different colors and why. In Japanese, the Green and Blue Used to Be the Same Today, the word ao (青) means blue, but…
The Goshuincho: A Necessity for Japan Travel Enthusiasts
When it comes to things that I wish I had known before visiting (and eventually moving to) Japan, the goshuincho, a book used for collecting ink stamps and calligraphy from Japanese shrines, tops the list. So, allow me to save you some regret. If you are planning on visiting Japan, do yourself a favor and…