Contrary to popular belief, you don’t need to achieve a certain test score or receive permission to start using Japanese on the job. Of course, if you’re serious about a long-term, Japan-related career, it’s important to study hard and learn as much Japanese as you can. The more you know, the better your chances for…
My Japanese Learning Goals for 2021
I often write about the latest technology, applications, and software for learning Japanese. However, as many in my network are quick to point out, we shouldn’t let rote digital flashcard use overshadow practical learning methods. Eventually, we have to take your Japanese out into the real world by reading books, giving presentations, writing emails, and…
Basic Tips to Read Books in Japanese
As I mentioned earlier this year, one of my objectives for 2021 is to read in Japanese more and expand my vocabulary. Since last December, I have finished reading two fictional books and one poetry book, and I am halfway reading a collection of suspense short stories. In the process, I reflected on a few…
10 Expressions You Need to Know before Drinking in Japan
Gathering around food and drinks in an izakaya (Japanese-style pub) to smooth relationships (including and especially work-related ones) is an important part of Japanese culture nicknamed ”nomunication.” Joining Japanese people at the izakaya is a good way to break the ice and get to know them better. If you go to small, five- or six-seat places,…
3 New Tools for Learning Japanese in 2021
Those who have been following my Japanese journey know that I rely heavily on technology to augment my learning. This means that I’m always experimenting with the latest apps and software to make the process as efficient as possible. I use many of these programs simultaneously. For example, the Wanikani and Bunpro services go hand…
The 5 Most Effective Flash Card Programs for Learning Japanese
Everyone who studies Japanese uses different methods, techniques, and tools to achieve mastery. However, ask around, and you’ll find that most learners consistently recommend one tool in particular: digital flash cards—specifically software with an effective Spaced Repetition System (SRS). Over the past decade, I’ve used all kinds of flash cards (even the old-school paper ones)…
5 Ways to Make Time to Study Japanese
Learning Japanese is one of the best things you can do to enrich your life and increase your chances of career success in Japan. However, learning a new language demands a significant amount of time. Factor in a busy career, social and family obligations, and hobbies, and it’s easy to leave language learning by the…
The Problem With Joshiryoku
I am looking at women’s magazines at the convenience store. On the cover of one of them, I can read, “Improve your joshiryoku!” I am in a long meeting. One of my colleagues has prepared snacks and drinks for everybody. Someone says, “Your joshiryoku is so high!” I am on the train. An advertisement advises visiting…
Iwata-san: Learning about Life and Leadership in Japanese
One of the things I love about interviewing experts and business leaders is the opportunity to learn while I work. I get to hear their experiences, process their wisdom, and share it with anyone willing to read the final product. While I was working on a recent project, a Japanese startup founder recommended a book…
How to Optimize Classes, Textbooks, and Flash Cards to Become Fluent in Japanese
A few weeks ago, I was listening to a podcast about learning Japanese, and the host divided learners into two camps: those who use textbooks and those who don’t. I immediately thought, “Wait a second, what’s wrong with something in the middle—occasional textbook use?” The thought lingered with me long after the podcast was over,…