Japanese Culture
Explore various aspects of Japanese culture, including traditional manners, customs, weddings, funerals, cross-cultural exchanges, history, recycling and reuse, sustainability, and cultural classes that shape life in Japan.
Disability Symbols and their Meanings in Japan
There are many symbols for people with disabilities in Japan. Some of the symbols are universal and you may have seen them abroad. Various symbols and signs relating to people with disabilities indica…
How to Sell on Mercari Japan
While in the West there are secondhand online marketplaces like eBay, in Japan there is Mercari, where you can both save money on buying used, yet still high-quality goods and easily make some extra m…
How to Properly Dispose of Cooking Oil in Japan
Proper disposal of used cooking oil from home cooking, such as after making tempura or tonkatsu, is essential for both environmental and sanitary reasons. In this article, we will explain in detail th…
Etiquette Guide: Why Do You Take Off Your Shoes in Japan?
If you have ever visited Japan, live in Japan, or even had some interaction with Japanese culture in your home country, you may be aware that taking off one’s shoes to go inside a residence is a commo…
Pet Manners & Etiquette in Japan - Dog Walking, etc.
For many dog owners, pets are like their own children. If that description fits you, then you may be taking your dog with you almost everywhere you go. Recently, many dog owners with their dogs can be…
What is Sakaki and How Is It Used in Japan?
This page contains affiliate links. This article is contributed by 供TOMO. Japan is known for its deep attachment and respect for nature. Shinto, one of Japan’s main religions with Buddhism, is the pro…
Osaka vs Tokyo - What are the differences?
Tokyo and Osaka are two cities in Japan that are often compared. Tokyo is the capital of Japan and part of Kanto region, while Osaka is the largest city of Kansai region. However, the differences are…
What is Shojin Buddhist Cuisine? Try it at Minobusan
This article is contributed by KAKURINBO. Located in Minobu (population approx. 10,000) in southern Yamanashi Prefecture, Minobusan is a Buddhist enclave that is home to Kuonji, the head temple of the…
Welcoming the Obon Holiday: Exploring Japanese Tradition
Japan is well-known for its festivals, especially during the summertime. Fireworks, festivities, and food is the image that comes to mind for most people. However, Obon is a festival with a difference…
The Story Behind “Washi”, Japan’s Traditional Handmade Paper
This article is contributed by MADALAND. Located about 15 minutes by car southeast of Takefu Station on the JR Hokuriku Line, the village of Goka in Fukui Prefecture (which comprises the Imadate-cho n…
The Seven Lucky Gods of Japan: Who Are Shichifukujin?
This page contains affiliate links. Spirituality in Japan is very unique in its wide acceptance and mixing of Shinto and Buddhist beliefs, traditions, and customs. However, there are also some traditi…
Prayer Offering Manners at Shrines and Temples in Japan
There are many people in Japan who still get confused about what to do when visiting shrines and temples. While the prayers given at a shrine and temple may be similar, they each have their own proced…
What are shinto offerings?
This page contains affiliate links. This article is contributed by 供TOMO. Shinto is an important part of Japanese culture and one of the main religions. If you live in Japan or if you have ever had th…
What is Chonaikai (Neighborhood Associations) and How can Foreigners Join?
In Japan, each district has an organization run by local residents called a Chonaikai or Jichikai (means neighborhood association or residents’ association), which holds events, disaster prevention dr…
Mago wa Yasashii: Japanese Key to Healthy Eating
This page contains affiliate links. Japan is known for its rich cultural traditions, technological advancements, as well as delicious and healthy food. However, it would be a mistake to assume that al…
Train Etiquette in Japan: What to Expect as a Foreigner
The Japanese train system is renowned throughout the world for its speed, efficiency, and punctuality. What may be commonplace to Japanese residents is often impressive and surprising for foreigners c…
Eating Outside in Japan: Know the Rules, Avoid a Food Fight
Japan is one of the cleanest, most well-kept countries in the world and consistently tops charts of safest and best places to live on Earth. With that, however, comes a complicated system of social bo…
Japanese Cooking Classes in Tokyo: Learn How to Cook Japanese Food
No Japanese, no problem—there are a wide variety of English-friendly cooking classes available throughout Tokyo that can teach you how to make all your favorite Japanese foods, from sushi and ramen to traditional home-cooked meals.
By PLAZA HOMES
Onsen Etiquette in Japan: Rules and Manners
Nothing beats the soothing effects and cultural experience of visiting a Japanese hot spring (Onsen). A trip to an onsen in Japan is a highly recommended experience appreciated by visitors and new for…
A Guide to Tatami and Tatami Mats
This page contains affiliate links. Tatami mats have long been an important part of Japanese culture, design, and even sports. The woven rush grass of tatami mats creates a welcoming, relaxing environ…
