Have you ever found yourself wondering how to say “no” in Japanese? Perhaps you’ve been offered something you’d rather decline, or you’ve needed to answer a question with a negative response. If you’re an English speaker new to Japanese, you might assume that “iie” is the simple equivalent of “no.” …

Have you ever wanted to rally your friends for an adventure in Japan or kick off a group activity, but didn’t know how to say “Let’s Go” in Japanese? Whether you’re planning a trip to Tokyo, connecting with Japanese speakers, or just curious about the language, learning this simple phrase …

Lunch is a meal we all enjoy, but the way it’s experienced can differ widely across cultures. In Japan, lunch is more than just food—it’s a window into the country’s language, traditions, and daily life. For English speakers who don’t know much Japanese but are curious about the culture or …

Have you ever watched an anime and heard a character yell “baka” in a fit of anger? Or maybe you’ve wondered how Japanese people express frustration or insult each other. While Japan is famous for its polite and respectful culture, there’s a hidden side to the language that includes swear …

The world of anime is about to witness a monumental event with the release of “Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – Infinity Castle Arc Chapter One: Akaza’s Return” on July 18. This new movie kicks off the highly anticipated “Infinity Castle Arc,” a trilogy that will depict the climactic final …

The word “hot” is versatile in English, describing everything from scorching summer days to steaming coffee, spicy tacos, or even an attractive person. But how do you express “hot” in Japanese? If you’re an English speaker with little knowledge of Japanese, learning these expressions can feel daunting—yet it’s also an …

Introduction: A Historic Change in Japanese Romanization For the first time in 70 years, Japan is changing how its language is written in Roman letters! On July 14, 2025, the country’s cultural council finalized a draft proposal to shift from the “Kunrei-shiki” system to the “Hepburn” system. This means that …

Imagine sitting down to a beautifully arranged table: the savory scent of miso soup fills the air, a bowl of steaming rice glistens under soft lighting, and the gentle clink of chopsticks signals the start of a meal. This is the essence of dinner in Japanese culture—a moment that blends …

To mark the 40th anniversary of Akira Toriyama’s iconic “DRAGON BALL” serialization, the world’s first “DRAGON BALL STORE” is set to open in Tokyo this autumn. This exciting milestone celebrates four decades of the beloved manga and anime series that has captured hearts globally. The “DRAGON BALL STORE” promises a …

Introduction Japan’s culinary landscape is a treasure trove of experiences, from savoring sushi at a bustling counter to slurping ramen in a cozy shop. For English-speaking travelers with little to no Japanese knowledge, dining in Japan can feel both exciting and intimidating. One essential phrase to master is “check please,” …