Heavy Rain Alert in Kyushu, Japan: Record-Breaking Downpours, Landslide Risks, and What It Means for the Region As of August 11, 2025, Japan’s southern island of Kyushu is under a severe weather alert due to relentless heavy rain caused by linear precipitation bands. This phenomenon has already dumped over 400 …
Read More »Why Do So Many Japanese People Sleep on Trains? Unpacking a Unique Cultural Phenomenon
If you’ve ever visited Japan, particularly bustling cities like Tokyo, Osaka, or Nagoya, one sight might have caught you off guard: commuters dozing off on trains, heads bobbing gently with the rhythm of the rails, even during rush hour. This isn’t just an occasional occurrence—it’s a daily ritual for many. …
Read More »Hiroshima’s 80th Anniversary: Japan’s Mission for Nuclear Disarmament and Global Peace
Introduction: Hiroshima’s 80th Anniversary—A Day of Reflection and Resolve On August 6, 2025, the city of Hiroshima marked 80 years since the atomic bomb fell, a somber milestone known as “Hiroshima Day” or “Atomic Bomb Day.” At the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba addressed a global …
Read More »Hiroshima’s Ekimae Ohashi Line: Japan’s First Elevated Streetcar Revolutionizes Transit and Tourism
On August 3, 2025, Hiroshima welcomed a groundbreaking addition to its iconic streetcar network with the opening of the Ekimae Ohashi Line. Operated by Hiroshima Electric Railway (commonly known as Hiroden), this new line is the first in Japan to feature a streetcar running on an elevated track directly into …
Read More »How to Say Goodbye in Japanese: Top Phrases, Examples, and Cultural Tips
Learning how to say goodbye in Japanese is essential for anyone interested in the language or culture, or planning a trip to Japan. Unlike English, where “goodbye” fits most situations, Japanese offers various phrases that change depending on the context, relationship, and time of day. This guide is designed to …
Read More »Days of the Week in Japanese: A Complete Guide for Beginners
Are you curious about how to say the days of the week in Japanese? Whether you’re planning a trip to Japan, learning the language for fun, or simply want to impress your friends, mastering the days of the week is a fantastic starting point. This comprehensive guide offers clear explanations, …
Read More »How to Say Sorry in Japanese: A Beginner’s Guide to Apologizing Like a Native
When you search for “sorry in Japanese,” you’re likely looking for more than just a word—you want to understand how to apologize in a way that feels natural and respectful in Japanese culture. Apologies in Japan aren’t just about saying “I’m sorry”; they’re deeply tied to social harmony, politeness, and …
Read More »Understanding the Japanese Population: Trends, Challenges, and Future Outlook
Introduction: Why the Japanese Population Matters Japan, often called the “Land of the Rising Sun,” is a country of striking contrasts—ancient temples sit alongside futuristic cities, and traditional customs blend with cutting-edge technology. But beyond its cultural and technological fame, Japan’s population is a subject of global fascination. The Japanese …
Read More »The Japanese Flag: A Deep Dive into Its History, Design, and Significance
The Japanese flag, known as the Hinomaru (日の丸), is one of the world’s most iconic national symbols. With its minimalist design—a red circle on a white background—it represents the sun and carries centuries of cultural, historical, and emotional weight. For English speakers unfamiliar with Japanese language or culture, this flag …
Read More »Discovering the Fascinating World of Japanese Monkeys: A Comprehensive Guide
Imagine a snowy landscape in the heart of Japan, where steam rises from natural hot springs, and amidst this serene setting, a troop of monkeys lounges in the warm waters, their faces relaxed and content. These are the Japanese monkeys, also known as snow monkeys or Japanese macaques, a species …
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