Ohtani

Born and raised in Tokyo, Ohtani writes practical English guides that help international readers understand Japan travel, everyday culture, food, and useful Japanese phrases with clear local context.

Why Do Typhoons Hit Japan So Frequently? Unpacking the Science, History, and Resilience

Japan, an island nation perched on the edge of the Pacific, is a land of stunning contrasts—serene cherry blossoms in spring, vibrant festivals in summer, and snow-capped mountains in winter. But beneath this beauty lies a formidable challenge: typhoons. If you’ve ever asked yourself, “Why do typhoons occur so frequently …

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Why Japanese Restaurants Embrace Free Drinks, Toppings, and No Tipping: A Cultural Guide

When dining in Japan, you might notice a refreshing twist: many restaurants offer free drink refills, complimentary toppings, and no expectation of tipping. This unique approach puzzles travelers from countries where tipping and extra charges are the norm. For international visitors and food lovers, understanding these practices unlocks a deeper …

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Top Historical Events in Japan on September 19, 2025: Key Moments That Shaped a Nation

Ever wondered what pivotal moments shaped Japan on this very day? September 19 holds a special place in Japanese history, blending tales of imperial ambition, cultural triumphs, and sporting glory. From the shadows of early 20th-century expansion to modern feats that captivated the world, these events offer a window into …

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Yuki Joseph Nakajima’s Historic 6th Place in Men’s 400m at 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo

Yuki Joseph Nakajima’s Historic Run In the electrifying atmosphere of Tokyo’s National Stadium, where the roar of 50,000 passionate fans echoed like thunder, Yuki Joseph Nakajima etched his name into Japanese athletics history. On September 18, 2025, during the sixth day of the World Athletics Championships, the 23-year-old sprinter from …

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Japan’s First Rice Reselling Arrest: Gifu Case Highlights 2025 Shortage Crisis

In a surprising turn of events that highlights the pressures of Japan’s ongoing rice shortage, two individuals from a small retail store in Gifu Prefecture have been referred to prosecutors for illegally reselling government-stockpiled rice. This case, which unfolded on September 18, 2025, marks the first prosecution of its kind …

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Japan’s Homegrown AI Revolution: Building Trustworthy Technology to Reduce US and China Dependency

Japan’s Push for Domestic AI In an era where artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping industries, economies, and daily life, Japan is taking bold steps to foster its own homegrown AI technologies. The Japanese government has announced plans to support the development of domestic AI, leveraging national data and expertise to …

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Japan’s Government Boosts Anime and Film Support: Aiming to Triple Global Exports by 2033

Japan’s Government Boosts Anime and Film Support In a world where cultural exports shape global perceptions, Japan’s anime and films have long been at the forefront, blending intricate storytelling with stunning visuals that resonate across continents. From the epic battles in One Piece to the heartfelt journeys in Your Name, …

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Why Are Non-Alcoholic Drinks Booming in Japan? Trends, Reasons, and Must-Try Options for 2025

Picture yourself wandering through the neon-lit streets of Tokyo on a crisp evening. The air buzzes with energy from nearby izakayas—those cozy Japanese pubs where friends and colleagues traditionally unwind over sake or beer. But peek inside one of these spots today, and you might spot something unexpected: groups clinking …

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Record-Breaking Tourism Surge: Over 3.4 Million Visitors Flocked to Japan in August 2025

Japan’s allure as a top global travel destination shows no signs of fading. According to the latest figures from the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO), released on September 17, 2025, a staggering 3.428 million foreign tourists visited the country in August alone. This marks a 16.9% increase compared to the …

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Asahi Beer’s “Night-Only Sparkling Water” Revolution: Tapping into the Sober Evening Market with Wilkinson Tansan Tag Sober

Asahi Beer’s “Night-Only Sparkling Water” Revolution:  In a world where evening rituals are evolving faster than ever, Asahi Beer is shaking things up with a fresh take on non-alcoholic refreshment. On September 17, 2025, the Japanese beverage giant unveiled “Wilkinson Tansan Tag Sober” under its iconic Wilkinson brand—a line of …

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