Nestled just an hour south of Tokyo in Kanagawa Prefecture, Kamakura is a gem of Japanese history and natural beauty. Once the political center of Japan during the Kamakura period (1185–1333), this coastal city is famous for its ancient temples, serene shrines, and the iconic Great Buddha (Daibutsu). As we …

Have you ever caught yourself mid-conversation in Japanese, fumbling for that one word that captures the limbo between expectation and reality? If you’re dipping your toes into the language, “mada” (まだ) might just be your new best friend—or a sneaky little trickster. This unassuming adverb pops up everywhere in daily …

Tucked away in the rolling hills of Kanagawa Prefecture, Hakone has always been a beloved escape for those craving a blend of volcanic landscapes, soothing hot springs, and glimpses of Mount Fuji’s majestic peak. As we approach 2026, this gem within the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park is buzzing with fresh energy, …

Kyoto, Japan’s eternal cultural heartbeat, has long captivated the world with its whisper of cherry blossoms, the solemn chime of temple bells, and the graceful sway of geisha in lantern-lit alleys. As we step into 2026, this ancient capital—once known as Heian-kyō—promises an even richer tapestry of experiences. From age-old …

As the first snowflakes begin to dust the peaks of Hokkaido, ski enthusiasts around the world turn their gaze to Niseko—a name that evokes images of endless powder fields, steaming onsen soaks, and breathtaking views of Mount Yotei. If you’re dreaming of carving fresh tracks in 2026, this guide is …

You’ve probably seen “doudemo ii” (どうでもいい) in anime subtitles, heard it in J-dramas, or stumbled across it on Japanese Twitter threads. At first glance, it looks harmless—literally “it’s fine either way,” right? But ask any native speaker and they’ll tell you: this phrase is rarely neutral. In fact, “doudemo ii” …

In the high-stakes world of Major League Baseball, where legends are forged under stadium lights and dreams cross oceans, few stories capture the imagination quite like that of Roki Sasaki. Born on November 3, 2001, in the resilient coastal town of Rikuzentakata, Japan, Sasaki has earned the moniker “The Monster …

As we look ahead to 2026, Tokyo stands out as a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a blend of cutting-edge innovation, timeless traditions, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned explorer, Tokyo in 2026 promises an array of events and attractions that capture the essence of …

If you’ve ever wandered through a Japanese convenience store or dined at a local izakaya, you might have noticed something intriguing: mayonnaise isn’t just a sandwich spread—it’s a star ingredient. For those curious about how to say “mayonnaise” in Japanese, it’s straightforward: マヨネーズ, pronounced as “mayonēzu.” This loanword from English …

Picture this: You’re standing at the edge of the world’s most famous pedestrian scramble, the air buzzing with the chatter of salarymen, giggling schoolgirls, and wide-eyed tourists from every corner of the globe. Giant screens tower overhead, casting a kaleidoscope of ads that pulse like the city’s own heartbeat. That’s …