Living in Japan

Saying “no” in Japanese can be considered an art form, as the indirect nature of the language and cultural norms make it difficult to refuse something or someone. Here’s how to say no gracefully, while conveying what you need to.

Ready to celebrate the final holiday of Golden Week? Why not make it a “Yes Day” for the kids during Children’s Day to cap off the busy holiday week.

Celebrate and express gratitude for nature with Greenery Day – a holiday directly linked to one Emperor of Japan and his passion for plants.

Despite being right in the middle of the busy Golden Week, let’s take the time to a holiday dedicated to peace – Japan’s Constitution Memorial Day.

Welcome the much-awaited Golden Week in Japan with its first holiday, Shōwa no Hi – a day meant to remind everyone of the past.

Finding pads and tampons can be daunting when you’re in a new country. Here’s how to find feminine hygiene products in Japan. 

What makes Osaka a great place to visit in spring? Let’s find out the most stunning places in the city to enjoy during this beautiful season.

With the ever increasing problem of migration to the big cities, the rural areas of Japan are suffering from depopulation. The government has implemented an idea to help address this issue, called Furosato Nozei. Essentially you can buy local goods, and then have that money reduced from your tax bill.

Missing the last train happens to everyone in Tokyo, eventually. Here are 10 options for when you’re stranded in the city, rated by comfort, price, and convenience.

With the state of emergency in Tokyo not yet lifted, it’s probably best to avoid the crowds around the city’s top cherry blossom sites. But that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the blossoms. Here are seven of the city’s least crowded sakura spots!

Beauty standards differ from culture to culture – what’s considered to be attractive in your country might be unattractive in another. Read on to learn more about beauty standards in Japan. 

Japan’s Vernal Equinox Day is much like other public holidays wherein it’s filled with culture and traditions. Then you mix in some astrology and meteorology to make it more interesting.

What are some of the differences between Spain and Japan? Here is the experience of a Spanish woman living in Japan.

No matter what stage of your relationship you are at, March 14th has a festival for you. Jobs in Japan investigates the most romantic day of the year.

Trying to get some exercise this weekend? Go for a hike that’ll leave both your body and mind feeling refreshed.