Author: Karina Ikedo

A brilliantly pink cherry blossom tree on a hill in Shizuoka.

Shizuoka: The Best Sakura Viewing Spots

If you want to make the most of spring, you’re in the right place! The sakura trees in Shizuoka prefecture are famous for blooming earlier than usual. 

Two people exchanging a red gift box. Gifts for Japanese business associates are important for good relationships.

The Best Gifts for Japanese Business Associates

In Japanese culture and society, corporate gifts are widely accepted and valued, just like in most other countries worldwide. Giving gifts is a big deal in Japanese culture since it shows respect, friendship, and appreciation. 

A box of small traditional Japanese gift boxes, wrapped with thin string.

The Best Traditional Japanese Gifts for Housewarming!

You are in the right place if you have someone in your life that is obsessed with Japan and its culture. The following guide is a thoughtful, in-depth list of the best Japanese housewarming gift ideas for anyone who loves Japanese culture and anything Japanese.

Two women in kimono walking down the street among cherry blossoms. There are many sakura words related to this vocabulary workshop.

Vocabulary Workshop: Best Words for Cherry Blossoms!

In Japan, the cherry blossom tree and its flowers signify spring. These blossoms bring luck and love but also reflect the reminder of life’s fragility due to their brief bloom. Their influence is everywhere, especially in the Japanese language.

A plate of Japanese rice snacks, including crispy, brown senbei.

Japanese Rice Snacks: The Best That You Need to Try

You already know that rice is a mainstay of the Japanese diet. Not only do Japanese people have steamed plain rice at meals almost every day, but if you can go to grocery stores in Japan, you can find many rice crackers.

A woman looking around in a street that depicts a tradiitonal Japanese Tokyo lifestyle.

Traditional Tokyo Japanese Lifestyle: How to Experience It

Despite being the country’s capital, Tokyo is not typically considered the center of Japanese culture. Tourists rarely prefer a tea ceremony in this contemporary, multicultural city over shopping or a trip to the newest attraction.