Eating at a restaurant in Japan is usually a pleasant experience, but language differences can initially make it feel uncertain. Many restaurants, especially local ones, do not offer English menus or explanations. Learning common Japanese phrases helps diners move through meals more confidently. When both sides of the exchange feel familiar, dining becomes more relaxed...

Japan’s traditional New Year, known as Oshogatsu, is a meaningful time to welcome the New Year deity, Toshigami, and wish for health, luck, and prosperity.

Another year, another fantastic output of anime! 2025 was a phenomenal year for fans of anime, as both new series and established heavy hitters alike topped the charts and even broke a few records.

Holiday cards are a familiar tradition around the world, but in Japan, they take on a uniquely meaningful form known as nengajo. These handwritten or printed messages act as small tokens of gratitude, luck, and connection exchanged at the start of the year.

The end of the year in Japan is not just about countdowns, parties, and feast-worthy food. It is also the moment when people hit pause, look around their homes, and decide to give everything a fresh start.

During the New Year in Japan, people perform hatsumode, the first visit to a shrine or temple. Families, couples, and friends put on their warmest clothes (and sometimes a kimono!), brave the winter chill, and step through shrine gates to pray for good luck, health, and happiness.