Onsen, or Japanese hot spring, are public baths with geothermally-heated, mineral-rich spring water. They are synonymous with Japanese culture, but maybe a culture shock to non-Japanese. After all, soaking in the same bath with friends, family or strangers is not something non-Japanese may be used … Read More
Harmony is heavily valued in Japanese society, with the tendency to emphasise groups over individuals. This is said to have emerged from Japanese geography, history and culture. Being isolated from other countries, Japan has yet to experience major racial or cultural invasion, making the country ho… Read More
Photos are a great way to preserve memorable moments. While the term 'selfie' only really became prevalent along with the advent of smartphones in recent years, Japan was perhaps the pioneer to develop something somewhat similar to this with the ‘Purikura' machine, a booth which produces stamp-size… Read More
Having authentic Japanese meals when in Japan is a must. Sushi, sashimi, tempura, onigiri, yakitori, the list goes on... This is what tourists typically crave for when they travel to Japan. However, there are also a whole lot of popular chain restaurants and fast-food stalls among the local Jap… Read More
Japan is currently struggling with an aging and shrinking population. The average age for first marriage shows that both men and women are getting married later than their previous generations. Numerous factors exist behind this trend such as the lack of confidence in their job security nor financi… Read More
Many of us probably have tried Ramen or instant noodles. The popularity of Ramen as a traditional Japanese dish has been skyrocketing and now you can find Ramen restaurants almost anywhere in the world. Many of them offer high-end Ramen which usually costs around $20 per bowl. This may make you won… Read More
We all know that Japan is very capable of going beyond our expectations of converting something into more unique and extraordinary. The Robot Restaurant, vending machines, digital art museums and Pachinko... and train rides! While Japan is famously known for its efficient and extensive railway netw… Read More
Every culture has its own table manner to follow and Japan is no exception. While Japanese will be generous and won’t be offended if you’re unable to conduct the correct table manners, it is always nice to understand and follow the common etiquettes to demonstrate your good manner and respect for t… Read More
Tired of pointing and nodding? Here are some phrases to assist your trip to Japan! While the language barrier is still an issue in some areas, rest assured that you will be able to survive most of your journey (hopefully) and make your experience even better with the following. Please note, that yo… Read More
The rise of the COVID-19 pandemic has caused many at home in need of new activity and of course, new games. What better way than to enjoy fantasy and adventure with everyone’s favourite console, the Nintendo Switch. We have nitpicked essential Nintendo Switch games anyone can enjoy, check them out!… Read More
The current COVID-19 outbreak has caused unnecessary stress to many of us especially because of the uncertainty of it all. For now, let’s all play our part and heed the government’s advice to stay home unless necessary. We’re just as bummed as you are to hear that so many events, … Read More
So, you've spent this self-isolation period either binge-watching, browsing YouTube or TikTok, playing online games, napping, snacking and possibly reading? However, you might not have had any chances to read Japanese books. Yes, I'm not talking about manga but Japanese literature. While still not … Read More
COVID-19 - The virus that has rapidly spread into a global pandemic. To slow the spread of the coronavirus to save lives, the Australian government has announced restrictions for travelling and public gathering, resulting in the cancellation of events, lockdown and even border shutdown. As winter i… Read More
Where are you now? Majority of the answers now would be 'home.' Since social distancing started, home is literally the only place we know. Your day passes in the same rooms; and it doesn’t matter whether you are eating, studying, working or hanging out with your family members or friends online, it… Read More
Feeling bored from being home all the time due to the current pandemic? Yes -- I understand we are all feeling frustrated from the travel ban. Until it's lifted, we can start planning and booking our next trip to JAPAN (especially for those who have travelling as their hobbies... ugh). Well, it's n… Read More
Staying at home and self isolating is the best way to combat the current pandemic. It is also a great opportunity to learn something new and keep yourself occupied, such as teaching yourself Japanese! With an abundance of resources available online, it has never been easier! From the comfort of you… Read More
Lovers of Japanese powder snow do not need to travel far from Tokyo. In fact, only two hours away from Japan’s capital metropolis lies mountainous Gunma Prefecture. Located north of Tokyo, Gunma is a mountainous province do… Read More
Salad is a staple in a healthy eating habit but there isn’t a lot of variations to it. To save you from getting bored of the same old salad, we’ve put together some recipes and. Tips in creating a Japanese salad! Using Japanese salad dressings and ingredients, you can create a Japanese style, healt… Read More
Shikoku is an island of Japan, located to the southwest of Tokyo. Its name means four countries, and as the name suggests, it is made up of four prefectures; Tokushima, Kagawa, Kochi and Ehime. Shikoku came in the second one of the top Asian destination in Lonely Planet’s Best in the Asia Pacifi… Read More
