How to refer to your spouse in Japanese
What you call your spouse in private is your own business, but how you refer to them in public can be a more complicated...
Renewing a Working Visa in Japan
Today is one of those days... The day most expats in Japan dread almost as much as going to the Doctor or Dentist. At...
What to do in an Earthquake in Japan
First you feel a little, almost imperceptible, movement. Just as you start to dismiss it as a figment of your imagination, it very quickly...
Is Tokyo The World’s Most Livable City?
Over 13 million people (30 million including the surrounding areas) people can't be wrong! Ask any Tokyoite what their favourite city in Japan is...
How to describe pain to your Japanese doctor
The word itai meaning "painful" is one of the first words one picks up living in Japan. That versatile little word can be used...
Taking a Nap in Tokyo’s Nap Cafes
Did you know that taking a nap during the day is good for you? Apparently (according to researchers), a quick Power Nap can do...
Job Hunting Season in Japan – Shuukatsu
It's almost that time of year again when you'll see many recent graduates in their best black suits, roaming the streets to attend interviews...
Getting an International Driver’s License
A few years ago, I was hired to translate for an engineer who was being sent to the US to meet with customers. I...
Homeschooling in Japan
Anyone who's visited Japan or seen enough Japanese culture can imagine education in Japan is taken pretty seriously. Kids can be seen in uniform...
Beer, Happoshu and “The Third Beer”
Several weeks ago when a friend came to visit, we decided to go to the convenience store to pick up a few beers. Being...
