Torii, A Shinto Gate to Sacred Grounds

You’ve probably seen Torii in photos of Japan without realising what they actually are. Torii are the entrance gateways to Shinto shrines. Not only are they beautiful to behold, they carry great...

Culture History & Religion temples & shrines

Slurping on Thick Japanese Noodles, Udon

Udon is a thick wheat flour noodle with a chewy texture. A versatile carb, it pairs well with a simple soup or even rich sauces, watery broth or thick creamy stock. It can be served hot or cold depend...

Culture Kanto Shikoku food & drink

Japanese Beer, A Refreshing Drink for All Occasions

Japanese beer is a must in summers (to cool down) and drinking parties like nomikai (to get hyped). This deliciously refreshing and bubbly drink pairs well with all kinds of beer snacks. Aside from bi...

Culture food & drink Kanto

All About Shodo, Japanese Calligraphy

Shodo, or Japanese calligraphy, has been practiced and enjoyed by many to this day, not only to practice writing characters but as a form of meditation. But did you know that there’s 3 different...

Culture Writing tradition & crafts Kanji characters

Ryokan, The Epitome of Traditional Japanese Accommodation

Want to experience the traditional life? There’s nothing better than staying in a ryokan and experiencing true Japanese hospitality, omotenashi. Skip the modernised ones and go for a fully tradi...

Culture real estate & accomodation hot springs & public baths

Unagi, A Premium Nutritious Ingredient

Unagi is Japanese for freshwater eel. It is generally quite expensive and carries the image of a luxury meal or dish. Unagi dishes use minimal ingredients as the eel is the main star. It is usually as...

Culture food & drink

Yakitori, A Savoury Chicken Meal or Snack

Yakitori, meaning grilled chicken, is a classic Japanese dish, snack or even meal. Best enjoyed with beer, it can be found anywhere from supermarket cooked food sections, izakaya, matsuri food stalls,...

Culture food & drink

Pachinko: Japan’s Own Form of Slot Machines

Pachinko is a common pastime for Japanese people with some money to spare. Unlike the Western slot machines, Pachinko requires skill and precision calculation to get small metal balls into a pocket ra...

Culture

Sumo Wrestling, Japan’s National Sport

Originated in Japan, sumo wrestling is the nation’s most prestigious form of sport holding the status of national sport. Its history dates back as early as the 7th century with the Imperial fami...

Culture salary/bonus History & Religion tradition & crafts sports

Kaomoji: Express yourself through Japanese Emoticons

Emoticons are typically used by people, not just in Japan but around the world, to express themselves creatively and to add clarifying features to the conversation. With hundreds of different emoticon...

Culture cell phone apps pop culture