5 Things to do in Tokyo

　Tokyo is a captivating city where tradition and modernity blend seamlessly. While skyscrapers dominate the skyline, serene gardens and historic shrines offer a peaceful escape. In this article, we’ll explore five must-visit spots in Tokyo: Shinjuku Gyoen, Meiji Jingu, Tokyo Tower, Shibuya Sky, and Shibuya Scramble Crossing. From nature and culture to breathtaking views and urban energy, these places will make your trip unforgettable. 　Shinjuku Gyoen is a stunning garden often called an oasis in the city. The vast grounds feature three distinct garden styles: Japanese traditional, French formal, and English landscape. Each season brings new beauty, with cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn being particularly breathtaking. […]

What is Sento?

A sento (銭湯) is far more than just a place to bathe—it’s a cornerstone of Japanese community life, where people gather not only to wash but to relax, socialize, and immerse themselves in local tradition. Originating in a time when private baths were a luxury, these public bathhouses evolved into cherished neighborhood hubs that continue to thrive today. One of the most distinctive features of a sento is its spacious shared bathing area, where large communal tubs and rows of washing stations allow bathers to soak and scrub side by side. The walls are often adorned with iconic tile murals depicting majestic landscapes like Mount Fuji, adding a touch of […]

Explore Tokyo’s Zojoji Temple Through Hanami

Discover how cherry blossoms, tea culture, and temple traditions come together in this immersive cultural walk at Zojoji Temple in Tokyo. Join us for a firsthand look at spring in Japan—and find out how you can be part of our future cultural learning events! Begin with Matcha and Mindfulness at Tera Cafe Shien Tucked within the grounds of Zojoji Temple, Tera Cafe Shien is a quiet gem where community, calm, and culture intersect. We started our morning with an arrangement of matcha drinks, strawberry dessert, and other seasonal treats. This peaceful tea experience invited participants to slow down, take in the temple surroundings, and learn about how tea is deeply […]

5 Hidden Cherry Blossoms Spots in Tokyo to Avoid the Crowds

Enjoying Hanami Away from the Crowds Cherry blossom season in Tokyo is a breathtaking time of year, but popular hanami spots like Ueno Park and Shinjuku Gyoen often get overcrowded—making it difficult to fully enjoy the beauty of the sakura. If you’re looking for a more peaceful and relaxing hanami experience, there are plenty of lesser-known locations across the city where you can admire the cherry blossoms without the massive crowds. In this guide, we’ll introduce five hidden sakura spots where you can take in stunning views, enjoy a quiet picnic, and immerse yourself in the magic of spring without the stress of large crowds. These locations are perfect for […]

Japanese Dining Etiquette: Beginners to Advanced

Dining in Japan is more than just enjoying a meal—it’s a reflection of deep-rooted cultural values such as respect, harmony, and gratitude. From the way food is served to how chopsticks are handled, every detail holds significance. Whether you’re eating at a casual ramen shop or attending a formal kaiseki dinner, understanding proper Japanese dining etiquette can help you navigate Japanese social settings with ease. While some rules are universal, others become more refined as your familiarity with Japanese customs grows. In this blog, we’ll break down Japanese dining etiquette into three levels: beginner, intermediate, and advanced. If you’re new to Japanese culture, we’ll cover the essential do’s and don’ts […]

The Unspoken Rules of Japanese Conversations

Have you ever had a conversation in Japanese where you walked away thinking, Did they just agree with me… or politely reject me? If so, you’re not alone! Japanese communication is filled with unspoken rules—subtle cues, indirect expressions, and cultural nuances that aren’t always obvious to learners. Unlike in English, where directness is often valued, Japanese conversations rely heavily on reading between the lines. A simple “yes” doesn’t always mean “yes,” silence can be a response in itself, and even your body language speaks volumes. Understanding these hidden rules is just as important as learning vocabulary and grammar. At Toranomon Language School, we know that mastering Japanese goes beyond textbooks—it’s […]

Don’t Miss Out! Master Keigo and Make Your Life in Japan More Comfortable

Have you ever hit the “Keigo wall” while living in Japan? Whether it’s chatting with a cashier at the supermarket, communicating with colleagues or bosses at work, or handling procedures at a hospital or government office, Keigo (polite language) is an essential part of daily life in Japan. If you don’t use it correctly, it can lead to misunderstandings or give the impression that you’re being rude. But don’t worry! This article will clearly explain Keigo and how to effectively use it in your daily life. What Is Keigo? Understanding the 3 Types Keigo is a critical aspect of Japanese that must be adjusted based on the relationship and context […]

How to Navigate Japanese Cafes Like a Local

Japan’s cafe scene is as diverse as it is delightful. From cozy, retro kissaten with hand-drip coffee to modern specialty spots and whimsical themed cafés, there’s a perfect café for every mood and occasion. But navigating these charming spaces can be a bit daunting for newcomers, especially when it comes to ordering or understanding the local customs. Learning just a few key phrases can make your cafe experience smoother and more enjoyable. If you’re looking to build confidence in everyday Japanese conversations, at Toranomon Language School, we have a “Speak Up! Japanese From Zero” program that is a great place to start. Designed for beginners, it covers essential phrases for […]

How to Build a Solid Foundation for the JLPT N5

If you’re just starting your Japanese language journey, the JLPT N5 is the ideal place to begin. As the first level of the Japanese-Language Proficiency Test (JLPT), it focuses on essential grammar, basic vocabulary, and foundational reading skills. Achieving N5 not only boosts your confidence but also equips you with the tools to understand simple conversations, read basic texts, and engage in everyday life in Japan. For many learners, it’s a significant first step toward fluency and passing higher levels of the JLPT in the future. At Toranomon Language School, we understand the importance of building a strong foundation. That’s why our JLPT N5 course focuses on grammar and reading […]

The Ultimate Way to Learn Japanese For Beginners

When it comes to mastering a new language, IMMERSION is one of the most effective methods for success. Being surrounded by a language, hearing it spoken, and applying that and speaking in everyday scenarios helps learners retain vocabulary, build confidence, and develop a natural flow when communicating. However, beginners often face a steep learning curve when diving into Japanese. The right approach to complex grammar, unfamiliar characters, and cultural nuances can make the journey much smoother. This is why we recommend beginners to leverage JLPT learning to accelerate communication skills, and to learn them simultaneously! Benefits of Learning Conversation and JLPT N5 Simultaneously Accelerated Language Progress: Engaging in both speaking […]