Mastering Small Talk: A Guide for Japanese Learners

At Toranomon Language School, we are committed to providing more than just language instruction. Our approach includes teaching intercultural differences and practical Japanese that you can use in real-life situations. One essential aspect of effective communication is mastering small talk, which varies significantly across cultures. Cultural Differences in Small Talk Understanding small talk is crucial for making meaningful connections, and it varies greatly between cultures. In Japan, the norms for small talk can be quite different from those in other countries. For example, in many other cultures, it’s common to strike up conversations with strangers in various settings, such as elevators or queues. However, in Japan, it is sad that […]

How speaking Japanese can benefit your career

The country of Japan has *the fourth largest economy in the world and there are abundant opportunities for work in fields like technology, finance, and manufacturing. In these jobs, there is a high demand for Japanese language skills, and by speaking this language you will stand out as a candidate. Regardless of if you are a student or professional, learning Japanese will provide an array of opportunities and careers. Here is a list of reasons why learning Japanese will benefit your career.  *As of the year 2023. Building Stronger Customer Relations or Internal Relations The ability to effectively and confidently communicate with Japanese customers in their native language will create […]

Japanese Tea Ceremonies- A Quintessential Experience

The Japanese tea ceremony, also known as “sado”, is a tradition rich in history. It is a process of preparing and drinking tea. Traditionally, these ceremonies are held on a tatami floor which is a thick, woven straw mat. The main purpose of attending these ceremonies is for guests to enjoy the hospitality and atmosphere provided for them that is much more relaxing than everyday life. In modern times, these ceremonies are most commonly practiced as a hobby and are open for tourists to experience as well. Tea ceremonies vary in formality and authenticity, and Kyoto or Uji, about six hours outside of Tokyo, are two of the best places […]

Preparing your child for a new school year in Japan

Starting a new school year in a different country can be both scary and exciting, especially for children who are adjusting to a new culture and language. As a parent, there are several helpful ways to ensure your child transitions smoothly into their new school environment in Japan. Understanding the Japanese School System Familiarizing yourself with the Japanese school system is definitely beneficial. In Japan, the school year typically starts in April and ends in March and is divided into three terms. Summer break is in August, winter break is around the New Year and there is a spring break in March. The schools are divided into elementary, junior high […]

Best cafes to work remotely

For many people, working remote means working from home, but this does not have to be the case. Let us give you a brief description of best cafes in Tokyo to work in for a nice, new change of scenery. Coffee Valley, Ikebukuro This two-story coffee shop is a great place to set your laptop down and dive into your work. With its minimalist atmosphere, this cozy shop it located about five minutes from Ikebukuro station. Weekdays seem to be fairly slow while the weekends get much more packed. Caffice, Shinjuku Caffice is a great spot in Tokyo, centrally located in Shinjuku which makes it an easy spot to stop […]

How to remain connected to home as an expat

As an expat, you may feel perfectly content in your new home, but it is normal to miss certain aspects of where you are originally from. There are ways to bridge that gap and stay connected to the customs or people you may be missing! Eat foods from home There will be times where you may miss the flavors you grew up with whether it is something spicy or sweet. No matter where you are, most types of cuisine can be found in all parts of the world, so try and track down a restaurant that you feel will bring you comfort. If you are on a budget or cannot […]

Communication in Japanese Business Culture

Effective use of communication is the key to success, but cross-cultural communication can either help or hurt your business productivity. When engaging with international companies, specifically Japan where lots of emphasis is placed on work culture, it can be intimidating. Let us share with you some insights for verbal and nonverbal communication inJapanese business culture and how to effectively communicate with Japanese companies. When it comes to business, Japanese people want to do it with someone they know they can trust. Relationships are often built through informal gatherings involving a large amount of eating and drinking Punctuality First and foremost, do not be late. There are no excuses for tardiness […]

How to prepare for an earthquake in Japan

Living in or visiting Japan means you are in an area that is prone to earthquakes and most likely you know the best ways to stay prepared. As a tourist, you may be less aware of how to stay safe in these situations. Let us walk you through some ways to ensure your safety. Before an earthquake Make sure you are always aware of evacuation routes of the places you or your loved ones spend the most time. This could be your home, office building, or even your child’s school. Check with your local community, school or office manager. Making sure you are aware of the best way to escape […]

Prime Spots for Authentic Rice Ball Delicacies in Tokyo – Onigiri Delight!

Hi there, rice ball enthusiasts! If you’ve ever savored the delight of a convenience store Onigiri, you know the joy of its convenient, low-calorie, and budget-friendly goodness—packed with Japanese sweet rice, savory nori, and a delicious filling, all for around 100 yen. But hold onto your chopsticks, because Tokyo has a secret stash of Onigiri spots that’ll take your taste buds on a journey. Picture this: unique flavors like “Ikura”, “Tuna Mayo”, “Shake,” and “Umeboshi,” are served up in shops dedicated to perfecting the art of rice ball bliss. In this article, we’re spilling the beans on 5 of Tokyo’s best-kept onigiri secrets. Ready to explore? Join us on a […]

Toranomon: A Sophisticated Urban Space Where History Meets the Future

Toranomon: Where Business and Leisure Converge   Toranomon, located in Tokyo’s Minato Ward, is a noteworthy international business district. Recent redevelopment projects have transformed it into a new landmark of Tokyo, with iconic skyscrapers like Toranomon Hills, historical buildings, and renowned restaurants.   On October 6, 2023, Toranomon Hills welcomed a new addition: the 49-story Toranomon Hills Station Tower, standing at approximately 266 meters. The tower features an observation deck, event spaces, shops, and notable restaurants, along with the cutting-edge cultural hub “TOKYO NODE.” From the rooftop pool on the 49th floor, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of Tokyo. Additionally, the area has seen the introduction of “T-MARKET,” which […]