Seasonal Highlights in Tokyo: Winter Wonders

Winter in Tokyo is a season of enchantment, where the city transforms into a dazzling wonderland of lights, festivities, and cozy traditions. From sparkling illuminations that brighten up the long nights to the comforting warmth of seasonal delicacies, Tokyo offers an unforgettable mix of modern vibrancy and timeless cultural charm. Whether you’re strolling through a Christmas market, indulging in a steaming bowl of oden, or soaking in the tranquility of a snow-dusted shrine, there’s no shortage of magical experiences to embrace during the colder months. As the New Year approaches, the city’s energy shifts into celebration and renewal. Festive events and rituals offer unique glimpses into Japanese customs, from traditional […]

Tokyo on a Budget: How to Save Money in Japan’s Most Expensive City

Tokyo is often thought of as one of the most expensive cities in the world, but experiencing its vibrant culture, delicious food, and unique attractions doesn’t have to drain your wallet. Beneath the city’s glitzy exterior lies a wealth of affordable and even free experiences waiting to be discovered. From budget-friendly dining options to inexpensive transportation and free activities, there are plenty of ways to enjoy Tokyo without overspending. Whether you’re a resident, traveler, or long-term expat, knowing a few money-saving tips can make exploring the city much more enjoyable. In this guide, we’ll uncover practical strategies for living and experiencing Tokyo on a budget, helping you get the most […]

Hidden Gems in Toranomon: Exploring Tokyo’s Underrated Hotspot

Toranomon, often overshadowed by its more famous neighbors like Roppongi and Shibuya, is a hidden gem in the heart of Tokyo. This vibrant district seamlessly blends the modernity of towering skyscrapers with the charm of historic shrines and local traditions. For expats and locals alike, Toranomon offers a refreshing escape from the typical tourist spots, making it a perfect area to explore, unwind, and discover a different side of Tokyo. Whether you’re here for a stroll through its quiet streets or a glimpse of its futuristic developments, Toranomon promises a unique experience for all. At Toranomon Language School, we believe that language and culture go hand in hand. Located in […]

5 Essential Tips For Your First Time in Japan

Visiting Japan for the first time is an unforgettable experience. From the dazzling neon lights of Tokyo to the tranquil temples of Kyoto, Japan offers a fascinating blend of modern innovation and rich traditions. However, navigating this unique cultural landscape can feel daunting for first-time visitors, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the language or customs. Whether you’re drawn to Japan for its history, food, or technology, a little preparation can go a long way in making your trip smoother and more enjoyable. To help you make the most of your journey, we’ve compiled five essential tips for your first visit to Japan. These practical insights will not only help you […]

Meet & Mingle Tokyo: A Night of Language, Networking, and New Connections

A big thank you to everyone who attended our event and made it a fun and memorable night! A special thank you goes out to everyone who attended Meet & Mingle and made the evening truly unforgettable. Your enthusiasm, openness, and willingness to connect with others created an inspiring atmosphere that made the event a success. We are grateful for your participation and look forward to seeing many of you at future events. Your presence and energy are what make these gatherings so special! On November 27th, from 6:00 to 8:00 PM, we hosted our highly anticipated Meet & Mingle event at WeWork Hibiya Fort Tower. Designed to bring together […]

Your First Step to Fluent Japanese: Free Trial Lesson, Limited Spots!

Tuesday, October 29th or Thursday, October 31st from 6:30-7:30 PM Are you an expat in Japan struggling to navigate daily conversations? Or maybe you’re simply looking for a way to feel more confident when speaking Japanese in everyday situations? At Toranomon Language School, we understand the challenges expats face, and that’s why we’ve designed our “Speak with Confidence” course—a practical and immersive way to master the essentials of daily Japanese. Why Join Our Free Trial Lesson? Our FREE trial lesson offers you a unique opportunity to experience firsthand the transformative learning environment at Toranomon Language School. Meet our dedicated team of experienced teachers, immerse yourself in interactive exercises, and discover […]

Thank You for Joining NOMINICATION!

We’re thrilled to say that our first-ever bilingual event, NOMINICATION, cohosted by COURRiER Japon held on October 9th from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm, was a fantastic success! Around 50 people, both expats and Japanese locals, came together for an evening of engaging discussions, cultural exchange, and networking. Throughout the event, participants had the chance to discuss 2 hot topics topics and connect with one another, exchanging experiences and insights in both English and Japanese. We also included a fun network activity that allowed attendees to quickly meet new people and practice their language skills in a relaxed, social atmosphere. It seemed that they never wanted to stop. We’re thrilled […]

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 […]