Nomikai: What to Expect and How to Prepare

For many professionals in Japan, the nomikai (drinking party) is as much a part of the workplace as the office itself. While not officially mandatory, these gatherings are deeply ingrained in Japanese work culture and often provide opportunities to strengthen relationships, build trust, and connect with colleagues in a more relaxed setting. For foreign professionals, understanding how nomikai work can make them less intimidating and much more rewarding. What to Expect at a Nomikai How to Prepare for a Nomikai Preparation begins with knowing your own limits. It is perfectly acceptable to pace yourself and to opt for non-alcoholic drinks if you prefer. Learning a few key Japanese phrases for […]

Working in Japan as a Student

Studying in Japan is an incredible opportunity to experience a new culture, strengthen your language skills, and expand your career prospects. For many international students, working part-time is also a way to support living expenses and gain real-world experience. Before diving in, it’s important to understand the rules, opportunities, and challenges that come with part-time work in Japan. Legal Basics International students in Japan are allowed to work part-time, but only under certain conditions. You must first apply for a Permission to Engage in Activity Other Than That Permitted by the Status of Residence (資格外活動許可). This permit allows you to work up to 28 hours per week during the school […]

Building Your Professional Network in Japan

In Japan, career growth is as much about who you know as what you know. While skills and qualifications are important, strong professional relationships can open doors to new opportunities, industry insights, and long-term collaborations. For foreign professionals, understanding how to build a network in Japan requires a mix of cultural awareness, communication skills, and strategic effort. Understanding Networking in a Japanese Context In many Western countries, networking often happens through casual, direct conversations at events. In Japan, however, relationships tend to develop gradually and are built on trust over time. First impressions matter, but the real strength of a network comes from consistent, respectful interaction. Building rapport might require […]

Working in Japan This Summer? Here’s the Business Etiquette You Might Not Expect

If this is your first summer working in Japan, you might find that the season brings more than just heat, it also introduces a unique set of customs and business norms that might be unfamiliar at first. Understanding these seasonal shifts can help you blend into the workplace more smoothly and avoid misunderstandings. Here’s what to expect and how to prepare when navigating Japanese work culture during the summer. The “Cool Biz” Culture One of the first things you’ll notice when temperatures rise is that business attire starts to change. Japan’s government encourages companies to adopt a “Cool Biz” dress code between May and October. This means you’ll likely see […]

Survival Japanese: How to Survive Your First Month in Japan

The first month of living in Japan is often described as magical, disorienting, and overwhelming—all at the same time. You’re surrounded by a new culture, a new language, and an entirely different way of moving through the world. Even simple things like buying toothpaste, ordering lunch, or taking the train can become daily puzzles. And without a grasp of the language, many people find that everyday life becomes a series of quiet frustrations. You land, you get your residence card, and maybe you’ve even memorized a few greetings or practiced your hiragana. But then the real-life moments hit. You’re handed a form at the ward office with no English support. […]

Easy Guide to Japanese Chopstick Manners

　In Japanese dining culture, chopsticks are not just utensils but symbols of refined tradition. The proper way to hold them is to grip the first chopstick like a pencil between your thumb, index, and middle fingers, while resting the second chopstick on the base of your ring finger. Without mastering this basic grip, you’re likely to commit serious etiquette breaches like “sashishi” (spearing food) and “neburibashi” (licking chopsticks). The most critical taboo is “tatebashi” – sticking chopsticks upright in rice, which resembles the ritual of offering rice to the deceased in Buddhist funerals and is considered extremely inauspicious.  During actual meals, more nuanced considerations come into play. Numerous behaviors require […]

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 […]