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. […]

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 […]

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 […]

A First-Timer’s Guide to the JLPT

Why the JLPT Matters for Japanese Learners For anyone studying Japanese, the JLPT (Japanese-Language Proficiency Test) is more than just a certificate—it’s a gateway to new opportunities. Whether you’re looking to boost your resume, apply for a Japanese university, or simply measure your progress, the JLPT is a trusted benchmark of your language skills. Recognized internationally, passing the JLPT can open doors to jobs, scholarships, and personal milestones. The JLPT is designed to test real-world proficiency across five levels, from N5 (beginner) to N1 (advanced). But with its rigorous format and diverse question types, preparing for the test can feel overwhelming. That’s why having a clear understanding of its structure […]

Meet Your Japanese Learning Goals This Spring with our 1-Month Intensive ‘Level-up’ Course

The new year is a time of fresh beginnings—a time to set new goals and embrace opportunities for growth. As the cold winter transitions into warmer, brighter days, it’s the perfect moment to reignite your motivation and take meaningful steps toward achieving your language learning aspirations. Our 1-month Intensive “Level-up” Course is designed to align with this spirit of renewal, offering you the chance to make noticeable progress in your Japanese skills in just one month. Whether you’re looking to improve for professional success, better daily interactions, or personal satisfaction, this spring presents the ideal opportunity to immerse yourself in a program tailored to your goals. Don’t let this spring […]

Master Practical Japanese for Everyday Life

Living in Japan can be an exciting adventure, but navigating daily life without practical Japanese skills can feel like a daunting challenge. Whether it’s ordering your favorite dish at a restaurant, asking for directions, or chatting with colleagues, the ability to communicate confidently in everyday situations makes all the difference. Textbook phrases are often too formal or unrealistic, leaving learners feeling unprepared for real-world conversations. At Toranomon Language School, we believe that learning Japanese should empower you to handle life’s daily moments with ease. That’s why our upcoming 1-Month Intensive “Level-up” Course this February focuses on practical Japanese—the kind of language you can immediately use in your everyday interactions. From […]

New Year, New Language: Your Path to Fluency in Japanese

A Fresh Start for 2025 As the new year begins, there’s no better time to set goals that inspire growth and open doors to new opportunities. Whether you’re looking to advance your career, connect with others, or experience a culture more deeply, learning a new language is one of the most rewarding resolutions you can make. Why not make 2025 the year you master Japanese? At Toranomon Language School, we’re here to help you turn this resolution into reality. With programs tailored to professionals, families, and kids, we offer a range of courses designed to fit your schedule, skill level, and goals. From our Intensive 1-Month Level-up Course to the […]

Your 2025 Tokyo Travel Guide: Top Tourist Tips + Must-Know Japanese

Planning a trip to Tokyo in 2025? The city’s vibrant blend of historic traditions and futuristic innovation makes it a top destination for travelers from around the world. From iconic landmarks like the bustling Shibuya Crossing to serene temples such as Senso-ji, Tokyo offers endless adventures waiting to be explored. But navigating this dazzling metropolis can feel overwhelming without a little preparation—especially when it comes to the language. Knowing a few essential Japanese phrases can make your trip smoother and more rewarding, helping you connect with locals, order meals confidently, and discover hidden gems off the beaten path. At Toranomon Language School, we believe that even a small effort to […]

Learn Everyday Japanese Through a 1-Month Intensive Course

Why Learning Practical Japanese Matters Living in Japan offers countless opportunities to immerse yourself in the language, but tackling everyday situations—like reading a menu or asking for help—can still feel intimidating without the right skills. Whether you’re navigating a bustling café, shopping in a local market, or managing daily errands, speaking confidently in Japanese opens doors to richer, more meaningful experiences. That’s why mastering practical, everyday Japanese is essential for expats and professionals looking to connect more deeply with their surroundings. Our 1-Month Intensive “Level-Up” Course at Toranomon Language School is designed to bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world application. In just four weeks, we help learners build […]