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 […]

What is Keigo? An Introduction to Japanese Honorifics

An introduction to formal Japanese known as “keigo”.

The Importance of Writing Effective Business Emails in Japanese

On December 14, TLS is holding a business skills workshop for Japanese language beginners. One aspect covered will be email writing in Japanese. This is why it is important.