Japanese Dining Etiquette: Beginners to Advanced

Dining in Japan is more than just enjoying a meal—it’s a reflection of deep-rooted cultural values such as respect, harmony, and gratitude. From the way food is served to how chopsticks are handled, every detail holds significance. Whether you’re eating at a casual ramen shop or attending a formal kaiseki dinner, understanding proper Japanese dining etiquette can help you navigate Japanese social settings with ease. While some rules are universal, others become more refined as your familiarity with Japanese customs grows. In this blog, we’ll break down Japanese dining etiquette into three levels: beginner, intermediate, and advanced. If you’re new to Japanese culture, we’ll cover the essential do’s and don’ts […]

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 […]

How to Build a Solid Foundation for the JLPT N5

If you’re just starting your Japanese language journey, the JLPT N5 is the ideal place to begin. As the first level of the Japanese-Language Proficiency Test (JLPT), it focuses on essential grammar, basic vocabulary, and foundational reading skills. Achieving N5 not only boosts your confidence but also equips you with the tools to understand simple conversations, read basic texts, and engage in everyday life in Japan. For many learners, it’s a significant first step toward fluency and passing higher levels of the JLPT in the future. At Toranomon Language School, we understand the importance of building a strong foundation. That’s why our JLPT N5 course focuses on grammar and reading […]

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 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 […]