Archive for 'Culture'
Why is Japanese so hard to learn? Posted by keiko on Mar 31, 2014
Many foreigners say that Japanese is one of the hardest languages to learn. Everyone has their own opinion as to why it is a challenge to learn Japanese. Perhaps, the way the words are pronounced? or maybe the 3 writing styles (hiragana, katakana, kanji) that they use? Well, below, I have summarized the key points…
WHAT are the common Japanese words for Spring? Posted by keiko on Mar 18, 2014
It is getting warmer here in the Northwest these days. I love it how we are having more and more sunny days recently. Spring is almost here. In this article, I would like to introduce you to some of the common Japanese words that are used for Spring. Kanji Hiragana pronunciation English Translation 春 はる…
What is “White Day” in Japan? Posted by keiko on Mar 14, 2014
Today is March 14th, which means it is “White Day (ホワイトデー)” in Japan. Along with Valentine’s Day, White Day is a special day for many people. As I wrote in my article the other day, Valentine’s Day in Japan is the day when many women give chocolates to men, including someone very special, casual friends…
How is it like to live in Japan? Posted by keiko on Mar 11, 2014
This article is based on the Youtube video I found recently. This video was made by one of the Universities in Japan, Keio University, promoting foreign students to come and study in Japan. Video summarizes many aspects of Japan in less then 2 and half minutes. It is amazing how packed this video is with…
Have you seen me? Posted by keiko on Mar 7, 2014
Hi, there! It’s Friday, and I thought I would share with you something fun today. I recently came across an article discussing about this trend in Japan. It was too cute not to share with you all. He’s been around for over a year now, so some of you might know him already. Meet the…
Special day just for girls is here! Posted by keiko on Mar 3, 2014
March 3rd is a special day for young girls every year in Japan. It is called Hinamatsuri (ひなまつり、雛祭り). In English, it is called Doll’s Festival or Girl’s Day. People in Japan celebrate March 3rd every year, wishing their daughters for their happiness for many years to come. Hinamatsuri(ひなまつり、雛祭り). originated as an ancient custom called hina-nagashi(ひなながし、雛流し), or “doll…
Let’s cook Japanese food – Tempura Posted by keiko on Feb 20, 2014
Hi everyone! Have you heard of a Japanese dish called Tempura(てんぷら、天ぷら)? Tempura is a dish that has battered and deep fried seafood and vegetables.Tempura is one of the major Japanese dishes that you will easily find at local Japanese restaurants. You can easily make this at home. Ingredients could be any seafood, and pretty much…