Japan Through Japanese Eyes
Japan Through Japanese Eyes
As the New Year approaches in Japan, families begin preparing for one of the most anticipated moments for children: receiving otoshidama. While it may look like a simple custom of giving money, otoshidama carries centuries of cultural meaning and reflects…
Japan has many seasonal traditions that quietly mark the passage of life, and Shichi-Go-San is one of the most beloved. If you live in Japan or are raising a child here, you may see children in elegant kimono visiting shrines…
When your child attends daycare or kindergarten in Japan, a sudden fever can quickly become a stressful situation. Parents often feel pressure to respond correctly, communicate with the school, arrange childcare, and decide whether medical care is necessary — all…
Turning twenty is an important milestone in Japan. It marks the moment when a young person is officially recognized as an adult by society, with new rights, responsibilities, and expectations. To honor this transition, communities across Japan hold a formal…
Before diving into definitions and history, it helps to pause for a moment. Zazen is not something that can be fully understood by reading alone. It is a practice rooted in stillness, posture, and direct experience. Yet by understanding its…
Before stepping into a kyūdō training hall, you immediately sense that this is more than archery. The quiet atmosphere, deliberate movements, and unwavering focus make it clear that kyūdō is an art of both body and mind—an ancient practice that…
Chankonabe (ちゃんこ鍋) is one of Japan’s most comforting and communal dishes — a generous one-pot meal full of protein, vegetables, and umami-rich broth. Often associated with sumo wrestlers, this humble hotpot has a surprising variety, a long history, and a…
When you’re building a life in Japan, it’s only natural to question whether paying into the pension system is really necessary. After all, the rules can feel a bit confusing—especially if you didn’t grow up with them. But if you’re…
Congratulations on your pregnancy or new baby!After giving birth, you’ll be busy taking care of your newborn while also needing to complete several procedures at your local city or ward office—and sometimes with your employer as well. Some of these…
A Comprehensive Guide for Elementary School Children (Grades 1–6) Choosing the right extracurricular activities for your child can be one of the most rewarding parts of parenting in Japan. Whether your family recently moved here or you’re simply exploring what…
How many instant noodles have you eaten in your life?Today, I’m introducing the instant ramen that has been my absolute No.1 for all of my 41 years. It’s a classic and incredibly popular product in Japan: Sapporo Ichiban Shio Ramen…
Becoming a parent in Japan comes with many new experiences, but one of the most unique and helpful tools you’ll receive is the Maternal and Child Health Handbook, known in Japanese as the Boshi Techo (母子手帳). This booklet is given…