Life In Japan

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  • Japanese text 'Domo Arigato' in elegant calligraphy, cherry blossom background, traditional washi paper texture, warm and respectful mood.

    What Does Domo Arigato Mean?

    “Domo arigato” is a popular Japanese phrase that means “Thank you very much” or “Thanks a lot” in English. While the meaning might seem simple, there’s more behind these words in Japanese culture. Knowing what each part of the phrase means-and how it’s used-can help you understand how important gratitude is in Japan. This phrase […]

  • Naruto whirlpools in Japan, pink narutomaki fish cake with spiral pattern, energetic young ninja, vibrant colors, illustrative style.

    What Does Naruto Mean?

    The word “Naruto” has several meanings, all rooted in Japanese culture, geography, and food. While most people associate it with the popular manga and anime, its origin goes further back. The name “Naruto” originally refers to the Naruto Strait, a place in Japan famous for its strong whirlpools. These whirlpools are so well-known that they […]

  • Elegant Japanese kanji for 'Kai' with ocean waves in the background, soft watercolor style.

    What Does Kai Mean in Japanese?

    The name “Kai” can have many different meanings in Japanese, and it depends on the kanji (Chinese characters used in Japanese) chosen to write it. While a name’s meaning in English usually stays the same, Japanese names like “Kai” can be written many ways, each with its own meaning. Common meanings include “sea” or “ocean” […]

  • Shibuya crossing, bustling street scene, neon signs, dense crowd, Tokyo cityscape at night, vibrant lights, modern urban atmosphere, realistic.

    What Is Shibuya?

    Shibuya is a special ward in Tokyo, Japan, known for its lively atmosphere and central role in shopping, dining, and entertainment. The area around Shibuya Station is often what people mean when they say “Shibuya.” This station is among the world’s busiest, and the surrounding district is packed with stores, cafes, restaurants, and nightclubs, making […]

  • Lively Harajuku street scene in Tokyo, vibrant youth fashion, colorful outfits, Takeshita Street, Japanese pop culture, energetic and creative atmosphere, bright and bold.

    What Is Harajuku?

    Harajuku isn’t just a spot on the map; it’s a lively part of Tokyo, Japan, best known for its bright youth culture and fashion that stands out. Here, people use clothes and style to express who they are, and every street corner shows off new trends and bold looks. Whether you love fashion, Japanese pop […]

  • Japanese tea ceremony in a serene tatami room, matcha preparation, traditional utensils, soft natural lighting, peaceful atmosphere, cultural elegance.

    What Is a Tea Ceremony?

    A tea ceremony, especially the well-known Japanese version (called chanoyu, sadō, or chadō-all meaning “the way of tea”), is much more than just making and drinking tea. It is a carefully practiced tradition where serving tea becomes a special, structured event. Every action, tool, and gesture is planned and done with care, showing thoughtfulness, respect, […]

  • A futuristic capsule hotel interior with small individual sleeping pods arranged in rows, modern minimalist design, warm ambient lighting, Tokyo cityscape visible through a window, peaceful and efficient atmosphere.

    What Is a Capsule Hotel?

    A capsule hotel, also called a pod hotel especially outside Japan, is a special type of accommodation that started in Japan and has become more popular around the world. Capsule hotels give travelers small individual sleeping spaces, or “capsules,” at a lower cost than regular hotels. Rather than large guest rooms, capsule hotels fit more […]

  • What Is a Love Hotel?

    A love hotel is a special kind of short-stay hotel created mainly to give couples a private place to spend time together. These places focus on offering privacy and don’t operate like typical hotels. Guests can pay for rooms by the hour (called a “rest”) for a few hours or stay overnight. While many countries […]

  • Is Abortion Legal in Japan?

    Yes, abortion is legal in Japan, but only under certain rules. The Penal Code of Japan says abortion is illegal, but the Maternal Health Protection Law lists exceptions where abortion is allowed. This means that although the law starts with a ban, there are clear ways to get an abortion if the woman’s health is […]

  • When Did Japan Become a Country?

    Japan, often called the “Land of the Rising Sun,” has a deep and layered history. It’s hard to decide on a specific moment when Japan truly “became a country,” since building a nation doesn’t happen overnight. Instead, it was a step-by-step process that happened over centuries. But if we look for a key time when […]

  • How Much Does It Cost to Move to Japan?

    Thinking about moving to Japan can be very exciting, thanks to its mix of traditional culture and modern technology. However, moving abroad is a big step and requires good financial planning. So, what is the actual cost to move to Japan? The answer depends on several factors like your lifestyle, what city you choose, and […]

  • Is Gambling Illegal in Japan?

    Gambling laws in Japan are quite strict. Generally, most types of gambling are banned by Chapter 23 of the Criminal Code. However, the government does allow some gambling activities under special regulations. These exceptions are there mainly to raise money for national and local governments and offer some entertainment. Strict rules are in place for […]