Post by Author : Butch-Yoshinobu-Takaoka

Japanese Work Culture: How to Succeed Working in Japan

Japanese work culture has always been a much-discussed topic among foreigners. Some deeply criticize it, and some admire it. However, the discussions about it show that people are curious about it and have an interest in knowing about it. Therefore, this interesting topic requires discussing the real facts and pros & cons, and this article is about that. This article

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Finding and Renting Apartments or Shared House in Japan as a Foreigner – 2023

When you decide to live in Japan, choosing where to live and finding and renting an apartment is fun but challenging. The process of renting an apartment or house and moving in can be a daunting task.Finding and renting an apartment in Japan is the first hurdle foreigners face after arriving here. Sometimes, the same challenges remain even afterward while

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Family and Kids-Friendly Places and Activities in Tokyo (and Japan)

(Picture: African Safari in Oita, Japan. Picture courtesy: Japan National Tourism Organization) Visiting or coming to live in Japan is a completely new experience for many foreigners.Visiting another country needs a lot of planning. Moreover, if you are visiting with family, especially kids, you would like to check on the family and kids-friendly places to visit in Japan. This guide

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What do Japanese people like to do for Relaxation and Entertainment?

When you decide to live and work in Japan, you will find the people are very hardworking. So how do people enjoy themselves, and what do they do for relaxation and entertainment? I am Japanese, raised in America, having moved back to Tokyo twenty years ago. Growing up, I returned almost every summer to visit relatives and friends and developed

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Seating Protocols in Japan for Business Meetings and Dinners

There are many unspoken rules of etiquette in Japanese business, and seating protocols in Japan are no exception. The importance Japanese people give to formal seating arrangements is evident from the fact that there is a Japanese word for it: It is (Sekiji 席次). The Japanese seating protocols reflect the cultural tradition of hierarchy, status, and rank prevalent in Japanese

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Bowing in Japan: How Much to Bow and When

The “Art of the Bowing” or Ojigi (お辞儀) in Japan is deeply rooted in Japanese culture and tradition. Bowing is a way to show respect while greeting others or apologizing to others.Unlike the Western handshake, bowing takes on many shapes, sizes, and forms. Bowing is done for greetings, farewells, and apologies and also while praying in shrines. In short, it

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Japanese Communication: It’s More than Knowing the Language

The Japanese language is very different from most other languages. However, the differences are not merely because of the language; it is more concerning the Japanese communication style and etiquette. Japanese communication is not just about knowing the language but also about knowing and using various communication protocols. There are various styles and protocols when it comes to communication. There

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