Japanese Culture

Information on Japanese culture, manners, food, martial arts, and more

There are many aspects and customs that are unique to Japanese culture. Traditionally, Japanese culture has many strict rules of etiquette for every situation from interactions between neighbors to how to eat from a bowl depending on its contents and the size of the bowl.

Below we have made some guides that should help you blend in. Some topics covered are business etiquette, praying manners at shrines and temples, and Japanese funeral manners. We also have guides with information for learning, watching, and experiencing Japanese culture and art.

The Best Way to Learn Japanese: 7 Savvy Strategies

So you're living in Japan and the only Japanese you know involves food names like sushi and tempura or brand names of electronics or cars. Some other expats may jokingly reassure you that you can get around with just saying "sumimasen (excuse me)" and "arigato gozaimasu (thank you)," but you can o…

Best Japanese Learning Apps: 8 Tools for Language Mastery

Whether you are studying at home or newly arrived in the country, the Japanese language can seem impossible to those just starting to learn it. That said, there's one simple way to survive no matter how little time you have: All you need is a smartphone and a couple of apps to help you memorize vo…

Payer Offering Manners at Shrines and Temples

There are many people in Japan who still get confused about what to do when visiting shrines and temples. While the prayers given at a shrine and temple may be similar, they each have their own procedures. We've written a quick and simple explanation on what to do at each place when praying below. …