Useful Information

Working and doing business in Japan

Overview So you decided to make the decision and move to Japan. Or perhaps you live abroad and will be visiting Japan on business. In either case you are now most likely wondering about working and doing business in Japan. These are natural concerns anyone would have when moving to a new country or visiting on business. I would like ...

What’s it like living in Tokyo? Part two

In today’s post I would like to continue with “What’s it like living in Tokyo? Part two” After reading this post you will have a better understanding of what to expect when you visit Tokyo for the first time. If you haven’t read “What’s it like living in Tokyo? Part one” click here. During springtime you will see many people wearing ...

What’s it like living in Tokyo?

This is a question I always get asked “What’s it like living in Tokyo?“. I would like to answer this questions in more detail as follows: But before I answer that let me first tell me more about myself and my background. I’m originally from New York. As a child while growing up I was really fascinated about Japan and ...

Pachinko Parlors In Japan: A Piece Of Local History

Pachinko is one of Japan’s most famous mechanical games; it can be used both as a recreational and gambling device. Pachinko parlors are often regarded as the Japanese equivalent of casinos. In fact, the décor, ambiance and gaming policies in Pachinko parlors quite resemble western casinos. The widespread appeal of Pachinko originates from the high customizability of the machine; they ...

Governor of Tokyo: Yuriko Koike

Yuriko Koike, the first female Tokyo Governor is a qualified and a potential political leader in Japan. Beginning in 1992, her shifting, yet active role in politics has credited her in her current position as she holds the office of Governor of Tokyo. Being in the House of the Representative for 24 years, Yuriko Koike is one of the most ...

Etiquette in Japan

In this month’s article I’d like to talk to you about etiquette in Japan. I will tell you about some of my experiences and what you shouldn’t be doing when you arrive here. Taking A Bath I’m originally from the United States. In the United States when we take a bath, we wash our bodies with soap inside the bathtub. ...

Crime in Tokyo

There is no doubt that Tokyo, Japan is one of the most enchanting places in the world. It is very easy to see why so many people not only visit Tokyo for its many attractions, but choose to live in the true fantasy that is Tokyo. Located on Honshu, the main island of Japan, Tokyo lies tucked along the North ...

Common Scams in Tokyo

Tokyo is one of the most popular tourist destinations for people across the globe. You will love the delicious food, themed cafes, cherry blossoms, and the rich history visible in temples, castles, and shrines. There is something for everyone in Tokyo. However, you need to be aware of some common scams or botakuri (Japanese term for the scam) in Tokyo ...

Capsule Hotels （カプセルホテル）

One thing that many foreigners who visit Tokyo find surprising is how small or cramped things are. This ranges from the size of an apartment, space in an elevator, the size of cars, etc. But none of those can compare to staying in a capsule hotel. If you are claustrophobic then staying at a capsule hotel is definitely not an option ...

A Tourist’s Guide to Riding Shinkansen, Japan’s Amazing Bullet Trains

A land of pink cherry blossoms, cutting-edge technology, and heroic samurai legends, Japan exudes orderly innovation. This is most seen in its iconic Shinkansen or “bullet trains.” How fast do bullet trains go? Test runs have reached upwards of 361 mph (581 km/h), yet the Shinkansen boasts a zero-fatality record. These trains put new meaning into the word punctuality. Average ...

12 Unbelievable Japanese Superstitions That Will Blow Your Mind

The Japanese society is inherently entrenched with superstitions. While the origins of these superstitions is widely debated, most of them are still practiced far and wide. But what exactly are these superstitions about? Are they meant to teach you lessons? Are they designed to offer practical advice? Let’s find out about 12 unbelievable Japanese superstitions that will blow your mind! ...