TCJ Blog

Exchanging 名刺: meishi, or business cards, is often the first step when meeting someone in a business setting. In some countries, it may simply be part of a self-introduction; however, in Japan, its meaning is slightly different. Business card exchange is not just a formal gesture, but an important first step in building a strong professional relationship. In this article, I draw on my experience teaching foreign employees working in Japan to provide a clear explanation of business card exchange—a practice that can often be confusing in professional settings. I will cover its cultural background, specific manners, and how it differs from practices in other countries.

One of the places that most fascinates foreign visitors in Japan is neither a famous tourist attraction nor a shrine, but the convenience store, commonly known as コンビニ: konbini. The convenience of Japanese convenience stores is widely recognized. In addition to offering ready-to-eat items such as onigiri (rice balls) and bento, they also provide a range of services, including parcel delivery, photocopying, and document printing. As a result, some visitors may even find themselves wondering whether these stores function as small supermarkets, post offices, or something else entirely. Most convenience stores in Japan are relatively small in size, yet they offer a wide range of functions. This multifunctionality is one of their defining characteristics. This article explores the various convenient services available at Japanese convenience stores.

Spring is the season when temperatures rise and cherry blossoms bloom. However, for many people in Japan, it is also a time of seasonal struggle—花粉症: kafunsho(hay fever). With symptoms such as a runny nose, sneezing, and itchy eyes, some even find spring difficult to fully enjoy. I am one of them. In this article, we explore hay fever, a seasonal hallmark in Japan, along with its causes, symptoms, and ways to cope with it. We also touch on how it relates to the journey of learning Japanese.

In this article, we explore the iconic Japanese 招き猫: Maneki-neko, also known as the “lucky cat,” often seen at the entrances of restaurants and homes. We look at its origins, the meanings behind its colors, and the raised paw gesture. We also introduce famous sites where tourists can encounter numerous Maneki-neko, offering an opportunity to deepen your understanding of Japanese culture.

Matsuri (Japanese festivals) take place throughout Japan all year round. During festival seasons, towns are filled with the sounds of taiko drums and flutes as people gather in a joyful atmosphere. Matsuri have a long history and deep cultural meaning, and this article explores Japanese festival culture.