TCJ Blog

The Japanese phrase よろしくお願いします: yoroshiku onegaishimasu carries a range of meanings and nuances that cannot be fully translated into English or other languages. This article explores how to use the phrase appropriately in different situations and the cultural background behind it, from everyday greetings to business interactions. By understanding the unique mindset behind this expression, readers can develop more natural Japanese communication skills.

For learners of Japanese whose first or second language is English, katakana words can sometimes be misleading. Because many of these words resemble familiar English words, it is easy to assume that they carry the same meaning, which can lead to misunderstandings in everyday conversation. This article explores four commonly misunderstood katakana words—mansion, tension, Viking, and front—and explains how their meanings differ between Japanese and English. Each word is introduced with dictionary definitions and practical examples to help clarify how it is used in everyday situations. By recognizing the assumptions that can arise from familiar English words, it becomes easier to understand and use katakana words naturally in conversations, as well as in settings such as hotels and restaurants.

This article introduces four essential apps that will help you live comfortably in Japan. Whether you’re looking for useful information, navigating public transportation, or learning about Japanese rules and customs, these apps can make your everyday life easier and more stress-free. Read on to discover the apps that can help you get the most out of life in Japan!

In recent years, matcha has become hugely popular around the world. It’s no longer unusual to see vibrant green matcha desserts in cafes and supermarkets in various countries. The image of matcha as a “stylish, healthy drink from Japan” has spread worldwide. Amid this trend, the perception has taken hold that “Japanese people must drink matcha every day.” But what is the reality? To give you the answer right away—the truth is that “not many Japanese people drink matcha every day.” Here, we’ll explore the reasons behind this, the true relationship between matcha and the Japanese people, and the depth of Japan’s tea culture.

Isn’t “sumimasen” one of the words Japanese people use most often in everyday conversation? We say “sumimasen” when calling a store clerk, when someone gives us directions, and when we bump into someone. Even though it’s just one word, its meaning varies depending on the situation, so many Japanese language learners wonder, “Why do we say ‘sumimasen’ instead of ‘arigatō’?” In this article, we’ll explain in detail the three main uses of “sumimasen”—“apology,” “thanks,” and “calling out to someone”—using example sentences.