Japanese with Hikari's Blog

Let’s talk about Kintsugi (金継ぎ) the fascinating Japanese art of fixing broken pottery with gold. This technique doesn’t just repair but transforms cracks into beautiful highlights!

(image via Wikipedia)

Breakdown of the word

“Kintsugi” combines ...

I am sure you have spotted the Maneki Neko, or “beckoning cat,” in restaurants and shops, waving its paw (how cute are cats, btw?). But what’s its backstory?

🎌A Blend of Japanese and Chinese Influence

Maneki Neko 招き猫 originated in Japan during th...

We'll diving into one of Japan’s most legendary landmarks: Mount Fuji (富士山, Fuji-san)! Let’s break down its name and explore why it’s such a big deal in Japanese culture.

What’s Behind the Name?

Mount Fuji’s name is written as 富士山. Here’s what th...

I will introduce you to Japanese Green Tea 緑茶 and Matcha 抹茶, which are traditional, rich in antioxidants, and very popular teas you can drink in Japan and overseas!

🌱 What is Japanese Green Tea 緑茶

Green tea originated in China and was brought to...

Japanese vending machines 自動販売機 (jidou hanbaiki) are everywhere in Japan, and I’m sure that if you've ever been there, you’ve been amazed at how many there are.

Cold beverages, hot beverages, lockers, ice cream… There are so many purposes for them t...

Ever read a super short poem and felt like it perfectly captured a moment? That’s haiku (俳句) Japan’s famous three-line poetry that say a lot with just a few words. It’s simple, deep, and all about capturing the beauty of everyday life. Let’s take a f...

Have you ever heard of JLPT? What does N5, N4, N3, N2, N1 mean?

In this article I’ll talk all about JLPT, the only exam you need to take if you want your Japanese level to be certified and work or study at a university in Japan.

🔴 What’s JLPT

I...

Are you a fan of Ghibli’s animated movies? Well, I hope you are because I’m about to show you some places that have inspired some movies from this famous Entertainment company!

Enjoy 🤩

🏯 Spirited Away (千と千尋の神隠し) – Edo-Style Bathhouses & Mysterio...

I’m sure you’re Japan's #1 fan, but I’m also sure you don’t know all these incredible buildings you can see in Japan! Save this article for your next trip if you like design 🤩🇯🇵

💩 SuperDry Hall スーパードライホール

(credits to thegate12.com)

The Super ...

Let’s see 4 useful Japanese idioms, those colorful expressions that add a little flair to the language! Whether you're a language enthusiast or just starting to learn Japanese, these fun Japanese idioms will help you sound more natural and expressive...

The Japanese school system is known for its discipline, structure, and unique traditions. From mandatory education in Japan to strict school rules, cleaning duties, and high-pressure entrance exams, student life in Japan is quite different from what ...

If you love capturing breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cityscapes, and picture-perfect streets, then tourism in Japan is a must for your bucket list! From neon-lit skyscrapers to serene temples and hidden gems, Japan is a paradise for photographers a...

If you've ever traveled to Japan, you've probably seen some unexpected Japanese inventions in language, English words used in ways you wouldn’t expect!

From T-shirts that say "Happy Smile Life" to café signs offering "Enjoyable Taste Time," Japan h...

Ever wondered why Japanese can't speak English fluently, even though it’s a major global language? Or why Japan doesn’t know English as well as some of its neighbors? Despite years of study, many Japanese people find English difficult. But why? Let’s...

Karaoke is one of Japan’s most famous entertainment inventions. Today, it is a beloved activity worldwide, enjoyed in bars, private rooms, and even at home. But how was karaoke born, and who invented karaoke? Let’s dive into the origin of karaoke, ex...

Japan is famous for its creativity and innovation. Many Japanese inventions have changed the way we live, from high-tech gadgets to everyday conveniences. Some are well-known, while others may surprise you. Let’s take a look at some of the most unexp...

In this article, I’ll talk about the #1 sport in Japan! Can you guess it?

🥁Drum rolls…

It’s baseball, of course!⚾️

Let’s discover more about the most loved sport in Japan!

⚾️ The History of Baseball in Japan

The history of baseball in Ja...

Do you know Origami 折り紙? Folding paper to create various shapes, known as "origami," is one of Japan's traditional arts.

Today, I will share 3 examples of magnificent origami that will leave you speechless🤩!

But first, let’s learn more about origam...

Today, February 14th is バレンタインデー (Valentine’s Day)!

But did you know that in Japan, we have certain rules for this event?🤯 And what’s ホワイトデー (White Day)? And how is it related to Valentine’s Day?

Let's compare Valentine's Day and White Day from dif...

You might be confused why Chihiro's name becomes SEN in Spirited Away after she signs her contract and that apparently only one letter of her name remains. That's an easter egg that only people who can read Japan...

Japan is known for its rich cultural heritage, beautiful sites, and unique cuisine, making it an ideal destination for tourists who want to explore this fascinating country.

In this article, we would like to recommend five of our top touristic desti...

Step Back in Time at 思い出横丁: Tokyo's Hidden Gem

If you're looking for a unique and authentic shopping experience in Tokyo, look no further than 思い出横丁 (Omoide Yokocho). This narrow alleyway, located in the heart of the city, is lined with small food s...