One of the most confusing things about working as an ALT in Japan is the dress code. Guidelines vary from school to school and company to company. And formal wear is an even more complicated affair. However, you can follow…
So, you landed an assistant English teaching job in Japan. Also known as an ALT, you’ll get to work with Japanese students and teachers while living in Japan and encountering new things everyday. But among all of the things you…
Getting an ETC card as a foreigner can be daunting, but don’t worry! With a little bit of paperwork-filling and elbow grease, you can get an ETC card fairly quickly. Find out how to get an ETC card for your car…
During our excursions in Tochigi prefecture last year, we visited Mashiko Pottery Fair. Held twice a year, this festival is a popular destination in Mashiko, which is well-known for its ceramics. Many potters set up shop in the quiet town,…
It’s no secret that summer in Japan is meltingly hot. Humid air meets blazing sun, and in rainy season 梅雨 (tsuyu), the moist air kicks everything up a notch. Soon you’ll find yourself sweating through your clothes if you don’t…
Although Japan is widely known for its public transportation, many people still drive. In rural and suburban areas, cars are the primary means of transportation. In my experience this typically means that the buses are few and far between, and…
Nowadays it’s widely known that Japan celebrates Christmas with KFC, originating with a near genius marketing campaign. Takeshi Okawara, enterprising manager of the first KFC in Japan, started the tradition as a one-store campaign in the 70’s and it just stuck. And…
From November to January, the air grows chill. Leaves turn signature shades of orange, red and yellow. And Illumination graces the city streets, bathing everything in the ethereal glow I’ve come to associate with Winter in Japan. Unlike the US, people…
The first time I traveled to Japan, there were several things I wished I had in my bag. After several stops to public restrooms left me with dripping hands, I needed a hand towel. Not to mention a pass-holder for…