Tag: Elementary
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My Mean Senpai!
Film posters can be good sources for a quick bite of Japanese without much effort. You have a large image to help you understand context and usually a catchy phrase that shows some of the more creative uses of the language.
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Curious Katakana Words 3
In the previous lessons (1, 2) we looked at foreign words, as well as onomatopoeic and mimetic expressions. This time, we’ll be examining some really interesting terms that splice two or more words together!
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Curious Katakana Words 2
Last time we looked at foreign expressions that make up a portion of Curious Katakana Words. Today we explore some useful onomatopoeic words you can use to really express yourself!
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Curious Katakana Words 1
The Japanese language has a smattering of quirky expressions. At first glance, their meanings can often elude us. This is especially so with Katakana words, as they often contain elements from foreign languages, as well as mixtures of slang and even current, trending terms.
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Mixed Bathing in Japan 1 – 混浴
Ahh Konyoku, the delicate topic of mixed bathing. While not widespread around Japan, it’s certainly not uncommon to find onsen that allow both men and women to bathe together, and increasingly it would seem, young couples are enjoying breaks together to share a private bath at a relaxing ryokan.
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Time to Catch the Ferry
Here’s a little timetable I picked up last summer. While reading one sounds like quite a simple task, in the heat of the moment when rushing to catch a ferry, it can sometimes catch you off guard.
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Job Hunting for Study Abroad Students
Job hunting for soon-to-graduate students in Japan is a huge process and one that must be taken very seriously if one is to finish university with a job already secured. For young foreign nationals in Japan, it can be even harder.
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Bathhouse Etiquette
Do you know the correct etiquette for bathing Japanese style? During a trip to Naoshima last summer, I picked up this pretty little pamphlet that describes the process.
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New Year’s Discounts
Printing New Year’s cards to send out to friends and family is a custom given much importance in Japan. Huge quantities of postcards are send out all over the country just to ‘check in’ with people, even if it is just once a year.
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Gachigori – ガチゴリ
Have you chomped down on Gachigori before? It’s made up of two onomatopoeic words combined together for maximum effect. Can you guess what?