Contributor

Matthew Coslett

After his 6 month stay got extended to 6 years, Matthew decided just to stay. As well as writing about his beloved Kansai, he spends hours in the middle of nowhere looking for wildlife and searching for the parts of the city most people ignore.

Articles

Live

Nenmatsu Chosei: What Are Year-End Taxes in Japan?

Are you living and working in Japan? Here is what you need to know about filing year-end taxes in Japan so you can file on time.

By 4 min read 4

Learn

The Best Hiphop and Rap Songs For Learning Japanese

Are you a fan of hip hop and self studying? Check out the best rap songs for learning Japanese.

By 8 min read 1

Work

Stories About Toxic Work Environments in Japan

We share stories of those who have experienced toxic work environments in Japan and what to do if you find yourself in one.

By 5 min read

Live

Is Nagoya the Best Place to Live in Japan?

It offers the perfect blend of big-city attractions and small-city prices.

By 6 min read 3

Work

A Checklist For Quitting Your Job In Japan

Quitting your job in Japan is scary, but with this checklist, you can make it as smooth as possible, positioning yourself for future success.

By 6 min read 1

Learn

A Guide to Japanese Bakeries

While it may seem simple, getting exactly the right baked goods from the bakery can be tricky. Here's a short guide.

By 2 min read 4

Learn

How to Ask for Time Off Work in Japanese

It can be a tricky business asking for time off in a Japanese workplace. Try these useful phrases.

By 5 min read 3

Explore

Cycling in Hokkaido

Discover cycling in Hokkaido this summer. From family-friendly routes to challenging tracks around Mt. Yotei and Niseko.

By 5 min read

Culture

Japanese Meme: What Are Tokyo’s Cheapest Supermarkets?

Explore a funny Japanese supermarket meme that ranks based on their prices, from bargain hunters to royal decree.

By 6 min read 2

Learn

What Does Yabai Mean in Japanese Slang?

Yabai can mean anything from very bad to very good.

By 4 min read

Explore

Overtourism in Japan and What It Means for Visitors

Tourism has brought many benefits to Japan, but the recent influx of tourists has caused the government and local authorities to introduce new measures to address overtourism.

By 6 min read 1

Culture

7 More Scary Japanese Urban Legends

Discover chilling Japanese urban legends. From the haunting Cow Head to the eerie Teke Teke, delve into bone-chilling tales that blur the line between myth and truth.

By 7 min read