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

Work

You Should Learn These Basic Japanese Job Interview Questions

Job hunting in Japan? Ace that interview by brushing up on how to answer basic Japanese job interview questions.

By 3 min read

Explore

Enjoy a Kansai Airport Layover with These 10 Day Trips

If you have a Kansai International Airport layover, check out some of the best places to shop, relax and discover cultural gems nearby.

By 3 min read

Live

Renewing Your Visa In-person and Online in Japan

A straightforward guide to renewing your visa in Japan. 

By 5 min read 2

Live

What Are Year-End Taxes in Japan?

A quick guide to understand your year-end tax adjustments in Japan.

By 5 min read 1

Culture

Modern Japanese Monsters and Their Folklore Equivalents

As anime writers get more creative, they often depart from the original versions of the traditional creatures and create their own spin.

By 5 min read

Learn

Is a Japanese Language School Better Than Self-Study?

Explore the pros and cons of enrolling in a language school versus self-study methods for mastering Japanese, and discover which approach best suits your learning style.

By 5 min read 1

Culture

Temples and Shrines Devoted to Mythical Creatures in Japan

Exploring sacred places in Japan for ghost, demons and tricksters.

By 5 min read

Live

More Essential Items for Your New Apartment in Japan

You just moved into you new apartment—do you have everything you need? Here is a list over what you might need, from oven filters to mold killers and more.

By 4 min read

Explore

Visit The Sites of Japan’s Historic Battles

Visit the decisive battles of the Warring States Period at the sites of its major battles.

By 5 min read

Explore

Foraging in Japan: Where to Look and How to Get Started

Foraging can be a new and rewarding way to experience (and taste) Japan’s wilderness. Here are some of the best places to try it. 

By 5 min read 1

Live

From Lease to Keys: Buying Your Apartment in Japan

It can seem like a dream to move from renting to owning your own property, however, there are a number of pitfalls awaiting the unwary. 

By 5 min read 1

Explore

Secret Symbols: Exploring Pentagrams at Seimei Shrine

Why is a temple full of pentagrams near the Kyoto Imperial Palace? GaijinPot shares one of Japan’s most secret symbols. 

By 4 min read