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
Useful Japanese Halloween Vocabulary
Learn these words to help you identify some of the costumed characters you might encounter this Halloween.
Common Japanese Phrases To Help You Study JLPT N2 and N3 Grammar
Master advanced Japanese grammar by listening out for these phrases on the daily.
How to Ask for Time Off in Japanese
It can be a tricky business asking for time off in a Japanese workplace. Try these useful phrases.
How to Bargain in Japanese
Useful Japanese for negotiating a discount in different situations from shopping to signing an apartment contract.
How to Make Small Talk in Japanese
“Atsui desu ne” and other phrases to help you fill an awkward silence in Japan.
Japanese Words for Weddings
Here comes the 嫁.
Sweat the Small Stuff: 5 Tips for Passing the JLPT
Don’t be a stressed mess, learn how to pass your next JLTP with flying colors.
Japanese Words To Describe Food Textures
Ever heard the words カリカリ, さくさく or モチモチ around Japanese food?
Reiwa: A ‘Beautiful Harmony’ of Japanese Words Old and New
The new era is an opportunity to learn about majestic words both common and obscure.
Emoji Nation: Peculiar Emoticons You’ll Find in Japan
Have these confusing Japanese emojis ever made you 💢 ?
Politically Indirect: Using More Inclusive Japanese Words
Political correctness isn’t limited to the West so pay attention to these Japanese words.
Apartment Hunter: Words for Your Quest to Move in Japan
Arm yourself with this useful Japanese when battling for the perfect new digs this spring.
