Recent Posts
Laundry Day: Mastering Your Washing Machine
When you first arrive in Japan, some of the biggest challenges can be the simplest things — like doing laundry. Gaijinpot guides you all the way from starting your washing machine to its advanced features.
By Matthew Coslett on July 13, 2017
The Terminal: Airport Japanese
When knowing certain Japanese air travel terms may be the difference between catching or missing your flight, it’s worth spending some time to master airport vocabulary before your trip.
By Matthew Coslett on June 29, 2017
Inside Job: Talking about The Intricacies of Investing in Japanese
Talking about investing in Japanese can be intimidating however with salaries constantly fluctuating, long-term stayers will want to familiarize themselves with some of the words and concepts.
By Matthew Coslett on June 15, 2017
Splish Splash: How to Use a Modern Japanese Bath
Rub dub you can finally relax in the tub with our handy guide to the high-tech water controller in your shower room.
By Matthew Coslett on May 27, 2017
Tomogashima: A Trip Worth Taking
Across rough seas and aboard decaying ships, the islands of Tomogashima are a unique — if challenging — visit.
By Matthew Coslett on May 17, 2017
What’s in a Japanese Name?
That who we call “ko” would sound as sweet! A GaijinPot guide to recalling tricky Japanese names and learning some new kanji in the process.
By Matthew Coslett on May 16, 2017
How to Speak in Japanese Number Codes
Let’s give a 8888 for this guide to Japanese numbers wordplay. 4649 onegaishimasu!
By Matthew Coslett on April 26, 2017
How To Pronounce Japanese Like A Native
Use these techniques to help you sound more like a native when speaking Japanese.
By Matthew Coslett on April 17, 2017
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 to help you secure that much-needed holiday.
By Matthew Coslett on March 22, 2017
How to Haggle in Japanese
Useful Japanese for negotiating a discount in different situations from shopping to signing an apartment contract.
By Matthew Coslett on March 10, 2017
A Guide to Texting in Japanese
Note to self: The poo emoji is not a bad thing.
By Matthew Coslett on February 20, 2017
Why does Japanese have two kanji for “love”?
With Valentine’s Day approaching, here’s something to add to the romantic confusion: the two different kanji for love.
By Matthew Coslett on February 13, 2017
Useful Japanese for Getting a Haircut
Learning useful Japanese vocabulary is a small price toupee to get the haircut you want.