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

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 3

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

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 3

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

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