Japanese Language
Tako! How Did “Octopus” Become a Japanese Insult?
Did someone just call you an "octopus"? How "tako" became both a fish and an insult in Japanese (spoiler alert: it involves…
Articles by Jay Allen
1,166 articles · Page 89
Japanese Language
Travel
Voices in Ishikawa Prefecture Urge Tourism After Noto Earthquake
The Noto Earthquake is impacting businesses throughout Ishikawa Prefecture - even those that suffered little damage. Learn why local merchants, celebrities, and…
Business and Economy
Cashless Payment in Japan: What’s Available & How to Use It
Wanna go cashless in Japan? You have options. Almost too many, in fact. Here's what's available - for both tourists and residents.
Travel
Is Yamaguchi City Japan’s New Go-To Destination?
A New York Times article puts a spotlight on a hot new destination in Japan. Will the attention given to the spectacular…
Food
Squeeze Into “Japan’s Narrowest Soba Shop” in Nagano
A recent social media post spotlights a soba shop in Nagano that's been running for years. You might just barely squeeze in,…
Travel
Japan Taxi: How to Get Around in Comfort
It's not always easy to grab a taxi in Japan as a visitor. However, more services are making it easier than ever…
Travel
Cherry Blossom Viewing: How to Prepare (Despite Climate Change) – UPDATED with 2024 Forecast
Climate change is making it harder to plan for cherry blossom viewing in Japan than ever. Here's what you need to know…
Travel
How to See Mt. Fuji (Without Climbing It)
Thanks to overtourism, climbing Mt. Fuji is tougher than ever. Here are some less taxing alternative viewing locations.