Almost ten years ago, my boyfriend (now husband) invited me to the hills above Kita-Kamakura for what would become one of the most memorable afternoons of my life. The scenery was beautiful, yes, but what truly stayed with me was the way he showed his love: through food.

Read more by clicking on the link.

When the Japanese summer wraps the country in its humid embrace, there's one dish my husband always makes that feels like a gentle breeze through cicada-filled trees: Hiyashi Chūka. It's colorful, cooling, and comforting, like edible fireworks on Tanabata night.

Read more by clicking on the link.

Even after studying Japanese at university, I’ve often found myself puzzled by the deeper logic behind verb usage. Why certain forms are used, how nuance is conveyed, and what’s really going on beneath the surface of everyday speech. That’s why I was so excited to try out Maplopo’s new Verb Masterclass program.

Read more by clicking on the link.

Before Keanu Reeves and Sandra Bullock raced against time on a bus in Speed (1994), Japan had already laid the cinematic groundwork for that high-stakes concept.

Read more by clicking on the link.

After falling in love with Choya’s honey umeshu, a lovely drink I introduced to you a few weeks ago, I didn’t think it could get any better. But then I discovered their Uji Green Tea Umeshu—and wow, it’s a game-changer!

Read more by clicking on the link.

If you're learning Japanese and want a fun, immersive way to improve your skills, Sakamoto Days is a great option. Sakamoto Days is a fast-paced anime that blends intense action with lighthearted comedy. The story centers on Taro Sakamoto, once the most feared hitman in Japan, who retires to live a quiet life running a convenience store with his family. However, his past refuses to stay buried, and he’s constantly pulled back into dangerous situations. Read more by clicking on the link below.

My husband is a huge anime fan, while I’ve never been as enthusiastic about it. I do have fond memories of watching classics like “Candy Candy” and “Dragonball” when I was little, but I wouldn’t say anime is something I actively seek out. Of course, Studio Ghibli is a different story; their films create a magical world all on their own!

So, I was genuinely surprised when I found myself hooked on "Dandadan." This series has not only captivated my attention but also serves as a fantastic resource for learning contemporary Japanese. I wanted to share my experience with you, as it’s a great way to engage with the language while enjoying an entertaining story.

When it comes to kitchen gadgets, few can compare to my trusty Benriner mandolin. Last week, I wrote about delightfully simple Japanese brand names, such as “bubble soap soap” and “clean hands soap.” I realized I forgot to mention the one piece of equipment I can no longer live without: my mandolin!