Consumption Tax in Japan
Japan’s consumption tax affects both residents and travelers. Understanding how it works, along with Japan’s unique tax-free system will make shopping smoother and less confusing.
Published: 2025/9/10
Columns
将来 Shōrai vs 未来 Mirai — The Two Faces of “Future” in Japanese
In Japanese, there are two different words that both translate as “future.” This article introduces shōrai (将来) and mirai (未来) and explores how they are used in everyday language.
expression
Published: 2025/9/8
Why is the Particle 「は」 Written as ha but Pronounced as wa?
Why is 「は」 written as ha but pronounced as wa? This article explores the history behind this unique feature of Japanese.
expression
Published: 2025/9/7
Transitive and Intransitive Verb Pairs in Japanese
In English, the same verb can often be used both intransitively and transitively. But in Japanese, these meanings are usually expressed with different verbs, which can be confusing for learners. For example, begin can be 始まる (hajimaru) or 始める (hajimeru). To make this easier, we introduce common verb pairs and organize them into five categories.
expression
Published: 2025/9/6
Japanese Particles "に (ni)" and "へ (e)": A Complete Guide
The Japanese particles "に (ni)" and "へ (e)" are often confusing for learners because both can express direction or destination. In reality, their functions are not identical. This article provides an overview of how "に" and "へ" are generally used, when they overlap, and when only one is correct.
expression
Published: 2025/9/6
The Mystery of Rendaku — How Sounds Change in Japanese Compounds
In Japanese, when two words combine, the first sound of the second may change from a clear consonant to a voiced one. This is called rendaku. For example, やき＋さかな (yaki + sakana) becomes やきざかな (yakizakana, grilled fish). This article explains what rendaku is.
expression
Published: 2025/9/4 （Updated: 2025/9/5）
The Difference Between Kaeru and Modoru — A Practical Guide for English Speakers
This article explains two Japanese verbs that often confuse English speakers: kaeru (帰る) and modoru (戻る). Both are usually translated as “return” or “to go back,” but their contexts and nuances are different. By understanding how to use them correctly, learners can communicate more naturally in Japanese.
expression
Published: 2025/9/3
How to Use Sukoshi and Amari Correctly in Japanese
In this article, we will explore how 少し(sukoshi) and あまり(amari) work, supported by clear examples and cultural context. The goal is not just to memorize grammar but to feel the nuance behind them.
expression
Published: 2025/9/3
Understanding the Difference Between “Hinan” and “Hihan”
In this article, we will explore the difference between 非難 (hinan) and 批判 (hihan), when to use them, and how to sound more natural when expressing critical opinions in Japanese.
expression
Published: 2025/9/1
The Nuances of “Otsukaresama” in Japanese
When you study Japanese, one of the first phrases you will often hear is お疲れ様 (otsukaresama). This phrase appears everywhere in Japanese daily life. A direct translation might be “You must be tired,” but in reality, the meaning is much more flexible.
expression
Published: 2025/8/31