Japanese Learning Blog Japanese Blog

May 17, 2023

30 Must-know JLPT N5 Grammar Points

For Japanese learners, a significant milestone to aim for is the JLPT N5 exam, which evaluates basic proficiency in the language. But whether you’re taking the test or not, you’ll come across JLPT N5 grammar points either way — especially during the first year of your study, as it covers the very basic foundation of […]

May 15, 2023

How to Stay Cool During Summer in Japan: Tips, Vocabulary, Products

Life in Japan

While you can enjoy the summer life in Japan, make sure to stay cool and hydrated!

May 15, 2023

Japanese Writing System: Kanji, Hiragana, and Katakana Explained

Japanese Study Japanese Study

Hiragana, katakana, and kanji make up the Japanese writing system. When you first start learning Japanese, figuring out how to read and write can feel overwhelming; after all, Japanese is completely different from the Roman alphabet! You then learn that there are actually three different writing systems used all at once. How is that even […]

May 12, 2023

How to Learn Japanese in Shibuya: A Step-by-Step Guide

Learning Guide

With the anticipation of Coto Academ's fourth Japanese language school in Shibuya, we want to provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to improve your Japanese language skill in Shibuya.

May 8, 2023

Alternative JR Passes that Tourists and Foreign Residents Can Use in Japan

Travel to Japan

Here are some alternative regional JR passes that you can use to enjoy your time in Japan in a cost-effective way!

May 2, 2023

15 Unique Facts About Japanese Communication: Verbal & Non-verbal

Japan continues to attract travelers, culture aficionados, and tourists from around the world who are interested not only in the country’s unique culture but also in learning Japanese communication. It is without a doubt that being exposed to such an array of foreign customs can be fun, but often intimidating and confusing, too. For those […]

May 2, 2023

How to Talk About Your Interests and Hobbies in Japanese

Study Japanese Study Japanese Study Japanese

If you're interested in learning Japanese, you probably want to be able to have conversations about your hobbies and interests with native speakers to make friends.

May 1, 2023

Japanese Essentials: How to Find a Lost Item in Japan

Losing something important can be a stressful experience, especially in a foreign country like Japan.

April 27, 2023

Guide to Japanese Dialects: Western, Eastern & Kyushu Regions

Japanese Study

If you’re learning Japanese right now, there’s a high chance the textbook you have uses Standard Japanese, which is based on the Japanese dialect in Tokyo. By now, we know that Japan is an incredibly diverse place. From Okinawa to Hokkaido, you can find many different traditions, foods, and landscapes, but there are nearly as […]

April 24, 2023

Popular Matsuri (Festivals) in Japan Throughout the Year

Life in Japan Life in Japan

Matsuri, or festivals, are an integral part of Japanese culture, serving as a way to honor traditions and bring communities together. From vibrant parades to food stalls, matsuri brings people together and allows you to immerse in Japan’s rich history. While summer sees the most festivals in Japan held during the year, you can still […]

April 21, 2023

21 Unique Japanese Words You Can’t Translate into English

The Japanese language has some of the most beautiful words used to describe deep feelings and abstract ideas that don't have the exact English equivalent.