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  • Japanese lessons
  • How to learn Japanese
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Hannah Stafford

Hannah is a half Irish/half Japanese girl living in Ireland. Her love for Japan and the Japanese language led her to studying languages and translation in university where she specialised in Japanese. She spent a year studying abroad at Rikkyo University in Tokyo. In her free time, Hannah enjoys using her sewing machine to upcycle clothes and create new pieces!

How to Say ‘Rain’ in Japanese

by Hannah Stafford
Visitors with umbrellas stroll under a large red torii gate at a Japanese shrine, surrounded by traditional lanterns and lush greenery, as the rain gently falls.

What better to do on a rainy day than learn some new vocabulary? If we were to really dive deep, we could discuss the hundred-odd of ways to describe rain. Ranging from light to heavy rain, morning to evening rain or even winter to summer rain. I know, when it rains, it pours! But don’t … Read more

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How to Say ‘Star’ in Japanese

by Hannah Stafford
A night sky adorned with stars, or "hoshi" in Japanese, stretches above the silhouette of a snow-capped mountain and a glowing cityscape.

We have already discussed how to say ‘moon’ and ‘sun’ in Japanese, so it is only right that we teach you how to say ‘star’ as well! The main Japanese word for ‘star’ is hoshi (星 / ほし). This the word we use to talk about a star in the night sky. For those of … Read more

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How to Say Drunk in Japanese (and More Essential Drinking Vocab!)

by Hannah Stafford
A person in a red shirt holds a frothy glass of beer forward, smiling in a blurry restaurant setting.

Drinking in Japan can be such a fun experience. There are many interesting bars, delicious drinks and good company to enjoy at any given time in this bustling country. That being said, entertaining such activities can leave you feeling ‘drunk’! But how would you express that in Japanese? Would you even remember, in a drunk … Read more

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How to Say Cheers in Japanese (Kanpai and More!)

by Hannah Stafford
Three people in traditional Japanese yukata raise their glasses of beer, smiling warmly as they say "kanpai" (cheers in Japanese) in a room with a shoji screen backdrop.

No matter where in the world you visit, ‘cheers’ is one of the most useful phrases to learn in a country’s local language! There is a sense of community and warmth when a group of people come together and clink their glasses, toasting to health, to congratulate or even to remember someone. You may even … Read more

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Going Drinking in Japan? Everything You Need to Know About Japanese Drinking Culture

by Hannah Stafford
A hand pours sake from a white ceramic pitcher into a small cup held by another person.

You may be surprised to learn that drinking is actually a big part of both social and business culture in Japan! Japanese people are generally more reserved, and tend to hold their true feelings back. Therefore, when alcohol or ‘liquid courage’ is involved, they may feel more comfortable to open up and be more expressive! … Read more

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Did You Know These Japanese Food Etiquette Rules?

by Hannah Stafford
A woman eats from a red bowl with chopsticks at a sushi bar, observing Japanese food etiquette, with various dishes and a glass of beer in front of her.

Dining etiquette differs from country to country. Some practices which are usual in your country may be considered rude in another, or vice versa!  Japan is a country which holds great pride in its traditions and customs. If you’re visiting Japan, make sure you read up on essential Japanese food etiquette! When you try your … Read more

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Japanese Etiquette Guide: Essential Do’s and Don’ts

by Hannah Stafford
An elegant older woman dressed in traditional Japanese attire, embodying the essence of Japanese etiquette, holds a parasol while standing on a narrow street with wooden buildings and a pagoda in the background.

Japan is a country with traditions that still have a strong hold on modern society today. These traditions are evident through their customs and etiquette displayed in everyday life. As a traveler in Japan, you will be forgiven if you don’t grasp all of the country’s unique customs. But remember, general politeness will be greatly … Read more

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Top Useful Japanese Restaurant Phrases and Vocabulary

by Hannah Stafford
Entrance to a Japanese restaurant greeting you with traditional decor elements, a display of menu items, and patrons' shoes neatly placed by a step leading indoors. Learn japanese restaurant phrases to enjoy an authentic experience like this!

Eating out in Japan can seem a bit daunting at times. There are so many options it can be overwhelming, and not being able to read the restaurant name makes it hard to know what the restaurant even serves… One top tip is to look out for restaurants with food displays in the window! Don’t … Read more

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