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Japanese Lessons
There is so much to learn when living in Japan! Explore language and cultural insights that will help you navigate everyday life and professional situations.
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Beyond Halloween – the year-round spirits of Japanese folklore (October 2026)
For many, Halloween in Japan likely conjures images from viral videos of costumed street parties in Tokyo. But there are many other ways to celebrate spooky season in Japan – including some fantastic low-key and traditional options.
This month, several of our teachers gathered their top recommendations for soaking in the seasonal, scary vibes across late October and beyond.
Moons and rabbits – Otsukimi in Japan (September 2026)
Tsukimi or Otsukimi (月見・お月見 / つきみ・おつきみ) literally means "moon viewing." These traditional festivals honor the autumn moon, originating as a Japanese variation of China’s Mid-Autumn Festival (or Mooncake Festival).
Here are a few key details and vocabulary words to keep an eye out for if you would like to experience this unique tradition while in Japan.
Sumo Q&A with Recruiter Tomoko (August 2026)
We spoke with Tomoko, one of our recruiters at YARUKI Switch Career, who is a longtime sumo fan. Read her responses to find out why she loves the sport, learn sumo-related vocabulary, and discover fun facts – like why people bring babies to sumo events.
The kanji you need to know this summer (July 2026)
Summers in Japan can seem oppressive, but by learning a little bit of kanji, you can confidently find refreshments, travel in comfort, and navigate weather warnings.