Meet Wa ! JOI Staff Blog

Let's take a nostalgic look back to 2011 and re-read a blog added by Japanese teacher, Sakude sensei.

What fruits are in season during autumn in Japan?
Read this blog to find out!

Have you heard of Otsukimi (お月見) ?
It is a Japanese autumn tradition that has some roots in the Chinese lunar calendar and the mid-autumn celebrations.
This is a quick explanation of the tradition.

Have you heard of the Japanese word Mottainai (もったいない)?
Do you remember the environmental impact created by Nobel Peace Prize winner Wangari Maathai?
Read more to find out.

What are the World Heritage Sites in Japan?
How many are there?
Here is a comprehensive list in order of acceptance by UNESCO

Do you have trouble writing emails in Japanese?
Do you feel that you could improve your Japanese telephone conversation level?

In Japan, watermelon are known as Suika (スイカ) .
They are a popular fruit and great snack during the summer season.
But did you know about the nutritional value and the different (and expensive!) watermelon types that are often given for summer gifts (Ochugen お中元) ?

Do you enjoy looking at art?
If you have time to kill in Tokyo, then a recommended spot is Ueno park and its museums.
Read more to find out about these!

What are some of the most popular fireworks festivals or 花火大会 (Hanabi Taikai) in Japan?
When are these festivals usually held?
What should I know before going?

What are Japanese Yukata (浴衣)?

When do people wear the Yukata?

Are there any rules to wearing the Yukata?

What are the differences between American Baseball and Japanese baseball?
When is the baseball season in Japan?
Read on to find these answers and more.

Hakata Gion Yamakasa (博多祇園山笠) is Fukuoka’s most famous 祭り (matsuri) or festival.

If you are ever in Kyushu in July, please try to catch this exciting spectacle.

This is a simple explanation of the democratic process in Japan.

Simply put, it is a dominant-party bicameral parliamentary constitutional monarchy.

Have you ever seen pictures of lots of colorful strips of paper hanging on bamboo strips?
Do you know the story behind the Tanabata festival?
This is a quick explanation.