Useful Japanese word (3): やばい “yabai” is "dope shit."
This is a very colloquial expression which is commonly used in conversation especially among youngsters. So it is not appropriate to use in business or at work. You use the expression when you or someone is in trouble. “Sorewa yabai” means “That’s a big problem.” When you are asked by your co-worker if you are […]
Japan's One of the Most Famous Camera Maker: Pentax and Its History
Japan's One of the Most Famous Camera Maker: Pentax Pentax SLR Cameras Pentax single-lens reflex cameras have been one of the most popular cameras among camera lovers. Since producing the nation’s first SLR camera the Asahiflex I in 1952, Pentax has been contributing to the evolution of SLR cameras putting its heart and soul in […]
Useful Japanese word (2): ほら “Hora”
This is an exclamatory expression which is used on many different occasions. In English, it can be translated, “Look!”, “Listen!”, “See?”, or just before saying something like “Here it is.” All these phrases are to catch someone’s attention. So it is used when someone you are talking to isn't paying attention to you. For example, […]
How to use "hanko" seal in Japanese business
It has been decided that the Tokyo Olympics will be postponed for about one year. You can see this image on the internet just for a joke. But it is a good learning tool to know Japan's business practice. Seals are often used in Japanese business. There is a seal "森" on "0" and "1" […]
Useful Japanese word (1): むり “Muri” (In Chinese characters: 無理）
What is むり “Muri” (In Chinese characters: 無理）? As you may know, “desu (です）” can be added to make a Japanese sentence sound polite. So in this case as well, “Muri desu （むりです）” sounds better. But it can be used without “desu” if you want to say it casually. “Muri” is used when you think […]
Japan's most popular fire extinguishers' history
Japan's most popular fire extinguishers' history 1. Miyata Kogyo’s Fire Extinguishers 2. Miyata Industry Co. Ltd. was originally founded as Miyata Seijusho (gun manufactory) in 1881. It changed its business in 1902 and is now well known for its Miyata brand of bicycles. However, how many people know that this company is also a leader […]
Miso Soup and Its History, the most popular soup in Japan
Miso Soup, the most popular soup in Japan Marukome’s Miso Enjoyed by Japanese from time immemorial, miso has been a staple of the Japanese diet. Miso comes in a wide variety such as Shiro-miso (white miso), Aka-miso (red miso) and so on. A major manufacturer of miso, Marukome developed the world’s first miso with soup […]
Edamame and Its History in Japan, a Feature of Summer Ever Since the Edo Period
Edamame, a Feature of Summer Ever Since the Edo Period Edamame (green soybean) is the perfect companion for beer during the summer. With its vivid, fresh green, and crunchy bite, edamame goes well with ice cold beer at beer gardens during the hot summer. Edamame is all you need to enjoy your favorite beverage. Edamame […]
Yokumoku Cigar and Its History, the most popular gift on business in Japan
Yokumoku Cigar, the most popular gift on business in Japan Yoku Moku’s Cigare “Cigare” is a cookie in a lovely, rolled-up shape. Its dough called “langue de chat” made with lots of butter is characterized by a texture as of simply melting in one’s mouth. The confectionery maker that productized Cigare and has spread […]
Kakinotane: Japan's Most Famous and Popular Rice Cracker
Kakinotane, Rice Crackers, Were Born from Imperfect Oval Crackers What is kakinotane? With their hot and spicy taste, kakinotane ("kaki" is persimmon in Japanese and "tane" is seed, so literally meaning persimmon seed) rice crackers go well with drink, especially beer. Recently, kakinotane coated in chocolate has also made its appearance and even more various […]