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Don`t do these things in Nara.

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 Nara, Japan, is a city steeped in history and natural beauty, famous for its ancient temples, traditional gardens, and, of course, its adorable free-roaming deer. While it's an incredible destination, a little preparation can go a long way in ensuring a smooth and enjoyable trip. Here are some things to avoid while traveling in Nara: 1. Don't Underestimate the Deer (or Overestimate Their Cuteness): While undeniably charming, the deer in Nara Park are wild animals. They are accustomed to humans and food, but they can be surprisingly assertive, especially if they see you holding "shika senbei" (deer crackers). Avoid teasing them: Don't wave crackers around without intending to give them, or pull them away once offered. This can make them agitated. Avoid feeding them anything other than shika senbei: Human food can be harmful to them. Avoid getting too close to fawns: While their mothers are usually docile, they can become protective if they feel their young are ...

Planning a trip to Tokyo? Here is a recommended three-day itinerary to help you make the most of your visit.

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 Planning a trip to Tokyo? Here is a recommended three-day itinerary to help you make the most of your visit. Day 1: Modern Tokyo (Shibuya & Harajuku) Start your trip in two of Tokyo's most fashionable and famous neighborhoods. Experience the iconic Shibuya Crossing, a scramble intersection where hundreds of people cross at once. From there, you can visit the Hachiko statue, a beloved symbol of loyalty. Next, take a short walk to Harajuku, the center of youth culture and fashion. Stroll down the lively Takeshita Street, which is filled with quirky shops and colorful treats. End your day with a serene walk through the Meiji Jingu, a tranquil shrine dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, located next to the expansive Yoyogi Park. Day 2: Traditional Tokyo (Asakusa & Ueno) Today, immerse yourself in Tokyo's rich history and culture. Begin in the Asakusa district with a visit to Senso-ji, Tokyo’s oldest temple. Walk down Nakamise Street, a bustling shopping street le...

Japan’s 2025 election results, along with implications for domestic politics, international relations, and the economy

Here’s a detailed breakdown of Japan’s 2025 election results, along with implications for domestic politics, international relations, and the economy: 📊 Election Results (House of Councillors – Upper House, July 20, 2025) The Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and its coalition partner Komeito won a combined 47 of the 125 contested seats— falling three seats short of the 50 needed to maintain their majority. With uncontested seats, the ruling bloc now holds 122 of 248 seats, below the 125-seat threshold   Sanseito , a nationalist populist party led by Sōhei Kamiya, surged to 15 upper‑house seats , expanding from just a few previously. The Democratic Party for the People (DPP) won 17 seats, increasing its influence; the Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan (CDPJ) held roughly steady, while smaller parties picked up additional support. Voter turnout reached 58.5 % , up substantially from 2022, with a record 33 % increase in early votes—especially among younger voters. ...

Commonly used Japanese words and phrases

  Here are commonly used Japanese words and phrases for part-time jobs at convenience stores (コンビニバイト), along with their English meanings. These will help you if you're working or preparing for a コンビニ job in Japan. 🔹 General Vocabulary Japanese (Kana/Kanji) Romaji English Meaning 店員(てんいん) ten'in Store clerk / Staff お客様(おきゃくさま) okyakusama Customer (honorific) 商品(しょうひん) shōhin Product / Item レジ reji Cash register 会計(かいけい) kaikei Payment / Checkout バーコード bākōdo Barcode 両替(りょうがえ) ryōgae Making change お釣り(おつり) otsuri Change (money) 割引(わりびき) waribiki Discount 袋(ふくろ) fukuro Bag レシート reshīto Receipt 🔹 Useful Phrases for Customers Japanese Phrase Romaji English Meaning いらっしゃいませ irasshaimase Welcome (to the store) 少々お待ちください shōshō omachi kudasai Please wait a moment こちらでよろしいですか? kochira de yoroshii desu ka? Is this okay for you? ポイントカードはお持ちですか? pointo kādo wa omochi desu ka? Do you have a point card? 温めますか? atatamemasu ka? Would you like this heated? (e.g., bento) 袋にお入れしますか? fukuro ...

5 of the best places to visit in Tokyo during summer

 Here are 5 of the best places to visit in Tokyo during summer , offering a mix of cultural experiences, natural beauty, and ways to stay cool: 1. Sumida River & Sumidagawa Fireworks Festival (隅田川花火大会) Why Go : One of the most famous fireworks festivals in Japan, held in late July. Over 20,000 fireworks light up the Tokyo sky. Summer Highlight : Wear a yukata, grab street food, and enjoy traditional festival vibes. Tip : Arrive early or book a rooftop/bar nearby for the best view. 2. Odaiba Seaside Park (お台場海浜公園) Why Go : A futuristic waterfront with shopping, museums, and a beach-like area to relax. Summer Highlight : Enjoy a cool breeze by Tokyo Bay, or catch the teamLab Borderless digital art show. Nearby Attractions : Palette Town, DiverCity, and Rainbow Bridge views. 3. Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden (新宿御苑) Why Go : A massive oasis in the city with traditional Japanese, English, and French-style gardens. Summer Highlight : Escape the heat...

Student Life in Japan: Challenges and Opportunities

  Student Life in Japan: Challenges and Opportunities Introduction Japan, a country that seamlessly blends tradition with modernity, is one of the most sought-after destinations for students around the world. Renowned for its technological advancement, cultural richness, and high-quality education, Japan offers a unique experience to both domestic and international students. The student life in Japan is vibrant, disciplined, and filled with both rewarding opportunities and significant challenges. This comprehensive overview explores the facets of student life in Japan, focusing on the academic environment, cultural integration, daily living, work-study balance, mental health, and future career prospects. 1. Academic Environment 1.1 Structure of the Education System Japan’s education system is rigorous and highly structured. For students attending universities, junior colleges, vocational schools, or language institutions, the academic calendar usually begins in April and is divided...

Common JLPT N5 Kanji List with Meanings, Words & Examples

  Common JLPT N5 Kanji List with Meanings, Words & Examples Kanji Meaning Common Word(s) Example Sentence 日 day, sun 日曜日 (Sunday), 日本 (Japan) 日本は美しい国です。 (Nihon wa utsukushii kuni desu.) Japan is a beautiful country. 一 one 一つ (one item), 一人 (one person) リンゴを一つください。 (Ringo o hitotsu kudasai.) Please give me one apple. 二 two 二つ (two items), 二人 (two people) 子供が二人います。 (Kodomo ga futari imasu.) I have two children. 三 three 三つ (three items) 三つのりんごがあります。 (Mittsu no ringo ga arimasu.) There are three apples. 四 four 四つ (four items), 四月 (April) 四月に学校が始まります。 (Shigatsu ni gakkou ga hajimarimasu.) School starts in April. 五 five 五つ (five items), 五人 (five people) 子供が五人います。 (Kodomo ga gonin imasu.) I have five children. 六 six 六時 (six o'clock) 六時に起きます。 (Rokuji ni okimasu.) I wake up at six. 七 seven 七つ (seven items) 七つの星が見えます。 (Nanatsu no hoshi ga miemasu.) I can see seven stars. 八 eight 八つ (eight items) ケーキを八つ買いました。 (Keeki o yattsu kaimashita.) I bought eight cakes. 九 nine 九時 (nine o'clock)...