Your Guide to Life in Japan
Practical advice with a touch of humor for foreigners navigating daily life, culture, and paperwork in Japan.
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The History and Unique Development of Christmas in Japan
How Christmas evolved in Japan from its 16th-century arrival to a secular, commercial event. From Christian prohibition to the Taisho Emperor Memorial Day, learn how Japan created its own Christmas culture.
The Dark Side of Japanese Christmas Culture: Relationship Pressure and "Kuribocchi"
Christmas in Japan is strongly associated with couples, creating pressure and loneliness for those spending it alone. Learn about the "kuribocchi" phenomenon and changing attitudes.
Japanese Christmas Cake: Over 100 Years of a Uniquely Japanese Tradition
Learn why strawberry shortcake became Japan's iconic Christmas dessert. From Fujiya's 1910 origins to modern convenience store pre-orders, discover this uniquely Japanese holiday tradition.
Why Japan Eats KFC for Christmas: The 50-Year Tradition You Never Knew About
Discover why millions of Japanese families order KFC for Christmas dinner. From a 1974 marketing campaign to ¥7 billion in sales over 3 days, learn the surprising story behind this uniquely Japanese tradition.
Why "OhashiJozu"?
If you've lived in Japan as a foreigner, you've probably heard "Ohashi jozu desu ne!" (Your chopstick skills are good!) or "Nihongo jozu desu ne!" (Your Japanese is good!) - even when you've only said "Konnichiwa."
Our name is a playful nod to this common experience—acknowledging the small cultural misunderstandings that make life as a foreigner in Japan both challenging and charming.
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