Bridging cultures and supporting foreigners in Japan with practical information, cultural insights, and a touch of humor.
"お箸上手ですね" (Ohashi jozu desu ne) is a phrase many foreigners in Japan often hear. While well-intentioned, it can subtly signal: "You are not from here." These small interactions reveal how Japanese society is still learning to fully embrace diversity.
We chose this name deliberately — to turn an awkward everyday moment into something meaningful.
In Japanese, hashi can mean both "chopsticks" (箸) and "bridge" (橋). Just as chopsticks connect food to people, bridges connect people across distance and difference. We want to do the same — to help connect cultures, hearts, and lives.
OhashiJozu is a platform for anyone navigating life in Japan. We're here for those moments when language, systems, or culture feel overwhelming.
Our mission is to help Japan become a more open and inclusive society — one that welcomes difference with warmth and understanding.
One connection at a time, we're building bridges between Japan and the world.
Clear explanations for registration procedures, visa renewals, and other bureaucratic tasks that can be challenging for foreigners.
Practical advice on everything from setting up utilities to understanding garbage separation rules and local customs.
Insights into Japanese etiquette, social norms, and unwritten rules to help you navigate cultural differences with confidence.
Guides to finding foreigner-friendly shops, services, and understanding the Japanese shopping experience.
Help with navigating Japan's extensive public transportation system, from train etiquette to buying tickets.
Connect with others and find resources to help you feel more at home in your Japanese community.
I'm a web creator living in Shikoku, Japan. Most of the people I hang out with are from different countries now, so international exchange is just part of my everyday life. I've lived in Taiwan and Malaysia, spent months backpacking around the world, and want to help people get settled in Japan through projects like OhashiJozu.
Check out my other projects and work at Visit my portfolio.
Japanese culture researcher specializing in onsen culture, history, and traditional arts, sharing the appeal of Japanese culture from an academic perspective.