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If you're serious about learning Japanese, you've probably heard about the JLPT. This globally recognized exam is the standard way to measure your Japanese language skills, whether you're learning for fun, work, or study abroad plans. 

What Is the JLPT 

JLPT stands for Japanese Language Proficiency Test. It's an official exam that tests your reading, listening, grammar, and vocabulary skills in Japanese. The JLPT is held twice a year, usually in July and December, in test centers across the world. 

JLPT Levels Explained 

The JLPT has five levels, ranging from beginner to advanced: 

N5 – The easiest level, covering basic grammar, hiragana, katakana, and simple kanji 

N4 – Slightly more advanced, with everyday vocabulary and grammar patterns 

N3 – A bridge level between basic and intermediate Japanese 

N2 – Advanced level, often required for working or studying in Japan 

N1 – The hardest level, testing near-native understanding of Japanese 

Why Take the JLPT 

Many learners take the JLPT for these reasons: 

To measure progress in their Japanese studies 

To meet requirements for Japanese universities 

To improve job prospects in Japan or with Japanese companies 

To set a clear learning goal and stay motivated 

What the JLPT Tests 

The JLPT evaluates several key areas: 

Vocabulary – Understanding words and their correct usage 

Grammar – Applying grammar rules correctly in context 

Reading – Comprehending passages of varying difficulty 

Listening – Understanding spoken Japanese in different situations 

Note that the JLPT does not test speaking or writing skills directly. 

Tips to Prepare for the JLPT 

Here are some simple ways to prepare for the JLPT: 

Study consistently rather than cramming before the exam 

Practice with past JLPT question papers 

Focus on grammar patterns specific to your target level 

Build vocabulary daily using flashcards or apps 

Take timed practice tests to build exam confidence 

Quick Recap 

Final Thoughts 

The JLPT is a great way to track your Japanese learning journey and open doors for study or work opportunities. Whether you're aiming for N5 or working toward N1, having a clear goal like the JLPT keeps your learning focused and rewarding. 

Understanding Japanese honorifics is an important step toward speaking politely and naturally in Japanese. These suffixes, added after a person's name, reflect respect, relationships, and social customs, making them a key part of everyday communication in Japan. 

What Are Japanese Honorifics 

Japanese honorifics are suffixes added after a person's name to show respect, familiarity, or social standing. Unlike English, where we simply say someone's name, Japanese requires choosing the right honorific based on who you're talking to. 

Common Japanese Honorifics 

Here are the most widely used Japanese honorifics: 

San (さん) – The most common and neutral honorific, similar to "Mr./Ms." Used with almost anyone. 

Sama (様) – A more respectful and formal version of "san," used for customers, clients, or someone of higher status. 

Kun (君) – Used for boys or younger males, often by teachers or seniors, and sometimes among close male friends. 

Chan (ちゃん) – A cute, affectionate honorific used for children, close friends, or girls. 

Sensei (先生) – Used for teachers, doctors, or professionals with expertise, showing high respect. 

Senpai (先輩) – Used for someone senior to you in school or work, like an upperclassman or experienced colleague. 

Kouhai (後輩) – Refers to a junior, though it's not typically used directly as an honorific attached to a name. 

When to Use Japanese Honorifics 

Choosing the correct Japanese honorifics depends on the relationship between speakers: 

Use san with strangers, coworkers, or acquaintances 

Use sama for customers or someone you deeply respect 

Use kun or chan only with people you're close to 

Use sensei for teachers, doctors, or masters of a craft 

Drop honorifics entirely with very close friends or family (this is called "yobisute") 

Why Honorifics Matter in Japanese Culture 

Japanese honorifics reflect the culture's strong emphasis on respect and social harmony. Using the wrong honorific, or dropping one when it's expected, can come across as rude or overly familiar. Getting this right shows cultural awareness and good manners. 

Quick Recap 

Final Thoughts 

Mastering Japanese honorifics takes practice, but it's one of the most important parts of speaking respectfully in Japanese. Pay attention to how native speakers use them, and soon you'll naturally know which honorific fits each relationship. 

Ready to Take Your Japanese to the Next Level? Want to learn practical Japanese used by native speakers every day? Join Yoisho Academy's live Japanese classes and develop your speaking, listening, reading, and cultural understanding with guidance from experienced instructors. 

Wishing someone happy birthday in Japanese is a thoughtful way to celebrate their special day. Whether you're learning Japanese for the first time or expanding your everyday vocabulary, knowing how to share birthday wishes can help you connect more naturally with Japanese speakers. 

The Standard Way to Say Happy Birthday in Japanese 

The most common way to say happy birthday in Japanese is: 

Otanjoubi omedetou (お誕生日おめでとう) – "Happy birthday" (casual, used with friends) 

This phrase is friendly and works well for people you know well, like classmates or close friends. 

Formal Way to Say Happy Birthday in Japanese 

If you're wishing happy birthday in Japanese to someone older, a senior, or someone you respect, add a polite ending: 

Otanjoubi omedetou gozaimasu (お誕生日おめでとうございます) – "Happy birthday" (formal/polite) 

This version shows extra respect and is suitable for teachers, bosses, or elders. 

Breaking Down the Phrase 

Understanding the words helps you remember the phrase better: 

Otanjoubi (お誕生日) – Birthday 

Omedetou (おめでとう) – Congratulations 

Gozaimasu (ございます) – Polite ending 

So literally, happy birthday in Japanese translates to "congratulations on your birthday." 

Other Ways to Celebrate in Japanese 

Along with saying happy birthday in Japanese, you can add these phrases to make your wish more special: 

Suteki na ichinichi wo (素敵な一日を) – "Have a wonderful day" 

Genki de ne (元気でね) – "Stay healthy" 

Kore kara mo yoroshiku (これからもよろしく) – "Looking forward to more good times together" 

Quick Recap

Final Thoughts 

Learning how to say happy birthday in Japanese is a simple but meaningful way to connect with Japanese language and culture. Whether you're wishing a friend, classmate, teacher, or colleague, using the right expression can make your message feel more personal and thoughtful. Keep practicing everyday Japanese phrases, and you'll become more confident in real-life conversations over time. 

Ready to Learn More? 

Want to go beyond memorizing phrases and start speaking Japanese with confidence? Join Yoisho Academy's live Japanese classes and learn from expert instructors through interactive lessons, practical conversation practice, and JLPT-focused guidance. 

Learning Japanese words is the first step toward understanding and speaking the language. Whether you're just starting out or revising the basics, learning common everyday words can help you build confidence and communicate more naturally in Japanese. 

Why Start With Basic Japanese Words 

Before diving into grammar rules or sentence structure, it's smart to build a base of common Japanese words. These words appear frequently in daily conversations, making them the most useful place to start your learning journey. 

Everyday Japanese Words 

Here are some essential Japanese words every beginner should know: 

Hai (はい) – Yes 

Iie (いいえ) – No 

Arigatou (ありがとう) – Thank you 

Sumimasen (すみません) – Excuse me / Sorry 

Onegaishimasu (お願いします) – Please 

Wakarimasu (わかります) – I understand 

Wakarimasen (わかりません) – I don't understand 

Japanese Words for People and Family 

Knowing words to describe people around you is useful in everyday conversation: 

Watashi (私) – I / Me 

Anata (あなた) – You 

Tomodachi (友達) – Friend 

Kazoku (家族) – Family 

Sensei (先生) – Teacher 

Japanese Words for Common Objects 

These Japanese words describe things you'll encounter daily: 

Mizu (水) – Water 

Tabemono (食べ物) – Food 

Ie (家) – House 

Kuruma (車) – Car 

Hon (本) – Book 

Japanese Words for Time and Numbers 

Time-related Japanese words are also useful for beginners: 

Kyou (今日) – Today 

Ashita (明日) – Tomorrow 

Kinou (昨日) – Yesterday 

Ichi (一) – One 

Ni (二) – Two 

Quick Recap 

Final Thoughts 

Learning common Japanese words is one of the most effective ways to build a strong foundation in the language. The more words you understand and use in everyday situations, the easier it becomes to improve your reading, listening, and speaking skills. Make a habit of practicing these words regularly, using them in simple sentences, and applying them in real conversations. With consistent practice, you'll gradually gain confidence and take meaningful steps toward Japanese fluency. 

Learning goodbye in Japanese is an essential part of mastering everyday conversation. Japanese has many different farewell expressions depending on the situation, the person you're talking to, and how long you'll be away. Before learning farewell expressions, it's helpful to understand basic Japanese greetings and how they're used in daily conversations. 

Common Ways to Say Goodbye in Japanese 

The most well-known word for goodbye in Japanese is Sayounara (さようなら). However, this word is actually used less often than you'd think, it usually implies a long or final farewell, so Japanese people don't use it casually with friends they'll see again soon. 

Here are more casual ways to say goodbye in Japanese: 

Jaa ne (じゃあね) – "See ya" (casual, used with friends) 

Mata ne (またね) – "See you again" (casual) 

Bai bai (バイバイ) – "Bye bye" (very casual, borrowed from English) 

Mata ashita (また明日) – "See you tomorrow" 

Formal Ways to Say Goodbye in Japanese 

In professional or respectful settings, you'll need different phrases for goodbye in Japanese. These show politeness toward seniors, teachers, or colleagues: 

Shitsurei shimasu (失礼します) – "Excuse me for leaving" (polite, used at work or formal meetings) 

Otsukaresama deshita (お疲れ様でした) – "Thank you for your hard work" (said when leaving work) 

Sayounara (さようなら) – "Goodbye" (formal or final farewell) 

Ki wo tsukete (気をつけて) – "Take care" (used when someone is leaving on a trip) 

Situational Ways to Say Goodbye in Japanese 

Different situations call for different expressions. Here are some useful ones: 

Oyasumi nasai (おやすみなさい) – "Good night" (used before sleeping) 

Dewa mata (ではまた) – "Well then, see you" (semi-casual) 

Genki de (元気で) – "Take care of yourself" (used for longer goodbyes) 

Ogenki de (お元気で) – Polite version of "take care" 

Quick Recap 

Final Thoughts 

Learning how to say goodbye in Japanese goes beyond simply knowing Sayounara. Different situations call for different expressions, and understanding when to use phrases like Mata ne, Jaa ne, or Otsukaresama deshita can help you sound more natural and communicate with confidence. As you continue your Japanese learning journey, practicing these everyday phrases will make your conversations feel more authentic and enjoyable.. 

Understanding Japanese culture in Japanese helps learners connect with the language on a deeper level. Culture and language go hand in hand, and knowing the right words makes it easier to talk about traditions, values, and everyday life in Japan. 

Why Learn Culture Vocabulary 

If you're studying Japanese, just knowing grammar and vocabulary isn't enough. Learning Japanese culture in Japanese gives you the actual words used to describe customs, festivals, and social values that shape daily life in Japan. 

Key Cultural Words in Japanese 

Here are some important terms related to Japanese culture: 

Bunka (文化) – Culture 

Dentou (伝統) – Tradition 

Reigi (礼儀) – Manners / Etiquette 

Matsuri (祭り) – Festival 

Wa (和) – Harmony 

Ikigai (生きがい) – Reason for being / Purpose in life 

Omotenashi (おもてなし) – Japanese hospitality 

These words are often used when discussing Japanese culture in Japanese, whether in conversation, textbooks, or media. 

Values That Shape Japanese Culture 

Japan places great importance on group harmony and respect. The concept of Wa (和) teaches people to avoid conflict and maintain peaceful relationships. This value influences everything from workplace behavior to how people speak to each other. 

Another important idea is Omotenashi, which means selfless hospitality. You'll notice this in restaurants, shops, and even simple daily interactions across Japan. 

Festivals and Traditions 

Japan celebrates many seasonal festivals, known as Matsuri. Some popular ones include: 

Tanabata Matsuri – Star Festival, celebrated in July 

Hanami – Cherry blossom viewing in spring 

Obon – A festival honoring ancestors 

Learning about these traditions through Japanese culture in Japanese vocabulary makes it easier to understand Japanese TV shows, books, and conversations with native speakers. 

Etiquette in Daily Life 

Politeness, or Reigi, is deeply rooted in Japanese society. Simple actions like bowing, removing shoes before entering a home, and using polite speech (keigo) reflect this cultural value. These small details are part of what makes Japanese culture in Japanese fascinating to explore. 

Quick Recap 

Final Thoughts 

Exploring Japanese culture in Japanese is a rewarding way to deepen your language skills. By learning these words and values, you connect not just with the language, but with the heart of Japanese society. Keep practicing, and soon these cultural concepts will feel like second nature. 

Learning how to say hi in Japanese is one of the first steps for anyone starting their Japanese language journey. Whether you're planning a trip to Japan or just love the culture, greetings are your gateway into everyday conversation. 

Why Greetings Matter 

In Japan, greetings are more than just words. They show respect and set the tone for any interaction. Before we dive into how to say hi in Japanese, let's understand that Japan has different greetings depending on the time of day and the situation. 

Basic Ways to Say Hi 

The most common word for "hi" or "hello" in Japanese is Konnichiwa (こんにちは). This is used during the daytime and works in almost any casual or semi-formal setting. It's the safest word to use with strangers or new acquaintances. 

Here are more greetings based on time: 

Ohayou (おはよう) – Good morning (casual) 

Ohayou gozaimasu (おはようございます) – Good morning (polite) 

Konnichiwa (こんにちは) – Hello / Good afternoon 

Konbanwa (こんばんは) – Good evening 

Casual Greetings Among Friends 

If you're talking to close friends, you don't always need formal words. Young people in Japan often use casual expressions like: 

Yaho (やっほー) – A cute, playful "hi," mostly used by girls 

Ossu (おっす) – A rough, friendly greeting mostly used by guys 

Doumo (どうも) – A flexible word that can mean "hi" or "thanks" 

These casual greetings are fun to learn but should only be used with friends, not in professional settings. 

Formal Greetings for Respect 

Japan has a strong culture of politeness, especially with elders, teachers, or in business. Some formal greetings include: 

Ohisashiburi desu (お久しぶりです) – Long time no see (polite) 

Hajimemashite (はじめまして) – Nice to meet you 

Using the right greeting shows that you understand Japanese etiquette, which is highly valued. 

Adding a Bow 

Greetings in Japan are often paired with a slight bow. This isn't just tradition, it's part of daily communication. Even a small nod while saying Konnichiwa shows good manners. 

Quick Recap 

So, how to say hi in Japanese? Here's a simple summary: 

Final Thoughts 

Now that you know how to say hi in Japanese, you can confidently greet people at any time of day. Start practicing these words daily, and soon they'll become second nature. Learning greetings is a small but powerful step toward mastering the Japanese language and connecting with its beautiful culture. 

Figuring out how to learn Japanese can feel overwhelming at first but breaking it down into clear steps makes the process much more manageable. Whether you're starting from zero or brushing up on basics, this guide covers the essential path for how to learn Japanese effectively. 

Start With the Writing Systems 

The first step in how to learn Japanese is mastering the three writing systems: 

Hiragana (ひらがな) – The foundation for native Japanese words and grammar 

Katakana (カタカナ) – Used for foreign words and names 

Kanji (漢字) – Chinese characters representing whole words, learned gradually over time 

Starting with hiragana and katakana gives you the tools to read basic Japanese within weeks. 

Build Everyday Vocabulary 

Once you understand the scripts, focus on common words and phrases. This is a key part of how to learn Japanese quickly: 

Learn greetings, numbers, and basic phrases first 

Focus on high-frequency words used in daily conversation 

Use flashcards or spaced repetition apps to memorize vocabulary faster 

Understand Basic Grammar 

Japanese grammar works differently from English, so understanding sentence structure is essential when figuring out how to learn Japanese: 

Japanese follows a Subject-Object-Verb order, unlike English's Subject-Verb-Object 

Particles like wa, ga, wo, and ni connect words and show their role in a sentence 

Verb conjugations change based on politeness level and tense 

Practice Speaking and Listening 

Reading and writing alone won't make you fluent. An important part of how to learn Japanese is active practice: 

Speak out loud daily, even simple sentences 

Watch Japanese shows, anime, or listen to podcasts for listening practice 

Practice with native speakers or language exchange partners 

Take structured lessons with an instructor for guided feedback 

Set Goals and Track Progress 

A clear roadmap helps when thinking about how to learn Japanese long-term: 

Use the JLPT levels (N5 to N1) as milestones to track your progress 

Set small, achievable weekly goals rather than vague long-term ones 

Review regularly to reinforce what you've already learned 

Quick Recap 

Final Thoughts 

Now you have a clear roadmap for how to learn Japanese, from mastering the writing systems to practicing speaking daily. Stay consistent, celebrate small wins, and remember that fluency comes with steady practice over time, not overnight effort. 

Japan is known worldwide for its politeness and discipline, and for Indian travelers used to warmth, expressiveness, and physical closeness in daily interactions, some Japanese customs can feel refreshingly different. Here's a simple guide to help you navigate it smoothly. 

Greetings & Respect 

Bowing replaces handshakes - a slight bow shows respect, even in casual settings 

Unlike India, physical touch is minimal - no hugging, back-slapping, or handshakes with strangers 

Address people using -san after their surname (e.g., Tanaka-san), similar to using "ji" in Hindi for respect 

Direct eye contact isn't emphasized as much as it is in Indian communication 

Shoes & Homes 

Remove shoes before entering homes, temples, and some restaurants - indoor slippers are usually provided 

There's often a separate pair of slippers just for the toilet, don't mix them up! 

This concept isn't too far from Indian households where footwear is removed before entering too 

Dining Etiquette 

Say "Itadakimasu" before eating (like saying grace) and "Gochisousama" after finishing 

Slurping noodles is acceptable and even shows appreciation - unlike Indian dining norms 

Never stick chopsticks upright in rice - it resembles funeral rituals 

Tipping is not practiced in Japan, unlike in India - it can even be seen as rude 

Public Behavior 

Silence is valued on trains and buses, phone calls and loud talking are avoided 

Queuing is strict and orderly, even during rush hour, a contrast to India's more chaotic queue culture 

Littering is rare since public trash bins are limited; people usually carry waste home 

Talking loudly to strangers or unsolicited chatting is uncommon, unlike India's friendlier stranger interactions 

Gift-Giving & Business 

Gifts are given and received with both hands, similar to Indian tradition 

Wrapping matters more than the gift itself 

Business cards (meishi) are exchanged with both hands and a slight bow, never pocket it immediately 

Final Thought 

Japanese etiquette isn't about rigid rules, it's about respect, harmony, and mindfulness. For Indians, many customs like removing shoes or respecting elders will feel familiar, while others like minimal touch or silence in public may take some getting used to. A little effort goes a long way in Japan!  

Knowing the etiquette is just the start speaking the language connects you deeper. 🎌 

👉 Learn Japanese with Yoisho Academy's Live Classes beginner to fluent, guided by real instructors. 

Culture opens the door. Language walks you through it 

Frequently Asked Questions 

1. Do I really need to bow, or is a handshake okay in Japan?  Bowing is preferred and shows respect, but Japanese people are generally understanding if foreigners default to a handshake or a slight nod. When in doubt, a small bow is always safe. 

2. Is tipping considered rude in Japan?  Yes, tipping isn't practiced and can even confuse or embarrass service staff. Excellent service is considered standard, not something that requires extra payment. 

3. What's the rule with chopsticks I should never break?  Never stick chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice - it resembles a funeral ritual. Also avoid passing food directly from your chopsticks to someone else's. 

4. Why are Japanese trains and public spaces so quiet?  Silence in public is seen as respect for others' space and comfort. Phone calls and loud conversations are avoided, especially on trains and buses. 

Ikigai (生き甲斐) is a Japanese concept that roughly translates to "a reason for being" - the thing that gets you out of bed each morning. It's not a religion or strict philosophy, but a way of living rooted in Japanese culture, especially popularized by the long-living residents of Okinawa. 

What is Ikigai? 

Combines two words: iki (life) and gai (value/worth) 

Represents the intersection of purpose, passion, and daily fulfillment 

Doesn't need to be grand or career-defining, it can be as simple as gardening, cooking, or spending time with family 

Unlike Western "find your passion" culture, ikigai focuses on small, consistent joys rather than one big calling 

The Four Pillars of Ikigai 

Traditionally illustrated as overlapping circles, ikigai sits at the center of: 

What you love – your passions and interests 

What you're good at – your skills and talents 

What the world needs – purpose and contribution 

What you can be paid for – practical sustainability 

When all four align, you find true ikigai - though in daily life, even partial overlap brings meaning. 

How is Ikigai Practiced? 

Start small - ikigai isn't about drastic life changes, but noticing joy in everyday routines 

Stay active with purpose - many elderly Okinawans continue working, gardening, or teaching well into their 90s, not out of necessity but fulfillment 

Build strong community ties - social connection and contributing to others is central to ikigai 

Practice mindfulness - being present in daily tasks, rather than rushing through them 

Maintain routine and discipline - waking up with intention, even without a "big goal" 

Embrace simplicity - ikigai doesn't require wealth or fame; a fisherman, a tea ceremony master, or a grandmother knitting can all have deep ikigai 

Ikigai and Longevity 

Okinawa is part of the world's "Blue Zones" - regions with the highest concentration of centenarians 

Researchers link strong sense of purpose (ikigai) directly to lower stress, better mental health, and increased life expectancy 

Having ikigai has been associated with reduced risk of cardiovascular disease in several studies 

How to Find Your Own Ikigai 

Reflect on activities that make you lose track of time 

Ask what you'd do even if you weren't paid for it 

Notice what people thank or appreciate you for 

Don't rush, ikigai often reveals itself gradually, not overnight 

Final Thought 

Ikigai isn't a destination - it's a daily practice of aligning purpose with presence. In a world obsessed with productivity and big achievements, this quiet Japanese wisdom reminds us that meaning often lies in the small, consistent things we love doing. 🌸 

Ikigai is just one piece of Japanese life philosophy, explore more concepts like this in our blog on Japanese Concepts of Living Life.🎋 

👉 Ready to go deeper? Join Yoisho Academy's Live Classes  and learn the language behind the philosophy - beginner to fluent, guided by real instructors. 

Purpose finds you. Language lets you live it.

Frequently Asked Questions 

1. What does the word "ikigai" mean?  It combines "iki" (life) and "gai" (value or worth)  together meaning "a reason for being." It's the quiet motivation that makes daily life feel worthwhile. 

2. Do all four pillars of ikigai need to align perfectly?  No. The ideal is overlap between what you love, what you're good at, what the world needs, and what you're paid for but even partial alignment brings real meaning. Most people live fulfilling lives without hitting all four. 

3. Is ikigai only about career or work?  Not at all. Ikigai can come from hobbies, family, community, or simple daily routines it doesn't need to be tied to a job or income. 

4. Why is ikigai linked to longevity in Okinawa?  Okinawa is one of the world's Blue Zones, where people live unusually long lives. Researchers connect this to residents maintaining a strong sense of purpose well into old age, staying active rather than retiring completely. 

Have you ever thought about learning a new language? If yes, then Japanese could be one of the best choices you make this year. From career growth to better brain power, it offers real benefits, not just for fun, but for your future too.

1. Better Career Opportunities Japan has one of the largest economies in the world. Knowing Japanese can help you stand out in fields like IT, engineering, tourism, translation, and international business.

2. Stronger Brain Power Japanese is very different from English in writing, grammar, and sentence structure. Learning it pushes your brain to think in new ways, improving memory and focus over time.

3. Access to Japanese Culture Once you learn Japanese, you can enjoy anime, manga, music, and festivals like Tanabata in their original form, picking up details that get lost in translation.

4. Easier Travel in Japan Even basic Japanese makes travelling smoother. You'll read menus, ask for directions, and explore small towns where English isn't common.

5. Meet New People and Make Friends Speaking someone's language shows respect and effort. It helps you build real friendships and professional connections, both in Japan and worldwide.

6. A Gateway to Other Languages Japanese shares some features with Korean and Chinese, including parts of its writing system. Learning it can make picking up those languages easier later.

7. Stand Out in a Crowd Most learners choose Spanish, French, or German. Choosing Japanese helps you stand out on a resume, in interviews, or in academic applications.

8. Useful for Study and Research Japanese is valuable for students aiming to collaborate with Japanese researchers or pursue studies in fields like robotics, engineering, or medicine.

9. Builds Confidence and Discipline Mastering hiragana, katakana, and kanji takes patience and daily practice. As you improve, you build real confidence and discipline that carry into other areas of life.

10. It's a Fun and Rewarding Hobby Many learners find Japanese genuinely enjoyable, like solving a puzzle, where every new word or kanji feels like a small win.

Is Japanese Really Hard to Learn?

Japanese does have a different writing system and grammar than English, but it's far from impossible. In fact, some parts are simpler than people expect; for example, Japanese nouns have no genders, and there are only two basic tenses.

That's exactly where Yoisho Academy comes in. With expert instructors and live interactive classes from beginner (N5) to fluent (N1), Yoisho Academy breaks Japanese down into simple, easy steps, so what feels hard at first becomes manageable, and even enjoyable.

👉 Start learning Japanese with Yoisho Academy - live classes from beginner to fluent, guided by expert instructors. Enroll now.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is learning Japanese beneficial for Indian students?

Yes. With growing India-Japan business and education ties, Japanese-speaking Indian students have an edge in IT, engineering, and international job markets. It also opens doors to scholarships and study programs in Japan.

2. How should a beginner start learning Japanese?

Start with hiragana and katakana, then move to basic grammar and vocabulary. A structured course with live classes makes learning much easier. 

3. Can Japanese help Indian students get scholarships or study in Japan?

Yes. Many Japanese scholarships, such as MEXT, prefer or require basic Japanese skills. Knowing the language also makes daily life and university admission in Japan much easier. 

4. How long does it take for a beginner to become confident in Japanese? With regular practice, most reach the basic conversational level (N5) in a few months. Fluency (N1) usually takes a couple of years.

Japan has many meaningful festivals and one of them is Tanabata, the Star Festival Every year on July 7, Japan celebrates one of its most romantic traditions. In 2026, it falls on a Tuesday, when people across Japan write wishes, hang decorations, and look up at the night sky to honour an old love story written in the stars.

What Is Tanabata?

Tanabata means "Evening of the Seventh." Held on the seventh day of the seventh month, it comes from an old Chinese legend called Qixi, brought to Japan over a thousand years ago. Today, it's one of Japan's five major seasonal festivals, loved by people of all ages.

The Legend Behind Tanabata

Orihime, a weaving princess, fell in love with Hikoboshi, a cowherd. After marrying, they grew so happy together that they neglected their work. This angered Orihime's father, the Sky King, who separated them across the Milky Way.

Moved by Orihime's sorrow, he allowed the two to meet just once a year, on the seventh day of the seventh month. In the sky, Orihime is the star Vega and Hikoboshi is Altair. Once a year, the two stars draw close, just like lovers. But if it rains, the Milky Way swells too high for them to cross, which is why people hope for clear skies every July 7.

How People Celebrate

Tanzaku wishes: People write hopes and dreams on colourful paper strips and hang them on bamboo branches.

Bamboo decorations: Streamers, paper cranes, nets, and purses symbolise luck, peace, and prosperity.

Street festivals: Tokyo, Hiratsuka, and Sendai host major celebrations, though Sendai's famous festival happens in August, following the older lunar calendar.

Somen noodles: This cold wheat noodle, shaped like flowing threads, is the traditional Tanabata dish.

Why Tanabata Still Matters

Tanabata brings families together, connects people to nature, and celebrates hope. It also marks the start of Japan's lively summer festival season.

Celebrate Tanabata Anywhere

You don't need to be in Japan to join in:

Write a wish on paper and hang it on a plant or branch

Make simple paper decorations

Cook some noodles and share the legend with family

Look up at the night sky for Vega and Altair

Quick Facts

Date: Tuesday, July 7, 2026 (most of Japan)

Also called: Star Festival

Legend: Orihime and Hikoboshi

Food: Somen noodles

Note: Some regions celebrate in August instead

Final Thoughts

Tanabata reminds us that love, hope, and patience carry us through hard times, just as Orihime and Hikoboshi waited all year for one night together. This July 7, why not write a wish of your own?

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. When is Tanabata celebrated in 2026? Tanabata falls on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, in most parts of Japan, though some regions celebrate in August instead.

2. What is the story behind Tanabata? It's based on the legend of Orihime and Hikoboshi, two lovers separated across the Milky Way who can meet only once a year.

3. What is tanzaku? Tanzaku are colorful paper strips people write wishes on and hang on bamboo branches during Tanabata.

4. Why does rain matter on Tanabata? According to legend, rain swells the Milky Way too high for Orihime and Hikoboshi to cross, so people hope for clear skies on July 7.