Learn essential Japanese phrases for your trip. Use Konnichiwa (こんにちは) for “Hello.” Say Arigatou Gozaimasu (ありがとうございます) to mean “Thank you.” Use Sumimasen (すみません) for “Excuse me.” Request items with O Kudasai (をください), meaning “I would like, please.” Ask “Where is __?” with Wa Doko Desu Ka? (はどこですか). Another useful phrase is “Sumimasen,” which means “Excuse … Read more
Mitsubishi, Nakajima, Hitachi, and the Japanese Navy made warplanes in Japan in 1940. The most famous aircraft was the Zero fighter, which first flew in April 1939. It became a key symbol of Japanese air power in World War II. From 1940 to 1945, they produced over 10,000 Zeros. These companies contributed to Japan’s military … Read more
The top cities to visit in Japan are Tokyo, known for its vibrant culture; Kyoto, famous for its temples and gardens; and Osaka, recognized for its delicious food. Other important cities include Fukuoka, Hiroshima, and Yokohama. For a different experience, explore rural areas such as Takayama and Hokkaido. Hiroshima, a city with a poignant history, … Read more
The film “Isle of Dogs” is set in the fictional Japanese city of Megasaki. In this story, Mayor Kenji Kobayashi exiles all dogs to Trash Island because of a canine influenza pandemic. This setting is essential for exploring themes of loyalty and friendship throughout the film. Culturally, Isle of Dogs highlights various aspects of Japanese … Read more
In the late 19th century, Japan took over Taiwan after the First Sino-Japanese War (1894-95). This war started over control of Korea. The conflict marked Japan’s rise as a modern military power. Taiwan became Japan’s first colony, showing its expansionist goals during this time. Following this conflict, the Treaty of Shimonoseki in 1895 formalized Japan’s … Read more
Direct flights from several US cities to Tokyo, Japan, include Los Angeles (LAX) to Narita (NRT), Honolulu (HNL) to Narita (NRT), San Francisco (SFO) to Narita (NRT), Seattle (SEA) to Narita (NRT), and Houston (IAH) to Narita (NRT). Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) connects travelers directly to Tokyo’s Narita International Airport (NRT) and Haneda Airport … Read more
{The Tokugawa Shogunate (1603-1868) brought internal peace and political stability to Japan. It limited class mobility among warriors, farmers, artisans, and merchants. The samurai became a bureaucratic class. This led to economic growth but created a frozen social order that affected society for generations.} Culturally, the Tokugawa Shogunate encouraged the development of unique art forms, … Read more
On August 12, 1985, Japan Airlines Flight 123 crashed due to structural failure and decompression shortly after takeoff. Contributing factors included human error, miscommunication with air traffic control, and pilot impairment from alcohol. A Coast Guard plane was awaiting clearance on the runway during the incident. Safety flaws in aircraft systems also play a significant … Read more
Cameras like the Canon EOS R5, Nikon D800, and Sony mirrorless models capture great atmospheric pictures in Japan. Locations like Enoshima Island and Fushimi Inari Taisha offer stunning backdrops. Choose the right lens and keep an eye on weather conditions for the best results. Wear gloves for comfort during cold shoots. In addition to gear, … Read more
You can borrow cultural resources like texts, posters, and periodicals from the Japan Information Center at the Chicago Consulate of Japan. These items support educators and organizations in promoting cultural understanding. Ask about the specific borrowing process to know what is available. Additionally, the consulate offers information about scholarships for study in Japan. These scholarships … Read more