Learn Japanese Online - JOI Teachers blog

Learn Japanese vocabulary, Kanji and phrases with this free blog with a YouTube video for audio learning, vocabulary lists and English Translation !
Every week, a professional Japanese teacher posts a new blog .

Previous blog archives from 2006 - mid-February 2014.

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Seasonal stories

Japanese seasons are part of the country's culture, folklore and traditions. The four seasons are observed diligently and many linguistic and social terms are based on this aspect of Japan.


Japanese Event in May If you happen to journey through Japan during the month of May, you will undoubtedly be met with a stunning spectacle of vibrant streamers adorning the rivers and residences throughout the country. For a more comprehensive understanding of the origins and significance of this tradition, please refer to Yamamoto Sensei's blog post found here. 端午の節句Boys' Day Celebration...
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The Arita ceramic fair The Arita Ceramic Fair is one of the most renowned events taking place in Kyushu during the Golden Week period. To learn more, read this language blog authored by Japanese teacher, Hiroshi Yamamoto. *The photo of Arita-yaki ceramics featured in this blog are from the personal collection of Yamamoto sensei. 陶磁器市Ceramic fair By YAMAMOTO Hiroshi  今週は陶磁器市 を紹...
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Grain Rain Japan is a land of agriculture. In days past, a large percentage of the population was engaged in farm work. Nowadays, some of the old phrases and seasons that are attached to this culture are being forgotten. But Yamamoto sensei brings back some of this traditional knowledge with his short blogs! 穀雨Grain Rain By YAMAMOTO Hiroshi  今週は「穀雨」を紹介します。  穀雨とは4月20日頃に降る、温かい雨...
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Migratory birds in Japan Do you have migratory birds in your country? In Japan, one of the most famous is the swallow or Tsubame. Yamamoto sensei introduces this season's mysterious occurence. ツバメが来る The swallows are coming By YAMAMOTO Hiroshi  今週は「ツバメが来る」を紹介します。  ツバメとは日本で有名な渡り鳥です。  毎年4月の初めの頃、オーストラリアやフイリピンなどの南の国から、日本に来ます。 よく、人が住んでいる家の玄関に巣を作ります。 ツバメは次の年もその場所を覚えていて、同じ家の玄関に来るそうで...
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Juusanmairi the 13th shrine visit There are many rites of passage ceremonies in Japan.Many revolve around the visiting of shrines wearing traditional clothes.Yamamoto explains a little-known one here below. 十三参りJuusanmairi the 13th shrine visit By YAMAMOTO Hiroshi  今週は「十三参り」を紹介します。  子供が大人に近づき13歳になった時に、知恵の神様にお願いをして、知恵をもらう行事です。 4月13日頃に行う所が多いです。  女の子は少し大きな大人の着物を着て神社に行きます。 また、子供の...
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