Japan

We knew Japan was a country with many different traditions and philosophies of life, but our visit enlightened us as we realised how many of these traditions have an inspiring simplicity which, in a strange way, reminded us of home — Italia.

JapanCheatsheet

A bunch of useful, and interesting facts, visible at a glance

Official website for visa and e-visa

Capital

Tokyo

Population

125,700,000

Languages

Japanese, English (moderately spoken in cities and tourist areas)

Life Expectancy

84.6 years

Currencies

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Dishes to Look Out For

Ramen Tonkotsu
Tempura
Okonomiyaki
Tonkatsu
Natto
Unagi no Kabayaki
Yuba

Basic phrases

こんにちは (Konnichiwa)- Hello / Good afternoon
おはようございます (Ohayou gozaimasu)- Good morning (polite)
こんばんは (Konbanwa)- Good evening
ありがとう (Arigatou)- Thank you
いただきます (Itadakimasu)- Said before eating (Bon appétit)
おいしい (Oishii)- Delicious
お元気ですか？ (Ogenki desu ka?)- How are you?
やあ (Yā)- Hey (very casual)
Bow (おじぎ / Ojigi)- Used instead of or alongside verbal greetings; the angle and depth show respect

Favourite Co-working Space(s) & Why

WeWork Shibuya Scramble Square, TokyoHigh-rise views and ood amenities

Nagatacho GRiD, TokyoCreative hub with frequent events and a socially conscious atmosphere

Articles from Japan

Culture

June 15, 2025

Goshuin stamps. An artistic and spiritual ritual in Japan