Akemashite omedetou (Happy New Year) from the Japan Switch Team!

We're here again... and January does this every year.

You don’t say it out loud, but you feel it, right?

In the back of your mind, something says, “I should probably be better at Japanese by now.”

Not perfect, but more able to handle things without second-guessing yourself.

But another year passes. Conversations still move faster than you expect. You still hesitate. You still understand what was said… just a little too late.

The problem is that most New Year resets focus on studying more, not actually being able to use Japanese.

So this year, we’re skipping the dramatic promises and focusing on practical ways to get you leveling up!

Let's dive in!

Ultimate Guide to Homestays in Japan

If you're learning Japanese, wouldn't it be great to have someone to practice with who speaks English (or even your native tongue)? How about having someone who actually knows the lesser traveled roads and the side of the city tourists don't see? Read on to find out what to know before you book a homestay and some of our favorite providers!

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Ultimate Guide to Tokyo Ryokan + The Top 12!

If you have your heart set on a private onsen and a little more of a traditional experience in Japan, ryokan are where you want to be. Enjoy meals consisting of several courses of local Japanese delicacies, soak in the healing onsen waters with your partner or family in privacy, and immerse yourself in the serene ambiance that only a Tokyo ryokan can offer!

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Ultimate Guide to Karuta (Japanese Card Game)

If you've ever seen the anime 'Chihayafuru,' you know what's up! If you haven't, it's a great addition to your watchlist that introduces you to a piece of Japanese culture that most people wouldn't know about: Karuta. It's a matching card game at heart but it's also a phenomenal way to practice your reading. There are even versions for children which help them learn hiragana which you can play with friends or classmates.

Read Now!

Side note: If you're serious about visiting or living in Japan, check out Japan Switch's affordable online and offline Japanese lessons and make sure you're ready to make the most of your time here!

For more information or other updates and tips on life in Japan, be sure to check out our blog here.

Your Friends,

The Japan Switch Team