want to impress your Japanese friends?
Feb 17, 2025 3:46 am
Konnichiwa from the Japan Switch Team!
Japanese people are often very warm and receptive to non-Japanese folks demonstrating an awareness or interest in Japanese culture. Oftentimes, they're outright surprised that internationals are familiar with culinary classics like ohagi (a red bean and rice sweet) or can namedrop Japanese comedians or variety shows like the famous Gaki no Tsukai new year batsu (punishment) game.
Let's dive into a few articles that will beef up your Japanese cultural knowledge outside of just the otaku stuff!
Top 17 Unique Dishes in Japanese Cuisine
Whether you're a meat-lover, looking for a good seafood fix, or wondering what the vegan-friendly options are - we've got you covered. We asked some of the staff from Japan Switch and came up with a list of dishes sure to satisfy (or intrigue)! During our questioning, shirako, or what you might know as fish semen, was mentioned more than a few times... Apparently, it's delicious.
Ultimate Guide to Japanese Pop Culture
Now if you really want to show that you're knowledgeable, dive into the must-know movies, music, and fashion trends over the years that Japan is famous for! From lolita fashion to the music of Shiina Ringo and Tokyo Jihen to classic films like Battle Royale and beyond!
Ultimate Guide to Japan's Batsu Game
You may have seen a few clips of these on Youtube! Batsu games are Japan's hilarious "punishment games" where participants have to endure certain punishments for losing games, such as being spanked with a paddle or having to eat scalding hot ramen! What you may not know is that these aren't simply for television. In fact, university students even have their own version such as the "poisoned takoyaki" game. This involves a tray of the beloved octopus balls with one being injected with copious amounts of wasabi. Everyone picks a ball and one unlucky participant... Well, you get the idea. Read on to learn more about Japan's batsu games!
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 website here.
Your Friends,
The Japan Switch Team
