Traditions & Customs
Food & Drink
Language & Phrases
Arts & Entertainment
Places & Pop Culture
100

The traditional gesture used to show respect, gratitude, and apology in Japan.

Bow/Bowing


100

Raw fish dish, often served with rice, one of Japan’s most famous foods worldwide.

Sushi

100

This Japanese word means “thank you” and is often followed by “gozaimasu” for extra politeness.

Arigatou

100

Japanese art form involves folding paper into shapes like cranes and flowers.

Origami

100

 This city is Japan’s capital and the most populous city in the world.

Tokyo

200

An annual springtime tradition involves enjoying the beauty of blooming cherry blossoms with picnics in parks.

Hanami

200

Traditional Japanese soup made from fermented soybean paste and often includes tofu and seaweed.

Miso Soup

200

 This phrase, meaning “excuse me” or “I’m sorry,” is also used when trying to get someone’s attention.

Sumimasen

200

Traditional Japanese theater style features elaborate costumes, exaggerated movements, and painted faces.

Kabuki

200

Known for its historic temples and geisha culture, this city was Japan’s capital before Tokyo.

Kyoto

300

 In Japanese homes, it is customary to remove these before entering to keep the living space clean.

Shoes/Sandals/Slippers

300

Green powdered tea used in Japanese tea ceremonies and has become popular in lattes and desserts.

Matcha

300

Japanese has three writing systems. This one is used for foreign words and names.

Katakana

300

Type of animated film or series  and is one of Japan’s most famous modern cultural exports.

Anime

300

This iconic mountain is Japan’s highest peak and a symbol of national identity.

Mount Fuji

400

An expression said before eating to show appreciation for the food and those who prepared it.

Itadakimasu

400

Slurping this type of Japanese noodle is not only acceptable but also considered a compliment to the chef.

Ramen Noodles

400

This greeting means “good morning” and is often used before noon.

Ohayou Gozaimasu

400

The traditional Japanese art of calligraphy, where artists use brush and ink to write characters in a visually expressive and aesthetically pleasing way.

Shodō (書道)

400

Fast Japanese train known for its speed, safety, and punctuality.

Shinkansen

500

The concept of selfless hospitality deeply rooted in Japanese culture and focuses on anticipating guests’ needs.

Omotenashi

500

 Japanese boxed meal often includes rice, fish or meat, and vegetables, and is popular for lunch.

Bento Box

500

 This Japanese term literally means “let’s eat” and is traditionally said before a meal.

Itadakimasu

500

This globally recognized animation studio produced hits like Spirited Away and My Neighbor Totoro.

Studio Ghibli

500

 Japanese video game company created characters like Mario, Link, and Donkey Kong.

 Nintendo

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