Studying Japanese is not easy. But, with enough motivation and resources, you can definitely learn at least the basics and slowly progress into fluency with actual usage. But, where does one start? I am not a language teacher, and I have mostly learned Japanese through self-study, but I want to help out beginners in getting […]
After years of putting it off, I finally took the JLPT N4 exam last July. The JLPT (Japanese Language Proficiency Test) is made up of 5 exams, from N5 (super basic) going up to N1 (fluent). This test certifies your level of fluency in Japanese which you can use for various purposes such as applying for […]
I have been on and off studying Japanese since college. I took actual lessons once (~2011) at Nihongo Foundation (Elem 3), but stopped attending because work was hectic back then. After that, I only picked up further knowledge from watching anime and Jdrama. I mentally matched the words and grammar structure to the subtitles I am […]
The Japan Foundation Manila (JFM) is organizing an Oshaberi Salon this July 8 for Tanabata! The Oshaberi Salons are different “Japanese-speaking” activities where Nihongo enthusiasts can freely join and practice their Japanese. To be honest, I have never attended one session (because I get intimidated by those who speak good Japanese), but to those of you […]
Don’t we all wish we live in Japan? Unfortunately, most of us don’t. Fortunately, the Internet helps bridge that gap to a certain extent. Here are 5 YouTube channels you should follow to keep the Japanophile in you alive! 1. JPCMHD (Japanese Commercials in HD) – Japan is so unique and creative in so many ways, that […]
I’m going to start off my series of Japan Travel posts with some essential Japanese phrases that would be good for you to know (and hopefully use), when you are traveling to Japan. I am not an expert in Japanese, but I have on-and-off studied Japanese formally and by myself since high school (more self […]