Tomoni Japan

The Japanese Dining Behaviors That Will Genuinely Shock Your Hosts

Think you know Japanese table manners? There's so much more beyond chopstick rules. From the oshibori towel to stacking dishes and soy sauce etiquette, discover the dining behaviors that genuinely shock Japanese hosts — and how to eat like a respectful guest in Japan.

Life & Culture

Japan’s JESTA Travel Authorization Explained

Japan officially approved the JESTA pre-entry authorization system on March 10, 2026, with a mandatory launch deadline of March 2029. Here's everything visa-exempt travelers need to know — fees, application steps, and who's affected.

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Dining in Japan? These Chopstick Mistakes Will Make Everyone Cringe

Planning a trip to Japan? Learn the essential chopstick etiquette rules before you go. From tate-bashi to hashi-watashi, discover which dining behaviors are considered deeply disrespectful in Japanese culture — and how to avoid them like a pro.

Life & Culture

Japan Departure Tax Increase: Creating Better Travel Experiences

Japan is increasing departure tax from ¥1,000 to ¥3,000 in 2026 to fund tourism improvements and sustainability initiatives. Learn how this change will create better travel experiences.

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Japan Visa Fee Increases: What Foreign Residents Need to Know (2025-2027)

Japan is raising visa fees dramatically. Learn about the April 2025 increases already in effect and the major 2027 hike that will bring renewal fees to ¥30,000-¥40,000 and permanent residency to ¥100,000+.

Living in Japan

2025 Japan Child Allowance Comparison by City: A Complete Guide for Foreign Residents

Compare child allowance benefits across Tokyo, Nagoya, Fukuoka, and more. Learn how foreign residents in Japan can apply and get the most from the 2025 reforms.

Administration/Institution

Complete Guide to the Differences Between Japanese Daycare and Kindergarten: For Foreign Parents Living in Japan

Understand the differences between Japanese daycare and kindergarten — age, admission, hours, curriculum, and more. Essential guide for foreign families raising children in Japan.

Living in Japan

How to Survive Japanese Gas Stations: Essential Phrases and Tips for Travelers

Learn how to use Japanese gas stations with simple phrases like "レギュラー満タンお願いします". Perfect for travelers renting a car in Japan!

Japanese

Essential Japanese Vocabulary for Renting a Home in Japan: Complete Guide for Foreigners

Learn the most important Japanese terms and phrases for renting an apartment in Japan. A complete guide for foreigners including contract words, real estate expressions, and example sentences.

Japanese

Peaks Reaching for the Sky: Japan’s Tallest Mountains Ranked

Japan, with over 70% of its land covered in mountains, boasts a multitude of stunning and majestic peaks. Among them, the mountains exceeding 3,000 meters in altitude create a breathtaking spectacle as if touching the sky, leaving a deep impression on many. Today, we will explore the ranking and characteristics of Japan’s prominent high mountains.

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