Japanese folklore
06/13/2025
Uncategorized
In Japan, it is said that it is auspicious for migratory swallows to build nests under the eaves of a house. The other day, I went to a pasta restaurant with my son. After sitting at the table and placing my order on the touch screen, I looked up and caught a glimpse of something black on my right. Looking out the window, I saw a swallow's nest with several swallow chicks. As I stared at the swall…
Read More
Future Paths for International Students After Graduating from Japanese Language Schools
06/10/2025
Uncategorized
Hello! Today, I would like to introduce the future paths available to international students after graduating from Japanese language schools.After studying Japanese at a language school, many students think about their next step in Japan. What options are available? In this blog, I will introduce three of the most popular paths.________________________________________1. Entering a Vocational Schoo…
Read More
Hiking Mount Hōman: Fukuoka’s Spiritual Escape
06/03/2025
Uncategorized
Hey there! Today, let me take you on a journey to Mount Hōman (Hōmanzan), a beloved mountain that stretches across Dazaifu and Chikushino in Fukuoka Prefecture. At 829.6 meters, it’s not the tallest peak out there—but don’t let that fool you. This mountain has been a sacred site for Shugendō (Japanese mountain asceticism) since ancient times, and to this day, it draws hikers and worshippers year-r…
Read More
New students Interview
05/23/2025
Uncategorized
Aidan Joseph Comstock from USA
why did you come to Japan?
-When I was kid, I saw a Japanese movie, and I really, really liked it, and it made me fall in love with everything Japanese. People and culture and food. Why my reason for coming.
How did you find NILS Annex?
-My mother's friend’s friend came to NILS Annex. And recommended that I come here for my Japanese studies, so that's why…
Read More
The Importance of Taking Notes
05/15/2025
Uncategorized
When studying Japanese, you have to learn a lot of vocabulary (new words) and grammar. To do that, writing your own notes is very important. When you write notes, you can remember things better than just looking or listening. Writing helps organize your thoughts. It also makes it clear what you already know and what you still don’t understand. For example, when you write a new word in your noteboo…
Read More
Welcoming ceremony
05/08/2025
Student life
Uncategorized
On April 25, 2025, we held a welcoming ceremony for the new students.We were able to meet 60 new students.The atmosphere in the venue was bright and calm, fitting for the beginning of their new learning journey.
The ceremony began with individual self-introductions, followed by a greeting from the principal.Although some students struggled with words, the way they expressed their names and coun…
Read More
Kawachi Fuji Garden: A Breathtaking Spring Destination
05/07/2025
Culture
News
Student life
Located in Yahatahigashi Ward, Kitakyushu City, Fukuoka Prefecture, Kawachi Fuji Garden is renowned for its enchanting wisteria flowers. From late April to mid-May, the garden is in full bloom, showcasing 22 varieties of wisteria in a stunning array of colors.
Spectacular Wisteria Tunnels and Grand Pergola
The garden's main attractions are its two wisteria tunnels, measuring 80 and 110 meter…
Read More
Yanagawa Sightseeing
04/24/2025
Uncategorized
River Cruising
River cruising in Yanagawa City, Fukuoka Prefecture, offers a charming experience as you glide through historic canals built during the Edo period in a small boat. With the town once flourishing as a castle town, the scenery from the water’s edge feels as if time has stood still. The skilled boatmen navigate with traditional poles, adding local folk songs and humorous storytellin…
Read More
Voices from NILS Annex
04/17/2025
Student life
We had interviews to students in NILS Annex. Let’s see what students feel about school and circumstances!
1. Sizgin from Turkey
Hello, my name is Sizgin. I’ve been here in NILS Annex for 2 years. I can assume, like everyone who wants to visit the school and improve his language abilities in Japanese, come visit the school. You can improve drastically in the two years. There are many differen…
Read More
Koinobori (Carp Streamers)
04/10/2025
Culture
Koinobori are traditional wind streamers displayed at Japanese homes to celebrate Children’s Day on May 5th every year. This day is especially recognized as a celebration of boys' growth, and koinobori are widely cherished as a symbol of this occasion. These carp-shaped streamers carry deep historical and symbolic meanings, making them popular as gifts and commemorative items, often passed down th…
Read More