Japanese Convenience Stores: More Than Just a Store
10/29/2026
Culture
Student life
In Japanese, convenience stores are called konbini (コンビニ), a shortened form of the English phrase “convenience store.” For many people living in Japan, konbini are simply part of everyday life.
What Can You Do at a Konbini?
Of course, you can buy food and drinks at a convenience store, such as onigiri, sandwiches, bento boxes, snacks, and coffee. But Japanese convenience stores offer much mo…
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Do Japanese Restaurants Provide “Oshibori”?
10/06/2026
Culture
When you visit a restaurant or izakaya in Japan, an “oshibori” (wet towel) is often served before you order your food. Since wet towels are rarely provided at restaurants in other countries, this might seem unusual to foreign visitors coming to Japan for the first time. However, it is a completely normal practice for Japanese people.
What Is an Oshibori?
An oshibori is a small towel used to …
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“Wait… Really?!” Japan: The Country Where Your Lost Wallet Can Come Back
09/17/2026
Culture
News
Student life
"You can lose your wallet in Japan and still get it back."
Have you ever heard this before?
If not, you might be thinking, "Seriously? Is that actually possible?"
In many countries, including the Americas and parts of Europe, people often assume that once they lose their wallet, it's gone for good. Of course, there are kind people everywhere, and sometimes a lost wallet is returned. But m…
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Why Doesn’t Japanese “Arigatou” Contain the Word “I”?
09/09/2026
Culture
"Arigatou" (Thank you) is one of the very first words that students learn when they begin studying Japanese. But have you ever thought about what this word really means? In English, we usually say "Thank you" or "I appreciate it." These expressions clearly show the speaker's feelings: I am thanking you.
What Does "Arigatou" Really Mean?
Japanese offers a slightly different perspective.
Th…
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Fukuoka: A Premier Learning Hub in Japan🏫
09/03/2026
Culture
Student life
“I want to study in Japan！”
“I want to build my future and skills here.”
If you’ve ever had these thoughts, which city would you choose?While many first think of Tokyo, Osaka, or Kyoto, learners are turning their attention to Fukuoka—home to NILS.
Known for its convenient transportation, proximity to major Asian cities, and a rich balance of history and modern living, Fukuoka is also a t…
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🍁 5 Things International Students Should Know About Japanese Food Culture
08/25/2026
Culture
～From Table Manners to Delicious Foods to Enjoy in Autumn～
When you live in Japan, you can experience Japanese culture through everyday meals. Japan has not only its own table manners, but also a food culture that celebrates each season.
Here are five things about Japanese food culture that we would like foreign residents to know!
① Saying “Itadakimasu” and “Gochisosama”
In Japan, peop…
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Why Japanese Daycare Centers Are Admired Around the World
07/13/2026
Culture
Student life
Uncategorized
Vocabulary
Have you ever heard that Japanese children are polite, independent, and responsible from a very young age? Or perhaps you've seen videos online showing young children in Japan cleaning up after themselves, serving lunch, or traveling to school on their own. One of the reasons behind these impressive qualities can be found in the daily routines and educational philosophy of Japanese daycare centers…
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JLPT Exam Day
07/07/2026
Culture
JLPT
Student life
Vocabulary
【Gathering Earlier Due to Heavy Rain During the Rainy Season】
July 5th was the day of the JLPT (Japanese-Language Proficiency Test). The JLPT is an important examination that measures learners' overall Japanese ability, including vocabulary, grammar, reading, and listening skills.
For international students, it is a very important day because the results can affect their future education and…
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Tanabata Festival: Experiencing a Traditional Japanese Summer at NILS
07/03/2026
Culture
Student life
Tanabata is celebrated on July 7 throughout Japan. People write their wishes on small strips of paper called tanzaku and hang them on bamboo branches, hoping their dreams will come true. Japan has many seasonal traditions, and being able to experience them firsthand is one of the unique and rewarding parts of studying in Japan.
Tanabata Festival at NILS
As part of our annual Tanabata celebra…
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What Is Japan’s Rainy Season Like?
06/04/2026
Culture
Japan is known for its four distinct seasons, but one period that many international visitors find especially unique is the rainy season, called tsuyu (梅雨). This rainy period occurs between spring and summer and usually lasts from June to July.
If you are thinking about traveling to or studying in Japan, you may wonder, “Won’t it be difficult if it rains so much?” While the weather can be wet a…
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