Tips for More Effective Studying
Nihongo Online School > Tips for More Effective Studying
The Real Pros and Cons of Studying in Japan as a Foreign Student
2025/06/26
Studying in Japan is a dream for many. The image of ancient temples next to modern skyscrapers, anime, polite people, ultra-punctual trains, and cherry blossoms gives this country a magnetic charm. But once the dream becomes reality, you face an experience far more complex — and enriching — than what postcards or Instagram reels usually […] […]
How to Say Hello in Japanese: A Complete Guide to Greetings for Every Situation
2025/06/24
Learning how to greet people properly in Japanese is essential for anyone studying the language or planning to interact with Japanese speakers. Japanese greetings, known as aisatsu (挨拶), go far beyond simply saying “hello” – they reflect respect, social hierarchy, and cultural values that are deeply embedded in Japanese society. This comprehensive guide will teach […] […]
Complete Guide to Japanese Letters: Understanding Hiragana, Katakana, and Kanji
2025/06/24
The Japanese writing system is one of the most complex in the world, combining three distinct scripts: hiragana, katakana, and kanji. For learners beginning their journey with Japanese, understanding these different letter systems is essential for reading, writing, and comprehending the language effectively. This comprehensive guide will walk you through each writing system, providing complete […] […]
Actual Cost of Studying in Japan for Foreign Students (Tuition, Housing, Living)
2025/06/16
Director: Maximiliano MoyaDigital Marketing at Nihongo Online SchoolMaximiliano is passionate about digital marketing and intercultural communication. He has been living in Japan since 2022, continuously improving his Japanese and exploring new opportunities in the digital world. At Nihongo Online School, he contributes to marketing strategy and content creation for the blog, helping expand the school’s […] […]
Japanese Writing Systems : Hiragana, Katakana & Kanji Explained
2025/06/15
Japanese uses four writing systems: hiragana, katakana, kanji and romaji. Each script has a distinct role, a specific visual style, and a clear place in every sentence. This guide covers the Japanese language writing system from the ground up: how each script works, when it’s used, and how to learn it efficiently. Contents1 What Are […] […]
Japanese Greetings – Essential Phrases, Meanings & When to Use Them
2025/06/15
Mastering Japanese greetings is crucial for anyone learning the language or planning to visit Japan. Greetings are very important and taught from early childhood in Japan, with school kids greeting every passing student of a higher grade as a sign of respect. Understanding when and how to use different greeting phrases will help you navigate […] […]
JLPT N3 or N4 – Which Level Should You Take? Complete Decision Guide
2025/06/13
Deciding which level to take between JLPT N3 and N4 requires careful consideration of your study timeline, academic/career goals, and current Japanese proficiency. This guide examines the key differences between N4 and N3, compares study requirements and timelines, and provides honest advice to help you determine which level aligns with your objectives. Contents1 JLPT N4 […] […]
Can You Take JLPT N4 Without N5? Requirements, Tips & Study Strategy
2025/06/13
Many Japanese learners wonder whether they should progress through each JLPT level sequentially or skip directly to their target level. A common question is “can you take N4 without N5?” The answer is yes, and experienced test-takers often recommend jumping straight to N4 for better time and cost efficiency. This comprehensive guide explains how to […] […]
40 Common Japanese Sayings: Wisdom for Daily Life and Business
2025/06/09
Japanese sayings, or kotowaza (ことわざ), offer profound insights into Japanese culture while providing practical wisdom for everyday situations. These time-honored expressions have been passed down through generations, encapsulating values like perseverance, humility, and respect that define Japanese society. Whether you’re learning Japanese, working with Japanese colleagues, or simply interested in cultural wisdom, understanding these sayings […] […]
How Long Does It Take to Learn Japanese on Average?
2025/06/08
Learning Japanese is one of the most rewarding linguistic journeys an English speaker can undertake, and one of the longest. The US Foreign Service Institute (FSI) classifies it as its hardest language category, but how long does it take to learn Japanese really depends on your goals, your daily habits, and how smart your method […] […]
Switching from working holiday to student visa in Japan | Complete guide
2025/06/05
If you’re currently in Japan on a Working Holiday Visa and considering extending your stay through education, switching to a Student Visa might be the perfect solution. This guide covers everything you need to know about making the transition from a Working Holiday visa to a Student visa smoothly. We’ll walk you through the timing, […] […]
Basic Japanese Phrases: Essential Guide for Beginners to Business
2025/06/01
Learning Japanese phrases is your gateway to connecting with Japanese culture and people. Whether you’re planning a trip to Japan, starting to learn the language, or preparing for work in a Japanese environment, mastering these essential phrases will boost your confidence and help you navigate various situations. This comprehensive guide provides 85 carefully selected phrases […] […]
