Seeking Japan’s 72 seasons in London
As I write, it is the fifty-third of Japan’s 72 seasons – “tachibana citrus tree leaves start to turn yellow.” This seasons runs from December 2nd to… Read More »Seeking Japan’s 72 seasons in London
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Japanese culture
To bow or not to bow? Japan business meeting etiquette
How you conduct yourself in a business meeting with potential Japanese partners can go a long way towards making a favourable impression. Respectful conduct is… Read More »To bow or not to bow? Japan business meeting etiquette
Letters, emails, and the Japanese weather
At WeDoJapan we are often asked to help translate business letters and emails, or to communicate with Japanese companies on behalf of our UK clients.… Read More »Letters, emails, and the Japanese weather
“Reading the mackerel”
Idioms and proverbs are windows into a country’s culture, illustrating its history and mores. Context and imagery can be culturally-specific, and require careful translation. Otherwise,… Read More »“Reading the mackerel”
KitKat’s Big Japan Break
The opening of the first new KitKat factory in Japan for 26 years made global news earlier this summer. The snack is now Japan’s biggest… Read More »KitKat’s Big Japan Break
Who needs Cool Japan?
Would you expect a French fan of British sports cars to love Cath Kidson bags? Or how about a Chinese Scotch aficionado? Would they be… Read More »Who needs Cool Japan?
Japanese business card do’s and don’ts
Japanese business cards are an absolute essential for anyone doing business in Japan – as basic as a business suit in most situations. You will… Read More »Japanese business card do’s and don’ts
Specialist Japanese goods online
The Japanese attention to detail and quality is famous. A huge variety of interesting and beautifully made goods are sold in Japan, and are often… Read More »Specialist Japanese goods online
The Chiiori Project
Writing this article back in 2003 was my first chance to interview Alex Kerr, author of two fantastic books on Japan: Lost Japan and Dogs… Read More »The Chiiori Project
21st Century Samurai: Somanomaoi Festival
The Somanomaoi festival in Minamisoma, Fukushima was one of the last stories I covered before we moved back to the UK last summer. It’s an… Read More »21st Century Samurai: Somanomaoi Festival