Japan, Explained a Little Deeper.

Language, culture, travel — and the little things Japan doesn’t always explain.

Stories, Lessons & Tips from Japan

Learn the Japanese you actually hear, understand the culture behind everyday life, and discover Tokyo through the places I know.

Japanese Language • Culture • Tokyo • Travel

Motokyo 10/6/26 Motokyo 10/6/26

What Would Your Name Look Like in Japanese Kanji?

What would your name look like in Japanese Kanji? Learn how Ateji combines sound and meaning to create unique Kanji names—and see real examples including Andrew, Sara, Eric, and Michael.

Motokyo 9/28/26 Motokyo 9/28/26

Japanese Particles Explained Simply: は, が, の, を, に, で

Japanese particles don’t have to be confusing. Learn how は, が, の, を, に, and で work with super simple examples, then test yourself with a beginner particle quiz.

Motokyo 9/23/26 Motokyo 9/23/26

How to Start Learning Japanese: A Simple Beginner Roadmap

Want to learn Japanese but not sure where to begin? Here’s a simple step-by-step roadmap to help you start with hiragana, build the basics, and begin using real Japanese.