Alright, let’s talk about Tsukimi—also known as the Moon Viewing Festival. When I first heard about it, I was like, “Wait, Japan has a holiday for staring at the moon? That’s it?” But after living here for a few years, I’ve learned Tsukimi is a whole vibe, and there’s more to it than just sky-gazing. […]
Keirō no Hi: How Japan Does “Respect Your Elders” Right
If there’s one thing Japan gets so right, it’s knowing how to honor the elderly. As a foreign mom living here, I’ve definitely noticed how much respect the Japanese have for their older generation. But one day really stands out—Keirō no Hi (Respect for the Aged Day). If you’ve never heard of it, don’t worry, […]
Japanese Holidays: A Complete Guide for Foreigners (From a Foreign Mom Trying to Keep Up)
Living in Japan as a foreign mom is like constantly being thrown into a whirlwind of Japanese holidays, festivals, and traditions that I had absolutely no idea about before moving here. I mean, sure, I knew about cherry blossoms and maybe a few big things, but no one warned me about the real work of […]
Hoikuen vs Yochien: Essential Guide for Foreign Parents’ Survival
Picture this: It’s a typical weekday morning in Japan. Parents are bustling around, trying to get their kids ready for school. The smell of miso soup wafts through the air, and you can hear the familiar clinking of bento boxes being packed with love. Now, imagine you’re a foreign parent, new to this whole scene. […]
A Foreign Parent’s Guide to Tanabata: Embrace the Magic of Japan’s Star Festival
As a parent living abroad, immersing your children in the local culture can be both a rewarding and enriching experience. One of the most enchanting festivals in Japan is Tanabata, also known as the Star Festival. Celebrated on the 7th of July, this vibrant event is rooted in a beautiful legend and offers a unique […]
15 Best Japanese Language Learning Resources for Foreign Parents in Japan
Navigating life in Japan as a foreign parent can feel like trying to assemble IKEA furniture without instructions – challenging, frustrating, and sometimes, downright confusing. Especially when language barriers turn simple tasks into Herculean efforts. Whether you’re trying to decipher school notices or just want to have a chat with other parents at the park, […]
Breastfeeding In Public In Japan: Useful Tips for Foreign Mommies
Of course, my official position is: breastfeed whenever baby needs it, WHEREVER baby needs it. It’s amazing that our bodies get to provide all of the nourishment that our bundle of joy needs and it’s something that should be done with pride and without reservations. But if you’re a foreigner living in the country, you […]
10+ Items You Should Have in Your Hospital Bag for Giving Birth in Japan
Woah, time flies! I am now in my 34th week of pregnancy. In just a couple more weeks, I’ll be down at the hospital pushing my little miracle out! Yesterday, I finally completed packing all the items in my hospital bag for giving birth in Japan. For all the other expecting mothers reading, check out […]
A Foreign Parent’s Quick Guide to Baby Diapers in Japan
Congratulations on the new baby! Though a happy occasion, being a new mom (especially in a foreign country) can come with a lot of worries. Being confused about diapers should be the last of those. Today, let me give you a quick guide to baby diapers in Japan. Baby Diapers in Japan: Common Useful Feature […]