Q&A
Questions about life in Japan answered by those who live it
Hot Topic
7 Answers
What sakura apps / websites are you using in 2024?
What websites or Apps are you using to keep track of the bloom stages of cherry blossoms in 2024? I usually use a mix of Tenki.jp, Yahoo and Jorudan and another one that I have forgotten! (I delete them at the end of each season to free up space on my phone). I occasionally use the app from JMA, but I don't like its set up. Are there any other Apps or websites you recommend? TIA
on Mar 14
On Going
13 Answers
Best cafe outside the chains stores?
I know that cafes like Starbuck's, Tully's, and Doutor's supply a consistent cup of coffee, but I'm looking for that cafe that is mom & pop or a place that has one location that you stumbled upon and love. What's your go-to drink or what would you recommend?
on Feb 21
Questions [fashion]
4 Answers
Trousers/pants for girls with POCKETS
Hi! My daughter is starting elementary school very soon and we’re looking for pants with pockets for her to put her tissues and hand towel in. We’re already familiar with the cute detachable pockets that can be clipped on the outside, but it would be great if we could get some pants that already have pockets. I’m not opposed to her using her brother’s hand-me-downs, but they don’t tend to end their time with him in the best condition. I’m also not opposed to looking in the aisles for what is deemed boyswear, but she does like cute, pretty designs. Has anyone had any luck with this? She still takes 110 or 120 cm, depending on the shop and style of clothes. Thanks!
on Mar 19
6 Answers
Would you like me to continue?
You'll never believe this... it's now 2023 and I left Japan nearly 6 years ago. I didn't post on this site for an extremely long time. In fact, I almost forgot I had this account. Whilst I don't have a Japanese phone number anymore (which means I can't convert my points) I was wondering if anyone who sees this post would like me to continue talking about Japan? If so, what would you like me to talk about?
on Nov 25
8 Answers
Where is the best place to take Cherry Blossom photos?
Everybody is taking cherry blossom photos now, but I know of the big places like Yoyogi Park, do you have any other ideas of where are good locations to take photos with the cherry blossom trees this weekend?
on Mar 24
2 Answers
Raincoat recommendations?
I feel like rainy season will be here before we all know it, and was wondering if you have any favorite brands for raincoats. I need a couple for my kids (they've outgrown ones that relatives sent us when they were younger) and to be honest I probably should actually get one for myself, too. Sometimes just an umbrella doesn't cut it! Let me know if you have any favorites!
on Apr 25
25 Answers
Passing time wisely
I’m thinking with all this time on my hands, i think I should probably be learning something new. The only thing I can think about is buying a bike and riding off into the sunset. What are you doing to pass the time wisely? The Rosetta Stone I downloaded recently still hasn’t been opened. Oh, and they’re now offering 3 months free I think.
on Mar 31
6 Answers
Fashion Survey
Hello! I am doing a survey on fashion for college, if anyone could answer it would be amazing! -How old are you? -Where are you from? -How important is fashion for you in a scale of 1-10? -Do you have a classic style or you are more avant garde? -What issues would you like to solve, related to nowadays clothes? -Do you express yourself through your clothes? -Do you like to draw attention to you? -Do you like unique clothes or you don't care?
on Sep 28
5 Answers
Rainy Season Clothing
I've seen quick drying and rain resistant clothing intended for the rainy season in Japan, but haven't ever bought any. Do you have recommendations for work appropriate rainy season pants / trousers or other clothing?
on Apr 24
6 Answers
Second Hand Outdoor store in Tokyo
Does anyone have suggestion for Second Hand Outdoor Store in Tokyo, maybe around Shinjuku?
on Jun 11
7 Answers
Lipstick Recommendation
I am Not a makeup girl. I like chapstick, maybe one with a little color in it. That's about it. I'm a natural type and would probably get lipstick onto clothes / cups so I've just avoided using it. I've been checking out the lipstick (and tinted chapsticks) sold in drugstores (usually under/around the 1000 yen price range) but don't know anything about make up. I want to get one pink (not too bright) light feeling lipstick. Any ideas? Are they all sort of the same at that price range? Local is better, but I noticed Shiseido's are over 2000 yen each. Is it worth it? Cruelty free gets bonus points.
on Apr 11
1 Answer
Monthly family cost in Yamagata shi, Japan
Greetings, How much is required monthly (per person) to live without any worries? Including Japanese language courses. Are foreign students (elementary through university) well accepted in Yamagata schools? Many thanks!
on Jan 10
8 Answers
Maternity clothes shopping
What are your recommended places (actual shops or websites) for maternity clothes while living in Japan? I live in the countryside and the only maternity clothes available here are from Nishimatsuya or AEON. The sizes for those clothes are S M L and S/M and M/L. I'm a UK size 10/12 and have to buy the L size from both of these shops. They are basically just really baggy t shirts and baggy baggy saggy jeans :( ! The big city of Kagoshima about an hour away has a bigger AEON mall with a H&M where they have THE smallest maternity section. About 8 racks total :/ I bought 2 pairs of jeans and 2 t-shirts. The jeans were 5000¥ and the t shirts around 2000¥. The range was boring and most of the stuff aimed at older ladies. Stuff my mum would love. I want to be a cute pregnant lady ! Please give me recommendations ╰(*´︶`*)╯♡
on Feb 26