Category: Life in Japan

  • How I Got My Caregiver Job in Japan

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    From Chicago nurse to Gifu caregiver — this is how I found my first caregiving job in Japan. It wasn’t easy, but it became one of the most meaningful choices of my life.

    Written by

    Genevieve G.
    Sunrise over the Meoto Iwa sacred rocks connected by a Shinto rope in Japan, symbolizing harmony and new beginnings.

  • Ramen Dates in Gifu, Vol. 1 — Nageyari’s Famous Pork & Seafood Bowl

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    One of our favorite weekend traditions is what I like to call our “ramen date.”No fancy plans — just me and my husband going out to slurp noodles somewhere new. This time, we finally tried Nageyari (なげやり) — a well-known ramen shop in Gifu City that’s often featured on YouTube and Japanese TV shows. It’s…

    Written by

    Genevieve G.
    A steaming bowl of ramen from Nageyari in Gifu, topped with thick slices of char siu pork, seasoned egg, spinach, bamboo shoots, and seaweed in a rich pork-and-seafood broth.

  • A Morning at 251 Café – Simple, Cozy, and Worth the Wait

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    Hidden in Gifu, 251 Café (ニコイチカフェ) offers a warm and minimalist space perfect for slow mornings. Enjoy a beautiful Morning Set with croissant, salad, and latte — simple, cozy, and worth the wait.

    Written by

    Genevieve G.
    The wooden exterior of 251 Café in Gifu, with black metal letters and a small olive tree in front, creating a warm and rustic welcome.

  • Understanding “気分転換 (Kibun Tenkan)” — The Japanese Art of Refreshing the Mind

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    In Japan, kibun tenkan means taking a gentle pause to refresh your mood. Through my caregiving work and daily life, I’ve learned that even a small moment — a walk, a cup of tea, a quiet breath — can change everything.

    Written by

    Genevieve G.
    A person sits alone on a park bench surrounded by blooming cherry blossoms under the spring sunlight.

  • Osewa ni Natte Orimasu” Meaning and Usage — How to Use Japan’s Polite Expression of Gratitude

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    In Japan, you’ll often hear the phrase “Osewa ni natte orimasu.” It’s more than just “thank you” — it reflects gratitude, humility, and the value of human connection. Here’s what it really means and how to use it naturally in daily life and work.

    Written by

    Genevieve G.
    A peaceful bronze Buddha statue seated on a lotus pedestal surrounded by green pine trees at a Japanese temple garden, symbolizing serenity and mindfulness.

  • Understanding “Otsukaresama Desu”: A Small Phrase That Holds Japan’s Heart

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    When I first started working in Japan, I noticed one phrase floating around the workplace more than any other: “Otsukaresama desu.” People said it so often—after meetings, after lunch, even in the middle of the day. At first, I wasn’t sure what it really meant. But over time, I realized that this simple phrase carries…

    Written by

    Genevieve G.
    A man wearing a white shirt rests inside a parked car with a towel over his eyes, taking a nap after work.

  • Why Tipping Doesn’t Belong in Japan: Culture, Values, and What It Means for the Future

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    In many countries, tipping is polite—even necessary. But in Japan, leaving extra money on the table isn’t just unusual—it can cause confusion. The Japanese approach to service is rooted in pride, fairness, and omotenashi (hospitality without expectation). In this article, I’ll share why tipping isn’t part of Japanese culture, when it might be acceptable, and…

    Written by

    Genevieve G.
    no tipping sign

  • Experiencing Japanese Hospitality at Work – Tea Time and Omotenashi

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    Omotenashi, often translated as “Japanese hospitality,” is more than service—it’s a mindset of thoughtfulness, respect, and anticipating needs. My first true experience with omotenashi happened not at a restaurant or hotel, but at work, during a training session. That moment shaped the way I see Japanese culture, and even how I approach my own role…

    Written by

    Genevieve G.
    A smiling woman dressed in traditional Japanese attire, welcoming guests with a respectful gesture beside a beautifully arranged tea set, embodying the spirit of omotenashi.

  • Love Across Cultures: My Marriage with a Japanese Husband

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    I never expected that downloading a simple language exchange app would lead me to marriage. What began as casual conversations—me practicing Japanese, him practicing English—slowly grew into late-night talks, laughter, and a bond that crossed cultures. Our journey hasn’t always been easy; from learning to express affection in different ways to adjusting to daily habits…

    Written by

    Genevieve G.
    A smiling couple posing in front of the iconic Glico Running Man sign in Dotonbori, Osaka at night. The background glows with colorful neon lights and a lively crowd, capturing the energy of the city’s nightlife.

  • Masks, Manners, and Everyday Politeness: My Adjustment

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    Moving to Japan meant more than just learning a new language and adapting to a new place—it meant learning a new rhythm of daily life shaped by masks, manners, and small acts of politeness. From quiet trains to the way we hand money at the cashier, every gesture carries meaning. This is the story of…

    Written by

    Genevieve G.
    Person in a straw hat bowing deeply on the floor in front of a sword, evoking traditional Japanese respect and discipline