“Kagura” is famous for its crispy, high-quality Tonkatsu (pork cutlet). Now, their Monterey Park location has introduced a new exclusive menu item that meat lovers cannot ignore: the “Cheese-in Hamburg Steak.”
View More Kagura Monterey Park Exclusive! A Cheese Explosion: The New “Cheese-in Hamburg” Steak
In April, Japan turns pink with cherry blossoms. You might think “Hanami” is a quiet activity to admire nature, but you would be wrong. It is actually a massive national excuse to drink outside. From college students to corporate CEOs, millions of people gather in parks to drink beer and Sake from noon until night. The flowers are beautiful, but for many, the alcohol is the main event.
View More Why Is “Hanami” (Cherry Blossom Viewing) Actually a Huge Outdoor Drinking Party?
In the US, Home Economics (cooking and sewing) is often an elective class or has disappeared. In Japan, it is mandatory for everyone. From elementary to high school, boys and girls must learn how to cook, sew an apron, and manage a household budget. It is considered a basic survival skill, not a hobby.
View More Why Can Every Japanese Man Sew a Button and Cook Curry?
In early February, Japan celebrates “Setsubun” (the day before spring). Traditionally, people throw roasted soybeans out the front door shouting “Oni wa Soto! Fuku wa Uchi!” (Devils out! Luck in!). It’s a fun event where fathers often wear demon masks and let their kids throw beans at them to drive away bad spirits.
View More Why Do Japanese People Eat Sushi Silently Facing the Same Direction?
In the US, “Omakase” has become a trendy word for a fancy, expensive set menu. But the real Japanese meaning is “I leave it up to you.” It is the ultimate act of trust. You are telling the chef, “I trust your skill more than my own choice.” It’s not a fixed list of dishes; it’s a dynamic performance.
View More Why Is Your “Omakase” Not Real Omakase? (The Trust Test)
Walk into a lively Izakaya or a sushi restaurant, and the entire staff will shout “IRRASSHAIMASE!!” at the top of their lungs. Tourists often freeze, thinking the staff is angry or yelling instructions. Relax! They are simply saying “Welcome!” with high energy. It is a sign of hospitality and liveliness.
View More Why Do Shop Staff Scream at Me When I Walk In?
You want to share a piece of delicious Tempura with your friend, so you pass it from your chopsticks to theirs. STOP! This is the single biggest taboo in Japanese dining. It looks exactly like a funeral ritual where family members pass the bones of the deceased after cremation. Doing this at a dinner table horrifies Japanese people.
View More Why Did Everyone Gasp When I Passed Food with Chopsticks?
In Japan, escalators have an unwritten rule: Stand on one side, walk on the other. If you stand in the middle or on the “walking side” with your big suitcase, you will block the rush-hour traffic and get angry stares from businessmen. But here is the trap: the “Standing Side” changes depending on the city!
View More Why Do People Stand on the Left in Tokyo but Right in Osaka?
“It all started with coming here to chase my dream of forming a band with Americans, touring the world, and becoming a rock star.” Atsushi Nakagawa founded AMAZAKE CO. in Los Angeles in April 2019. He is the creator of the “Amazake Latte,” which has gained popularity at Farmers Markets in Torrance and Hollywood. How did his dream evolve? We took a closer look at his life.
View More [Japanese Interviews: Life in LA] Atsushi Nakagawa, Spreading the Wonder of “Amazake” to the World
Japan is known for its advanced technology, so tourists often assume they can use Apple Pay everywhere. However, be careful. Some specific spots—especially local Ramen shops, old Izakayas, and shops with ticket machines—might still be CASH ONLY. It is always safer to carry some yen, just in case!
View More Why Do Cashiers Refuse to Take Money Directly From Your Hand?
In the US, you sit down and wait for a server to come to you. In Japan, if you just sit there, you might wait forever. Japanese servers prioritize privacy and will not “bother” you until you call them. If you are hungry, do not wait for eye contact—you need to take action.
View More Why Do Japanese Waiters “Ignore” You Until You Call Them?
You walk into a busy restaurant, and the staff looks at you and crosses their arms in an “X” shape. Are they angry? No. In Japan, making an “X” with your arms means “Full” or “No Vacancy.” It is a quick, silent way to tell you from a distance that there are no seats available. Don’t take it personally; just look for the next place!
View More Why Do Japanese Waiters Make an “X” Sign at Me?