Daily Life in Japan

: Free Items in Japan: Are They Really Free?

Japan is famous for small kindnesses in everyday life — from a free wet towel at restaurants to complimentary amenities at hotels. But what counts as “free,” and what comes with small rules or expectations? Here’s a clear guide so you can enjoy Japan’s freebies politely and confidently. What “Free” Usually Means in Japan Included in the service price: Items are offered as part of what you already pay for (meals, rooms, tickets). Compliments for comfort: Small extras intended to improve the experience (wet towels, water, tea, condiments). Promotional samples: Freebies given to introduce a new product (supermarkets, drugstores, ...

: Garbage Disposal in Japan: How to Separate and Throw Away Trash Properly

Japan is known for being one of the cleanest countries in the world — and that’s not by accident. Behind the spotless streets lies a detailed garbage disposal system that relies on strict sorting rules and strong community cooperation. 1. How Japan’s Waste Separation System Works For decades, Japanese communities have been separating household waste into different categories. Today, almost every city, town, and village has its own detailed rules — often summarized in a colorful chart provided to all residents. If you dispose of trash incorrectly, it may simply be left uncollected. Common Categories of Garbage Burnable (Combustible) – ...

: Rainy Season in Japan (Tsuyu): What to Expect and How to Prepare

Japan’s rainy season—known as tsuyu or baiu—is a unique early-summer period marked by steady rain, warm humidity, and the soft, muted beauty of hydrangeas. More than just a weather pattern, tsuyu subtly influences daily life, travel plans, and the overall atmosphere of June and early July in Japan. What Is Tsuyu? Tsuyu is Japan’s annual rainy season. A slow-moving seasonal rain front settles over the archipelago, creating weeks of drizzle, cloud cover, and humid air. The term tsuyu literally means “plum rain,” as this period coincides with the ripening of plums (ume) across Japan. When Does the Rainy Season ...