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11 Things in Japan That Surprised Me As a Filipino
I came to Japan in the spring of 2011 when my sister who lives in Japan invited me for a month-long spring vacation. During my stay (and even up to now) there are several things that surprised me. 11. There are many elderlies. It is a known fact that Japan is an aging country. When…
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10 Differences Between Elementary Schools in Japan and the Philippines
1. Teachers in Japan do not have a permanent school assignment. They change schools. They can only teach in one school for three to four years the longest. They have to move to another school within the city or the neighboring cities. New teachers change from one to three years and veteran teachers who are…
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How I learned Japanese in 3 months
Before coming to Japan, I only knew two words. Oishi (Yummy) and arigatou (thank you). When I came to visit for one month in 2011, I learned a few more words. Words that are used in everyday life: ohayou gozaimasu (good morning) konichiwa (hello) konbanwa (good evening) oyasumi (good night) itadakimasu (grace before meal) gochisosamadeshita…
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Valentine’s Day in Japan and the Philippines
There is a huge difference between how the Philippines and Japan celebrate Valentine’s. What to give/receive In the Philippines, Valentine’s is more on flowers – roses as the main star. With matching teddy bears and chocolates on the side. And love letters too. In Japan, it’s mainly chocolate. Not very much on flowers. Who give…
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Why most Japanese people don’t speak English well?
You might be surprised and ask yourself this question when you visit Japan for the first time. Having lived in Japan for many years now, I would like to share my thoughts on this matter. There are many reasons why Japanese people don’t speak English well. 1. Japanese Sense of Nationalism First of all, I…
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New Year’s Celebration in Japan and the Philippines
As a Filipina living in Japan for many years now, I can compare how New Year’s Day is celebrated in both countries. There are few similarities and many differences between Philippines and Japan celebrating New Year’s Day that I would like to share according to my observation and experience. Decorations and Preparations In the Philippines,…
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Elementary School Recognition in the Philippines compared to Closing Ceremony in Japan
In the Philippines Elementary School Recognition in the Philippines is always treated like a festival, a big event for honor students and a busy day (and days prior to it) for teachers. It is also being looked forward to in the beginning of class by students whether one can receive awards (and rewards) from parents.…
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How to distinguish Japanese from Korean and Chinese
Can you tell if a person comes from a specific country? Before coming to Japan, I had no idea how to distinguish Japanese, Korean and Chinese from one another. I had quite a few experience (when I was in the university as an international student) of trying to speak Japanese to a fellow student who I thought is Japanese, but after all, turned out…
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Why is summer vacation in Japan not a vacation for students at all
Most kids around the world look forward to summer vacation. For most of them, it is the best time of the year. Free from the tiring things in school, listening to the teachers sermon, doing projects and endless homework. But, not in Japan. Although summer is fun in Japan with so many festivals that you…
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11 Annoying Facebook Statuses
Facebook is obviously the number one social media today. With almost 2 billion monthly active users, one can find all sort of entertainment and information there are, including some information you’d rather not know. Some of which are very private matters or just too unimportant to be on Facebook. Many Fb users are so attached…