物語の自動販売機：Story vending machine – A drink for the Heart
n Japan, vending machines are everywhere, but a new “story vending machine” now offers short, location-themed stories at the press of a button.
作文添削と『ナミヤ雑貨店の奇蹟』：The Quiet Power of Words – When Editing Becomes Empathy
What if one carefully chosen sentence could reach someone’s future? In this blog, Ritsuko-sensei links essay editing to The Miracles of the Namiya General Store, exploring the quiet power of words written with care.
だれかのためのサポート：Support for Anyone – The Kindness We All Need
Do you know how to support someone with dementia? Here are practical, easy-to-use tips from a dementia supporter training, and a reminder that the same gentle approach matters for everyone.
東北のクラフトおすすめ：Introducing traditional crafts in Tohoku
A short introduction to traditional folk craft toys from Japan’s Tohoku region, highlighting a few iconic examples and the handmade culture behind them.
抹茶色のランドセル：A Matcha Green Randoseru – What A Choice Can Say
In Japan, elementary school students use a backpack called a “randoseru”, and its color can reflect identity, social expectations, and the surprising weight of a child’s “simple” choice.
レストランでごちそうさまと言いますか？：Do you say “Gochisousama” at the restaurant?
In Japan, people often say “Gochisousama deshita” after a meal to show appreciation. However, when dining out, choosing the right timing can be surprisingly difficult.
幸運のサイン：When Good Luck Sends a Sign
Ritsuko Sensei introduces Japanese symbols of luck and shares her dracaena’s bloom as a hopeful sign.
宇多田ヒカル：Utada Hikaru – An Iconic Japanese Singer
Sensei Mayu shares her thoughts about the interesting word-use of Utada Hikaru, and how her song“Hikari” can be felt in different ways.
[Report] ジブリパークに行きました：I Visited Ghibli Park in Aichi
Ritsuko Sensei shares her experience visiting Ghibli Park, a place where nature and the world of Studio Ghibli blend seamlessly.
「出世」という言葉: What Does “Success” Really Mean?
Shusse usually means career success—but in Japanese, the word also applies to fish. What is that all it means?
「〇〇活」という言葉：Choosing the “〇〇-katsu” That Makes Your Heart Happy
At every stage of life, we’re told to engage in another “〇〇-katsu.” But does everything really have to be an exhausting activity?
またあれが食べたい！：Local Flavors and Memories from Guatemala
I Want to Eat That Again! Do You Have a Food That You Miss and Always Remember?
Chiyoko Sensei Shares Her Favorite Foods from Guatemala