Value Village
600 questions for when you are stuck or curious on a trip to Japan
What people who come to or live in Japan usually misunderstand. 600 questions, all with sources. If reading does not settle your question, you can send a request to people on the ground.
Everything here is a draft (before legal review; sources not yet verified). Answers on beauty and health will not be published until checks under Japan's Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Act are complete.
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The 600 questions start with what is most often misunderstood. If your question is not here yet, it becomes the next one. Requests that need on-site photos or a look at how things are right now are accepted at the same place.600 questions
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about cleansing? Beauty
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about napping? Health
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about batch cooking? Food & daily life
- Q. What do people get wrong about drugstores in Japan? Before you come to Japan
- Q. What do people get wrong about taking shoes off indoors in Japan? Everyday know-how
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about the order of skincare steps? Beauty
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about pillow height? Health
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about using the fridge? Food & daily life
- Q. What do people get wrong about convenience stores in Japan? Before you come to Japan
- Q. What do people get wrong about storage in narrow spaces in Japan? Everyday know-how
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about storing cosmetics? Beauty
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about bedroom temperature? Health
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about making dashi? Food & daily life
- Q. What do people get wrong about 100-yen shops in Japan? Before you come to Japan
- Q. What do people get wrong about refill packs in Japan? Everyday know-how
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about cosmetic expiry dates? Beauty
- Q. What do people get wrong about using a phone before bed? Health
- Q. What do people get wrong about looking after frying pans? Food & daily life
- Q. What do people get wrong about cash and cards in Japan? Before you come to Japan
- Q. What do people get wrong about furoshiki in Japan? Everyday know-how
- Q. What do people get wrong about pilling (bobbles) on clothes? Clothing
- Q. What do people get wrong about morning light? Health
- Q. What do people get wrong about using a microwave oven? Food & daily life
- Q. What do people get wrong about bringing food home from Japan? Before you come to Japan
- Q. What do people get wrong about tenugui in Japan? Everyday know-how
- Q. What do people get wrong about washing knitwear? Clothing
- Q. What do people get wrong about the body clock? Health
- Q. What do people get wrong about seasonal food (shun)? Food & daily life
- Q. What do people get wrong about packing for summer in Japan? Before you come to Japan
- Q. What do people get wrong about single-purpose kitchen tools in Japan? Everyday know-how
- Q. What do people get wrong about caring for leather shoes? Clothing
- Q. What do people get wrong about drinking water (hydration)? Health
- Q. What do people get wrong about Japan's regional cuisine (kyōdo ryōri)? Food & daily life
- Q. What do people get wrong about humidity in Japan? Before you come to Japan
- Q. What do people get wrong about indoor drying in Japan? Everyday know-how
- Q. What do people get wrong about reading care labels in Japan? Clothing
- Q. What do people get wrong about posture at a desk? Health
- Q. What do people get wrong about brewing coffee? Food & daily life
- Q. What do people get wrong about onsen etiquette in Japan? Before you come to Japan
- Q. What do people get wrong about the rainy season in Japan? Everyday know-how
- Q. What do people get wrong about drying laundry indoors? Clothing
- Q. What do people get wrong about bath temperature in Japan? Health
- Q. What do people get wrong about storing rice in Japan? Food & daily life
- Q. What do people get wrong about tattoos and bathing in Japan? Before you come to Japan
- Q. What do people get wrong about seasonal food in Japan? Everyday know-how
- Q. What do people get wrong about Japanese toner (keshōsui)? Beauty
- Q. Bath or shower in Japan — what do people get wrong? Health
- Q. What do people get wrong about storing bread? Food & daily life
- Q. What do people get wrong about tap water in Japan? Before you come to Japan
- Q. What do people get wrong about the concept of shun in Japan? Everyday know-how
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about sunscreen? Beauty
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about how long to sleep? Health
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about storing vegetables? Food & daily life
- Q. What do people get wrong about souvenir choices in Japan? Before you come to Japan
- Q. What do people get wrong about dashi in Japan? Everyday know-how
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about how often to wash your face? Beauty
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about caffeine? Health
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about storing eggs? Food & daily life
- Q. What do people get wrong about tax-free shopping in Japan? Before you come to Japan
- Q. What do people get wrong about repairing rather than replacing in Japan? Everyday know-how
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about pore care? Beauty
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about stiff shoulders (katakori)? Health
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about freezing food? Food & daily life
- Q. What do people get wrong about customs on the way home from Japan? Before you come to Japan
- Q. What do people get wrong about preventing mould in Japan? Everyday know-how
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about knowing your skin type? Beauty
- Q. What do people get wrong about eye strain? Health
- Q. What do people get wrong about defrosting food? Food & daily life
- Q. What do people get wrong about rubbish bins in Japan? Before you come to Japan
- Q. What do people get wrong about the order of cleaning in Japan? Everyday know-how
- Q. What do people get wrong about caring for dry skin? Beauty
- Q. What do people get wrong about "hie", always feeling cold? Health
- Q. What do people get wrong about sharpening kitchen knives? Food & daily life
- Q. What do people get wrong about sorting rubbish in Japan? Before you come to Japan
- Q. What do people get wrong about waste separation in Japan? Everyday know-how
- Q. What do people get wrong about caring for sensitive skin? Beauty
- Q. What do people get wrong about swollen legs and feet? Health
- Q. What do people get wrong about Japan's "best before" dates? Food & daily life
- Q. What do people get wrong about sunscreen labels in Japan? Before you come to Japan
- Q. What do people get wrong about earthquake preparation in Japan? Everyday know-how
- Q. In what order should I do my morning skincare? Beauty
- Q. What do people get wrong about feeling unwell in Japan's rainy season? Health
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about use-by dates (消費期限)? Food & daily life
- Q. What do people get wrong about SPF and PA in Japan? Before you come to Japan
- Q. What do people get wrong about the genkan in Japan? Everyday know-how
- Q. In what order should I do my evening skincare? Beauty
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about "natsubate" (summer fatigue)? Health
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about food waste in Japan? Food & daily life
- Q. What do people get wrong about cosmetics labels in Japan? Before you come to Japan
- Q. What do people get wrong about tatami in Japan? Everyday know-how
- Q. In what order should I take off my makeup? Beauty
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about choosing supplements? Health
- Q. In what order should I do my food prep (下ごしらえ)? Food & daily life
- Q. What do people get wrong about expiry dates on cosmetics in Japan? Before you come to Japan
- Q. What do people get wrong about airing futons in Japan? Everyday know-how
- Q. In what order should I do the seasonal wardrobe change (衣替え)? Clothing
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about what time to go to bed? Health
- Q. In what order should I plan my meals (献立)? Food & daily life
- Q. What do people get wrong about skincare product names in Japan? Before you come to Japan
- Q. What do people get wrong about seasonal bedding in Japan? Everyday know-how
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about washing denim? Clothing
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about yellowed white shirts? Clothing
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about washing sneakers? Clothing
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about storing bags? Clothing
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about jewellery care? Clothing
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about looking after a watch? Clothing
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about using fabric softener? Clothing
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about ironing? Clothing
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about moth repellents? Clothing
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about closet humidity? Clothing
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about winter static electricity? Clothing
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about caring for a down duvet? Clothing
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about washing a down jacket? Clothing
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about colour running in the wash? Clothing
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about how often to shampoo? Beauty
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about how to wear perfume? Beauty
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about chapped hands and hand cream? Beauty
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about antiperspirants? Beauty
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about lip balm? Beauty
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about mask-related skin trouble? Beauty
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about catching up on sleep at the weekend? Health
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about eating before bed? Health
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about the order in which you eat? Health
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about salt intake? Health
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about skipping breakfast? Health
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about getting through pollen season? Health
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about dealing with dry air in winter? Health
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about daily step counts? Health
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about measuring blood pressure at home? Health
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about Japan's annual health check? Health
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about keeping a packed lunch (bento) safe? Food & daily life
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about looking after a reusable water bottle? Food & daily life
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about reusing and disposing of frying oil? Food & daily life
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about storing miso? Food & daily life
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about storing soy sauce? Food & daily life
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about eating natto? Food & daily life
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about Japanese pickles (tsukemono)? Food & daily life
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about washing and cooking Japanese rice? Food & daily life
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about brewing Japanese green tea? Food & daily life
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about keeping barley tea and other cold-brewed drinks safe? Food & daily life
- Q. What do people get wrong about IC cards (Suica, PASMO) in Japan? Before you come to Japan
- Q. What do people get wrong about coin lockers and luggage forwarding in Japan? Before you come to Japan
- Q. What do people get wrong about bringing medicine into Japan? Before you come to Japan
- Q. What do people get wrong about vending machines in Japan? Before you come to Japan
- Q. What do people get wrong about allergy labelling on Japanese food? Before you come to Japan
- Q. What do people get wrong about tipping and restaurant etiquette in Japan? Before you come to Japan
- Q. What do people get wrong about over-the-counter medicine in Japan? Before you come to Japan
- Q. What do people get wrong about power plugs and voltage in Japan? Before you come to Japan
- Q. What do people get wrong about SIM cards, eSIM and pocket Wi-Fi in Japan? Before you come to Japan
- Q. What do people get wrong about coin laundries in Japan? Before you come to Japan
- Q. What do people get wrong about the kotatsu? Everyday know-how
- Q. What do people get wrong about the yutampo (hot-water bottle)? Everyday know-how
- Q. What do people get wrong about the year-end clean (ōsōji)? Everyday know-how
- Q. What do people get wrong about cleaning with baking soda and citric acid? Everyday know-how
- Q. What do people get wrong about the household emergency bag? Everyday know-how
- Q. What do people get wrong about storing water for emergencies? Everyday know-how
- Q. What do people get wrong about "rolling stock" food storage? Everyday know-how
- Q. What do people get wrong about opening windows and ventilating a home in Japan? Everyday know-how
- Q. What do people get wrong about Japanese summer heat habits? Everyday know-how
- Q. What do people get wrong about Japanese gift-giving customs? Everyday know-how
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about sheet masks? Beauty
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about exfoliation (scrubs and peels)? Beauty
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about SPF in foundation? Beauty
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about washing make-up brushes and sponges? Beauty
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about using a hair dryer? Beauty
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about using hair oil? Beauty
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about bath additives? Beauty
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about body wash versus bar soap? Beauty
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about nail care and nail polish remover? Beauty
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about caring for oily skin? Beauty
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about caring for silk? Clothing
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about storing shoes? Clothing
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about caring for hats? Clothing
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about shrunken knitwear? Clothing
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about when to replace socks and underwear? Clothing
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about folding clothes and choosing hangers? Clothing
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about caring for umbrellas? Clothing
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about caring for glasses? Clothing
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about caring for coats? Clothing
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about caring for rainwear and waterproof clothing? Clothing
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about snoozing (going back to sleep after the alarm)? Health
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about snoring? Health
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about oral rehydration solutions and sports drinks? Health
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about sayu (plain hot water)? Health
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about how to take a sauna? Health
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about stretching? Health
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about radio calisthenics (rajio taisō)? Health
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about sitting too long? Health
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about taking your temperature? Health
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about getting enough dietary fibre? Health
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about choosing food storage containers? Food & daily life
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about when to use cling film and when to use aluminium foil? Food & daily life
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about looking after a cutting board? Food & daily life
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about looking after a donabe (clay pot)? Food & daily life
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about looking after an iron frying pan? Food & daily life
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about fridge ice-makers and ice hygiene? Food & daily life
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about storing fruit? Food & daily life
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about storing meat? Food & daily life
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about storing fish? Food & daily life
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about storing spices and condiments after opening? Food & daily life
- Q. What do people get wrong about Japanese supermarkets? Before you come to Japan
- Q. What do people get wrong about department stores and depachika? Before you come to Japan
- Q. What do people get wrong about Japanese home centres (DIY stores)? Before you come to Japan
- Q. What do people get wrong about consumption tax in Japan? Before you come to Japan
- Q. What do people get wrong about carry-on rules on Japanese flights and trains? Before you come to Japan
- Q. What do people get wrong about face masks in Japan? Before you come to Japan
- Q. What do people get wrong about Japanese hotel rooms and amenities? Before you come to Japan
- Q. What do people get wrong about reading a Japanese menu? Before you come to Japan
- Q. What do people get wrong about queueing and reservations in Japan? Before you come to Japan
- Q. What do people get wrong about clothing and shoe sizes in Japan? Before you come to Japan
- Q. What do people get wrong about Japanese sliding doors (shoji and fusuma)? Everyday know-how
- Q. What do people get wrong about vertical storage in small Japanese homes? Everyday know-how
- Q. What do people get wrong about koromogae (the seasonal wardrobe change)? Everyday know-how
- Q. What do people get wrong about bento boxes? Everyday know-how
- Q. What do people get wrong about drying laundry on the balcony in Japan? Everyday know-how
- Q. What do people get wrong about the zōkin (Japanese cleaning cloth)? Everyday know-how
- Q. What do people get wrong about oshibori (the wet towel)? Everyday know-how
- Q. What do people get wrong about Japanese New Year (Oshōgatsu)? Everyday know-how
- Q. What do people get wrong about how Japanese people layer clothes for winter? Everyday know-how
- Q. What do people get wrong about noise and neighbour etiquette in Japanese flats? Everyday know-how
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about emulsions and serums? Beauty
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about eye make-up hygiene? Beauty
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about "additive-free" (無添加) claims? Beauty
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about "quasi-drugs" and "cosmetics"? Beauty
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about in-store testers and free samples? Beauty
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about patch-testing hair dye? Beauty
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about coloured contact lenses? Beauty
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about after-sun care? Beauty
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about conditioner and hair "treatment"? Beauty
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about caring for combination skin? Beauty
- Q. What do people get wrong about caring for and storing boots? Clothing
- Q. What do people get wrong about washing swimwear? Clothing
- Q. What do people get wrong about caring for scarves and gloves? Clothing
- Q. What do people get wrong about cleaning the washing-machine drum? Clothing
- Q. What do people get wrong about how much detergent to use? Clothing
- Q. What do people get wrong about using a tumble dryer? Clothing
- Q. What do people get wrong about problems with dry cleaners? Clothing
- Q. What do people get wrong about UV-protective clothing and parasols? Clothing
- Q. What do people get wrong about drawstrings on children's clothes? Clothing
- Q. What do people get wrong about storing a kimono? Clothing
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about jet lag? Health
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about alcohol and sleep? Health
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about waking in the night? Health
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about "tech neck" (straight neck)? Health
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about foot baths and half-body baths? Health
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about protein intake? Health
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about snacking? Health
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about weighing yourself? Health
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about choosing a clinic and knowing when to go? Health
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about daylight hours and mood? Health
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about storing tofu? Food & daily life
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about storing yoghurt and using it after opening? Food & daily life
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about choosing cooking oil? Food & daily life
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about mirin and cooking sake? Food & daily life
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about which vinegar to use? Food & daily life
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about umeboshi (pickled plums)? Food & daily life
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about oil splatter and fire when deep-frying? Food & daily life
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about using a toaster oven? Food & daily life
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about food poisoning from retained-heat cooking and stews? Food & daily life
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about safe cooking at a campsite? Food & daily life
- Q. What do people get wrong about packing for a Japanese winter? Before you come to Japan
- Q. What do people get wrong about the rainy season (tsuyu) for travellers? Before you come to Japan
- Q. What do people get wrong about sentō (public bathhouses)? Before you come to Japan
- Q. What do people get wrong about eating while walking in Japan? Before you come to Japan
- Q. What do people get wrong about convenience-store food and onigiri? Before you come to Japan
- Q. What do people get wrong about instant noodles in Japan? Before you come to Japan
- Q. What do people get wrong about matcha and matcha products? Before you come to Japan
- Q. What do people get wrong about vegetarian, vegan and halal food in Japan? Before you come to Japan
- Q. What do people get wrong about posting souvenirs home from Japan? Before you come to Japan
- Q. What do people get wrong about sales seasons and fukubukuro in Japan? Before you come to Japan
- Q. What do people get wrong about the Japanese habit of carrying a handkerchief? Everyday know-how
- Q. What do people get wrong about dehumidifiers in Japanese homes? Everyday know-how
- Q. What do people get wrong about cleaning windows with newspaper? Everyday know-how
- Q. What do people get wrong about the Japanese "reset" habit of daily tidying? Everyday know-how
- Q. What do people get wrong about the Japanese shoe cabinet (getabako)? Everyday know-how
- Q. What do people get wrong about keeping insects out of a Japanese home? Everyday know-how
- Q. What do people get wrong about neighbourhood associations and the kairanban? Everyday know-how
- Q. What do people get wrong about torches, radios and power in a Japanese disaster kit? Everyday know-how
- Q. What do people get wrong about reading a Japanese food label? Everyday know-how
- Q. What do people get wrong about warranties and repair in Japan? Everyday know-how
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about make-up primer? Beauty
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about eyebrow grooming? Beauty
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about touching up make-up during the day? Beauty
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about scalp care? Beauty
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about looking after a hairbrush? Beauty
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about rough heels and elbows? Beauty
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about storing perfume and fragrance? Beauty
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about men's skincare? Beauty
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about sunscreen for children? Beauty
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about home hair-removal devices? Beauty
- Q. What do people get wrong about washing blankets? Clothing
- Q. What do people get wrong about looking after a suit? Clothing
- Q. What do people get wrong about getting creases out of shirts and jackets? Clothing
- Q. What do people get wrong about protecting a leather bag from rain? Clothing
- Q. What do people get wrong about using a fabric shaver (lint remover)? Clothing
- Q. What do people get wrong about looking after a belt? Clothing
- Q. What do people get wrong about sunglass lenses and storage? Clothing
- Q. What do people get wrong about underarm sweat marks and yellowing? Clothing
- Q. What do people get wrong about smelly shoes? Clothing
- Q. What do people get wrong about putting on and lacing shoes? Clothing
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about when to take a bath before bed? Health
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about how bright a bedroom should be? Health
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about mattress firmness? Health
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about getting enough iron? Health
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about chewing your food well? Health
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about how much sugar to eat? Health
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about taking the stairs? Health
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about a stiff lower back? Health
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about air conditioning and your health? Health
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about vitamin D and sunlight? Health
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about storing garlic and ginger? Food & daily life
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about storing cheese? Food & daily life
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about storing salt and sugar? Food & daily life
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about kitchen-cloth and paper-towel hygiene? Food & daily life
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about choosing pot and pan materials? Food & daily life
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about using a rice cooker and its keep-warm function? Food & daily life
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about heat levels for stir-frying? Food & daily life
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about using and cleaning the fish grill? Food & daily life
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about using an oven in Japan? Food & daily life
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about osechi (Japanese New Year food)? Food & daily life
- Q. What do people get wrong about Japanese toilets (washlets)? Before you come to Japan
- Q. What do people get wrong about train etiquette in Japan? Before you come to Japan
- Q. What do people get wrong about taxis in Japan? Before you come to Japan
- Q. What do people get wrong about earthquakes as a visitor to Japan? Before you come to Japan
- Q. What do people get wrong about typhoon season for travellers? Before you come to Japan
- Q. What do people get wrong about smoking rules in Japan? Before you come to Japan
- Q. What do people get wrong about temple and shrine etiquette? Before you come to Japan
- Q. What do people get wrong about staying at a ryokan? Before you come to Japan
- Q. What do people get wrong about driving in Japan? Before you come to Japan
- Q. What do people get wrong about wagashi (Japanese sweets)? Before you come to Japan
- Q. What do people get wrong about the oshiire (built-in closet) and under-bed storage? Everyday know-how
- Q. What do people get wrong about the household first-aid box (kyūkyūbako)? Everyday know-how
- Q. What do people get wrong about reusing bath water (nokoriyu)? Everyday know-how
- Q. What do people get wrong about everyday tea in a Japanese home? Everyday know-how
- Q. What do people get wrong about the nukadoko (rice-bran pickling bed)? Everyday know-how
- Q. What do people get wrong about home-made miso and kōji? Everyday know-how
- Q. What do people get wrong about heated carpets and floor heating in Japan? Everyday know-how
- Q. What do people get wrong about balcony gardening and green curtains in Japan? Everyday know-how
- Q. What do people get wrong about "mottainai" and Japanese packaging? Everyday know-how
- Q. What do people get wrong about umbrella etiquette in Japan? Everyday know-how
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about reading cosmetic ingredient lists? Beauty
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about applying toner with cotton or with your hands? Beauty
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about booster serums (導入美容液)? Beauty
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about skin at the change of seasons? Beauty
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about eyelash serums? Beauty
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about bathing and dry skin? Beauty
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about choosing a mirror and lighting for make-up? Beauty
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about cosmetic samples and travel sizes? Beauty
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about hand sanitiser and sore hands? Beauty
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about "organic" and "natural" cosmetics? Beauty
- Q. What do people get wrong about washing towels and towel smell? Clothing
- Q. What do people get wrong about caring for Japanese school uniforms? Clothing
- Q. What do people get wrong about jeans sizing and shrinkage? Clothing
- Q. What do people get wrong about insoles? Clothing
- Q. What do people get wrong about clothing collection and recycling in Japan? Clothing
- Q. What do people get wrong about Japanese clothing size labels? Clothing
- Q. What do people get wrong about sewing on buttons, hemming and other repairs at home? Clothing
- Q. What do people get wrong about washing sportswear and its smell? Clothing
- Q. What do people get wrong about heavy bags and the strain on the body? Clothing
- Q. What do people get wrong about reading the fabric composition label on clothes? Clothing
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about sparkling water? Health
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about herbal teas? Health
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about deep breathing and relaxation? Health
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about taking breaks at work? Health
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about UV rays and how you feel (summer sun and fatigue)? Health
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about tiredness and swelling from standing all day? Health
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about fermented foods and the gut? Health
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about fat intake? Health
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about feeling unwell when the seasons change? Health
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about staying healthy when working from home? Health
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about brewing black tea? Food & daily life
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about how often to shop and food waste? Food & daily life
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about cooking for one? Food & daily life
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about steaming and simmering (nimono)? Food & daily life
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about making miso soup? Food & daily life
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about grilling fish at home? Food & daily life
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about using and storing fresh and dried herbs? Food & daily life
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about Japanese festival foods (Setsubun, Hinamatsuri, Tanabata, the winter solstice and more)? Food & daily life
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about handling takeaway and delivery food? Food & daily life
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about handling and storing kitchen knives safely? Food & daily life
- Q. What do people get wrong about pollen season as a visitor to Japan? Before you come to Japan
- Q. What do people get wrong about buying toiletries in Japan? Before you come to Japan
- Q. What do people get wrong about when to take shoes off in Japan? Before you come to Japan
- Q. What do people get wrong about ekiben (station bento)? Before you come to Japan
- Q. What do people get wrong about what a Japanese convenience store can do? Before you come to Japan
- Q. What do people get wrong about Japanese addresses and finding a place? Before you come to Japan
- Q. What do people get wrong about Shinkansen tickets and rail passes? Before you come to Japan
- Q. What do people get wrong about Golden Week, Obon and New Year travel? Before you come to Japan
- Q. What do people get wrong about cherry blossom and autumn foliage timing? Before you come to Japan
- Q. What do people get wrong about photography etiquette in Japan? Before you come to Japan
- Q. What do people get wrong about chopsticks and Japanese table manners? Everyday know-how
- Q. What do people get wrong about the Japanese home bath (ofuro)? Everyday know-how
- Q. What do people get wrong about the mamachari (everyday bicycle)? Everyday know-how
- Q. What do people get wrong about indoor plants in a Japanese home? Everyday know-how
- Q. What do people get wrong about winter window condensation in Japan? Everyday know-how
- Q. What do people get wrong about the kitchen sponge in a Japanese home? Everyday know-how
- Q. What do people get wrong about making onigiri at home? Everyday know-how
- Q. What do people get wrong about seasonal decorations (hina dolls, koinobori, New Year) and storing them? Everyday know-how
- Q. What do people get wrong about the hanko (personal seal)? Everyday know-how
- Q. What do people get wrong about Japanese seasonal greetings and the letter calendar? Everyday know-how
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about how much toner to use? Beauty
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about removing sunscreen? Beauty
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about neck and décolleté care? Beauty
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about hair-iron temperature and hair damage? Beauty
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about protecting hair from UV? Beauty
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about how often to dye grey hair, and which type to choose? Beauty
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about home beauty devices and electric cleansing brushes? Beauty
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about the difference between dermatology and cosmetic dermatology in Japan? Beauty
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about disposing of cosmetics in Japan? Beauty
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about patch-testing cosmetics at home? Beauty
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about keeping reusable shopping bags clean? Clothing
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about using laundry nets (mesh washing bags)? Clothing
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about hanging out laundry (drying faster, avoiding creases)? Clothing
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about choosing a washing machine (top-loader or front-loading drum)? Clothing
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about stockings and tights? Clothing
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about looking after a necktie? Clothing
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about looking after wallets and small leather goods? Clothing
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about looking after a leather jacket? Clothing
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about looking after fur, shearling and faux fur? Clothing
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about deodorising and antibacterial sprays for clothes? Clothing
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about when to brush your teeth and about flossing? Health
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about bad breath? Health
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about dry eye and eye drops? Health
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about cleaning your ears? Health
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about cutting nails and ingrown toenails? Health
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about low-temperature burns (heat packs, hot-water bottles, kotatsu)? Health
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about using pain-relief patches (shippu)? Health
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about preventing falls and "locomotive syndrome"? Health
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about how often and how much to do strength training? Health
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about dealing with a hangover? Health
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about cleaning the fridge? Food & daily life
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about caring for electric kettles and hot-water pots? Food & daily life
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about handling frozen foods? Food & daily life
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about canned and retort-pouch foods, their dates and what to do after opening? Food & daily life
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about dashi packs and granulated dashi? Food & daily life
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about storing dried foods (kombu, dried shiitake, seaweed, beans)? Food & daily life
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about washing vegetables (soil, pesticide residues, eating raw)? Food & daily life
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about washing up and dishwashers? Food & daily life
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about cleaning the kitchen drain? Food & daily life
- Q. What are the common misunderstandings about dealing with kitchen-waste smells? Food & daily life
- Q. What do people get wrong about travelling in Japan with children? Before you come to Japan
- Q. What do people get wrong about accessible travel in Japan? Before you come to Japan
- Q. What do people get wrong about lost property in Japan? Before you come to Japan
- Q. What do people get wrong about withdrawing cash in Japan? Before you come to Japan
- Q. What do people get wrong about eating alone in Japan? Before you come to Japan
- Q. What do people get wrong about buying electronics and cameras in Japan? Before you come to Japan
- Q. What do people get wrong about seeing a doctor in Japan as a visitor? Before you come to Japan
- Q. What do people get wrong about hotel and restaurant cancellation rules in Japan? Before you come to Japan
- Q. What do people get wrong about tattoos at gyms, pools and beaches in Japan? Before you come to Japan
- Q. What do people get wrong about buying omiyage and having gifts wrapped in Japan? Before you come to Japan
- Q. What do people get wrong about humidifiers in a Japanese winter? Everyday know-how
- Q. What do people get wrong about slippers and house shoes in Japan? Everyday know-how
- Q. What do people get wrong about neighbourhood festivals (matsuri) as a resident? Everyday know-how
- Q. What do people get wrong about kairo (disposable heat pads)? Everyday know-how
- Q. What do people get wrong about the kyūsu (Japanese teapot) and everyday tea tools? Everyday know-how
- Q. What do people get wrong about window screens (amido) in Japanese homes? Everyday know-how
- Q. What do people get wrong about using 100-yen shops for the home? Everyday know-how
- Q. What do people get wrong about the bathroom ventilation fan and bathroom drying? Everyday know-how
- Q. What do people get wrong about cleaning and maintaining the air conditioner? Everyday know-how
- Q. What do people get wrong about Japanese utility bills and saving on them? Everyday know-how
- Q. Should I wash my face with hot water or cold water? Beauty
- Q. Are eyelash extensions and lash perms bad for my eyes? Beauty
- Q. Do gel nails weaken your natural nails if you keep having them done? Beauty
- Q. How far can I rely on acne cosmetics and over-the-counter acne products in Japan? Beauty
- Q. Do facial massage and face rollers help with sagging and puffiness? Beauty
- Q. What is wrong with going to bed with wet hair? Beauty
- Q. How soon after a bath should I put on body moisturiser? Beauty
- Q. How often should I wash or replace my foundation puff or sponge? Beauty
- Q. Does "white teeth" toothpaste actually make my teeth whiter? Beauty
- Q. Is it true that drinking collagen is good for your skin? Beauty
- Q. How should I care for and store a pearl necklace? Clothing
- Q. Can I wash a cashmere sweater or scarf at home? How do I make it last? Clothing
- Q. How do I wash and dry linen clothes without shrinkage and creases? Clothing
- Q. Can I wash a pillow? How often should I wash the cover and the pillow itself? Clothing
- Q. Can I wash a backpack or tote bag? How to do it at home, and what to watch for Clothing
- Q. Soy sauce, oil or blood on my clothes — what should I do on the spot? Clothing
- Q. Is cold water fine for laundry? What changes if I use hot water? Clothing
- Q. Vacuum storage bags for futons and winter clothes: is there anything I should not put in them? Clothing
- Q. How much of a shoe can be repaired? When should heels and soles be replaced? Clothing
- Q. Mould on clothes I had put away. Can I get it off, and how do I stop it in the closet? Clothing
- Q. Is it true you can get heatstroke indoors? Prevention and first response Health
- Q. At the first signs of a cold, is over-the-counter medicine enough? When should I see a doctor? Health
- Q. Do hand-washing and gargling really help prevent colds? What is the right way? Health
- Q. For constipation, what should I change first? What to do before turning to laxatives Health
- Q. Does listening to music through earphones every day damage your hearing? What volume and how long is safe? Health
- Q. Is 16-hour fasting (time-restricted eating) good for you? Is it safe to keep up? Health
- Q. In winter, does raising indoor humidity help you avoid colds? What percentage should I aim for? Health
- Q. What is a "blood sugar spike"? Should I worry even if my health check is normal? Health
- Q. On your back, on your side or face down — which sleeping position is best for the body? Health
- Q. Is it true that walking speed matters more than step count? How fast is fast enough? Health
- Q. Where should I keep potatoes and onions so they last? Can I eat a potato that has sprouted? Food & daily life
- Q. If food has gone mouldy, can I cut off the mouldy part and eat the rest? Food & daily life
- Q. Is it safe to eat raw eggs in Japan — tamago-kake-gohan, sukiyaki dip? Why do foreigners find it surprising? Food & daily life
- Q. Wooden chopping boards, cooking chopsticks and rice paddles: can I still use them once they darken? How do I care for them? Food & daily life
- Q. Does curry or stew really taste better the next day? Is leaving it out overnight dangerous? Food & daily life
- Q. How often should I replace my kitchen sponge, and how do I sanitise it? Food & daily life
- Q. Are brown rice and mixed grains better for you than white rice? How to cook them, and what to watch for Food & daily life
- Q. Should I wash mushrooms or not? How to store them, and the danger of wild mushrooms Food & daily life
- Q. How do I store wakame, kombu, hijiki and nori? Is there such a thing as eating too much seaweed? Food & daily life
- Q. What should I watch for when eating sashimi at home? How do I avoid Anisakis? Food & daily life
- Q. Can I rent a bicycle in Japan, and what are the rules I might not expect? Before you come to Japan
- Q. Can anyone climb Mount Fuji? What do first-timers get wrong? Before you come to Japan
- Q. Are Japanese beaches safe for swimming? Jellyfish, rip currents and the rules Before you come to Japan
- Q. Visiting Japan in winter: what do people get wrong about snow, skiing and getting around? Before you come to Japan
- Q. Why did the restaurant turn me away at 8:30 pm? Opening hours, last orders and closing days in Japan Before you come to Japan
- Q. What should visitors know about drinking in Japan? Sake, shōchū, the legal age and where you can drink Before you come to Japan
- Q. Can I take a big suitcase on the shinkansen? The oversized-baggage rule Before you come to Japan
- Q. Renting a house or apartment in Japan (Airbnb, minpaku): what do visitors get wrong? Before you come to Japan
- Q. What are the emergency numbers in Japan, and what is a kōban? Before you come to Japan
- Q. Buying a Japanese kitchen knife or ceramics: how do I get them home? Before you come to Japan
- Q. What do people get wrong about sudare, the Japanese summer blind? Everyday know-how
- Q. What do people get wrong about uchimizu, sprinkling water on the ground? Everyday know-how
- Q. What do people get wrong about shōji, the paper sliding screens, and re-papering them? Everyday know-how
- Q. What do people get wrong about drying wet shoes? The newspaper trick and what not to do Everyday know-how
- Q. What do people get wrong about the Japanese kitchen sink basket and drain nets? Everyday know-how
- Q. What do people get wrong about doyō-boshi, the midsummer airing of clothes and books? Everyday know-how
- Q. What do people get wrong about the Japanese habit of cleaning with old toothbrushes and chopsticks? Everyday know-how
- Q. What do people get wrong about the diatomaceous-earth bath mat and its recall? Everyday know-how
- Q. What do people get wrong about the plastic-bag charge and Japan's "my bag" habit? Everyday know-how
- Q. What do people get wrong about kakeibo, the Japanese household account book? Everyday know-how
- Q. Skincare during pregnancy: are there ingredients I should not use? Beauty
- Q. How can I slow down hair-colour fading, and how many days does colour last? Beauty
- Q. Should women shave facial hair? Effects on the skin, and how to do it Beauty
- Q. Body odour and "ageing odour": how should I wash, and can over-washing backfire? Beauty
- Q. Do retinol and vitamin C cosmetics really work? What are the precautions? Beauty
- Q. How do I get fewer split ends and breakage? Can a hair conditioner fix them? Beauty
- Q. Is it true that dark circles under the eyes come in types, each needing a different fix? Beauty
- Q. Red face and flushed cheeks: can cosmetics help, and when should I see a dermatologist? Beauty
- Q. Make-up removal wipes: is it all right to use them every day? Beauty
- Q. What is the "skin barrier", and do ceramide cosmetics work? Beauty
- Q. Why won't the dark grime on shirt collars and cuffs come out in a normal wash? Clothing
- Q. Can I wash a yukata at home? How do I fold and store it? Clothing
- Q. Should I wash secondhand clothes before wearing them? What about smells and mites? Clothing
- Q. Down or synthetic fill — which is warmer? How to choose a winter coat in Japan Clothing
- Q. Are "heat-generating" thermal base layers like Heattech really warm? What if they dry out my skin? Clothing
- Q. How strictly do I need to follow Japanese dress codes for weddings and funerals? Clothing
- Q. Do "non-iron" shirts really need no ironing? How are they different from ordinary shirts? Clothing
- Q. Washing my child's uwabaki every week is a chore. Is there an easier way to get them white? Clothing
- Q. How do I spot a fake designer bag or garment? Will customs seize one I bought online from abroad? Clothing
- Q. Should I wash new clothes before wearing them? Clothing
- Q. How do I read the heart rate on my smartwatch? What is a normal resting heart rate? Health
- Q. When is the best time to get the flu and COVID-19 vaccines in Japan? Health
- Q. How long can I wait out a headache? How to spot a dangerous one Health
- Q. Motion sickness: what can I do beforehand, and when should I take the tablets? Health
- Q. Nosebleed: tilt your head back? Stuff in a tissue? The right way to stop it Health
- Q. Period pain: does warmth really help? Over-the-counter painkillers and when to see a gynaecologist Health
- Q. Leg cramps at night (komura-gaeri): is there a way to prevent them? Health
- Q. Sneezing and a runny nose indoors that will not stop. What actually works against house dust? Health
- Q. Thumb or wrist pain from my smartphone. Is it tendonitis? What to do and how to prevent it Health
- Q. Should I see a dentist even without toothache? How often to have a check-up, and what happens Health
- Q. Cooked rice: keep it warm or freeze it? How many days does it last? Food & daily life
- Q. Is it true that babies under one must not be given honey? Food & daily life
- Q. When should I eat the fruit I bought? Judging ripeness and storing fruit well Food & daily life
- Q. Bagged cut vegetables and bean sprouts: can I eat them as they are? Should I wash them? Food & daily life
- Q. How long do home-made jam and preserves keep? Is a sealed jar fine at room temperature? Food & daily life
- Q. Why do New Year mochi accidents happen every year? How older people and children should eat it Food & daily life
- Q. Eating wild plants or garden greens in Japan: which poisonous plants are easy to confuse? Food & daily life
- Q. Are pressure cookers and electric pressure cookers dangerous? The rules for using them safely Food & daily life
- Q. Are raw oysters safe in winter? What is the difference between "for raw consumption" and "for cooking"? Food & daily life
- Q. How many days does milk keep once opened? What about yoghurt and cheese? Food & daily life
- Q. Non-silicone, sulphate-free, amino-acid based… how do you read the words on a shampoo label? Beauty
- Q. Do face mists moisturise, or do they dry your skin out? Beauty
- Q. Are lip tints bad for your lips? How the colour stays on, and what to watch for Beauty
- Q. My hair is falling out after giving birth. How long does it last, and can I do anything? Beauty
- Q. Spots on my back and chest — should I care for them the same way as my face? Beauty
- Q. How many centimetres does hair grow in a month? Does cutting it make it grow faster? Beauty
- Q. Are there different kinds of dark spots? Which ones fade with brightening cosmetics, and which need a dermatologist? Beauty
- Q. Hair-removal salons versus medical clinics in Japan — what is the difference, and what should I check before signing? Beauty
- Q. What actually happens if you sleep in your make-up? And how do you recover the next morning? Beauty
- Q. Cosmetic medicine in Japan (fillers, Botox, double-eyelid surgery) — what should I check to avoid trouble? Beauty
- Q. Clothes I bought online don't fit. Can I return them? Is there a cooling-off period? Clothing
- Q. Which clothes pick up less pollen, and how do I keep pollen out of the house? Clothing
- Q. My synthetic-leather bag or shoes are peeling and sticky. How long do they last? Can it be prevented? Clothing
- Q. Cotton, polyester, rayon, wool… how do I choose clothing fabrics? Clothing
- Q. How do I choose shoes that won't hurt my feet? Tips for trying them on Clothing
- Q. Can I wash curtains? How often, and how do I stop them shrinking? Clothing
- Q. The seat and elbows of my suit or uniform have gone shiny. Can it be fixed? Prevented? Clothing
- Q. How should I wash bras and underwear so they last? When should I replace them? Clothing
- Q. Can I hem trousers myself? What do shops charge? Clothing
- Q. How do I pack clothes for a trip so they take less space and arrive uncreased? Clothing
- Q. Can visitors use PayPay and other QR-code payment apps in Japan? Before you come to Japan
- Q. Are Japan's highway and overnight buses worth it? What visitors get wrong Before you come to Japan
- Q. How do ferries work in Japan? Island-hopping, car ferries and the long-distance routes Before you come to Japan
- Q. Capsule hotels, manga cafés and other places to sleep cheap in Japan: what should visitors know? Before you come to Japan
- Q. Game centres, crane games and gachapon: how do visitors play without wasting money? Before you come to Japan
- Q. How do I get tickets for sumo and baseball in Japan, and what should I expect? Before you come to Japan
- Q. How do Japanese fireworks festivals work, and how do visitors get a good spot? Before you come to Japan
- Q. Is Japan's nightlife safe? Touts, "bottakuri" bars and how to avoid being overcharged Before you come to Japan
- Q. Visiting Japan for work: business cards, meetings and the etiquette that matters Before you come to Japan
- Q. Leaving Japan: the departure tax, airport timing, tax-free checks and what visitors forget Before you come to Japan
- Q. What do people get wrong about fūrin, the Japanese summer wind chime? Everyday know-how
- Q. What do people get wrong about drying persimmons and daikon at home? Everyday know-how
- Q. What do people get wrong about the Japanese "my bottle" habit and vacuum flasks? Everyday know-how
- Q. What do people get wrong about the chōnaikai, Japan's neighbourhood association? Everyday know-how
- Q. What do people get wrong about reading a Japanese weather forecast? Everyday know-how
- Q. What do people get wrong about the yuzu bath on the winter solstice? Everyday know-how
- Q. What do people get wrong about the gō, Japan's rice measure, and the rice-cooker cup? Everyday know-how
- Q. What do people get wrong about the 5 pm chime and the neighbourhood loudspeakers? Everyday know-how
- Q. What do people get wrong about sweeping the street in front of your house? Everyday know-how
- Q. What do people get wrong about uchiwa and sensu, the Japanese hand fans? Everyday know-how