"下手" (heta) and "苦手" (nigate) の違い(difference)

"下手" (heta) and "苦手" (nigate) are two Japanese words that are often confused by English speakers, but they have distinct meanings.

 * "下手" (heta) means to be unskilled or poor at something. It refers to a lack of ability or proficiency in a particular task or skill. For example, "私はピアノが下手です。" (Watashi wa piano ga heta desu.) means "I am bad at playing the piano."

 * "苦手" (nigate) means to be weak at something or to dislike something. It often implies a feeling of aversion or discomfort, and it can also refer to a lack of confidence or experience. For example, "私は数学が苦手です。" (Watashi wa sugaku ga nigate desu.) means "I am weak in math" or "I don't like math."

In summary:

 * "下手" focuses on the ability or skill level.

 * "苦手" focuses on the feeling or attitude towards something.

Here's an example to illustrate the difference:

 * A person who is "下手" at playing the guitar may simply not have had enough practice.

 * A person who is "苦手" at public speaking may feel anxious or uncomfortable in front of a crowd, even if they have some skills in public speaking.

Japanese Punctuation（句読点）

Japanese Punctuation（句読点）

Japanese punctuation, while having some similarities to English punctuation, has its own unique rules and usage.

 * Period (。): Similar to the English period, it marks the end of a sentence.

 * Comma (、): Used to separate items in a list or to indicate a pause within a sentence. Its usage can be more frequent than in English.

 * Other Punctuation Marks: Japanese also uses various other punctuation marks, such as quotation marks, question marks, and exclamation points. Their usage generally aligns with English conventions, but there are some nuances.

Key differences between Japanese and English punctuation:

 * Frequency of commas: Japanese often uses commas more frequently than English.

 * Specific rules for certain particles: The placement of punctuation marks around Japanese particles (small words that indicate grammatical relationships) can be complex and varies depending on the particle and context.

Why is it important to understand Japanese punctuation?

 * Correct interpretation of text: Correctly understanding Japanese punctuation is essential for accurate interpretation of written Japanese.

 * Effective communication: When writing or speaking Japanese, using the correct punctuation helps convey your message clearly and effectively.

Want to learn more?

I can provide more detailed explanations about specific punctuation marks or rules. Feel free to ask!

Here are some topics you might be interested in:

 * Differences between Japanese and English sentence structure

 * Common mistakes made by non-native speakers

 * Tips for improving your Japanese punctuation

Would you like me to elaborate on any of these points?

民話 (みんわ - minwa) - folktale

 

https://learnjapanesefromanativejapanese.blogspot.com/

1. Today's Japanese words

Here are some Japanese vocabulary words related to stories with romaji:

 * 民話 (みんわ - minwa) - folktale

 * 物語 (ものがたり - monogatari) - story, tale

 * 童話 (どうわ - douwa) - fairytale

 * 小説 (しょうせつ - shousetsu) - novel

 * 伝説 (でんせつ - densetsu) - legend, myth

 * 脚本 (きゃくほん-kyakuhon) - scenario, script

 * 詩 (し - shi) - poem

 * 川柳 (せんりゅう - senryu) - short, humorous poem

 

2. Today's topic

Here are some famous Japanese folktales with their romaji titles:

 * Momotaro ("Peach Boy") - A brave boy born from a giant peach defeats a band of ogres.

 * Kaguya-hime ("The Tale of the Bamboo Cutter") - A princess from the moon is raised by an old bamboo cutter and her life unfolds in a magical way.

 * Urashima Taro ("The Tale of the Fisherman Urashima Taro") - A kind fisherman encounters a sea turtle and is taken to a mystical underwater palace.

 * Issunboshi ("Little One Inch") - A tiny boy with a big heart goes on many adventures.

 * Shita-kiri Suzume ("The Tongue-Cut Sparrow") - A kind old couple helps a sparrow in need and is rewarded for their kindness.

3- Today’s news

Ocean fairy tales from across Japan become animated shorts

https://www.asahi.com/sp/ajw/articles/15321961

Survey: 74% do not want Kishida to stay as prime minister after fall

https://www.asahi.com/sp/ajw/articles/15356767

Japanese Eating Habits

 

In Japan, finishing one's meal completely, especially the rice, is considered a sign of respect and gratitude for the food and the person who prepared it. This practice is rooted in several cultural and philosophical values:

 * Mottainai: This Japanese concept emphasizes the avoidance of waste. Finishing one's food shows appreciation for the effort and care that went into its preparation.

 * Respect for the cook: Finishing one's meal conveys appreciation for the cook's effort and skill. It shows that one values the food and the time invested in creating it.

While finishing everything on one's plate is generally encouraged, it's important to listen to one's body and avoid overeating. If someone genuinely cannot finish their meal, it's polite to excuse themselves and explain that they are full.

Here are some additional points to note about Japanese dining etiquette:

 * Saying "itadakimasu" before eating and "gochisōsama deshita" after: These phrases express gratitude for the meal.

 * Using chopsticks properly: Avoid pointing chopsticks at others, using them to spear food, or sticking them upright in rice.

 * Keeping communal dishes clean: When using shared plates or bowls, use the opposite end of your chopsticks to serve yourself food.

 * Not leaving personal items on the table: Purses, wallets, and phones should be placed on the floor or in a designated bag.

 * Cleaning up after oneself: Once finished, return dishes to their proper place and tidy up the eating area.

 

When to Use Katakana for English Words

 

How do we know when to use Katakana writing in english word?

## When to Use Katakana for English Words

**Generally, Katakana is used for words borrowed from other languages, including English.**

Here are some specific cases:

### 1. Loanwords
* **Foreign words that have been adopted into the Japanese language:**
* Computers, smartphones, brands (Apple, Nike), food items (pizza, hamburger)
* Examples: コンピュータ (computer), スマートフォン (smartphone), アップル (Apple), ピザ (pizza)

### 2. Onomatopoeia and Imitative Words
* **Sounds or actions:**
* Buzzing, clicking, crashing, etc.
* Examples: ブーン (buzzing), クリック (click), ガシャーン (crash)

### 3. Foreign Names
* **People, places, and things:**
* Names of foreign people or places, book titles, movie titles
* Examples: ニューヨーク (New York), ハリー・ポッター (Harry Potter)

### 4. Emphasis
* **To draw attention to a word or phrase:**
* Similar to using italics in English
* Examples: ファッション (fashion), オシャレ (stylish)

**Important note:** There are exceptions and nuances to these rules, and sometimes the same word can be written in Hiragana or Katakana depending on the context.

Onyomi and Kunyomi:

 

How to use kanji for Onyomi and Kunyomi. What the difference?

## Onyomi and Kunyomi:

### What's the Difference?
* **Onyomi** is the Chinese-derived reading of a kanji.
* **Kunyomi** is the Japanese reading of a kanji.

### How to Use Them
1. **Single Kanji:** Often uses Kunyomi.
* Example: 木 (ki) - tree
2. **Compound Words:** Often uses Onyomi.
* Example: 新聞 (shinbun) - newspaper (新 shin - new, 聞 bun - hear)
3. **Exceptions:** There are many exceptions to these rules.

### Why It's Complicated
* **Multiple Readings:** Many kanji have multiple Onyomi and Kunyomi.
* **Context is Key:** The correct reading depends on the word or context.
* **Historical Influences:** The choice of reading can be influenced by historical factors.

### Tips for Learning
* **Learn in Context:** Study kanji within words rather than in isolation.
* **Use a Kanji Dictionary:** Look up kanji to find all possible readings and examples.
* **Practice Writing:** Writing kanji helps solidify the character and its readings.
* **Immerse Yourself:** Read Japanese materials to see kanji used in various contexts.

### Example
Let's take the kanji "本" (hon).

* **Kun'yomi:** 本 (hon) - book
* **Onyomi:** 本 (moto) - original, root

As you can see, the same kanji can have different meanings based on its reading.

Understanding Particles in Japanese

How to use particle in correct way..？

Understanding Particles in Japanese
## Understanding Particles in Japanese

**Particles** are essential in Japanese grammar. They indicate the grammatical role of a word in a sentence. Let's focus on the most common ones:

### Common Particles

* **は (wa):** Topic marker. Introduces the main subject or topic of the sentence.
* **が (ga):** Subject marker. Used for the grammatical subject when it's new information or emphasized.
* **を (o):** Object marker. Indicates the direct object of a verb.
* **に (ni):** Indicates location, time, direction, indirect object, or the receiver of an action.
* **で (de):** Indicates place, tool, material, or manner.
* **と (to):** Indicates accompaniment, connection, or quotation.

### Examples:

* **私はリンゴを食べます。(Watashi wa ringo o tabemasu.)**
* I eat an apple.
* *wa* marks the topic (I), *o* marks the object (apple).

* **本を読んでいます。(Hon o yonde imasu.)**
* I'm reading a book.
* *o* marks the object (book).

* **公園で遊びます。(Kouen de asobimasu.)**
* I play at the park.
* *de* indicates the place (park).

* **友達に手紙を書きます。(Tomodachi ni tegami o kakimasu.)**
* I write a letter to my friend.
* *ni* indicates the indirect object (friend), *o* indicates the direct object (letter).

 

Japanese Sentence Structure: Subject + Object + Verb (SOV)

 How to arrange sentence in Japanese when communicate to people like in english we used (subject + verb + object)？

Japanese Sentence Structure: Subject + Object + Verb (SOV)
Unlike English, Japanese sentences follow a Subject + Object + Verb order.

Let's break it down with an example:

English: I eat an apple.
Japanese: 私はリンゴを食べます。 (Watashi wa ringo o tabemasu.)
Here's how it breaks down:

私 (watashi): I (subject)
は (wa): particle that marks the subject
リンゴ (ringo): apple (object)
を (o): particle that marks the object
食べます (tabemasu): eat (verb)
Key points to remember:
Particles: Japanese uses particles to indicate the role of words in a sentence. They are essential for understanding the meaning.
Verb at the end: The verb always comes at the end of the sentence.

charm(Miryoku)

 

1. Today's Japanese words

Here are some Japanese vocabulary words about charm(Miryoku)

 and related concepts with romaji:

 * Charm (cute)

   * Kawaii (かわいい): This is the most common word for "cute" in Japanese and can be used for people, animals, or objects.

 * Charm (attractive)

   * Kirei (きれい): This word is used to describe something that is beautiful or attractive in a conventional way.

   * Bishōjo (美少女): This word specifically refers to a beautiful young woman.

   * Ikemen (イケメン): This word specifically refers to a handsome young man.

 * Charm (alluring)

   * Uruwashii (麗しい): This word has a more elegant and sophisticated connotation than kirei.

 * Charm (mysterious)

   * Shinpi (神秘): This word refers to something that is mysterious or enchanting.

 * Charm (graceful)

   * Yamato nadeshiko (大和撫子): This word refers to a woman who embodies the traditional Japanese ideals of femininity, such as grace, beauty, and modesty.

2. Today's topic

Japan's charm lies in the beautiful harmony of tradition and modernity. Here are some aspects that make Japan truly special:

* **Natural Beauty:** From the majestic snow-capped mountains to the serene bamboo forests and idyllic islands, Japan boasts breathtaking landscapes. Imagine standing on the shores of a crystal-clear lake surrounded by vibrant autumn foliage, or taking a dip in a natural hot spring nestled amidst towering mountains.

* **Rich Culture and History:** Japan has a long and fascinating history, evident in its countless temples, shrines, and castles. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of a Zen garden, marvel at the intricate details of a traditional wooden pagoda, or walk through the grand gates of a centuries-old castle.

* **Unique Cuisine:** Japanese food is a feast for the senses, with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients and meticulous presentation. Savor the delicate flavors of sushi and sashimi, indulge in a steaming bowl of ramen, or explore the regional specialties of each area.

* **Politeness and Hospitality:** The Japanese people are renowned for their politeness and respect. Expect to be greeted with a bow and experience exceptional customer service wherever you go.

* **Pop Culture:** Japan is a global leader in pop culture, from anime and manga to video games and fashion. Explore vibrant districts like Akihabara in Tokyo, or attend a cosplay event to experience this unique aspect of Japanese culture.

* **Tranquility and Efficiency:** Japan offers a unique blend of peace and efficiency. Find moments of serenity in serene gardens or traditional tea ceremonies, and marvel at the smooth operation of public transportation systems. 

3- Today’s news

15 Most Advanced Countries in Asia in 2024

https://www.insidermonkey.com/blog/15-most-advanced-countries-in-asia-in-2024-1321574/?singlepage=1

10 most loved tourist attractions in Asia

https://e.vnexpress.net/photo/places/10-most-loved-tourist-attractions-in-asia-4766355.html

動物 (doubutsu) - Animal

1. Today's Japanese words
## Animal Vocabulary in Japanese (Romaji)

The text you provided discusses human-animal coexistence in Japan. Here's some of the animal vocabulary used in Romaji, along with their English translations:

* 動物 (doubutsu) - Animal
* 野生動物 (yasei dōbutsu) - Wild animal
* 人間 (ningen) - Human
* ペット (petto) - Pet (loanword from English)
* 虐待 (gyakutai) - Abuse
* 飼育放棄 (shiiku hōki) - Abandonment (of animals)
* 保護 (hogo) - Protection
* 管理 (kanri) - Management
* 教育 (kyōiku) - Education
* 地域社会 (chiiki shakai) - Community
* 研究 (kenkyū) - Research
* 持続可能 (jizoku kanō) - Sustainable

**Additional Animal Vocabulary:**

* 犬 (inu) - Dog
* 猫 (neko) - Cat
* 鳥 (tori) - Bird
* 魚 (sakana) - Fish
* 馬 (uma) - Horse
* 牛 (ushi) - Cow
* 豚 (buta) - Pig
* キツネ (kitsune) - Fox
* タヌキ (tanuki) - Raccoon dog
* シカ (shika) - Deer
* クマ (kuma) - Bear
* ウサギ (usagi) - Rabbit
* サル (saru) - Monkey

2. Today's topic
## Challenges and Future Directions for Human-Animal Coexistence in Japan

Japan has a long and complex history of human-animal interaction, with deep cultural and spiritual ties to the natural world. However, as the country undergoes rapid urbanization and environmental change, the relationship between humans and animals is facing new challenges. This essay will examine some of the key issues surrounding animal-human coexistence in Japan and discuss potential directions for the future.

**One of the most pressing challenges is the increasing conflict between humans and wildlife.** As human settlements encroach on natural habitats, animals are forced to adapt, often leading to property damage, agricultural losses, and even threats to human safety. For instance, the rising population of Japanese macaques, known for their intelligence and adaptability, has led to frequent raids on crops and human settlements.

**Another significant challenge is the issue of animal welfare.** With the growing popularity of companion animals, concerns about animal neglect, abuse, and abandonment have intensified. Moreover, the intensive farming practices employed in some sectors of the Japanese agricultural industry raise ethical concerns about animal welfare.

**Despite these challenges, there are also promising developments in the realm of human-animal coexistence in Japan.** A growing number of organizations and individuals are dedicated to promoting harmonious relationships between humans and animals. These efforts range from educational programs and community outreach initiatives to the development of innovative wildlife management strategies.

**Moving forward, it is crucial to adopt a holistic approach that addresses the challenges and opportunities of human-animal coexistence.** This includes:

* **Strengthening wildlife management practices:** Implementing effective measures to reduce human-wildlife conflict, such as habitat restoration, buffer zones, and non-lethal deterrents.

* **Promoting animal welfare:** Enacting stricter animal protection laws, enhancing enforcement mechanisms, and fostering a culture of responsible pet ownership.

* **Encouraging public education and engagement:** Raising awareness about the importance of human-animal coexistence, promoting mutual respect and understanding, and fostering community-based solutions.

* **Supporting research and innovation:** Investing in research to better understand animal behavior and ecology, developing innovative technologies for wildlife management, and exploring sustainable solutions for human-animal coexistence.

By addressing these challenges and embracing these opportunities, Japan can move towards a future where humans and animals can thrive together in a shared and sustainable environment.

**Key Points:**

* Human-animal coexistence in Japan is a complex and evolving issue, shaped by cultural traditions, urbanization, environmental change, and animal welfare concerns.

* Challenges include human-wildlife conflict, animal welfare issues, and the need for public education and engagement.

* Opportunities lie in strengthening wildlife management, promoting animal welfare, encouraging public education, and supporting research and innovation.

* A holistic approach that addresses both challenges and opportunities is essential for achieving harmonious human-animal coexistence in Japan.

3- Today’s news
Hunting rifle ban to be adjusted after bear attacks increase
https://www.asahi.com/ajw/articles/15337057
The ministry said the number of bear attacks on humans reported in fiscal 2023 was 219, the highest ever. Of the 219, six died.

Killing of bear in Sapporo draws objections from outsiders
https://www.asahi.com/ajw/articles/13059835
“Please don’t kill it,” one respondent said.
“It would’ve been better if it had been put to sleep with a tranquilizer gun and taken back to the mountains,” another said, while yet another argued: “Take it to a zoo or a bear sanctuary at least.”

As to whether bears can be accepted by zoos, an official at the city-run Sapporo Maruyama Zoo, which keeps two brown bears, said: “Brown bears are solitary, and they end up fighting each other when they are brought together. We can’t (accept more bears) now because we don’t have enough space.”

“I want everyone to consider the issue as their own problem, not just being content with raising voices against the killing.”

Eel (Unagi)

 

1. Today's Japanese words

## Eel (Unagi)

* **Unagi (ウナギ)**: This is the general word for freshwater eel, particularly the Japanese eel (Anguilla japonica).

* **Nihon Unagi (日本鰻)**: Literally translates to "Japanese eel". 

* **Kabayaki (蒲焼)**: This refers to the specific preparation method of grilling eels after coating them in a sweet soy sauce glaze.

* **Anago (穴子)**: This word refers to saltwater eels, distinct from unagi.

1. **Iwashi (鰯)** - Pronounced "ee-wah-shi," this is a very common fish in Japan, known as the Pacific sardine.

2. **Sanma (さんま)** - Pronounced "san-ma," this refers to the Pacific saury, a popular autumn fish in Japan.

3. **Katsuo (鰹)** - Pronounced "kat-su-o," this is skipjack tuna, a key ingredient in making dashi, a fundamental Japanese broth.

4. **Aji (鯵)** - Pronounced "ah-ji" this translates to horse mackerel, a small schooling fish often eaten grilled or fried whole.

## Animals in Ocean and River (Romaji Included)

**Mammals:**

* **Iruka(イルイ - Iruka):** Dolphin

* **Kujira (鯨 - Kujira):** Whale

* **Kawauसो (カワウソ - Kawau-so):** Otter (mostly found in rivers)

**Fish:**

* **Maguro (マグロ - Maguro):** Tuna

* **Sake (鮭 - Sake):** Salmon

* **Saba (鯖 - Saba):** Mackerel

* **Iwashi (鰯 - Iwashi):** Sardine

* **Tai (鯛 - Tai):** Sea bream

* **Ayu(鮎 - Ayu):** Sweetfish (found in rivers)

**Crustaceans:**

* **Ebi (海老 - Ebi):** Shrimp

* **Kani (蟹 - Kani):** Crab

* **Shako (蝦蛄 - Shako):** Mantis shrimp

**Mollusks:**

* **Ika (烏賊 - Ika):** Squid

* **Tako (蛸 - Tako):** Octopus

* **Hamaguri (蛤 - Hamaguri):** Clam (often found in tidal flats)

* **Kaki (牡蠣 - Kaki):** Oyster

**Other:**

* **Kame (亀 - Kame):** Turtle (some species live in both saltwater and freshwater)

* **Hebi (蛇 - Hebi):** Snake (mostly land-dwelling, but some sea snakes exist)

* **Same (鮫 - Same):** Shark

* **Iruka (イルカ - Iruka):** Dolphin (alternative term to Irui)

2. Today's topic

Eels have a long and fascinating history in Japanese culture and cuisine. Here's a breakdown of their significance:

**A Culinary Staple for Millennia:**

* Evidence suggests eel consumption dates back over 4,000 years, with eel bones found in Jomon period shell mounds. 

* The popular "kabayaki" method of grilling eels with a sweet soy sauce glaze emerged around the Kamakura period (784-1333).

**Symbol of Strength and Stamina:**

* Eels were seen as a nutritious and energizing food, perfect for the hot and humid summers in Japan. 

* This led to the tradition of "Doyo no Ushi no Hi" (Day of the Ox), specific days in summer when people consume eel dishes to combat the summer heat and gain stamina. 

**Eel Lore and Traditions:**

* Folklore depicts eels as powerful creatures, with some stories featuring the "Unagi Hime" (Eel Princess), a guardian spirit of lakes and ponds.

* The Edo period (1603-1868) saw a surge in eel consumption, with theories suggesting a special method of splitting the eel (sebiraki) developed in Edo to avoid resembling the samurai's seppuku suicide ritual.

**Modern Day Eel Consumption:**

* Japan is the world's biggest consumer and producer of eels, with aquaculture playing a significant role due to the dwindling wild eel population.

* Unagi (eel) dishes remain a delicacy, enjoyed at specialized restaurants and celebrated during Doyo no Ushi no Hi. 

3- Today’s news

Breakthrough in eel farming raises prospect of cheap eel dishes

https://www.asahi.com/sp/ajw/articles/15333922

Japan’s annual eel consumption is estimated at around 100 million, and agency officials said they are just one step away from artificial hatching on a commercial scale.

SOCCER/ Japanese to face Saudi Arabia, Australia in third phase of World Cup qualifiers

https://www.asahi.com/sp/ajw/articles/15322757

Four-times Asian champions Japan have been drawn to take on Australia, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, China and Indonesia in Group C of the third round of Asia’s qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup in Kuala Lumpur.

Wakayama Prefecture

 

1. Today's Japanese words

Here are some useful Japanese sentences and vocabulary related to travel, with romaji for pronunciation:

 * Transportation (交通 Kōtsū):

   * Train (電車 Densha): densha

   * Bus (バス Basu): basu

   * Taxi (タクシー Takushī): takushī

   * Ticket (切符 Kippu): kippu

   * Station (駅 Eki): eki

 * Places (場所 Basho):

   * Hotel (ホテル Hoteru): hoteru

   * Ryokan (旅館 Ryokan): ryokan (traditional Japanese inn)

   * Sightseeing spot (観光地 Kankochi): kankochi

   * Restaurant (レストラン Resutoran): resutoran

 * Useful phrases (便利なフレーズ Benri na Furēzu):

   * Excuse me (すみません Sumimasen): Excuse me to get someone's attention

   * Hello (こんにちは Konnichiwa): Hello

   * Thank you (ありがとうござい ます Arigatōgozaimasu): Thank you

   * How much is this? (いくらですか Ikura desu ka?): How much does this cost?

   * Do you speak English? (英語を話しますか Eigo o hanashimasu ka?): Do you speak English?

   

2. Today's topic

Traveling to Wakayama Prefecture

Wakayama Prefecture, located south of Osaka in the Kansai region, is a beautiful and diverse destination with something to offer everyone. From the sacred peaks of Mount Koya to the pristine beaches of Shirahama, Wakayama is a land of contrasts that will capture your heart.

Here are some of the top things to see and do in Wakayama:

 * Visit Mount Koya, the spiritual heart of Shingon Buddhism. Stay in a traditional temple lodging (shukubo) and experience the serenity of this sacred mountaintop.

 * Embark on a pilgrimage along the Kumano Kodo, an ancient network of trails that wind through the Kii Peninsula. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a truly spiritual experience.

 * Relax in the hot springs (onsen) of Katsuura or Shirahama. These soothing waters are said to have therapeutic properties.

 * Enjoy the fresh seafood of Wakayama. The prefecture is famous for its tuna, but there are also plenty of other delicious seafood options to try.

 * Go hiking or camping in the scenic mountains and forests of Wakayama. The prefecture is home to some of the most beautiful natural landscapes in Japan.

Here are some additional tips for planning your trip to Wakayama:

 * The best time to visit Wakayama is during the spring (April-May) or autumn (September-November) weather is mild and comfortable during these seasons.

 * Wakayama is easily accessible by train from Osaka, Kyoto, and Nagoya. There is also an airport in Wakayama City.

 * The official currency of Japan is the Japanese yen (JPY). You can exchange your currency at banks, post offices, and some hotels.

 * The Japanese language is spoken throughout Japan. However, English is becoming increasingly common in tourist areas.

3- Today’s news

Takaichi decides to run in LDP presidential race this autumn

https://www.asahi.com/sp/ajw/articles/15326338

Thrill-seekers get an early start on log riding in Wakayama river

https://www.asahi.com/sp/ajw/articles/15315075