The following words may be second-nature to any Japan-enthusiast, but new additions to the Japan-loving community may need a little guidance. This guide is intended as a reference for the articles listed on this site, though it may also be enjoyed as a stand-alone guide.

All the terms listed below can be found throughout the articles that appear on this site, as well as in everyday Japanese speech. As new articles are written, this glossary will also be updated to include new terminology that may be introduced through those articles.

Anime – Anime is the Japanese word for animation and is used by the Japanese to describe all forms of animation. In America, however, the word is used specifically to describe Japanese animation.

Azuki – small red bean used as a popular ingredient in many Japanese desserts and dishes

Cosplay - An abbreviation for costume play, cosplay refers to the practice of dressing up in costume, specifically those resembling anime, manga, sci-fi/fantasy, and video game characters.

Fugu – blowfish, a delicacy in Japan which can actually poison the person eating it if not prepared properly

Hanami - Hanami literally translates to “flower viewing” in Japanese, but it most often refers specifically to viewing of sakura, or cherry blossoms.

Kami – gods

Keiro no Hi - Respect for the Aged Day, celebrated every third Monday in September

Maneki Neko – the beckoning cat, a Japanese good-luck charm

Manga – manga is the Japanese word for comics or graphic novels and is used by the Japanese to describe all forms of comics. In America, however, the word is often used to refer specifically to Japanese comics.

Natto – fermented soybeans, a traditional Japanese dish

Onsen – Japanese hot springs, generally used for bathing due to their medicinal properties

Prefecture - A governmental unit in Japan that is similar to a state in the United States

Sakura – Cherry blossoms

Shubun no Hi - Autumnal Equinox Day, which takes place in Japan on September 23rd or 24th, depending on the year

Sushi – Vinegared rice with any number of accompaniments, often raw fish, vegetables, and seaweed

Yosakoi – a type of Japanese dance, dating back to 1954, which combines modern music with traditional Japanese dance movements

Yukata - an informal cotton kimono or bathrobe, provided at most hotels, inns, onsen, and bath houses