<h3>Rising Bear Attacks in Japan</h3>
Japan has recently seen a dramatic increase in bear attacks. In 2023, a record high number of bear attack victims have been reported. 
<h3>Increase in bear encounters</h3>
In 2023, Japan experienced 200 plus bear attacks, including 6 fatalities. This number is unprecedented, with the highest number of incidents recorded in Akita Prefecture. The Japanese Environment Ministry's data shows that these incidents are the most since 2006, highlighting a significant rise in bear-human interactions.
<h3>Causes</h3>
While the reasoning can’t be completely understood, several factors have been highlighted as possibly contributing to the surge in bear attacks. A major one is the scarcity of natural food sources like beech nuts and acorns. Poor nut seasons force bears to forage closer to human habitats, increasing encounters. Additionally, an increase in the bear cub population suggests more bears are reaching maturity and venturing into new territories for food. Human expansion into bear territories could also be a contributing factor.
<h3>Safety considerations</h3>
It's crucial for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts to always exercise caution. Check with local authorities or residents for recent bear sightings or warnings before embarking on outdoor adventures. 
Awareness and precaution are key to ensuring safe and enjoyable experiences in Japan's great outdoors.

Bears in Japan

The Japanese language has many types of counters. You might even know the basic counter:
0(zero/rei), 1(ichi), 2(ni), 3(san), 4(yon/shi), 5(go), 6(roku), 7(nana/shichi), 8(hachi), 9(kyuu), 10(jyuu)...
And perhaps even a few of the common counters for things, paper, bottles: 
ひとつ(hitotsu), ふたつ(hutatsu), みっつ(mittsu)... 
1まい(ichi mai), 2まい(ni mai), 3まい(san mai)... 
1ぽん(ippon), 2ほん(ni hon), 3ぼん(san bon)...
However, with Japanese, there are about 500 different types of counters! That is a lot of counters, I won’t lie - but…..
<blockquote>
I’m Japanese - and do I know every single counter? Noooo! 
</blockquote>
Even native Japanese speakers don’t use all 500 different types of counters. In everyday life, we may only use a small subset of the many counter types available.
Today, I would like to share a special counter for room numbers! Yep, a counter dedicated to room numbers. Apartment numbers, hotel numbers, and so forth. You might say or hear a room number when you stay in a hotel in Japan or if you are living in Japan. So pay attention, it’s a little different.
Imagine you are at a hotel, how would you say this room number? 
#503
Would it be one of the following?
ごひゃくさん？(go hyaku san)? 
ご　ぜろ　さん？(go zero san)? 
ご　れい　さん？(go rei san)?
If you did pick one of the above three counters, a native Japanese speaker would understand - but there is another counter! A counter just for room numbers:
“ご　まる　さん” (go maru san). 
Using “まる” is most commonly used in three-digit room numbers where “0” is in the middle such as:
201 (ni maru ichi) 
602 (roku maru ni) 
804 (hachi maru yon) 
Whereas, when it is a four (or more) digit room number, or where the “0” is not in the middle, it is spoken as:
1102（ichi ichi zero ni） 
510（go ichi zero)
A quick note, ご　ぜろ　さん（go zero san) would also be fine, but many Japanese native speakers use “まる” instead of “ぜろ” in this situation.
I think this is a pretty unique but fun counter as it’s quite common. It’s also a really great way to sound more natural as it’s not commonly taught in textbooks. 
Next time you are visiting an apartment or staying at a hotel (even when not in Japan), practice using まる as you look at each room number.

How to read room numbers in Japanese

In Japan there's a fascinating phenomenon サザエさん症候群 (Sazae-san Syndrome). This describes the feeling many people in Japan encounter—a feeling of unease on Sunday evenings as they anticipate the impending return to work on Monday. 
This term comes from the TV series, "Sazae-san." While the show primarily revolves around the cheerful everyday life of its protagonist, the show was commonly aired on a Sunday evening, and so people made a subconscious connection between the feeling of gloom and the TV show, especially its theme song. 
サザエさん症候群 (Sazae-san Syndrome) reflects the pressures and stresses that many individuals face in contemporary Japanese society, especially pressures coming from the workplace. It highlights the significance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance and finding time to re-charge away from work. 
Japan is taking steps to help employees achieve a better balance between work and home, though like anything with deep roots, it can take time.

サザエさん症候群 (Sazae-san Syndrome)

When you dive into the world of Japanese legends, you first encounter three entities: [f k=妖怪 f=ようかい] (Yokai), [f k=怪獣 f=かいじゅう] (Kaiju), and [f k=化 f=ば]け[f k=物 f=もの] (Bakemono). 
These beings have their own origins and descriptions and make up a unique part of Japanese culture.
[f k=妖怪 f=ようかい] (Yokai) generally refers to supernatural beings that have a deep connection with nature and human emotions. Due to their nature, Yokai are often portrayed as mischievous, menacing, or protective beings. From a silly raccoon to a terrifying kappa, yokai come in many varieties, each with a unique background that is deeply rooted in Japanese legends and superstitions.
On the other hand, [f k=怪獣 f=かいじゅう] (Kaiju) refers to large mythical beasts that are often depicted in movies and media. Literally meaning "strange beast". They are generally depicted as gigantic and destructive forces, with Godzilla being the most famous example! Kaiju stories are often depicted as allegories of social issues such as environmental destruction and nuclear disasters.
Finally, [f k=化 f=ば]け[f k=物 f=もの] (Bakemono) refers to creatures that transform. Often used synonymously with Yokai, Bakemono specifically refers to creatures that transform from animal to human form and vice versa, such as the famous fox or nine-tailed fox.
Each of these beings each have their own place in Japanese legend, creating stories that teach, enchant, and entertain us about human nature and the complexities of the world around them.

The Mysterious World of Japan: The Difference Between Youkai, Kaiju, and Bakemono

Do you know the word [f k=駅弁 f=えきべん] "Ekiben"?
Ekiben are boxed lunches sold at train stations and on trains in Japan. It's common for the dishes to make use of specialties local to the station, and it’s one of the pleasures of traveling. For example, seaside Ekiben often feature seafood, while mountain Ekiben often include wild vegetables and meat dishes.
It can be said that each region's Ekiben expresses the food culture of that region. When travelers visit an area, they can taste the ingredients and dishes that are unique to that area through Ekiben. This will further enhance your experience at your travel destination. It's also a unique way to make your train journey even more enjoyable.
Ekiben are so popular that department stores often hold product exhibitions featuring famous Ekiben from all over Japan. 
It's my favourite product exhibition as I've been there many times.
If you go to Japan, be sure to try an Ekiben!

駅弁 (Ekiben)

Do you know the word "大阪のおばちゃん (Osaka-no-obachan)"?
Osaka-no-obachan is a friendly term for middle-aged women in the Osaka region. They are known for being cheerful, friendly, and kind. Osaka-no-obachan are said to be easy-going, talkative and funny. They are also famous for their greetings in the Osaka dialect, "おおきに (Ookini)". 
You often see them in shopping arcades and in front of train stations. They give kind advice to shoppers and tourists, and sometimes they make you laugh with their funny stories and jokes. Osaka-no-obachan symbolize the culture and atmosphere of Osaka, and their cheerful personalities are one of the attractions of Osaka.
Osaka-no-obachan’s fashion is also famous. Their fashion is like their personality - it's bright and easy-going! 
The clothing is often brightly colored and very unique. They often use patterns such as leopard print, usually with flashy accessories. Osaka-no-obachan also have unique hairstyles, often with perms or color.
It's also common to wear comfortable shoes that are easy to walk in, such as slippers, sandals, and sneakers. In addition, they sometimes wears a stylish apron, and you can see them enjoying fashion while doing housework and work. Their fashion can be said to represent their lively energy and fun atmosphere.

Osaka-no-obachan

Visiting Japan is a unique experience, blending ancient traditions with modern life. One common sight that captures this mix of old and new is the chochin lantern. These cylindrical lanterns are made from a bamboo frame covered with paper or silk. They emit a warm glow when lit.
Chochin lanterns have been around since the Muromachi period (1336-1573). They once guided travelers and worshippers at temples and shrines. Today, they're a key part of Japanese celebrations like Obon and many matsuri (festivals). They brighten up streets, shops, and portable shrines called mikoshi.
These lanterns are also a part of modern Japan. Restaurants and izakayas (Japanese pubs) hang them outside, creating a cozy atmosphere. If you're looking for a special memento, handcrafted chochin lanterns can be a great souvenir or gift.
Chochin lanterns are a captivating part of Japan, connecting the past with the present. They're a must-see when exploring this incredible country.

Chochin latterns

Let's talk about Japan's national sport, Sumo wrestling. 
Although popular today, it is deeply rooted in ancient traditions. Sumo is a full-contact sport where two wrestlers, called "rikishi", face off in a circular ring ("dohyo"). 
A sumo match can be won in two ways:
<ul>
<li>forcing the opponent out of the ring or,</li>
<li>making the opponent touch the ground with any part of their body (other than the soles of their feet).</li>
</ul>
It has origins in Shinto rituals, with strong links to spirituality and tradition. Japanese people view sumo as a core part of their culture, and successful wrestlers can become national celebrities! The highest-ranked wrestlers, known as "yokozuna", symbolize strength, honor, and perseverance.
Sumo wrestlers follow a strict code of conduct. Maintaining proper appearance and following traditional customs. 
To truly experience sumo, attending one of the six annual grand sumo tournaments held across Japan is a must when travelling to Japan. These events showcase the wrestlers' incredible skill and determination, and offer spectators a chance to immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere.

Japan's national sport - sumo!

When I was living in Japan, one of the most anticipated holiday seasons was Golden Week. 
Spanning from April 29th to May 5th, this week-long break is a time when locals enjoy consecutive holidays, providing an excellent opportunity to dive into the culture and explore the country.
Golden Week is a fantastic time to attend local festivals and events held throughout Japan. In Tokyo, you can join the locals for cherry blossom viewing or have a picnic in parks like Ueno or Yoyogi. 
In Kamakura (about an away from Tokyo), you can stroll through streets with a historic atmosphere, reminiscent of the "Kamakura Period". 
Or if you find yourself in the Kansai region, take some time to visit Kyoto and Nara, where you can immerse yourself in more of Japan's rich history and culture.
However, be prepared for the fact that tourist spots can be quite crowded during Golden Week! To avoid the crowds, plan your itinerary in advance, and book tickets and accommodation nice and early. You might also want to explore lesser-known local attractions, which can offer unique experiences away from the crowds. Simple things like visiting a nearby park or taking part in a local event can be a delightful way to make the most of your Golden Week in Japan.
No matter how you choose to spend your Golden Week, embrace the opportunity to immerse yourself in the fascinating culture and stunning landscapes that Japan has to offer. 
Happy exploring!

Golden week

If you look up 「たぶん」, you might see “probably” and “maybe” on a dictionary. Also, if you ask Japanese native speakers about the translation for「たぶん」, some people say it’s “probably” but some says “maybe”.
It must be pretty confusing for you.
“probably” and “maybe” indicate different possibilities in English so you might feel unsure which one to use to express your thoughts accurately.
Let’s have a look at some examples.
If you write 
あしたは　たぶん　あめです。：It will probably/maybe rain tomorrow.
We can't tell if it means "probably" or "maybe" just from reading.
However, when you say that out loud, you could say たぶん slowly.
In this case, たぶん sounds less confident so たぶん expresses more "maybe" feeling rather than “probably”.
Then, how do we describe or understand when it’s written? Also, if you don’t have confidence in how to say “たぶん” differently.
You could use たぶん with some other expressions.
For example,
<ol>
<li>
たぶん　あめ　かもしれません。 
かもしれません indicates "maybe (about 50% possibility)".
</li>
<li>
たぶん　あめ　でしょう。 
でしょう indicates the higher possibility compare to かもしれません。
</li>
<li>
たぶん　あめだ　とおもうけど、わからない。 
If you add わからない, you can express your "unsure" feeling which means たぶん no longer expresses "probably".
</li>
</ol>
Here is a conclusion.
Japanese people have different definition of たぶん which is either “probably” or “maybe”. Also, Japanese people often express/understand the possibility of “たぶん” from context, tone and sometimes even from non-verbal communication. So, it would be handy if you could use たぶん with other expressions.

Does たぶん mean “probably” or “maybe”?

すっぱり, すっぽり, さっぱり, and すっかり
These sound similar and when you look up those words in dictionary, they are often translated as "completely" in English.
It's a common question that I'm asked by students, so how are they different?
Today, I want to talk about how to define and contrast those words.
Each has multiple nuances. Below are the typical meanings, along with example sentences that are often used.
<h3>すっぱり</h3>
(1) Cutting things sharply.
えだをすっぱり[f k=切 f=き]り[f k=落 f=お]とした。
I hacked off a branch.
(2) The act of doing something decisively.
[f k=旅行 f=りょこう]の[f k=計画 f=けいかく]をすっぱりとあきらめた。
I gave up the travel plan. (just like that).
<h3>すっぽり</h3>
(1) How things fit in and out.
[f k=子供 f=こども]がすっぽり[f k=入 f=はい]るくらいの[f k=大 f=おお]きさです。
It's big enough to completely fit a child inside.
(2) The state of covering the whole.
[f k=街 f=まち][f k=全体 f=ぜんたい]が[f k=雪 f=ゆき]ですっぽりとおおわれた。
The whole city was completely covered with snow.
<h3>さっぱり</h3>
(1) Discomfort and feeling of discontent are completely gone and you feel good about the situation.
[f k=友達 f=ともだち]と[f k=仲直 f=なかなお]りして、さっぱりした[f k=気持 f=きも]ちになった。
I made up with my friend and felt refreshed.
シャワーしてさっぱりした！
I took shower and (now) I feel refreshed!
(2) Personality, taste, smell is not persistent.
[f k=友達 f=ともだち]はさっぱりした[f k=性格 f=せいかく]で、[f k=一緒 f=いっしょ]にいて[f k=気 f=き]が[f k=楽 f=らく]だ。
My friends are easy-going and easy to be with.
このドレッシングは、さっぱりしていておいしい。
This dressing is refreshing and delicious.
(3) さっぱり + negative form, "not at all".
さっぱり[f k=思 f=おも]い[f k=出 f=だ]せない。
I can't remember at all.
<h3>すっかり</h3>
(1) A situation where nothing is left.
れいぞうこの[f k=中 f=なか]の[f k=食 f=た]べ[f k=物 f=もの]がすっかりなくなってしまった。
The food in the refrigerator is completely gone.
(2) Being in a certain state completely.
テストがあることをすっかり[f k=忘 f=わす]れていた。
I completely forgot there was a test.
もうすっかり[f k=秋 f=あき]だ。
It's already completely autumn.
ちがいがさっぱり[f k=分 f=わ]からなかった[f k=人 f=ひと]もすっかり[f k=分 f=わ]かるようになりましたか？😊 
Did people who didn't know the difference at all come to know the difference completely?

How to define and contrast すっぱり, すっぽり, さっぱり and すっかり

Today, I want to talk about 懐メロ(natsu mero).
懐メロ is a song that was popular for a while and reminds us of that time with nostalgia. It comes from "なつかしい(nostalgic)メロディー melody".
Recently, when I'm doing housework or working, I often listen to the songs I listened to when I was a student. Just listening to the song brings back vivid memories of those times. It's the power of music, isn’t it?
Here are some links of my recommended songs that I've been listening to a lot lately. These songs make me happy!
I went to Karaoke after school a looooot and sang and danced to these songs with friends when I was a high school student. (I think all the girls of my generation were doing the same thing!?)
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-J8wWmVW5Xs&amp;ab_channel=isabear121">Aya Matsuura「ね〜え？」</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ecalDRGlbP4&amp;ab_channel=isabear121">Aya Matsuura「 Yeah! めっちゃホリディ」</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-3RyqCAJkRU&amp;ab_channel=%E3%83%A2%E3%83%BC%E3%83%8B%E3%83%B3%E3%82%B0%E5%A8%98%E3%80%82">Morning Musume 「ザ☆ピ〜ス！」</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upODO6OuOOk&amp;ab_channel=avex">Ai Otsuka 「さくらんぼ」 </a></li>
</ul>
There are many songs that represent the feelings of young Japanese girls.
For example, the beginning of the first song "ね〜え" is like this:
[f k=迷 f=まよ]うなぁ〜！　I can’t make up my mind! 
セクシーなの？キュートなの？ Sexy? or Cute?  
どっちが　[f k=好 f=す]きなの？　Which do you prefer? 
[f k=迷 f=まよ]うわぁ〜！　I can’t make up my mind! 
すっこしでも　[f k=気 f=き]をひきたい　I want to get your attention even if only slightly. 
[f k=純情 f=じゅんじょう]な[f k=乙女心 f=おとめごころ]　Pure maiden heart.
Japanese young women's magazines often feature sexy vs cute make-up, sexy vs cute fashion, and I think this is a theme that young girls talk/think about quite a bit.
I wonder how I was...it was such a long time ago that I forgot! lol

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