Culture & Communication

Gaman: The Japanese Strength That's Also a Trap

Gaman — enduring hardship with dignity — is praised as Japanese resilience. From the inside it's double-edged, and its dark side is a real mental-health cost.2026-07-16

Omotenashi Isn't "Great Customer Service"

Japan is famous for hospitality, but omotenashi isn't "the customer is always right." A Japanese writer explains what it actually is — and why there's no tipping.2026-07-16

Honne and Tatemae — No, Japanese People Aren't "Two-Faced"

Westerners often call honne and tatemae "two-faced." A Japanese writer explains what they actually mean, why they're not dishonesty, and how to read them.2026-07-15