The Origins of Labor Day in the Philippines

On May 1, 1903, the first Labor Day celebration in the Philippines took place. It was organized by the Union Obrera Democratica de Filipinas, the first labor federation in the country. Thousands of workers marched from Plaza Moriones in Tondo to Malacañang to demand...

Did You Know?

Major Japanese festivals offer an exhilarating and unforgettable window into Japanese culture. Here are some of Japan’s must-see festivals during the fall season. Owara Kaze No Bon Festival Held over three days of September, the Yatsuo Festival annually unfolds...

TRIVIA ABOUT OBON

Obon Festival is a Buddhist ritual that commemorates the deceased ancestors of families. It is believed that their spirits return and visit their families. This festival is usually celebrated around August 15, annually. Bon Odori  Simply known as the “Bon Dance” is a...

Golden Week

The Golden Week, which occurs every year from the end of April to the beginning of May, is a collection of four national holidays in Japan. Started in 1948, Golden Week is one of the longest holiday seasons in the country. Here are the four holidays that make up...

Trainee Tours

Trainees in Japan often have the opportunity to go out with their Japanese office mates as a form of team building. Before the pandemic, trainees would be regularly invited to dinners, hikes, and other activities. Although there are still precautions taken in order to...

Be Face-to-Face Ready, Remember Your Japanese Business Greetings

「お疲れ様です」 “otsukaresamadesu” generally used as an opening greeting to most businesses. Can be used by anyone regardless of the position at work. It’s like saying “Hello!” in a professional way. 「ご苦労様」 “gokurousama” is also a business greeting but only used by bosses to...