I've seen other threads about best websites for those living in Japan. However, I'm curious about Japanese websites people use to explore their hobbies or interests that I may not know about. I'd like to integrate Japanese more into my daily life and I want to spend less time on Reddit.
Some of my interests include cooking, baking, running/biking, reading both nonfiction about health and history and sci-fi/fantasy fiction, climate and the environment etc. however, please suggest whatever sites you find interesting. たぶん新しいことを学びます。
by investoroma
4 comments
this isn’t exactly what you asked for but as an easy entry point (if you don’t already do this), if you’re on Instagram I’d def recommend following Japanese-language accounts related to your interests! For me that includes stuff like punk bands, certain video games, pro wrestlers/wrestling promotions, manufacturers of goofy gacha toys, owls, Japanese language-learning accounts, etc. they’re fun to have on your feed for low-key practice for sure.
Here’s a few insta accounts I’d recommend if they speak to you:
– @ osento.jp – digital magazine that highlights Tokyo’s unique public baths (with gorgeous photos too!)
– @ themetroclassic – funny guy who does skits about Japanese etymology/mythology/idioms in English
– @ aranziaronzo_inc – designers of cute and funny character merch
– @ hiji.mozu_owl – cute owl
I can’t say I use it half as much as I should, but I really like https://nippon-teshigoto.jp/ for all manner of Japanese artisanal crafts.
I highly recommend getting a kindle unlimited subscription with Amazon Japan if you are into cooking. There are tons of cookbooks in KU. I have also seen KU books on health and food science. Also, there are always a few of 恒川光太郎’s works (mostly urban fantasy) in rotation in KU as well. You probably would be able to find magazines of your hobbies in KU as well.
I really like [Kousei Cooking](https://www.youtube.com/@KOUSEI0828) on YouTube for cooking stuff. Very enthusiastic chef who goes deep into the little prep steps that can make something turn out restaurant quality.