An N1 essay weighing both sides of AI at work: jobs lost, jobs created, and the question of responsibility.
An N2 opinion essay on ageing and falling birth rates, and what they mean for work and rural towns.
An N1 news-style sample on climate change, harvests and heat-tolerant rice varieties.
An N2 news-style sample on a fictional survey of how long students read each day.
An N2 news-style sample about a new bus route to a hospital, including a resident comment.
Why washoku is seen as healthy: fish, vegetables, soybeans and small portions.
Cleaning rotas, clubs and uniforms - three familiar features of Japanese schools, and how they are changing.
The atmosphere of a summer fireworks festival: yukata, food stalls and the final barrage.
New Year in Japan: osechi food, nengajo cards, the first shrine visit and otoshidama.
Rubbish categories, collection days and designated bags - the first rules to learn when living in Japan.
Why the Shinkansen is punctual and convenient, and the joy of eating ekiben on board.
Hot spring etiquette, and why the Japanese see onsen as a place to rest body and mind.