和菓子 Wagashi Wagashi is a generic name for Japanese traditional sweets, and there are two kinds of Wagashi. One is named Namagashi which contains a lot of liquid such as cream, and another is named Higashi which has less liquid. Wagashi values seasons and is very beautiful, for instance, it is shaped like flowers and leaves. It also has a relationship with Japanese traditional events. It is said the basis of Wagashi came from China in the AD 600s. What’s more, Yougashi means Western sweets that came from Europe after the Meiji era. Ingredients of Wagashi include beans and grains such as rice, and usually don’t contain oil, dairy products, or spices. A combination of green tea and Wagashi is not only for daily life but has a relationship with Japanese traditional tea ceremonies, too.

一汁三菜（いちじゅうさんさい） Ichiju Sansai The word “Ichiju Sansai” is a style of Japanese meal in our daily life. You eat a bowl of soup and three dishes with a bowl of rice. It contains carbohydrates, protein, lipids, vitamins, and minerals and is nutritionally balanced.

*和食（わしょく）WASHOKU This word ”和食(わしょく)” means Japanese cuisine. It has been classified as part of UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. There are four features of Japanese cuisine. First, the land of Japan is long from north to south and there are various geographical features such as the sea and mountains. We have always respected our nature. Our cooking techniques and spices have been uniquely developed depending on the area. Second, Japanese dishes cherish seasons, because there are four seasons in Japan. Especially in traditional Japanese restaurants, dishes are decorated with beautiful flowers and leaves. Third, Japanese meals are balanced to include rice, soup, and some side dishes. Finally, our dishes have connections with traditional events like New Year, and it has deepened the bond with our family and areas.

長寿（ちょうじゅ）CHOJU This word “長寿（ちょうじゅ）” means long life. It is said that Japanese people live the longest in the world. The life expectancy of Japanese men is 81 years and for women it is 87 according to the data from the Ministry of Health in Japan in 2026. In addition, there are about 90,000 centenarians in Japan. “What is the secret?” “It is Japanese cuisine called WASHOKU”. Most Japanese people would probably agree.

日本のおいしいごはんのご紹介です。（中級学習者向けのPodcastです！） 日本語で料理のレシピを説明できるようになろう！今回は、ほうじ茶ラテのレシピです。

中級学習者向けのpodcastです！ ３月３日はひな祭り。ひな祭りのお菓子のご紹介です。

日本語でサイエンスを勉強しよう！ 太陽系の惑星（わくせい）の順番を覚えるための、ポッドキャストです。 （中級学習者向け）

日本の食べ物をご紹介する、ポッドキャストを作りました。第１回目はバレンタインデーです。中級レベルで、１〜２分の短い音声です。ぜひお聴きください！