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Shimanami Kaido: Japan’s Best Cycling Road
The Shimanami Kaido has seen a spike in popularity in recent years. Since it's not far from the Sanyo Shinkansen line, it's accessible to most tourists. Here's how to get the most out of the seaside cycling road and its amenities.
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How to Write Better Fiction in Any Genre
The best novels and novellas out there have some key elements that make them resonate with a wide range of readers. Here are seven tried-and-true tricks for writing better fiction, whether you're writing romance or a sci-fi epic.
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The Best Anime Streaming Services in 2020
Anime selections can vary widely on streaming platforms like Netflix and Hulu. Here's the rundown of which streaming services are worth your money if you're an anime fan.
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How to Choose Images for Your Book Cover
Though there are millions of free and paid stock photos out there, navigating them all can be tricky. Here's the rundown on how to find and choose images without getting into legal trouble.
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How to Design Book Covers: An Insider’s Guide to the Secrets of the Trade
The general principles of design are the same for all types of art. Here are 5 key design tips for making a book cover look as professional as possible.
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Why You Should Hire a Tour Guide in Japan
Whether you're a seasoned traveler or a sports fan visiting for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, a tour guide can help you get around more smoothly. Here's the rundown on why having a tour guide matters in Japan.
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10 Anime Series That Desperately Need a Sequel
Many anime series manage to wrap up their plot in a satisfying little package. Other series have unexplored worldbuilding or unfinished plot lines that need resolving. Here are ten anime from the past two decades that could really use a sequel.
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3 Must-Do Side Trips During the Tokyo 2021 Olympics
Hotels and flights will sell out fast during the Tokyo Olympics, but with enough planning, you can fit some sightseeing in around the main events. Get away from the crowds around Mt. Fuji and Nikko by checking out these three spots.
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10 Anime Series Like 'Magia Record'
Fans of the original 'Puella Magi Madoka Magica' series have been looking forward to 'Magia Record' for months. Here are ten dark yet beautiful anime to watch while waiting for new episodes.
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10 Anime Series Like Fate/Grand Order
The anime adaptation of Fate/Grand Order is a unique fantasy action series, but there are a handful of other shows like it out there. Here are ten shows to try if you like FGO's fast-paced battles and larger-than-life characters.
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Why Japan Is a Paradise for Female Solo Travelers
While no country is perfect, Japan comes pretty close to being an ideal destination for women traveling alone. Here are some of the things you'll enjoy when touring Japan by yourself.
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The 5 Best Battles in 'My Hero Academia'
In just 3 seasons, MHA has managed to solidify its standing as one of the best currently-running shounen series. While there are many outstanding moments in the show, these 5 battles are some of the best.
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5 Countries Female Solo Travelers Should Avoid
Traveling solo as a woman can be risky in any part of the world, but some areas are much more dangerous than others. Here are five countries where the risk of harassment, stalking and violence is too high for solo female travelers.
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5 Places to Avoid Traveling With Children
You don't want to lug a five-year-old around Paris if he's not even going to enjoy most of it, right? Here are five cities to avoid for your next family vacation with kids and preteens.
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10 Great Shows and Movies for Avengers Fans
If you're having superhero withdrawal while waiting for Phase 4 of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, check out these ten TV series and movies for a healthy dose of action, adventure, and character development.
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How to Travel With Friends Without Losing Your Mind
Whether you're doing to Boston or Bali, traveling in a group of like-minded friends isn't as simple as you think. Here are the best ways to avoid misunderstandings and hurt feelings during your trip.
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5 Reasons Why Millennials Should Buy Instead of Rent
Buying a property can be time-consuming and cumbersome, but depending on your life plans and where you live, it may actually be your smartest option. Here are the key reasons why buying remains a smart option for today's young people.
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5 Ways to Go Off the Beaten Path in Japan
It's safe to stick to the known tourist spots and easy-to-remember train routes, but Japan has tons to offer outside of Tokyo and the major tourist destinations. Here are some easy ways to make your next trip to Japan more fresh and exciting.
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5 Reasons to Skip Tokyo on Your Next Trip to Japan
Tokyo is surprisingly overrated, especially if you want to experience Japanese culture in deeper ways than just visiting shrines, shopping, and gawking at Shibuya Crossing. There are many other great major cities in Japan, so you should consider skipping Tokyo on your next visit.
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Is Teaching English Online Harder Than It Looks?
Teaching English as a foreign language online may seem easy, but like any freelancing gig, it has its pros and cons. Make sure you're aware of the downsides before applying to online English companies.
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How to Get a Job Teaching English Online
With the rise of English as a global language, there is more and more demand for private English teachers around the world. Here's how to get started in this in-demand field.
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10 Anime Series Like "Arifureta Shokugyou de Sekai Saikyou"
Isekai anime can vary radically, with some focusing way more on action than on comedy and romance. Here are ten shows similar to the upcoming "Arifureta" light novel adaptation.
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Getting Around Japan: Planes vs. Bullet Trains
While the shinkansen, or bullet train, may be convenient for major tourist destinations like Hiroshima and Osaka, the best option for you will depend on a number of factors - including how far you're going and whether you're getting a JR Pass.
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10 Anime to Watch After 'Sword Art Online: Alicization'
Here are 10 more action-packed fantasy anime to watch while waiting for the next installment in the franchise, titled 'War of Underground'.
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10 Anime Similar to 'Kimetsu no Yaiba'
With its dark blend of fantasy action and drama, Kimetsu no Yaiba is on track to be one of ufotable's biggest shows. Here are 10 similar shounen and fantasy anime.
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10 Shows to Watch While Waiting for 'The Clone Wars' Season 7
It's hard to find family-friendly shows that are smart enough for older audiences, but 'Star Wars: The Clone Wars' manages to pull it off. Here are 10 more shows to watch while waiting for the final season.
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10 Shows to Watch While Waiting for More 'Young Justice'
With 'Young Justice: Outsiders' being split into two parts, fans are once again left waiting for more adventures. Luckily, there are plenty of other action-packed and emotionally-charged shows to watch in the meantime.
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10 Shows to Watch While Waiting for More 'Attack on Titan'
'Shingeki no Kyojin' has a perfect blend of action and drama, and it's going to be really hard to wait for the final season. Here are 10 other anime with epic battles and intense plot development.
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10 Anime Similar to 'Battle Angel Alita'
With all of the hype around 'Alita: Battle Angel,' movie fans may be searching for something similar to satisfy their sci-fi fix. Here are 10 anime that explore the same themes as the original series and offer an action-packed adventure.
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10 Great Movies for Fans of 'Alita: Battle Angel'
Early reviews are already praising 'Alita: Battle Angel' for its visually stunning action and well-executed premise. Here are some similar films for fans looking for nuanced and thought-provoking sci-fi movies.
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10 Anime Like 'The Promised Neverland'
'The Promised Neverland' was one of the most gripping anime of the Winter 2019 season. Here's what to watch while waiting for season 2 of this shounen fantasy series.
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10 Anime to Watch While Waiting for More 'Code Geass'
There's one more Code Geass film in the works for 2019, but for now, fans can dig into these anime with great plot twists and compelling sci-fi action.
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10 Shows to Watch After 'House of Cards'
Though season six drew mixed reactions and the show was marred by controversy, House of Cards did a lot of things right. Here are some similar TV series to watch if you like smart, complex political dramas.
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7 Anime to Watch After 'Love Live! Sunshine!!'
Though the Love Live! franchise will hopefully continue for years to come, English-speaking fans will have a bit of a wait before the next installment. Here are some similarly cute idol and schoolgirl slice-of-life shows to tide you over.
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30 Words to Learn Before Moving to Japan
Even if your employer has reassured you that they'll help you with the transition abroad, they'll likely fall short at times. Here are words to listen for, look for, and be able to say in case of any problems while in Japan.
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8 Anime to Watch While Waiting for 'Sailor Moon Eternal'
Though two Sailor Moon Crystal movies are planned, North American fans of the series may have to wait a while for the series' continuation to be available in English. Here are some similar magical girl anime to watch in the meantime.
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7 Anime to Watch After 'Tokyo Ghoul'
With Tokyo Ghoul:re ending and no further sequels announced, fans of the gory supernatural franchise will likely be seeking similar shows to watch. Here are some new and classic anime with a premise or dark tone similar to Tokyo Ghoul's.
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50+ Words You'll Hear in Japanese Elementary Schools
If you're starting work as an ALT or other type of English teacher, you'll want to brush up on your Japanese. While your dispatch company or supervisor will help with the language barrier, knowing some basic words will make things go more smoothly.
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'Young Justice' Seasons 1 & 2 Spoiler-Free Review
While the character development in Young Justice is inconsistent at best, there's still a lot of entertainment value in the action and plot twists. Hopefully season three will be just as good.
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8 Underrated Southeast Asian Destinations
Bangkok, Hanoi and Singapore all have a lot to offer, but there are cheaper and quieter places to enjoy all that Southeast Asia has to offer. Check out these options in Thailand, Malaysia, Vietnam and more.
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How to Plan an Awesome Bachelorette Party
You can never be too prepared - especially if a night of drinking is involved. Here are tips for making sure your bachelorette party goes as smoothly as possible while keeping your guests thoroughly entertained.
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'Voltron: Legendary Defender' Season 8 Spoiler-Free Review
The long-awaited final season is already causing a furor among fans, and for good reason: the ending is about as disappointing as they come. While Allura's leadership is refreshing, every single character on the show gets robbed of a proper ending, character development, or both.
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Margot Robbie's Next Big Films: Dreamland, Ruin, and Birds of Prey
Hollywood cycles through popular actresses fairly often, but Margot Robbie’s range of acting capabilities may mean that she’s here to stay. Here are the next big films on her schedule.
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Why 2019 is a Big Year for Will Smith
Like many A-listers, Will Smith's star power hasn’t faded with age – and he still has the same charisma that won him fans on The Fresh Prince of Bel Aire. Here's what to expect from him over the next year.
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The 7 Most Disappointing Mecha Anime
It's common for mecha anime to not be very good. It's a little less common for mecha anime to get fans excited and then let them down. Here are some of the worst offenders from the past 15 or so years.
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How to Stay Safe When Traveling in Chicago
Chicago has a bad reputation when it comes to crime, but you're much less likely to run into trouble if you act like a local. Here are some pointers and places to avoid - some of which might surprise you!
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6 Best Practices for Charitable Giving
Thousands of charities across the globe launch appeals for donations year-round, but these efforts really pick up steam around Christmastime. The best recipient of your money, though, may not always be the one that’s flooding your inbox or popping up in your newsfeed.
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Do These 5 Controversial Charities Deserve Your Donation?
While no organization is perfect, some charities have truly questionable management practices. Even household names like Oxfam and the American Red Cross have had major scandals in the past few years. Here are the major charities to consider avoiding.
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Should You Be a Lawyer? The Answer Is Probably “No”
If you’re not particularly passionate about a particular type of law, then you may end up stuck with a degree that you don’t enjoy and doesn’t even pay very well. Examine your interests, strengths, and career options closely to see if heading to law school is right for you.
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7 Ways to Make Your Conference Calls Less Annoying
Conference calls often do little more than breed multitasking and snarky conversations on Slack or Gchat. At their worst, they're a full-on waste of people's time or a drain on morale. Sometimes they're unavoidable, so here's how to make the most of them.
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How to Get Japanese Yen Before and During Your Trip
Japan is a modern enough country that getting currency is is easy, but you need to know your options and plan in advance. Here are the best ways to avoid fees while keeping enough cash on hand.
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How to Wash Your Face to Get Clearer Skin
While there are hundreds of great face scrubs and toners out there, getting clear and beautiful skin requires some basic best practices. If you forget the fundamentals, your homemade coffee-pomegranate scrub won't do you much good!
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8 Cheap and Easy Art Projects for Homeschooling, Rainy Days, & More
You don't need to break the bank with specialized craft store supplies. Go beyond coloring book pages with art ideas and crafts that your kids can easily do with household items.
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6 Ways to Deal With Homesickness
Whether you've just started college or are moving to another country, homesickness can strike at any time. Sometimes having familiar food can help you feel better. Other times, coping with loneliness requires different strategies.
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5 Shows to Watch While Waiting for More 'My Hero Academia'
My Hero Academia season 4 is finished airing, and waiting for new episodes is painful for the show's die-hard fans! Here are 5 excellent anime and Western animations to entertain you in the meantime.
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10 Shows to Watch After Voltron: Legendary Defender
While nothing can replace Voltron: Legendary Defender's blend of epic space battles, lovable characters, and incredible team dynamics, there are plenty of shows out there with broad, relatively light-hearted sci-fi appeal.
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6 Countries to Avoid Teaching English In
When it comes to teaching abroad, every country has its pros and cons, but some are certainly riskier than others. Sometimes the problems in a country run much deeper than the recruiters' glossy websites would lead you to believe.
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8 Surprising Things About Japanese Elementary Schools
While Japanese elementary schools have drawn some influence from Western education, they have some significant cultural and logistical differences. Disciplinary policies, teaching styles, and even lunch practices are unique and can be confusing for foreigners.
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Dealing With Typhoons, Floods, and Landslides in Japan
Floods and landslides are becoming more common in Japan. Whether you're visiting during the rainy season or living here year-round, make sure to familiarize yourself with evacuation locations and safety tips ahead of time.
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The Pros and Cons of Living in Japan
For many people, Japan seems too exotic and distant to ever consider living in. The reality, though, is that the country's high quality of life is refreshing - as long as you can handle the loneliness and language barriers.
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Best Resources for Intermediate Japanese Learners
It's easy to get complacent with your mid-level Japanese - but you can improve by leaps and bounds without getting bored if you change up your learning methods.
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Following Laws and Staying Safe in Japan
Japan is an incredibly safe country - but that's only because it's tough on crime. Make sure you're aware of the laws that are sometimes different than other countries'.
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How to Tour Japan as Cheaply as Possible
Japan isn't the cheapest country in the world to travel in, but there are ways to make it much more manageable. Economical hotels, transit, and entertainment can free up more money for souvenirs and big adventures.
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Traveling Through Narita International Airport
Whether you're making a domestic connection or just trying to get into Tokyo, Narita Airport can be surprisingly easy if you know what to expect.
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Story Starters for National Novel Writing Month
It's easy to get bogged down in the first lines of your story, or to give up because you haven't come up with a compelling plot. Try some story starters to get things moving!
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Dos and Don'ts of Moving to Japan
Moving to Japan can seem terrifying, but it's more doable than you think—as long as you have a sense of adventure and are willing to play by the rules.
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So You Wanna Teach English in Japan
If you've decided you want to teach English in Japan, congratulations! You're in for a treat. Next question: what kind of English do you want to teach? Do you crave the chaos of Assistant Language Teacher (ALT) life, or would you prefer teaching at an eikaiwa English school?
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Dealing With Problems While Living in Japan
Any country can be a challenge for expats to get used to, but living in Japan comes with its own set of unique cultural challenges, and problems can arise quickly. Rest assured, though, there are more resources at your fingertips than you think.
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50 Creative Writing Prompts for Short Stories, Novels and More
1. Write a character who doesn’t know what they want to do in life. Put them in a setting where they’re staring off into space, wondering what they’re going to do with their life, when something suddenly falls into their lap - literally - and...
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321 Character Development Questions
You have a basic character in mind for your next work - but now it's time to really figure out what makes them tick and where they're going next. Here are 321 questions to help you think it through!
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10 Holiday Fiction Writing Prompts
Prompts, tips, and ideas for all writers - whether you create short stories, novels or fan fiction! Get those juices flowing!