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Why foxes and tanuki are said to deceive, from a nine-tailed fox in a Chinese classic to the court beauty Tamamo-no-Mae, and the Killing Stone of Nasu, which you can still visit. Written for upper beginners: full furigana, line-by-line vocabulary, the text again without furigana, an English translation, and native audio.

Essays on the new Reiwa era, the rainy season in Japan, and Japan's giant hornet. Written for intermediate learners: full furigana, line-by-line vocabulary, the text again without furigana, an English translation, and native audio.

Essays on the samurai and the daimyō of Japan's warring states. Written for intermediate learners: full furigana, line-by-line vocabulary, the text again without furigana, an English translation, and native audio.

The kappa, the river creature every Japanese child knows, in a folklore reader for upper beginners who want to improve their reading, listening and cultural understanding, one strange creature at a time. Written for upper beginners: full furigana, line-by-line vocabulary, the text again without furigana, an English translation, and native audio.

Essays on Japan's tunnels, including the Blue Tunnel and the Seikan Tunnel. Written for intermediate learners: full furigana, line-by-line vocabulary, the text again without furigana, an English translation, and native audio.

Bunbuku Chagama is one of Japan's best-known tanuki tales: a tanuki turns into a tea kettle to repay a kindness, and finds that holding the shape over a fire is harder than it looks. Every story is glossed line by line, printed again without furigana, and translated into English, with native audio.

Three essays on the tengu: what it is and what it can do, the theories of where it came from, and three legends (Yoshitsune on Mount Kurama, a boy returned by a tall stranger, and the octopus cedar of Mount Takao). Written for upper beginners: full furigana, line-by-line vocabulary, the text again without furigana, an English translation, and native audio.

Essays on the history of the ninja, the tale of the 47 rōnin, and Takeda Shingen, the man who almost had it all. Written for intermediate learners: full furigana, line-by-line vocabulary, the text again without furigana, an English translation, and native audio.

Kicchomu is the trickster of old Bungo province, and these two stories show his method: he catches a falling star, and he sells crows to people who should know better. The gentlest vocabulary in the whole collection. Every story is glossed line by line, printed again without furigana, and translated into English, with native audio.

Hachikazuki, the girl made to wear a bowl on her head that no one can remove, paired with the judgments of Ōoka Echizen, the Edo magistrate whose rulings became folklore in their own right. Every story is glossed line by line, printed again without furigana, and translated into English, with native audio.

Two tales of women taken from where they belong. Princess Uriko is born from a melon and stolen away by an amanojaku, a demon who wears her face. In the second, a fisherman hides a celestial maiden's feathered robe so she cannot return home. Every story is glossed line by line, printed again without furigana, and translated into English, with native audio.

Two Kicchomu stories where the trick turns on craft rather than talk: he outwits a ferryman over a fare, and he carves a mouse so convincing that it settles an argument for him. Every story is glossed line by line, printed again without furigana, and translated into English, with native audio.

A village asks Kicchomu to move a rock nobody can shift, and he does it without lifting anything. In the second story he decides which of two men owns a rice cake. Every story is glossed line by line, printed again without furigana, and translated into English, with native audio.

Kachi Kachi Yama (Crackling Mountain) is one of Japan's most famous folktales, and one of its darkest: a wicked tanuki, a grieving old man, and a clever rabbit with a long memory and a patient plan. Every story is glossed line by line, printed again without furigana, and translated into English, with native audio.

Two more from the Bungo trickster, both turning on how people behave when they want something: Kicchomu deals with a fire, and with the ownership of a horse. Every story is glossed line by line, printed again without furigana, and translated into English, with native audio.

Two more from the Kumamoto trickster. In the first, Hikoichi takes a lord's instruction far more literally than intended. In the second, he goes fishing for a kappa. Every story is glossed line by line, printed again without furigana, and translated into English, with native audio.

The kitsune is Japan's great shape-shifter and deceiver, which makes it the natural opponent for Hikoichi. Two stories of trickster against trickster. Every story is glossed line by line, printed again without furigana, and translated into English, with native audio.

100 sentences built from N5 vocabulary and grammar, taken apart word by word so you understand every piece. Good for reading, vocabulary, grammar and shadowing practice, with audio for every sentence.

The kanji you need for the JLPT N5, with readings, meanings and example sentences, and audio for the examples. For beginners who have learned hiragana.

Reading practice for beginners who know hiragana and katakana, a few dozen kanji and basic grammar. Mostly N5 kanji and vocabulary, with a few useful N4 kanji given furigana, and native audio.

34 beginner sentence patterns (文型), each with at least five example sentences. Words are swapped in and out so you see exactly how each pattern is built, and every example sentence has audio.

Meet Frank, an alien who needs a job, and the obaasan who is not impressed. Fifteen short episodes for beginners, told almost entirely in dialogue, with furigana and native audio.

Frank is an alien, the obaasan is unimpressed, and the two of them talk their way through ten more episodes: a stolen kawaii thing, a shinkansen to Tokyo, and an old man who knows more than he says.

The first hundred kanji are the ones you meet every day. This beginner book teaches the 100 most useful JLPT N5 kanji, each with its on and kun readings and a mnemonic.

Every Japanese honorific (さん, さま, ちゃん, くん, titles and family terms) and pronoun worth knowing, from everyday わたし and ぼく to the samurai's せっしゃ, and the words you should never call anyone.

Common phrases for the absolute beginner. Each sentence is broken down word by word with plain explanations, then stretched with variations, and Yumi recorded every one.

Clay and Yumi's katakana workbook: all 46 basic katakana, the long-vowel mark, small ッ, the sound marks, small ャ ュ ョ and the extra spellings for foreign sounds, with everyday words, signs and a café menu to read.

Makoto E-Zine Series #104 Recommended for beginner to intermediate learners of Japanese. Makoto Japanese Language & Culture Magazine Issue 104 (October 2026) Makoto is a monthly digital magazine for beginner to intermediate learners of Japanese. Each issue blends short stories, language lessons, cultural notes, humor, and native-audio recordings, all designed to make Japanese feel natural, usable, and enjoyable. In this issue (October 2026, Issue 104): October is persimmons darkening on the branch, the first real chill in the evening air, and food that suddenly sounds as good as it tastes. Two galactic emperors spend a day experiencing ordinary Japan, where imperial status won't get you a free meal or a seat on the train. The girl found on the shrine steps grows up in Part 3 of 小川未明's 「赤い蝋燭と人魚」, a deer turns out to know more about pears than the person who planted the tree, and one falling persimmon startles a dog at dusk. The grammar section covers ～ながら (doing two things at once) and ～かねない (things that just might go wrong), and we visit Tottori, which had sand dunes long before it had a Starbucks. All in the redesigned Makoto format: PDF, ePub, web, and the iPhone & Android apps. Readers: Beginner Reader: 鹿と梨の木 (The Deer and the Pear Tree) The pear tree in the narrator's backyard bears plenty of fruit this year, but the first pear is small and sour. Then a big deer starts showing up in the evenings to eat the pears that fall to the ground. Read it through first, then go line by line. Grammar notes cover ～たいと思って, ～てみる, もしかして, ～ていた, and ～のですね. Japanese Reader: 赤い蝋燭と人魚 Part 3, The Painted Candles (The Red Candles and the Mermaid) Years have passed. The girl the old couple found on the shrine steps has grown into a shy young woman who keeps her face turned away from the world, yet everyone who glimpses her is struck by her beauty. She begins painting fish, shells, and seaweed in red on the white candles, and the little shop's fortunes begin to change. This is the original 1921 text with full vocabulary, grammar notes, and audio. Frank and the Obaasan: Season 3, Episode 12 The Emperors Experience Japan (皇帝たちの日本体験) It's Frank's day off, and the two emperors want to see Japan. Rulers of millions of worlds, they have never paid for a meal, ridden a crowded train, or given up a seat to anyone. Read it through in Japanese, then line by line with vocabulary and grammar support. The full episode audio is included. Language & culture lessons: Grammar Time (Beginner): ～ながら (JLPT N4) Doing two things at the same time, as in 音楽を聞きながら勉強します (I study while listening to music), with example sentences and audio. Grammar Time (Intermediate): ～かねない (JLPT N2) A real risk that something undesirable could happen, as in 彼女を傷つけかねない (it could end up hurting her). Onomatopoeia Focus: Food Textures もちもち, さくさく, and とろとろ: soft and springy like fresh bread or mochi, light and crisp like fried food or cookies, and so soft it almost melts, like melted cheese or a half-cooked egg. Vocabulary (5 entries, N5 to N1): 行ってきます, お邪魔します, 手を抜く, 目を通す, and 後手に回る. One entry per JLPT level, each with usage notes, an example sentence, and audio. Etymology: どんちゃん騒ぎ The どん is a drum and the ちゃん is the clang of a 鉦, a small metal gong played at festivals and in kabuki. What began as the sound of a lively band became the word for a rowdy, anything-goes party. Kanji Spotlight (JLPT N5 to N1): 山, 駅, 橋, 険, and 礎. Readings, meanings, a memory hint, compound words, a stroke-order diagram, and an example sentence for each, with audio. Prefecture Spotlight: 鳥取 (Tottori) Japan's largest sand dunes, the volcano Daisen known as the Hōki Fuji, a temple hall clinging to a sheer cliff at Mitokusan, the world's only indoor sand-sculpture museum, and a street lined with more than 170 bronze yōkai from 水木しげる's manga. Anime Phrase of the Month 「いくさとはもったいないものさ。浪費と破壊と消耗 そこからはなにも生み出すものはない。」 from 忍たま乱太郎 Doi-sensei, the teacher at the ninja academy, on why war is such a waste: nothing is ever created from it. Haiku Spotlight: 作者不詳 (Author Unknown) 「柿落ちて 犬が驚く 日暮かな」: a persimmon falls, a dog startles, and the day draws to a close. With four English translations, the seasonal word, vocabulary, and an explanation with audio. Jokes & Riddles (including a friend with a "perfect" memory), Katakana Match (Computers), and more Includes: 108 pages (PDF) in the redesigned Makoto format 50 MP3 audio files, including the full Frank and the Obaasan episode 4 Anki flashcard decks 2 eBook formats (PDF + ePub), plus an edition for Kobo readers Scan-and-listen QR codes for quick mobile access An unlock code that adds this issue to the free Makoto+ Japanese Explorer app (iPhone, Android, and web), with inline audio, tappable vocabulary, furigana on demand, translations, notes, and vocabulary tracking Issue 104: pour something warm and read it ながら. Just leave the first pears to the deer. NOTE: Digital and Print Versions Available (print on Amazon, digital here). Digital version downloads are instant. No waiting. No Dropbox account required. Download directly on PC/Mac or access files on mobile. If you don't see your email right away, check your spam folder or contact us. This series is also available on Amazon.

Makoto E-Zine Series #102 Recommended for beginner to intermediate learners of Japanese. You can purchase the printed version on Amazon by clicking here. Makoto Japanese Language & Culture Magazine Issue 102 (August 2026): the start of a five-part fairy tale in its original Japanese Makoto is a monthly digital magazine for beginner to intermediate learners of Japanese. Each issue blends short stories, language lessons, cultural notes, humor, and native-audio recordings, all designed to make Japanese feel natural, usable, and enjoyable. In this issue (August 2026, Issue 102): This month we begin 「赤い蝋燭と人魚」 (The Red Candles and the Mermaid), the best-known story by 小川未明 (Ogawa Mimei), often called the father of Japanese children's literature. Over five issues we read the whole tale sentence by sentence, in the words he wrote in 1921 and the same text Japanese readers have grown up with for a century. Also inside: two alien emperors turn up at Frank's door, the etymology section traces お転婆 back to a Dutch word, and the prefecture spotlight visits Shimane, where Japan's gods are said to gather every October. All in the redesigned Makoto format: PDF, ePub, web, and the iPhone & Android apps. Readers: Beginner Reader: 熊やイノシシに遭ってしまったら (If You Run Into a Bear or a Wild Boar) A short first-person piece: growing up right beside the mountains without ever seeing a bear, spotting a big wild boar while out jogging on a trip back to Japan, and what to do if you ever meet one. Read it through first, then go line by line. Grammar notes cover ～たことはありません, ～ことがあります, ～ていたら, ～てしまったら, the literary ～ず, and ～ながら. Japanese Reader: 赤い蝋燭と人魚 Part 1, The Northern Sea (The Red Candles and the Mermaid) In the cold, dark northern sea, a lonely mermaid who is expecting a child decides to leave her baby with the humans on shore, because she has heard that humans are kind to helpless things. This is the original 1921 text with full vocabulary, grammar notes, and audio. Watch for the older storybook forms like 青うございました and ～であります, which give the tale its voice. Frank and the Obaasan: Season 3, Episode 10 The Return of the Emperors (皇帝たちの帰還) Frank opens the door and freezes: two aliens he knows all too well are standing there. They bow deeply to Obaasan, glare at Frank, and report that his old enemy is still in prison, crying every day because there are no cats. Read it through in Japanese, then line by line with vocabulary and grammar support. Language & culture lessons: Grammar Time (Beginner): ～なければならない (JLPT N4) "Must" and "have to," formed from verbs, い-adjectives, な-adjectives, and nouns, with three example sentences and audio. Grammar Time (Intermediate): ～わけにはいかない (JLPT N2) "I can't (afford to)" when duty, principle, or circumstance rules something out, plus the double negative ～ないわけにはいかない: "I have no choice but to." Onomatopoeia Focus: Anger イライラ, カンカン, and ムカムカ: from irritation that builds up over the day, to a full boiling rage, to the resentment that churns in your stomach. Vocabulary (5 entries, N5 to N1): お元気ですか, 楽しみにする, 手が離せない, 顔が広い, and 気を揉む. One entry per JLPT level, each with usage notes, an example sentence, and audio. Etymology: お転婆 (Tomboy) The most common theory traces the word to the Dutch ontembaar, "untamable," which Japanese ears turned into おてんば. Kanji Spotlight (JLPT N5 to N1): 水, 図, 配, 傾, and 把. Readings, meanings, a memory hint, compound words, and an example sentence for each, with audio. Prefecture Spotlight: 島根 (Shimane) Home to 出雲大社 (Izumo Shrine), where Japan's gods are said to gather each October, which is why the month is locally called 神在月. Plus 松江城 (Matsue Castle), one of the few castles with its original keep, and the Iwami Silver Mine, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Anime Phrase of the Month 「命令はしない。左右様は守り神だから俺なんかが命令とかおこがましい。」 from 黄泉のツガイ Yuru refuses to give orders to the pair of guardians his village has always revered. From the creator of 鋼の錬金術師 (Fullmetal Alchemist). Haiku Spotlight: 作者不詳 (Author Unknown) 「花火消え 闇の深さを 知りにけり」: the fireworks fade, and only then do you learn how deep the dark is. With four English translations, the seasonal word, vocabulary, and an explanation with audio. Jokes & Riddles, Katakana Match (Computer Words), and more Includes: 101 pages (PDF) in the redesigned Makoto format 40 MP3 audio files 5 Anki flashcard decks 2 eBook formats (PDF + ePub), plus an edition for Kobo readers Scan-and-listen QR codes for quick mobile access An unlock code that adds this issue to the free Makoto+ Japanese Explorer app (iPhone, Android, and web), with inline audio, tappable vocabulary, furigana on demand, translations, notes, and vocabulary tracking Issue 102 opens a five-part read of one of Japan's best-loved fairy tales, in the words its author wrote. Take it slowly, lean on the notes when you need them, and let yourself read. NOTE: Digital and Print Versions Available (print on Amazon, digital here). Digital version downloads are instant. No waiting. No Dropbox account required. Download directly on PC/Mac or access files on mobile. If you don't see your email right away, check your spam folder or contact us. This series is also available on Amazon.

Makoto E-Zine Series #96 Recommended for beginner to intermediate learners of Japanese. You can purchase the printed version on Amazon by clicking here. Makoto Japanese Language & Culture Magazine Issue 96 (February 2026) Fun, story-driven reading and listening practice for learners of Japanese Makoto is a monthly digital magazine for beginner to intermediate learners of Japanese. Each issue blends short stories, language lessons, cultural notes, humor, and native-audio recordings—designed to make Japanese feel alive, approachable, and genuinely enjoyable. In this issue (February 2026, Issue 96): This month’s issue brings three very different reading experiences together: a true beginner-friendly story, a continued chapter in Frank and the Obaasan’s increasingly chaotic life in Japan, and a classic Japanese folktale retold with learners in mind. The language range is intentionally wide. Absolute beginners get carefully scaffolded reading practice, while upper-beginner learners get more natural sentence flow, real-world vocabulary, and cultural context that rewards slower, thoughtful reading. Highlights include: Beginner Story: Super"man"A gentle, confidence-building story written entirely for beginners. Presented in multiple formats, including a hiragana-only version with spacing, making it ideal for early reading practice. Frank and the Obaasan: Season 3, Episode 4Frank faces a very human challenge: paperwork. This episode raises the language level slightly while maintaining clear structure, humor, and full study support, including line-by-line breakdowns, translations, and Japanese-only reading. The Magical Listening Hood (聞き耳ずきん)A classic Japanese folktale retold in accessible Japanese, with both Japanese-only and translated versions. Designed to help learners experience traditional storytelling without being overwhelmed by archaic language. Japanese Grammar: あとでA practical grammar feature explaining how あとで is actually used in everyday Japanese, with clear examples and usage patterns. Onomatopoeia Focus: Japanese Laughterにやにや, にやり, くくく, ひひひ, and more. A deeper look at how Japanese expresses laughter, mood, and personality through sound-symbolic words. Kanji Spotlight: 食 (JLPT N5)Meanings, readings, example words, and usage centered on one of the most essential kanji related to eating and daily life. Japanese Saying: 熱をあげるA useful expression meaning to become obsessed or infatuated, with explanation and example usage. Prefecture Spotlight: AichiAn introduction to Aichi Prefecture, including cultural notes and practical vocabulary. Etymology Corner: 一肌脱ぐThe origin and imagery behind this common expression meaning to go out of one’s way to help someone. Anime Phrase of the MonthA real line from a popular anime, carefully unpacked for meaning, nuance, and natural usage. Haiku SpotlightA short seasonal poem with vocabulary, translation, and cultural explanation. Jokes, riddles, and wordplayLight reading that reinforces real Japanese in an approachable way. Includes: 85 pages (Print) 30 MP3 audio files Scan-and-listen QR codes for quick mobile access Integration with Makoto+ Japanese Explorer for interactive reading, audio playback, furigana-on-demand, translations, notes, and vocabulary tracking Perfect for learners who want Japanese that feels human, readable, and fun, without sacrificing clarity or study support.   🔊 Instant Audio Immersion: Scan the QR codes throughout the magazine to hear native recordings on the spot. 🎁 Free Bonus Materials: Sound files, Anki flashcards, and Japanese Explorer integration are all included at no extra cost. ➡️ How to Read: Follow our step-by-step eBook guide if you’re new to digital reading. ❝Makoto is a wonderful magazine that blends language learning with culture, history, and fun. Each issue feels like a guided tour through Japan’s words, traditions, and hidden gems.❞ 🛒 Start your journey today: Download instantly and join thousands of learners who look forward to Makoto every month! NOTE: Digital and Print Versions Available (print on Amazon, digital here). Digital version downloads are instant—no waiting. No Dropbox account required. Download directly on PC/Mac or access files on mobile. If you don’t see your email right away, check your spam folder or contact us. This series is also available on Amazon.

Makoto E-Zine Series #95 Recommended for beginner to intermediate learners of Japanese. You can purchase the printed version on Amazon by clicking here. Makoto Japanese Language & Culture Magazine Issue 95 (January 2026) Fun, story-driven reading and listening practice for learners of Japanese Makoto is a monthly digital magazine for beginner to intermediate learners of Japanese. Each issue blends short stories, language lessons, cultural notes, humor, and native-audio recordings—designed to make Japanese feel alive, approachable, and genuinely enjoyable. In this issue (January 2026, Issue 95): This month marks the official start of Frank and the Obaasan: Season 3—and things immediately get weirder. Frank is still an alien trying to survive everyday life in Japan. Obaasan is still calm, terrifyingly capable, and one step ahead of everyone. Season 3 raises the language level slightly from Season 1, leaning into upper-beginner Japanese, while doubling down on humor, misunderstandings, and cultural friction. To match this shift, the opening chapters have been reworked and reformatted to make the language clearer, more supportive, and easier to study. Across three episodes in this issue, Frank faces new bureaucratic realities, a deceptively normal Japanese word, and a misunderstanding that spirals far beyond what anyone intended. It’s fun, a little stupid, and—by design—stupidly funny. Highlights include: Frank and the Obaasan: Season 3, Episodes 1–3A refreshed and reformatted start to the new season, written at an upper-beginner level with clearer structure, vocabulary notes, and study support Onomatopoeia Focus: Japanese Laughterあはは, にやにや, げらげら, どはは and more—how Japanese expresses laughter across moods, personalities, and situations Grammar Time!: ぜひWhat ぜひ really means in natural Japanese, and how it’s actually used in conversation Vocabulary Spotlight: 思う壺“Just as planned”—an idiom that captures intention, manipulation, and satisfaction all at once Kanji Focus: 話 (JLPT N5)Meanings, readings, example words, and usage centered around one of the most foundational kanji in Japanese Haiku / Senryū SpotlightA short, humorous poem with full language and cultural breakdown Anime Phrase of the DayA real line from a popular anime, carefully unpacked for meaning, grammar, and nuance Prefecture Spotlight: ToyamaA look at geography, culture, and regional flavor beyond the usual tourist path Etymology Corner: だめWhere this extremely common word comes from—and why it feels the way it does Jokes, riddles, and wordplayLight, enjoyable reading that still reinforces real Japanese Includes: 73-page PDF and ePub formats MP3 audio files (normal and slow speed) Scan-and-listen QR codes for quick mobile access Integration with Makoto+ Japanese Explorer for interactive reading, audio, furigana-on-demand, translations, notes, and vocabulary tracking Perfect for learners who enjoy Japanese through stories, humor, and culture—and who want material that’s fun first, but secretly very effective.   🔊 Instant Audio Immersion: Scan the QR codes throughout the magazine to hear native recordings on the spot. 🎁 Free Bonus Materials: Sound files, Anki flashcards, and Japanese Explorer integration are all included at no extra cost. ➡️ How to Read: Follow our step-by-step eBook guide if you’re new to digital reading. ❝Makoto is a wonderful magazine that blends language learning with culture, history, and fun. Each issue feels like a guided tour through Japan’s words, traditions, and hidden gems.❞ 🛒 Start your journey today: Download instantly and join thousands of learners who look forward to Makoto every month! NOTE: Digital and Print Versions Available (print on Amazon, digital here). Digital version downloads are instant—no waiting. No Dropbox account required. Download directly on PC/Mac or access files on mobile. If you don’t see your email right away, check your spam folder or contact us. This series is also available on Amazon.

Includes the Digital Files You will receive an email with the download link for the digital files immediately after purchase. The physical book will be shipped as soon as possible. If you would prefer the digital-only bundle to save money, please click here. The digital files include: ePub, PDF, MP3 sound files, and an Anki flashcard deck. For Beginners to IntermediatesThis book is ideal for upper beginners, but beginners who have a good grasp of hiragana and the most fundamental aspects of Japanese grammar and sentence structure will find it valuable.  ABOUT YAMAHA TORAKUSUYamaha Torakusu, born April 20, 1851, was the visionary founder of Yamaha Corporation, known for pioneering Japan's first reed organs. His company, originally called Nippon Gakki Co., Ltd. in Hamamatsu, crafted organs, pianos, and harmonicas. In tribute to his legacy, the company was later renamed the Yamaha Corporation. Yamaha passed away on August 8, 1916, leaving a significant mark on musical instrument manufacturing.WHAT'S INCLUDED? The book features two versions of the biography. Begin with the simplified version, which uses primarily JLPT N5-N4 level vocabulary and grammar. Then, progress to the intermediate version, which presents the same information but in a longer format with more complex grammar and vocabulary. The intermediate biography, initially featured in our Makoto Magazine (MakotoPlus.com), has been significantly revised and expanded for this edition. The book also includes a concise beginner-level version of the essay. Start by reviewing the vocabulary and grammar notes, proceed with the beginner-level essay, and then challenge yourself with the full intermediate essay. BONUS MATERIALAccess the bonus content via the link on the last page of the book to enhance your Japanese reading skills (PDF & ePub), listening comprehension (audio files - both slow and regular speed), and vocabulary acquisition (Anki flashcard decks). The Anki flashcard decks are a fast way to assimilate the vocabulary. An incredible value! Bonuses include: Audio recordings of both essays at slow and regular speeds. An Anki flashcard deck to study and memorize the story's vocabulary. QR Codes: Easily scan the QR codes in the book to stream the audio and listen along as you read. Vocabulary Section: Before delving into the essay (either the beginner or the intermediate version), go through the story's vocabulary, sorted by parts of speech. Grammar Section: Review key grammatical patterns featured in the stories. Kanji in Focus: Explore essential kanji from the story, including on and kun readings, meanings, example sentences, and mnemonic stories for the kanji parts. An enjoyable method of learning about significant Japanese figures while also boosting your vocabulary, grammar, and kanji knowledge. Perfect for upper beginners, but also accessible to beginners familiar with hiragana and basic grammatical structures. Every line and every word are meticulously explained and defined, making it a perfect resource for upper beginners to intermediate learners. Expand your Japanese vocabulary, grasp new grammatical structures, polish your reading skills, and enhance your listening capabilities. Each essay is accompanied by two MP3s, narrated by a native Japanese voice actress. Print the PDFs and load the MP3s onto your phone for studying on the go. What are you waiting for? Unlock the full potential of your Japanese learning journey—purchase now and begin reading and learning.

Two more from the Bungo trickster, both turning on how people behave when they want something: Kicchomu deals with a fire, and with the ownership of a horse. The 2 stories in this book Kicchomu and the Fire Kicchomu's Horse How each story is laid out Line by line. Each sentence gets its own page, with furigana over every kanji and the vocabulary and grammar explained underneath. The whole story again in Japanese, without the notes, so you can read it straight through. Native audio. Yumi reads every story at normal speed and slowly. Scan the QR code on the page to listen. Exercises after every story: comprehension questions, particle fill-ins and more, with an answer key. An English translation of every story, close enough to the Japanese to check yourself against. Kanji in Focus. The key kanji with readings, meaning, parts and stroke order. What you get The paperback, 2026 Revised Edition: 129 pages, 5.5 x 8.5 inches. The eBook and audio, right away. PDF, ePub, MP3 audio and an Anki flashcard deck, ready to download as soon as you order. No waiting for the mail. The book in the Makoto+ Japanese Explorer app (iPhone, iPad and Android). It unlocks automatically for the email you order with, and the unlock code is printed in the back of the book too. This is Volume 19 of Learn Japanese with Stories. Prefer to go all digital? The Learn Japanese with Stories Bundle #2 has all ten volumes (11 to 20) as eBooks with audio. Buy 3 Clay & Yumi paperbacks, get a 4th free. Mix any titles. The discount is applied automatically at checkout. Ships from the US to anywhere in the world. Learn Japanese with Stories Volume 19: Kicchomu's Horse is a 129-page paperback reader (2026 Revised Edition) in the Learn Japanese with Stories series: Japanese with full furigana, line-by-line vocabulary and grammar notes, the text again without notes, an English translation, and native audio. The code printed in the back unlocks the book in the free Makoto+ Japanese Explorer app for iPhone, iPad and Android, where you can tap any word for its reading and meaning.

This is a play on the common Japanese phrase "otsukaresama" which is said when workers leave work to go home. It means something like "You must be tired" or "good work today!" But the twist is the Japanese says "otsukare sandoicchi" which means "tired sandwich." • 100% ring-spun cotton • Sport Grey is 90% ring-spun cotton, 10% polyester • Dark Heather is 65% polyester, 35% cotton • 4.5 oz/yd² (153 g/m²) • Shoulder-to-shoulder taping • Quarter-turned to avoid crease down the center • Blank product sourced from Bangladesh, Nicaragua, Honduras, Dominican Republic, Haiti or Guatemala This product is made especially for you as soon as you place an order, which is why it takes us a bit longer to deliver it to you. Making products on demand instead of in bulk helps reduce overproduction, so thank you for making thoughtful purchasing decisions!Size guide   LENGTH (inches) WIDTH (inches) S 28 18 M 29 20 L 30 22 XL 31 24 2XL 32 26 3XL 33 28   LENGTH (cm) WIDTH (cm) S 71.1 45.7 M 73.7 50.8 L 76.2 55.9 XL 78.7 61 2XL 81.3 66 3XL 83.8 71.1

Experience the fusion of traditional Japan with a modern anime twist in this captivating design. A warrior cat in a kimono stands valiantly amidst cherry blossoms with the sun radiating behind. • 100% ring-spun cotton • Sport Grey is 90% ring-spun cotton, 10% polyester • Dark Heather is 65% polyester, 35% cotton • 4.5 oz/yd² (153 g/m²) • Shoulder-to-shoulder taping • Quarter-turned to avoid crease down the center • Blank product sourced from Bangladesh, Nicaragua, Honduras, Dominican Republic, Haiti or Guatemala This product is made especially for you as soon as you place an order, which is why it takes us a bit longer to deliver it to you. Making products on demand instead of in bulk helps reduce overproduction, so thank you for making thoughtful purchasing decisions!Size guide   LENGTH (inches) WIDTH (inches) S 28 18 M 29 20 L 30 22 XL 31 24 2XL 32 26 3XL 33 28   LENGTH (cm) WIDTH (cm) S 71.1 45.7 M 73.7 50.8 L 76.2 55.9 XL 78.7 61 2XL 81.3 66 3XL 83.8 71.1

Experience the fusion of traditional Japan with a modern anime twist in this captivating design. A warrior cat in a kimono stands valiantly amidst cherry blossoms with the sun radiating behind. • Ceramic • 11 oz mug dimensions: 3.8″ (9.6 cm) in height, 3.2″ (8.2 cm) in diameter • 15 oz mug dimensions: 4.7″ (11.9 cm) in height, 3.3″ (8.5 cm) in diameter • 20 oz mug dimensions: 4.3″ (10.9 cm) in height, 3.7″ (9.3 cm) in diameter • Dishwasher and microwave safe • Blank product sourced from China This product is made especially for you as soon as you place an order, which is why it takes us a bit longer to deliver it to you. Making products on demand instead of in bulk helps reduce overproduction, so thank you for making thoughtful purchasing decisions!

Embrace the irony with "watashi, paripi dewanai", a vibrant design that declares "I'm not a party person" amidst lively party visuals. A playful juxtaposition for the introverted celebrant. • 100% ring-spun cotton • Sport Grey is 90% ring-spun cotton, 10% polyester • Dark Heather is 65% polyester, 35% cotton • 4.5 oz/yd² (153 g/m²) • Shoulder-to-shoulder taping • Quarter-turned to avoid crease down the center • Blank product sourced from Bangladesh, Nicaragua, Honduras, Dominican Republic, Haiti or Guatemala This product is made especially for you as soon as you place an order, which is why it takes us a bit longer to deliver it to you. Making products on demand instead of in bulk helps reduce overproduction, so thank you for making thoughtful purchasing decisions!Size guide   LENGTH (inches) WIDTH (inches) S 28 18 M 29 20 L 30 22 XL 31 24 2XL 32 26 3XL 33 28   LENGTH (cm) WIDTH (cm) S 71.1 45.7 M 73.7 50.8 L 76.2 55.9 XL 78.7 61 2XL 81.3 66 3XL 83.8 71.1

Behold the "neko zamurai", a charming samurai cat dressed in traditional Japanese attire. Set against a vibrant red-orange setting sun, this design is accentuated by the kanji inscription for "cat samurai." • 100% ring-spun cotton • Sport Grey is 90% ring-spun cotton, 10% polyester • Dark Heather is 65% polyester, 35% cotton • 4.5 oz/yd² (153 g/m²) • Shoulder-to-shoulder taping • Quarter-turned to avoid crease down the center • Blank product sourced from Bangladesh, Nicaragua, Honduras, Dominican Republic, Haiti or Guatemala This product is made especially for you as soon as you place an order, which is why it takes us a bit longer to deliver it to you. Making products on demand instead of in bulk helps reduce overproduction, so thank you for making thoughtful purchasing decisions!Size guide   LENGTH (inches) WIDTH (inches) S 28 18 M 29 20 L 30 22 XL 31 24 2XL 32 26 3XL 33 28   LENGTH (cm) WIDTH (cm) S 71.1 45.7 M 73.7 50.8 L 76.2 55.9 XL 78.7 61 2XL 81.3 66 3XL 83.8 71.1

Show confidence and assurance with the bold Japanese phrase "任せとけ!" (Makasetoke). A design that resonates with the spirit of "Leave it to me" in a stylish and modern way." • 100% ring-spun cotton • Sport Grey is 90% ring-spun cotton, 10% polyester • Dark Heather is 65% polyester, 35% cotton • 4.5 oz/yd² (153 g/m²) • Shoulder-to-shoulder taping • Quarter-turned to avoid crease down the center • Blank product sourced from Bangladesh, Nicaragua, Honduras, Dominican Republic, Haiti or Guatemala This product is made especially for you as soon as you place an order, which is why it takes us a bit longer to deliver it to you. Making products on demand instead of in bulk helps reduce overproduction, so thank you for making thoughtful purchasing decisions!Size guide   LENGTH (inches) WIDTH (inches) S 28 18 M 29 20 L 30 22 XL 31 24 2XL 32 26 3XL 33 28   LENGTH (cm) WIDTH (cm) S 71.1 45.7 M 73.7 50.8 L 76.2 55.9 XL 78.7 61 2XL 81.3 66 3XL 83.8 71.1

Meet our manga ghost, exuding shock and surprise, accompanied by the humorous Japanese revelation, "あ、鍵忘れちゃった" (a, kagi wasurechatta) or "Ah, I forgot my keys". A playful blend of spectral charm and everyday forgetfulness." • 100% ring-spun cotton • Sport Grey is 90% ring-spun cotton, 10% polyester • Dark Heather is 65% polyester, 35% cotton • 4.5 oz/yd² (153 g/m²) • Shoulder-to-shoulder taping • Quarter-turned to avoid crease down the center • Blank product sourced from Bangladesh, Nicaragua, Honduras, Dominican Republic, Haiti or Guatemala This product is made especially for you as soon as you place an order, which is why it takes us a bit longer to deliver it to you. Making products on demand instead of in bulk helps reduce overproduction, so thank you for making thoughtful purchasing decisions!Size guide   LENGTH (inches) WIDTH (inches) S 28 18 M 29 20 L 30 22 XL 31 24 2XL 32 26 3XL 33 28   LENGTH (cm) WIDTH (cm) S 71.1 45.7 M 73.7 50.8 L 76.2 55.9 XL 78.7 61 2XL 81.3 66 3XL 83.8 71.1

Venture with our figure, scratching his head in contemplation, paired with the profound Japanese words, boukyaku no kanata e or "To oblivion and beyond". A design that marries simplicity with deep introspection." • 100% ring-spun cotton • Sport Grey is 90% ring-spun cotton, 10% polyester • Dark Heather is 65% polyester, 35% cotton • 4.5 oz/yd² (153 g/m²) • Shoulder-to-shoulder taping • Quarter-turned to avoid crease down the center • Blank product sourced from Bangladesh, Nicaragua, Honduras, Dominican Republic, Haiti or Guatemala This product is made especially for you as soon as you place an order, which is why it takes us a bit longer to deliver it to you. Making products on demand instead of in bulk helps reduce overproduction, so thank you for making thoughtful purchasing decisions!Size guide   LENGTH (inches) WIDTH (inches) S 28 18 M 29 20 L 30 22 XL 31 24 2XL 32 26 3XL 33 28   LENGTH (cm) WIDTH (cm) S 71.1 45.7 M 73.7 50.8 L 76.2 55.9 XL 78.7 61 2XL 81.3 66 3XL 83.8 71.1

Witness a feline colossus descend upon a cityscape in our "Attack of the Cat" design, rendered in mesmerizing ukiyo-e style. Japanese text adds an authentic touch to this whimsical cat mayhem. • 100% ring-spun cotton • Sport Grey is 90% ring-spun cotton, 10% polyester • Dark Heather is 65% polyester, 35% cotton • 4.5 oz/yd² (153 g/m²) • Shoulder-to-shoulder taping • Quarter-turned to avoid crease down the center • Blank product sourced from Bangladesh, Nicaragua, Honduras, Dominican Republic, Haiti or Guatemala This product is made especially for you as soon as you place an order, which is why it takes us a bit longer to deliver it to you. Making products on demand instead of in bulk helps reduce overproduction, so thank you for making thoughtful purchasing decisions!Size guide   LENGTH (inches) WIDTH (inches) S 28 18 M 29 20 L 30 22 XL 31 24 2XL 32 26 3XL 33 28   LENGTH (cm) WIDTH (cm) S 71.1 45.7 M 73.7 50.8 L 76.2 55.9 XL 78.7 61 2XL 81.3 66 3XL 83.8 71.1

Dive into a magical world with this anime-style girl sporting kitsune ears and surrounded by adorable foxes. The text "kitsune kawaii" adds an extra layer of cuteness to this captivating design. • 100% ring-spun cotton • Sport Grey is 90% ring-spun cotton, 10% polyester • Dark Heather is 65% polyester, 35% cotton • 4.5 oz/yd² (153 g/m²) • Shoulder-to-shoulder taping • Quarter-turned to avoid crease down the center • Blank product sourced from Bangladesh, Nicaragua, Honduras, Dominican Republic, Haiti or Guatemala This product is made especially for you as soon as you place an order, which is why it takes us a bit longer to deliver it to you. Making products on demand instead of in bulk helps reduce overproduction, so thank you for making thoughtful purchasing decisions!Size guide   LENGTH (inches) WIDTH (inches) S 28 18 M 29 20 L 30 22 XL 31 24 2XL 32 26 3XL 33 28   LENGTH (cm) WIDTH (cm) S 71.1 45.7 M 73.7 50.8 L 76.2 55.9 XL 78.7 61 2XL 81.3 66 3XL 83.8 71.1

This cute bunny rabbit is loveable despite appearing to not be happy. The Japanese text says, "usagi-chan kawaii" which means "The bunny is cute." Sweetness in bunny and coffee. Fluffy and Kawaii. • 100% ring-spun cotton • Sport Grey is 90% ring-spun cotton, 10% polyester • Dark Heather is 65% polyester, 35% cotton • 4.5 oz/yd² (153 g/m²) • Shoulder-to-shoulder taping • Quarter-turned to avoid crease down the center • Blank product sourced from Bangladesh, Nicaragua, Honduras, Dominican Republic, Haiti or Guatemala This product is made especially for you as soon as you place an order, which is why it takes us a bit longer to deliver it to you. Making products on demand instead of in bulk helps reduce overproduction, so thank you for making thoughtful purchasing decisions!Size guide   LENGTH (inches) WIDTH (inches) S 28 18 M 29 20 L 30 22 XL 31 24 2XL 32 26 3XL 33 28   LENGTH (cm) WIDTH (cm) S 71.1 45.7 M 73.7 50.8 L 76.2 55.9 XL 78.7 61 2XL 81.3 66 3XL 83.8 71.1

You've now found the staple t-shirt of your wardrobe. It's made of 100% ring-spun cotton and is soft and comfy. The double stitching on the neckline and sleeves add more durability to what is sure to be a favorite! • 100% ring-spun cotton • Sport Grey is 90% ring-spun cotton, 10% polyester • Dark Heather is 65% polyester, 35% cotton • 4.5 oz/yd² (153 g/m²) • Shoulder-to-shoulder taping • Quarter-turned to avoid crease down the center • Blank product sourced from Bangladesh, Nicaragua, Honduras, Dominican Republic, Haiti or Guatemala

The 100% cotton men's classic tee will help you land a more structured look. It sits nicely, maintains sharp lines around the edges, and goes perfectly with layered streetwear outfits. Plus, it's extra trendy now! • 100% cotton • Sport Grey is 90% cotton, 10% polyester • Ash Grey is 99% cotton, 1% polyester • Heather colors are 50% cotton, 50% polyester • Fabric weight: 5.0–5.3 oz/yd² (170-180 g/m²) • Open-end yarn • Tubular fabric • Taped neck and shoulders • Double seam at sleeves and bottom hem • Blank product sourced from Honduras, Nicaragua, Haiti, Dominican Republic, Bangladesh, Mexico

This impressionist art print features a black cat against a vibrant yellow and red fiery swirl background, reminiscent of Van Gogh's iconic style. • 100% ring-spun cotton • Sport Grey is 90% ring-spun cotton, 10% polyester • Dark Heather is 65% polyester, 35% cotton • 4.5 oz/yd² (153 g/m²) • Shoulder-to-shoulder taping • Quarter-turned to avoid crease down the center • Blank product sourced from Bangladesh, Nicaragua, Honduras, Dominican Republic, Haiti or Guatemala This product is made especially for you as soon as you place an order, which is why it takes us a bit longer to deliver it to you. Making products on demand instead of in bulk helps reduce overproduction, so thank you for making thoughtful purchasing decisions!Size guide   LENGTH (inches) WIDTH (inches) S 28 18 M 29 20 L 30 22 XL 31 24 2XL 32 26 3XL 33 28   LENGTH (cm) WIDTH (cm) S 71.1 45.7 M 73.7 50.8 L 76.2 55.9 XL 78.7 61 2XL 81.3 66 3XL 83.8 71.1

This ukiyo-e inspired art depicts a focused cat riding a large wave in homage to Hokusai's Great Wave off Kanagawa. Japanese caption reads "A fearsome thing appeared... ukiyo-e cat." • 100% cotton • Sport Grey is 90% cotton, 10% polyester • Ash Grey is 99% cotton, 1% polyester • Heather colors are 50% cotton, 50% polyester • Fabric weight: 5.0–5.3 oz/yd² (170-180 g/m²) • Open-end yarn • Tubular fabric • Taped neck and shoulders • Double seam at sleeves and bottom hem • Blank product sourced from Honduras, Nicaragua, Haiti, Dominican Republic, Bangladesh, Mexico This product is made especially for you as soon as you place an order, which is why it takes us a bit longer to deliver it to you. Making products on demand instead of in bulk helps reduce overproduction, so thank you for making thoughtful purchasing decisions!Size guide   LENGTH (inches) WIDTH (inches) SLEEVE LENGTH (inches) S 28 18 15 ⅝ M 29 20 17 L 30 22 18 ½ XL 31 24 20 2XL 32 26 21 ½ 3XL 33 28 22 ¾   LENGTH (cm) WIDTH (cm) SLEEVE LENGTH (cm) S 71.1 45.7 39.7 M 73.7 50.8 43.2 L 76.2 55.9 47 XL 78.7 61 50.8 2XL 81.3 66 54.6 3XL 83.8 71.1 58

This ukiyo-e inspired art depicts a focused cat riding a large cresting wave in homage to Hokusai's iconic Great Wave off Kanagawa woodblock print. • 100% cotton • Sport Grey is 90% cotton, 10% polyester • Ash Grey is 99% cotton, 1% polyester • Heather colors are 50% cotton, 50% polyester • Fabric weight: 5.0–5.3 oz/yd² (170-180 g/m²) • Open-end yarn • Tubular fabric • Taped neck and shoulders • Double seam at sleeves and bottom hem • Blank product sourced from Honduras, Nicaragua, Haiti, Dominican Republic, Bangladesh, Mexico This product is made especially for you as soon as you place an order, which is why it takes us a bit longer to deliver it to you. Making products on demand instead of in bulk helps reduce overproduction, so thank you for making thoughtful purchasing decisions!Size guide   LENGTH (inches) WIDTH (inches) SLEEVE LENGTH (inches) S 28 18 15 ⅝ M 29 20 17 L 30 22 18 ½ XL 31 24 20 2XL 32 26 21 ½ 3XL 33 28 22 ¾   LENGTH (cm) WIDTH (cm) SLEEVE LENGTH (cm) S 71.1 45.7 39.7 M 73.7 50.8 43.2 L 76.2 55.9 47 XL 78.7 61 50.8 2XL 81.3 66 54.6 3XL 83.8 71.1 58