Mangajin 34
PLEASE NOTE: Mangajin ceased publication in 1998. These back issues may be new or used, but they will not be pristine. A few are still in sealed bags (for mailing), but even those are unlikely to be pristine due to shelf-wear and the amount of time passed. Please consider these as learning tools to be used rather than for collecting. That being said, if condition is important to you, please contact us with specific issues and we'll send you photos of the actual items.
Mangajin was a wonderful magazine for learners of Japanese. Each issue somehow had something for every level, but we recommend them most for upper beginners.
Those interested in translation will love how Mangajin breaks down the manga it presents, explaining grammar, vocabulary, and cultural references with ease.
The cover image above is for this particular issue. The sample pages inside may or may not be from this exact issue. See below for a table of contents (retrieved from http://www.nyx.net/~cbrown/mangajin/mangajin_toc.html)
PachinkoJapan's National Pastime
FEATURES
特集
tokushu
7
Political Cartoon
Clinton finds dealing with Japan like playing an arcade game.
10
Pachinko, Japan's National Pastime
Pachinko ("Japanese Pinball") generates more revenue than golf, horse racing, video games and movies combined, equaling (some say surpassing) Japan's auto industry. What's the appeal?
DEPARTMENTS
連載/コラム
rensai / koramu
4
Letters Info on how to subscribe to a Japanese magazine in the US.
5
Brand News (Innovative uses of the Japanese language)
"Nick & Ann" -- a new couple in Japan.
16
A Tast of Culture with Elizabeth Andoh
Two popular women's magazines offer a peek at the neighbors' lifestyles along with recipes and homemaking tips.
18
Book Review
Terra Brockman takes a look at two novels about Japanese businessmen in the West: Clive James' The Man From Japan and Meg Pei's Salaryman.
30
Basic Japanese: Daijobu
Daijobu means "all right," but only in some situations. Mangjin shows you how to get the mose out of this word while avoiding embarrassing misuses.
36
Warning & Pronunciation Guide
84
Vocabulary Summary
86
Classifieds
MANGA
漫画
manga
26
Calvin and Hobbes, by Bill Watterson
28
The Far Side, by Gary Larson
37
Tanaka-kun · 田中くん, by Tanaka Hiroshi
40
O-jama Shimasu · オジャマします, by Imazeki Shin
42
A Visual Glossary of Modern Terms · 図説現代用語便覧, by Deluxe Company
46
OL Shinkaron · OL進化論, by Akizuki Risu
48
Binbo Seikatsu Manyuaru · ビンボー生活マニュアル, by Maekawa Tsukasa
56
Warau Serusuman (Part II) · 笑うせぇるすまん, by Fujiko Fujio (A)
64
Naniwa Kin'yudo · ナニワ金融道, by Aoki Yuji
Mangajin 32
PLEASE NOTE: Mangajin ceased publication in 1998. These back issues may be new or used, but they will not be pristine. A few are still in sealed bags (for mailing), but even those are unlikely to be pristine due to shelf-wear and the amount of time passed. Please consider these as learning tools to be used rather than for collecting. That being said, if condition is important to you, please contact us with specific issues and we'll send you photos of the actual items.
Mangajin was a wonderful magazine for learners of Japanese. Each issue somehow had something for every level, but we recommend them most for upper beginners.
Those interested in translation will love how Mangajin breaks down the manga it presents, explaining grammar, vocabulary, and cultural references with ease.
The cover image above is for this particular issue. The sample pages inside may or may not be from this exact issue. See below for a table of contents (retrieved from http://www.nyx.net/~cbrown/mangajin/mangajin_toc.html)
Shukanshi Weekly MagazinesJapan's Guerrilla Press
Toriyama Akira'sDr. Slump
FEATURES
特集
tokushu
7
Political Cartoon
Prime Minister Hosokawa cooks up a dish using imported rice.
10
Mad Ad
Mad Amano portrays President Clinton (Kuri n Ton) as a bento vendor hawking American rice to Japan.
14
Shukanshi, Japan's guerrilla press
Japan's weekly magazines serve up sex, gossip, scoops, and scandals, providing a lively alternative to the staid and sober major newspapers.
DEPARTMENTS
連載/コラム
rensai / koramu
4
Letters The readers write.
5
Brand News
A clever name for an herbal candy to help you stop smoking.
20
A Tast of Culture, by Elizabeth Andoh
TV shows about food--eating as well as cooking--are popular fare in Japan. Recent changes in these shows reflect changes in Japanese society.
24
Book Review America and the Four Japans, by Federick Schodt.
26
Computer corner
A look at WordPerfect 2.2J (for Macintosh) and KanjiWORD 2.0 (for Windows).
34
Basic Japanese: Titles
The "politeness levels" in Japanese and the corresponding social hierarchy make it important to know exactly where you stand, and titles help to keep this structure clear. We examine some of the more common titles and how they are used.
84
Vocabulary Summary
86
Classifieds
MANGA
漫画
manga
30
Calvin and Hobbes, by Bill Watterson
33
The Far Side, by Gary Larson
40
Midori-san · みどりさん, by Akizuki Risu
34
A Visual Glossary of Modern Terms · 図説現代用語便覧, by Deluxe Company
55
After Zero · アフター0, by Okazaki Jiro
64
Dr. Slump · Dr.スランプ, by Toriyama Akira
Mangajin 29
PLEASE NOTE: Mangajin ceased publication in 1998. These back issues may be new or used, but they will not be pristine. A few are still in sealed bags (for mailing), but even those are unlikely to be pristine due to shelf-wear and the amount of time passed. Please consider these as learning tools to be used rather than for collecting. That being said, if condition is important to you, please contact us with specific issues and we'll send you photos of the actual items.
Mangajin was a wonderful magazine for learners of Japanese. Each issue somehow had something for every level, but we recommend them most for upper beginners.
Those interested in translation will love how Mangajin breaks down the manga it presents, explaining grammar, vocabulary, and cultural references with ease.
The cover image above is for this particular issue. The sample pages inside may or may not be from this exact issue. See below for a table of contents (retrieved from http://www.nyx.net/~cbrown/mangajin/mangajin_toc.html)
Japanese Software Specialwhat's available in the US· Kacho Shima Kosakudoes Kyoto
FEATURES
特集
tokushu
9
Political Cartoon
Newly elected Prime Minister Hosokawa seems to be having problems pruning the mighty oak left behind by the LDP.
11
Software Special
No more excuses! It's time to teach your computer Japanese. Douglas Horn examines the current Mac vs. PC options and provides a summary of Japanese application software available in the US.
42
Interview with Takeuchi Akira, creator of Garcia-kun
Manga artist Takeuchi Akira has created somthing of a stir with his new series about a foreign laborer (外人労働者, gaijin rodosha) in Japan.
DEPARTMENTS
連載/コラム
rensai / koramu
4
Letters & Bloopers
The readers write.
7
Brand News
Quick pickling.
16
A Tast of Culture: Elizabeth Andoh Japanese kitchen utensils are as distinctive as Japanese cooking.
20
Book Review Sakaiya Taichi's What Is Japan? (English translation of a Japanese best seller) is a prime example of the popular Nihon-ron ("theories about Japan") genre.
32
Basic Japanese: Stylized Kanji
Most kanji characters are actually highly stylized pictures. In graphic arts, however, the process can go backward, and kanji are altered to take on the shape of the objects they represent. Mangajin presents a selection of these "visual puns."
88
Vocabulary Summary
90
Mangajin · Mono
More stuff for study and fun.
94
Classifieds
MANGA
漫画
manga
28
Calvin and Hobbes, by Bill Watterson
30
The Far Side, by Gary Larson
38
Tanaka-kun · 田中くん, by Tanaka Hiroshi
40
OL Shinkaron · OL進化論, by Akizuki Risu
42
Garcia-kun · ガルシアくん, by Takeuchi Akira
52
Sanshiro no Koi · 三四郎の恋, by Maekawa Tsukasa
63
Kacho Shima Kosaku · 課長島耕作(Part II), by Hirokane Kenshi
Mangajin 26
PLEASE NOTE: Mangajin ceased publication in 1998. These back issues may be new or used, but they will not be pristine. A few are still in sealed bags (for mailing), but even those are unlikely to be pristine due to shelf-wear and the amount of time passed. Please consider these as learning tools to be used rather than for collecting. That being said, if condition is important to you, please contact us with specific issues and we'll send you photos of the actual items.
Mangajin was a wonderful magazine for learners of Japanese. Each issue somehow had something for every level, but we recommend them most for upper beginners.
Those interested in translation will love how Mangajin breaks down the manga it presents, explaining grammar, vocabulary, and cultural references with ease.
The cover image above and the table of contents below are for this particular issue. The extra sample pages inside may or may not be from this exact issue.
Mangajin 25
PLEASE NOTE: Mangajin ceased publication in 1998. These back issues may be new or used, but they will not be pristine. A few are still in sealed bags (for mailing), but even those are unlikely to be pristine due to shelf-wear and the amount of time passed. Please consider these as learning tools to be used rather than for collecting. That being said, if condition is important to you, please contact us with specific issues and we'll send you photos of the actual items.
Mangajin was a wonderful magazine for learners of Japanese. Each issue somehow had something for every level, but we recommend them most for upper beginners.
Those interested in translation will love how Mangajin breaks down the manga it presents, explaining grammar, vocabulary, and cultural references with ease.
The cover image above and the table of contents below are for this particular issue. The extra sample pages inside may or may not be from this exact issue.
Mangajin 19
PLEASE NOTE: Mangajin ceased publication in 1998. These back issues may be new or used, but they will not be pristine. A few are still in sealed bags (for mailing), but even those are unlikely to be pristine due to shelf-wear and the amount of time passed. Please consider these as learning tools to be used rather than for collecting. That being said, if condition is important to you, please contact us with specific issues and we'll send you photos of the actual items.
Mangajin was a wonderful magazine for learners of Japanese. Each issue somehow had something for every level, but we recommend them most for upper beginners.
Those interested in translation will love how Mangajin breaks down the manga it presents, explaining grammar, vocabulary, and cultural references with ease.
The cover image above is for this particular issue. The sample pages inside may or may not be from this exact issue. See below for a table of contents (retrieved from http://www.nyx.net/~cbrown/mangajin/mangajin_toc.html)
The life of a translatorInterviews with the pros
FEATURES
特集
tokushu
6
Mad · Ad
We dropped in this Perot parody just before Perot dropped out; still good for a laugh
8
The Tezuka Controversy
Protestors voice concern over racial images found in the work of Japan's "God of Manga," Tezuka Osamu
14
Translators Talk
Frederik Schodt interviews four professional translators who tell all about their work, lifestyle, and how they got involved in this business anyway
20
Sumo, Japan's Trendy Old Sport
a 2,000-year-old sport is giving baseball a run for the money in the TV ratings wars
DEPARTMENTS
連載/コラム
rensai / koramu
4
Letters Our Tokyo distributor responds; a question about archaic Japanese, etc.
5
Brand News Don't Wally, be happy
23
Computer Corner
Daryl Shadrick reports on two new tools for producing high-resolution laser print output of Japanese text--Adobe Type Manager-J, and Kanji TrueType
24
Basic Japanese: Introductions
In practice, introductions use an almost random mix of a few basic elements. We introduce you to the elements, and show a few variations.
84
Classifieds
86
Mangajin · Mono
88
Vocabulary Summary
MANGA
漫画
manga
12
Calvin and Hobbes, by Bill Watterson
34
Tanaka-kun · 田中くん, by Tanaka Hiroshi
36
O-jama Shimasu · オジャマします, by Imazeki Shin
38
Obatarian · オバタリアン, by Hotta Katsuhiko
40
Beranmei Tochan · べらんめい父ちゃん, by Tachibanaya Kikutaro
42
Binbo Seikatsu Manyuaru · ビンボー生活マニュアル, by Maekawa Tsukasa
53
Eigyo Tenteko Nisshi · 営業てんてこ日誌, by Gyu & Kondo
69
The Phoenix · 火の鳥, by Tezuka Osamu
Mangajin 10
PLEASE NOTE: Mangajin ceased publication in 1998. These back issues may be new or used, but they will not be pristine. A few are still in sealed bags (for mailing), but even those are unlikely to be pristine due to shelf-wear and the amount of time passed. Please consider these as learning tools to be used rather than for collecting. That being said, if condition is important to you, please contact us with specific issues and we'll send you photos of the actual items.
Mangajin was a wonderful magazine for learners of Japanese. Each issue somehow had something for every level, but we recommend them most for upper beginners.
Those interested in translation will love how Mangajin breaks down the manga it presents, explaining grammar, vocabulary, and cultural references with ease.
The cover image above and the table of contents below are for this particular issue. The extra sample pages inside may or may not be from this exact issue.
An Integrated Approach to Intermediate Japanese Workbook
Excellent for Intermediates who have completed Genki II, and for those who have completed N3.
You will need the textbook to use this workbook. Click here for it.
Requires the IAIJ Textbook.
Best if used with a teacher or tutor to check work
149 Pages
ISBN 978-4-7890-1308-6
Japanese Kanji Reading Practice for JLPT N5 - Master the Japanese Language Proficiency Test N5 [Paperback]
Japanese Kanji Reading Practice for JLPT N5
For beginners who know the basics and want to master readings in context—no tedious writing drills required. Learn to recognize and pronounce kanji accurately with short, practical readings and targeted practice.
JLPT N5 Kanji readings in context Themed lessons (numbers · time · directions) Practice activities MP3 audio included Beginner friendly
Tip: Prefer digital? This title is often included in discounted digital bundles (PDF + ePub + MP3s).
View JLPT N5 Digital Options
What you will get
Focused kanji reading practice—made simple
Practical essays: See the kanji come to life in real-world scenarios.
Interactive activities: Quizzes, matching, and more to lock in readings.
Repetition with purpose: Key kanji and vocabulary recur to build confidence.
Audio support: Free MP3s for all Japanese essays (download link will be emailed to you immediately after purchasing the paperback).
For learners who know the basics: Not a kanji primer—this is reading practice.
How it works
Read, pronounce, and confirm
Start with a themed lesson (numbers, time, directions, etc.).
Read the short essay and focus on kanji readings in context.
Use the practice activities to check and reinforce recognition.
Listen to the MP3s to solidify pronunciation.
Who it’s for
JLPT N5 and early readers
If you’ve learned basic kanji and want to get comfortable reading them, this book is for you—perfect for exam prep or general study without writing drills.
Support: The last page includes the download link and our email. If you have any trouble, reach out—we’ll help as quickly as possible.
Preview
Read a sample right here
Tip: Use the toolbar to zoom and navigate. Or open the PDF in a new tab.
Designed for success
Confident progress toward JLPT N5
With its practical focus, friendly layout, and comprehensive practice tools, this book helps you master kanji readings with confidence—whether you’re taking the JLPT N5 or improving your everyday reading skills.
ありがとうございます!Here’s to your success in learning Japanese.
Learn Japanese through Haiku: Masaoka Shiki 正岡子規 [Paperback]
Note: This is the physical paperback version which will be shipped to your location. If you are looking for the digital only version, please click here for the bundle with this book in it. Digital products have no shipping charges!
113 pages | Paperback | Includes FREE MP3s and eBook formats
Learn Japanese through Haiku: Masaoka Shiki
Read real Japanese today with 25 masterfully selected haiku by 正岡子規 (Masaoka Shiki, 1867–1902)— the reformer who modernized haiku and championed shasei (“sketching from life”). This edition pairs clear bilingual guidance with carefully curated vocabulary and high-quality audio so you can read, listen, and truly understand.
25 Shiki haiku MP3 audio included PDF + ePub + Anki Bilingual commentary Beginner to intermediate Makoto+ Explorer coming soon
What you will get
A complete read + listen learning kit
25 classic haiku presented in Japanese with natural English renderings.
Short, insightful commentary that explains grammar, word choice, kireji, and seasonal cues.
Curated vocabulary lists with context so the words stick.
Professional audio: a clear poem reading plus guided commentary for each selection.
Digital bundle: printable PDF, ePub for e-readers, and an Anki deck for spaced review.
QR codes inside for instant audio access; downloadable files included with your purchase.
Coming soon: Makoto+ Japanese Explorer integration for inline furigana, audio, and fast lookups.
Listen
Sample audio from the book
Below: a poem reading and a short commentary.
Haiku reading:
Your browser does not support the audio element.
Commentary audio:
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Recorded in clear, standard Japanese—ideal for shadowing, rhythm, and pitch practice.
Preview
Read a page right here
Tip: Use the toolbar to zoom and navigate. If the embed does not load, open the sample PDF.
How to use it
Read. Listen. Absorb. Review.
Listen once without reading to catch flow and pitch.
Read the Japanese with notes, then replay the audio and shadow the lines.
Reinforce with the Anki deck and revisit a few poems during the week.
Who it is for
Haiku lovers and Japanese learners
If you love Japanese culture and want steady gains in reading, vocabulary, and listening, this book is for you. Perfect for self-learners, classrooms, and anyone who prefers meaningful, bite-size practice that fits into a busy day.
About Shiki
The reformer of modern haiku
Masaoka Shiki revitalized haiku and tanka for the modern era, urging poets to depict real life with clarity and fresh, concrete images (shasei). His innovative spirit and prolific output make him essential reading alongside Bashō, Buson, and Issa.
Listen now Preview a page
Japanese History Reader Volume 6: Japanese Tunnels [Paperback]
This is for the physical book which will be mailed to you. If you are looking for the digital version (with no shipping charges), this book is in the Japanese History Digital Bundle.
Recommended for upper beginner students of Japanese.
Japan, being a mountainous country, has thousands of tunnels that keep the nation connected. Learn about these amazing marvels of Japanese ingenuity.
Tunnels in Japan
The Blue Tunnel
Seikan Tunnel
Get FREE Sound Files of the stories read by a native Japanese speaker. The download link will be emailed to you instantly upon ordering (we will also ship the physical book). Listen while reading. Each story has two MP3 versions: Read Slowly & Normal Speed
Read--in Japanese--about the amazing history of Japanese tunnels. Yes, you can read real Japanese--even if you are fairly new to Japanese.
FEATURES:
97 Pages
All Japanese have furigana those starting out with kanji.
Every sentence is broken down word-for-word and with explanation of the grammar.
The full story in Japanese only (without the running gloss) is also provided so you can practice reading without interruption.
Kanji in Focus covers the key kanji found in each essay
Finally, we have included a simple and mostly literal English translation for you to check your understanding (Don't cheat! Work through the Japanese first!).
Includes FREE Sound files to listen while you study. Includes both normal speed and slow speed readings. You will be emailed a download link instantly after ordering (the actual physical book will also be mailed to you).
While beginners to Japanese can get a lot from this, hiragana knowledge is required.
Finally, we invite the reader to contact us with questions or requests for future Japanese readers. You will find our personal email addresses in the book. To your Japanese!
Learn Japanese through Dialogues Volume 5: With Friends [Paperback]
SAVE WITH DIGITAL! Don't need a physical book? This is also available in this Money-Saving Digital Bundle.
168 Pages | Includes Digital Files | 5.5 x 8.5 inch Paperback
Note: this is a physical paperback that will be shipped to you. You'll also receive the digital files by email immediately after ordering.
Finally, a fun and easy way to learn REAL conversational Japanese! (And get FREE MP3s of all the dialogues too!)
Learn Japanese vocabulary in context, improve your listening comprehension, and learn how to talk to others in Japanese.
This was written for beginners of Japanese, but if you haven't yet learned hiragana, please see our Beri- Beri- Shoshinsha here.
We are including, at no extra charge, MP3s for the seven dialogues found in this book. Create play-lists to study on the go or burn the sound files to a CD to listen at home. The download link will be emailed to you immediately after ordering. The MP3s are all recorded by native voice actors and actresses.
The dialogues found in this book are all about context and how Japanese is actually used with friends casually and when peppered with politeness among new acquaintances.
Please use the sound files (included in this download). We hope this book by itself will be helpful, but the sound files--in our opinion--give it most of its value.
Contents:IntroductionDialogue 1: About the PartyDialogue 2: Surprising MaryDialogue 3: Surprise Birthday PartyDialogue 4: Talking about the Latest MovieDialogue 5: Two Friends going ShoppingDialogue 6: A New CarDialogue 7: Deciding on a RestaurantFREE Sound Files
What are you waiting for? Ninja up your Japanese. Click “Add to Cart” now!
Please note: This is a physical paperback which will be shipped to you. You'll also receive a download link for the digital files immediately after ordering. Please check your spam folder if you don't see it.