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➡️ WAIT! Want to save a dollar and get the latest issue each month? Become a member of our Makoto+ club and not only save and download new Makoto issues, but also access web-versions of the past three Makoto issues. Want more? Well, Makoto+ members also get a 10% reusable coupon good for anything at theJapanShop.com and each month, we will post a new eBook for you to download free of charge. Subscribe today with a free 7 day trial. Cancel at any time! Click here to learn more.   Makoto E-Zine series #36 47 Pages | 3 eBook Formats | 19 Sound FilesRecommended for beginners and lower intermediates of Japanese.FREE MP3s of the stories read by a native Japanese speaker--download link found on the last page. Listen while reading.The Fun Japanese Not Found in Textbooks. If you like our readers and lessons, you will love Makoto, the e-zine filled with articles on kanji, culture, idioms, proverbs, geography, history, etymology, JLPT tips, Japanese trivia, and much more. Not only that, but every issue will include a brand new reader with newly recorded high-quality MP3s for you to download for no extra charge. IN THIS ISSUE: February 2021 47 Pages | 3 eBook Formats | 19 Sound FilesTWO NEW READERS: Frank and the Obaasan Season Two Episode Eight (beginner) + Nara (Intermediate) Laughs, Jokes, Riddles, and Puns Vocabulary: あけすけに言う Prefecture Spotlight: Gifu Special Report: Gero, Gifu Etymology: バカ Anime Phrase of the Day Haiku Kanji Spotlight: 住 Grammar Time! は～が Japanese Readers: Frank and the Obaasan (beginner) + Nara (Intermediate)   ➡️ LEARN ABOUT BECOMING A MAKOTO+ MEMBER. CLICK HERE

SAVE WITH DIGITAL! Don't need a physical book? This is also available in this Money-Saving Digital Bundle.   101 Pages | Includes Digital Files | 5.5 x 8.5 inch Paperback   Japanese Reader Collection Volume 8 Hikoichi Revisited: The Easy Way to Read Listen and Learn from Japanese Folklore Tales and Stories (Japanese Edition)   Note: this is a physical paperback that will be shipped to you. You'll also receive the digital files by email immediately after ordering.   READ real Japanese Today! By choosing short stories, the intimidation factor is greatly reduced. Not only that, but we divide the story up into tiny, easy-to-swallow segments with complete explanations to give you confidence as you read real Japanese page by page.Perfect for upper beginner level students of Japanese.BONUS! Get FREE MP3s and eBook versions of the story. The story is read by a native Japanese voice actress, once read at normal speed and once read slowly. Listen while reading. The link to the digital files will be emailed to you immediately after ordering.Now with Furigana! All our readers now have furigana in both the paperback and Kindle versions. Furigana is the small hiragana over the kanji--most devices support this new feature.Have you studied for a year or two but just don’t feel like you are progressing? This book is for you too. We suggest reading the Japanese only section first (includes furigana) and then go through the line-by-line running gloss section to cement understanding and learn vocabulary. All kanji characters have furigana. Three Stories in Total: Two new Hikoichi stories + Oni's Mask and the Girl* GLOSS: Read the story with a running gloss—understand completely. Every sentence is broken down word-for-word and with English explanation of the grammar.* JAPANESE ONLY: The full story in Japanese only (without the running gloss) is also provided so you can practice reading without interruption.* ENGLISH SUMMARY: 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!). Short stories makes reading full Japanese texts possible. This book has two complete stories with a total explanation for every level. Download the FREE MP3s to listen while you study. (Link will be emailed to you after ordering) HikoichiYou may know our first Japanese Reader Collection Volume has several Hikoichi stories. By far, those have been the most popular among students. Hikoichi is, after all, an interesting character. Smart, sassy, creative in his laziness… In short, his adventures are entertaining. Plus, not many non-Japanese are as familiar with Hikoichi as they are Momotaro or the Moon Princess. So, be one of the few to dig in, enjoy, and learn more about Hikoichi!     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.

You've now found the staple t-shirt of your wardrobe. It's made of a thicker, heavier cotton, but it's still soft and comfy. And the double stitching on the neckline and sleeves add more durability to what is sure to be a favorite! • 100% ringspun cotton • 4.5 oz/y² (153 g/m²) • Pre-shrunk • Shoulder-to-shoulder taping • Quarter-turned to avoid crease down the center

SAVE WITH DIGITAL! Don't need a physical book? This is also available in this Money-Saving Digital Bundle. 78 Pages | Includes Digital Files | 5.5 x 8.5 inch Paperback   Japanese Reader Collection Volume 9 - The Fountain of Youth    Note: this is a physical paperback that will be shipped to you. You'll also receive the digital files by email immediately after ordering.   All kanji characters have furigana. Three Stories in Total:  * The Fountain of Youth: A traditional Japanese folk tale* The Hundred Tales Game: With the scariest of all endings * The Wise Child: A child shows his smarts by answering the question, which is farther, Edo or the Sun. Three ways to read the story:GLOSS: Read the story with a running gloss—understand completely. Every sentence is broken down word-for-word and with English explanation of the grammar. JAPANESE ONLY: The full story in Japanese only (without the running gloss) is also provided so you can practice reading without interruption.ENGLISH SUMMARY: 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!). Short stories makes reading full Japanese texts possible. This book has two complete stories with a total explanation for every level. Download the FREE MP3s to listen while you study. (Link will be emailed to you after ordering)       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.

This t-shirt is everything you've dreamed of and more. It feels soft and lightweight, with the right amount of stretch. It's comfortable and flattering for both men and women. • 100% combed and ring-spun cotton (heather colors contain polyester) • Fabric weight: 4.2 oz (142 g/m2) • Shoulder-to-shoulder taping • Side-seamed The Male model is wearing a size M. He's 6.2 feet (190 cm) tall, chest circumference 37.7" (96 cm), waist circumference 33.4" (85 cm). The female model is wearing a size M. She's 5.8 feet (178 cm) tall, chest circumference 34.6" (88 cm), waist circumference 27.16" (69 cm), hip circumference 37.7" (96cm).

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.   

Japan’s Jidai Series Vol. 3: Nara & Heian Periods Experience Japan’s golden age—poetry, palaces, and power shifts—while mastering Japanese. Includes paperback + digital bundle (PDF, MP3 audio, and Anki flashcards). Upper-Beginner Friendly Guided, approachable readings with smooth difficulty. Line-by-Line Support Japanese text + vocabulary and grammar notes for every line. Audio via QR Codes Listen to native recordings for shadowing and pronunciation. Anki Flashcards Included Reinforce vocabulary anywhere with the downloadable deck. What You’ll Learn Nara Period: Buddhism under imperial patronage, monumental temples, and early state reforms. Heian Period: Refined court culture, waka poetry, and shifting political power through regency and marriages. Cultural Legacy: How these eras forged Japan’s literary and artistic foundations. Inside the Book Line-by-Line Reader: Clear passages with vocabulary and grammar breakdowns. Furigana Support: Build kanji confidence while reading. English Translations: Check comprehension at the end. Audio Access: Scan QR codes to stream or download MP3s. What’s Included Beautiful paperback mailed to you Instant download link after purchase (PDF + MP3 + Anki deck) Furigana and line-by-line notes English translations for deeper comprehension Who It’s For Learners at the upper-beginner level who want meaningful reading practice and cultural depth—with full support for understanding every line. Step into Japan’s golden age—your paperback purchase includes the complete digital bundle (PDF, MP3, and Anki). Download link delivered immediately after checkout. Details Series: Japan’s Jidai (Volume 3) Focus: Nara & Heian Periods Level: Upper Beginner Includes: Paperback + PDF + MP3 + Anki Flashcards Publisher: TheJapanShop.com When do I get the digital files? Immediately after purchase, you’ll receive a download link for the PDF, MP3 audio, and Anki deck. Your paperback ships soon after. Is furigana included? Yes—furigana is provided to support kanji reading. Use the full-text section and English translations to test comprehension. Can I use the Anki deck on mobile? Absolutely. The deck works great with AnkiDroid and AnkiMobile for on-the-go study.

Japan’s Jidai Series Vol. 2: Kofun & Asuka Periods Uncover Japan’s ancient power struggles and spiritual awakening—while improving your Japanese! Includes paperback + digital files (PDF, MP3 audio, and Anki flashcards). Upper Beginner–Intermediate Level Ideal for learners seeking real Japanese reading practice with cultural depth. Line-by-Line Support Every Japanese line comes with vocabulary and grammar explanations. Audio via QR Codes Listen to native speakers for better pronunciation and listening comprehension. Anki Flashcards Included Reinforce vocabulary on the go with the downloadable Anki deck. What You’ll Learn Kofun Period: Explore the rise of powerful clans and their monumental keyhole-shaped tombs guarded by haniwa clay figures. Asuka Period: Witness Japan’s first political reforms, the spread of Buddhism, and the visionary leadership of Empress Suiko and Prince Shōtoku. Cultural Foundations: Understand how these eras shaped Japan’s political identity, religion, and art. Inside the Book Line-by-Line Reader: Clear Japanese text with vocabulary and grammar breakdowns. Furigana Support: Every kanji is supported by furigana for smooth reading. Full English Translations: Check comprehension at the end of each section. Audio Access: Stream or download MP3s via QR codes. What’s Included Beautiful paperback book shipped to you Instant download link (PDF + MP3 audio + Anki flashcard deck) Line-by-line Japanese with grammar notes Furigana and English translations Who It’s For Learners from upper-beginner to intermediate levels who want to explore Japanese history through meaningful, structured reading—complete with full linguistic support. Step into Japan’s formative centuries—where myth meets history. Your paperback purchase includes the complete digital bundle (PDF, MP3, and Anki deck). Details Series: Japan’s Jidai (Volume 2) Focus: Kofun & Asuka Periods Level: Upper Beginner – Intermediate Includes: Paperback + PDF + MP3 + Anki Flashcards Publisher: Kotoba Books When will I receive the digital files? You’ll receive a download link immediately after purchase. Your paperback will ship soon after. Are the QR codes in the book active? Yes—each QR code links directly to the matching MP3 audio for the passage you’re reading. Can I use the Anki deck on my phone? Absolutely! The deck works perfectly on AnkiDroid and AnkiMobile apps for on-the-go study.

Japan’s Jidai Series Vol. 1: Jōmon & Yayoi Periods Discover Japan’s earliest civilizations—and build real Japanese reading skill—with a clear, learner-friendly reader crafted for upper beginners. Upper-Beginner Friendly Real history, approachable language, smooth difficulty curve. Line-by-Line Support Japanese text plus vocabulary and grammar notes for each line. Audio via QR Codes Listen to native recordings for shadowing and pronunciation. Anki Flashcards Included Reinforce vocabulary on the go with the downloadable deck. What You’ll Learn Jōmon Culture: Pottery, lifeways, and early spiritual practices that shaped prehistoric Japan. Yayoi Transformation: Rice cultivation, metal tools, and social shifts that set the stage for early statehood. Cultural Evolution: How Jōmon and Yayoi developments influenced later Japanese history and identity. Inside the Book Line-by-Line Reader: Clear Japanese passages with vocabulary and grammar notes. Furigana Support: Read confidently while growing kanji recognition. Full English Translations: Review and confirm comprehension at the end. Audio Access: Scan QR codes to stream or download native recordings. What’s Included Primary reader (digital and/or paperback, depending on option selected) MP3 audio via QR codes Downloadable Anki deck for vocabulary review Vocabulary lists and focused grammar explanations Who It’s For Learners at the upper-beginner to lower-intermediate level who want meaningful reading practice, cultural depth, and guided support to understand every line with confidence. Travel back to ancient Japan—and move your Japanese forward. Add Volume 1 to your library and start reading today. Details Series: Japan’s Jidai (Volume 1) Focus: Jōmon & Yayoi Periods (prehistoric to proto-historic Japan) Level: Upper Beginner / Lower Intermediate Formats: Paperback and Digital (PDF + MP3 + Anki deck) Publisher: Kotoba Books Is the audio included? Yes. You'll receive all the digital files immediately in addition to having the paperback shipped to you. Scan the QR codes inside the book to access native MP3 recordings for listening, shadowing, and review. Do I need to know a lot of kanji? Furigana is provided to support kanji reading. As you gain confidence, try the full-text sections and check the English translations at the end. Is there a flashcard deck? Yes. A downloadable Anki deck is included to reinforce vocabulary from the reader.

Makoto E-Zine series #89 Recommended for beginner to intermediate learners of Japanese. You can purchase the printed version on Amazon by clicking here.   Makoto is a monthly digital magazine for beginner to lower-intermediate learners of Japanese. Each issue is packed with short articles, stories, jokes, cultural notes, and audio read by a native speaker. Designed to make learning Japanese fun and engaging, Makoto helps build your vocabulary, grammar, and reading skills through real-world context and quirky humor. In this issue (July 2025, Issue 89): This month's theme is “Summer in Japan”—and it’s sizzling! From wild Edo-period slang to the drama of Japan’s hottest historical publisher, this issue dives deep into the cultural and literal heat of summer. You'll meet a Kenshiro-quoting bento clerk, learn about an outrageously hot NHK Taiga drama, and pick up phrases that are as sharp as the sun is brutal. Highlights include: Vocabulary Spotlight: 痛くも痒くもない (I couldn’t care less; it doesn’t bother me) Onomatopoeia: expressions of oppressive summer heat Etymology Deep Dive: べらぼう— from reckless brat to “off-the-charts” emphasis Grammar Focus: ～なくてもいい (how to politely say “you don’t have to…”) Beginner Story: A sticky, sweaty summer tale Intermediate Reading: A look at the early postwar Shōwa era Haiku by Masaoka Shiki Kanji Spotlight: 天 (heaven; sky) Prefecture Spotlight: Kyoto (where summer is steeped in sweat and tradition) Anime Quote: From Sakamoto Days: “And then… Sakamoto got fat.” Includes: 71 Page PDF and ePub formats 26 MP3 audio files (normal and slow speed) Free Anki flashcard deck for the main story vocabulary Scan-and-listen QR codes for quick mobile audio access Perfect for learners who enjoy Japanese culture and want real content that’s both educational and entertaining. Use it to boost your vocabulary, improve your listening, and deepen your cultural understanding—all while having fun. Clay & Yumi ➡️ How to read the eBooks: You may need to follow the steps outlined in our eBook guide. ➡️ To purchase a digital or print version, kindly click the "Format" option below the product title. Page Count: 71 Pages Formats: Download the PDF and ePub for No Extra Charge Audio: 26 High-Quality Sound Files Interactive Learning: Scan QR Codes for Quick Access to Sound Files Exclusive Bonus: Free Anki Flashcard Deck (Tailored for this issue's main story) ❝Makoto is a great magazine for not only learning the Japanese language, but it also features articles about Japanese culture and food as well. Furthermore, it holds lots of info about places of interest that one should visit when traveling in Japan.❞   🔊 Now Featuring QR Codes for Instant Audio Playback! Scan the QR codes peppered throughout the magazine and hear the accompanying sound files instantly! A complete immersion experience at your fingertips. 🎁 FREE Sound Files & Anki Flashcards Each issue comes with free sound files of all the Japanese examples read by a native Japanese speaker. Plus, download a free Anki flashcard deck to help solidify your vocabulary of the main story. All freebies can be accessed through the download link on the last page. You can get this issue at a discounted price by subscribing to Makoto+:   https://makotoplus.com Discover the Fun Side of Japanese Not Covered in Textbooks. If you enjoy our readers and lessons, you'll love Makoto, the e-zine packed with insightful articles on kanji, culture, idioms, proverbs, geography, history, etymology, JLPT tips, and Japanese trivia. Additionally, each issue features two brand-new stories or essays, complete with newly recorded high-quality sound files available for download at no extra cost. 🛒 Purchase now and start your enriching Japanese learning journey in just seconds! NOTE: Digital and Print Versions are Available! Digital here and Print on Amazon. If you choose a digital version, you'll instantly get the download links in a minute after purchasing. You do not need to have a Dropbox account to access or download the files. You will be able to instantly download all files on a PC or Mac (computer or laptop) and/or access any individual file on any of your mobile devices. If you don't see the email after the order, please check your spam folder or email us for support. This series is available on Amazon

Makoto E-Zine series #83 Recommended for beginner to intermediate learners of Japanese. You can purchase the printed version on Amazon by clicking here. Happy New Year from the Makoto Team! This month's cover features a stunning photo of 金閣寺(きんかくじ) (the Golden Pavilion) in Kyoto, captured just last month by our talented editor Neddy and her equally talented husband. Doesn’t it make you feel like taking a trip to Kyoto? Whether you've visited Kyoto many times or it’s still on your bucket list, this iconic sight is always awe-inspiring. Speaking of iconic, let’s talk about ラーメン. Did you know that while it’s considered one of Japan’s quintessential comfort foods, it actually has roots in Chinese cuisine? Our etymology feature dives into how those humble wheat noodles twisted and turned their way into Japanese hearts—and stomachs—over centuries. Here’s a teaser: Japan’s first ramen shop, 来々軒 （らいらいけん）, opened in 1910, and the rest is delicious history. But ramen isn’t just about slurping noodles—it’s about the culture that surrounds it. From regional variations to late-night ramen adventures (who hasn’t craved a steaming bowl after a long day?), it’s no wonder ramen is beloved worldwide. Have a favorite ramen topping? Egg, chashu, or maybe corn and butter? Whatever your preference, there's no wrong way to enjoy it. This issue is packed with goodies to start your year with a smile: jokes and puns, a deep dive into the prefecture of Okayama, the rhythmic charm of the onomatopoeia どきどき, and a fresh set of Japanese Readers for learners of all levels. Let’s ring in 2024 with laughter, learning, and maybe a steaming bowl of noodles by your side. ➡️ How to read the eBooks: You may need to follow the steps outlined in our eBook guide. ➡️ To purchase a digital or print version, kindly click the "Format" option below the product title. Page Count: 62 Pages Formats: Download the PDF and ePub for No Extra Charge Audio: 26 High-Quality Sound Files Interactive Learning: Scan QR Codes for Quick Access to Sound Files Exclusive Bonus: Free Anki Flashcard Deck (Tailored for this issue's main story) ❝Makoto is a great magazine for not only learning the Japanese language, but it also features articles about Japanese culture and food as well. Furthermore, it holds lots of info about places of interest that one should visit when traveling in Japan.❞   🔊 Now Featuring QR Codes for Instant Audio Playback! Scan the QR codes peppered throughout the magazine and hear the accompanying sound files instantly! A complete immersion experience at your fingertips. 🎁 FREE Sound Files & Anki Flashcards Each issue comes with free sound files of all the Japanese examples read by a native Japanese speaker. Plus, download a free Anki flashcard deck to help solidify your vocabulary of the main story. All freebies can be accessed through the download link on the last page. You can get this issue at a discounted price by subscribing to Makoto+:   https://makotoplus.com Discover the Fun Side of Japanese Not Covered in Textbooks. If you enjoy our readers and lessons, you'll love Makoto, the e-zine packed with insightful articles on kanji, culture, idioms, proverbs, geography, history, etymology, JLPT tips, and Japanese trivia. Additionally, each issue features two brand-new stories or essays, complete with newly recorded high-quality sound files available for download at no extra cost. In This Issue Makoto E-Zine series #83 Recommended for beginners and lower intermediates of Japanese. 62 Pages | 2 eBook Formats | 26 Sound Files | Scan QR Codes for Quick Access to Sound Files | Free Anki Flashcard Deck (for this issue's main story) In this Issue: Laughs, Jokes, Riddles, and Puns Vocabulary: 脚光を浴びる Prefecture Spotlight: Okayama Etymology: ラーメン Anime Phrase of the Day Onomatopoeia: どきどき Haiku: 正岡子規 Kanji Spotlight: 学 Grammar Time! ～に気がつく Katakana Match Japanese Readers: Bad head? (beginner) + Muromachi Period​ (Intermediate) 🛒 Purchase now and start your enriching Japanese learning journey in just seconds! NOTE: Digital and Print Versions are Available! The print version is printed on demand and can take up to two weeks to arrive (usually sooner!). You'll also receive the digital version immediately after purchase. If you choose a digital version, you'll instantly get the download links in a minute after purchasing. You do not need to have a Dropbox account to access or download the files. You will be able to instantly download all files on a PC or Mac (computer or laptop) and/or access any individual file on any of your mobile devices. If you don't see the email after the order, please check your spam folder or email us for support. This series is available on Amazon

Makoto E-Zine series #74 Recommended for beginner to intermediate learners of Japanese. You can also buy this series on Amazon by clicking here - Makoto e-Zine #74 Kindle Edition ➡️ How to read the eBooks: You may need to follow the steps outlined in our eBook guide. ➡️ To purchase a digital or print version, kindly click the "Format" option below the product title. Page Count: 59 Pages Formats: Download the PDF and ePub for No Extra Charge Audio: 20 High-Quality Sound Files Interactive Learning: Scan QR Codes for Quick Access to Sound Files Exclusive Bonus: Free Anki Flashcard Deck (Tailored for this issue's main story) ❝Makoto is a great magazine for not only learning the Japanese language, but it also features articles about Japanese culture and food as well. Furthermore, it holds lots of info about places of interest that one should visit when traveling in Japan.❞   🔊 Now Featuring QR Codes for Instant Audio Playback! Scan the QR codes peppered throughout the magazine and hear the accompanying sound files instantly! A complete immersion experience at your fingertips. 🎁 FREE Sound Files & Anki Flashcards Each issue comes with free sound files of all the Japanese examples read by a native Japanese speaker. Plus, download a free Anki flashcard deck to help solidify your vocabulary of the main story. All freebies can be accessed through the download link on the last page. You can get this issue at a discounted price by subscribing to Makoto+:   https://makotoplus.com Discover the Fun Side of Japanese Not Covered in Textbooks. If you enjoy our readers and lessons, you'll love Makoto, the e-zine packed with insightful articles on kanji, culture, idioms, proverbs, geography, history, etymology, JLPT tips, and Japanese trivia. Additionally, each issue features two brand-new stories or essays, complete with newly recorded high-quality sound files available for download at no extra cost. In This Issue Makoto E-Zine series #74 Recommended for beginners and lower intermediates of Japanese. 59 Pages  2 eBook Formats  20 Sound Files  Scan QR Codes for Quick Access to Sound Files  Free Anki Flashcard Deck (for this issue's main story) IN THIS ISSUE: April 2024 Laughs, Jokes, Riddles, and Puns Vocabulary: 一筋縄ではいかない Prefecture Spotlight: Fukuoka Etymology: ふくらはぎ Anime Phrase of the Day Haiku : 松尾芭蕉 Kanji Spotlight: 右 Grammar Time! BECAUSE：から・だから・なぜなら Japanese Readers: とりあえずビール Toriaezu Beer (beginner) + Murasaki Shikibu (Intermediate) 🛒 Purchase now and start your enriching Japanese learning journey in just seconds! NOTE: Digital and Print Versions are Available! The print version is printed on demand and can take up to two weeks to arrive (usually sooner!). You'll also receive the digital version immediately after purchase. If you choose a digital version, you'll instantly get the download links in a minute after purchasing. You do not need to have a Dropbox account to access or download the files. You will be able to instantly download all files on a PC or Mac (computer or laptop) and/or access any individual file on any of your mobile devices. If you don't see the email after the order, please check your spam folder or email us for support. This series is available on Amazon