Search results for "makoto bundle":

Makoto E-Zine series #44 Recommended for beginners and lower intermediates of Japanese. Now includes handy QR codes on each page to scan and instantly hear that page's sound files. (You can still download the sound files and PDF for no extra charge)FREE sound files 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: October 2021 Laughs, Jokes, Riddles, and Puns Vocabulary: 顔が広い Prefecture Spotlight: Mie Etymology: おら Anime Phrase of the Day Haiku : 正岡子規 Kanji Spotlight: 文 Grammar Time! なぜ・どうして Japanese Readers: Day Off (beginner) + The Wisdom of Ōoka Echizen (Intermediate) Buy now and start reading in seconds.

Makoto E-Zine series #54 Become a Makoto+ member to get the latest issue as part of your subscription. From $3 a month! Click here to learn more. Recommended for beginners and lower intermediates of Japanese. NOTE: The print version is printed on demand and can take up to two weeks to arrive (usually sooner!). You'll instantly get the download version with either choice. Now includes handy QR codes on each page to scan and instantly hear that page's sound files. (You can still download the sound files and PDF for no extra charge)FREE sound files 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: August 2022 45 Pages | 3 eBook Formats | 16 Sound Files Laughs, Jokes, Riddles, and Puns Vocabulary: 顔から火が出る Prefecture Spotlight: Kanagawa Etymology: 王国と帝国の違い Anime Phrase of the Day Haiku : 松尾芭蕉 Kanji Spotlight: 月 Grammar Time! の as a pronoun Japanese Readers: Cold meals (beginner) + The History of Anime (Intermediate)  Buy now and start reading in seconds. 

Makoto E-Zine series #51 Recommended for beginners and lower intermediates of Japanese. NOTE: The print version is printed on demand and can take up to two weeks to arrive (usually sooner!). You'll instantly get the download version with either choice. Now includes handy QR codes on each page to scan and instantly hear that page's sound files. (You can still download the sound files and PDF for no extra charge)FREE sound files 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: May 2022 - Laughs, Jokes, Riddles, and Puns- Vocabulary: 犬猿の仲- Prefecture Spotlight: Yamanashi- Etymology: セレブ- Anime Phrase of the Day- Haiku : 小林一茶- Kanji Spotlight: 男- Grammar Time! くらい- Japanese Readers: Mitarashi Dango (beginner) + Kicchomu’s Horse (Intermediate)  Buy now and start reading in seconds. 

Makoto E-Zine series #61 Become a Makoto+ member to get the latest issue as part of your subscription. From a few dollars a month! Click here to learn more. Recommended for beginners and lower intermediates of Japanese. NOTE: The print version is printed on demand and can take up to two weeks to arrive (usually sooner!). You'll instantly get the download version with either choice. Now includes handy QR codes on each page to scan and instantly hear that page's sound files. (You can still download the sound files and PDF for no extra charge)FREE sound files of the stories read by a native Japanese speaker--download link found on the last page. Listen while reading.FREE Anki flashcard deck of the vocabulary found in the intermediate story. (Included in the free download)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 includes two brand new stories or essays with newly recorded high-quality sound files for you to download for no extra charge. IN THIS ISSUE: March 2023 51 Pages | 3 eBook Formats | 20 Sound Files | 1 Anki Flashcard Deck Laughs, Jokes, Riddles, and Puns Vocabulary: 腹が黒い Prefecture Spotlight: Fukushima Etymology: 玉の輿 Anime Phrase of the Day Haiku : 正岡子規 Kanji Spotlight: 休 Grammar Time! この・その・あの・どの Japanese Readers: Hinamatsuri (beginner) + Kicchomu: Kinoko and Shiitake (Intermediate)  Buy now and start reading in seconds. 

Makoto E-Zine series #47 Recommended for beginners and lower intermediates of Japanese. Now includes handy QR codes on each page to scan and instantly hear that page's sound files. (You can still download the sound files and PDF for no extra charge)FREE sound files 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: January 2022 Laughs, Jokes, Riddles, and Puns Vocabulary: 耳にたこができる Prefecture Spotlight: Ishikawa Etymology: 紐【ひも】 Anime Phrase of the Day Haiku : 正岡子規 Masaoka Shiki Kanji Spotlight: 父 Grammar Time! 前に Japanese Readers: Countryside in Japan (beginner) + Kicchomu’s Mouse Carving (Intermediate) Buy now and start reading in seconds.

➡️ 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 for only $3 a month or $36 a year. Cancel at any time! Click here to learn more. IN THIS ISSUE: NEW READER: Frank and the Obaasan33 Pages * Laughs, Jokes, Riddles, and Puns* Prefecture Spotlight: Miyazaki* Etymology: 二足の草鞋* Phrase of the Day* Kanji Spotlight: Big Dogs are Okay* Grammar Time! 失礼* Frank and the Obaasan Reader, Grammatical Notes, Kanji Notes, and English Translation  ➡️ LEARN ABOUT BECOMING A MAKOTO+ MEMBER. CLICK HERE

Makoto E-Zine series #81 Recommended for beginner to intermediate learners of Japanese. You can purchase the printed version on Amazon by clicking here.   For Beginners to Lower Intermediates: Boost Your Japanese Journey Today!Ah, November! The air is crisp, the days are growing shorter, and the leaves are putting on their most dazzling show of the year. Just look at that cover! Isn’t it stunning? Those vivid reds and golden yellows are a celebration of Japan's famous 紅葉 — the autumn leaves that transform the landscape into a fiery canvas. If you look up 紅葉 you'll find two readings: こうよう and もみじ. Now, you might be wondering, why? Well, 紅葉(こうよう) generally refers to the vibrant autumn leaves in a broader sense, while 紅葉(もみじ) specifically highlights the beauty of the Japanese maple tree, with its delicately shaped leaves and brilliant red hue. Both readings, however, capture the spirit of fall in Japan—the season of changing colors, warm nostalgia, and leisurely strolls through nature.People travel far and wide to enjoy 紅葉狩(もみじが)り (autumn-leaf viewing) which literally means "hunting autumn leaves." It’s not so much a hunt as it is a chance to admire the beauty of nature, similar to 花見(はなみ) (cherry blossom viewing) and 月見(つきみ) (moon viewing). So, as you read through this month's Makoto, take a moment to soak in that feeling of 紅葉 — whether you picture the iconic もみじ maple leaves or just that full-blown autumn こうよう explosion of colors. Let's dive into this season together! ➡️ 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: 64 Pages Formats: Download the PDF and ePub for No Extra Charge Audio: 25 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 #81 Recommended for beginners and lower intermediates of Japanese. 64 Pages | 2 eBook Formats | 25 Sound Files | Scan QR Codes for Quick Access to Sound Files | Free Anki Flashcard Deck (for this issue's main story) IN THIS ISSUE: November 2024 Laughs, Jokes, Riddles, and Puns Vocabulary: 顔をたてる オノマトペ: クタクタ Prefecture Spotlight: Hiroshima Etymology: 舞浜(まいはま) Anime Phrase of the Day Haiku : Hattori Ransetsu Kanji Spotlight: 半 Grammar Time! ～始める Japanese Readers: A First Grader (beginner) + Abe-no-Seimei the Onmyōji (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 #42 Recommended for beginners and lower intermediates of Japanese. Now includes handy QR codes on each page to scan and instantly hear that page's sound files. (You can still download the sound files and PDF for no extra charge)FREE sound files 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: August 2021TWO NEW READERS: ii Toshi (beginner) + Hikoichi, Sitting in the Middle of the Eight (Intermediate) Laughs, Jokes, Riddles, and Puns Vocabulary: きれいに書く Prefecture Spotlight: Kyoto Etymology: 貴様Anime Phrase of the Day Haiku : Masaoka Shiki Kanji Spotlight: 安 Grammar Time! に Japanese Readers: ii toshi (beginner) + Hikoichi, Sitting in the Middle of the Eight (Intermediate) Buy now and start reading in seconds.

Makoto E-Zine series #53 Become a Makoto+ member to get this issue as part of your subscription. From $3 a month! Click here to learn more. Recommended for beginners and lower intermediates of Japanese. NOTE: The print version is printed on demand and can take up to two weeks to arrive (usually sooner!). You'll instantly get the download version with either choice. Now includes handy QR codes on each page to scan and instantly hear that page's sound files. (You can still download the sound files and PDF for no extra charge)FREE sound files 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: July 2022 41 Pages | 3 eBook Formats | 16 Sound Files * Laughs, Jokes, Riddles, and Puns * Vocabulary: 縁起(えんぎ)が悪(わる)い * Prefecture Spotlight: Niigata * Etymology: 太刀(たち)打(う)ち * Anime Phrase of the Day * Haiku : Issa * Kanji Spotlight: 子 * Grammar Time!  しか * Japanese Readers: Dialects (beginner) + Yamaha Part 2 (Intermediate)  Buy now and start reading in seconds. 

Makoto E-Zine series #87 Recommended for beginner to intermediate learners of Japanese. You can purchase the printed version on Amazon by clicking here.   May in Japan is all about warmth, wind, and wandering minds. (And, apparently, mustard-related confusion.) This month’s Makoto drifts gently your way with lessons on everything from Taishō-era trends to the softest onomatopoeia you ever did hear: ふわふわ. Whether you're curled up with a matcha latte or flinching from an accidental wasabi misfire, this issue’s got something to tickle your brain and boost your Japanese. Here’s what’s blooming in this issue: 🌼 Vocabulary spotlight on 万事休す (Game over, man!)🌼 The wobbly world of ふわふわ—from fluffy clouds to unfocused minds🌼 A deep dive into みっともない and the shameful roots of being "unpresentable"🌼 Grammar Time! with または (Choose your fighter: tea または coffee?)🌼 Reading practice: a mustard mix-up (Beginner) and a cultural crash course in the Taishō period (Intermediate)🌼 Kanji Spotlight on 川—because sometimes you just need to go with the flow🌼 Haiku from Masaoka Shiki, who knew how to say “It’s May” without saying “It’s May”🌼 Prefecture Spotlight: Wakayama, land of waterfalls, umeboshi, and samurai🌼 Anime Quote of the Month: When love = guaranteed defeat, from BEASTARS Whether you’re drifting like a dandelion seed or just trying to figure out why your “mustard” sandwich is making you cry, we hope this issue helps you laugh, learn, and level up. 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: 55 Pages Formats: Download the PDF and ePub for No Extra Charge Audio: 22 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 #87 Recommended for beginners and lower intermediates of Japanese. 55 Pages | 2 eBook Formats | 22 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: 万事休す Prefecture Spotlight: Wakayama Etymology: みっともない Onomatopoeia: ふわふわ Anime Phrase of the Day: BEASTARS Haiku: 正岡子規 Kanji Spotlight: 川 Grammar Time: または Japanese Readers: Mustard Mishap (Beginner) + Taishō Era Insights (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

➡️ 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

➡️ 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 #37 39 Pages | 3 eBook Formats | 15 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: March 2021 39 Pages | 3 eBook Formats | 15 Sound FilesTWO NEW READERS: Frank and the Obaasan Season Two Episode Nine (beginner) + Jigokudani Monkey Park (Intermediate) Laughs, Jokes, Riddles, and Puns Vocabulary Prefecture Spotlight: Tottori Etymology: Igirisu Cool Anime / Manga Phrase Haiku Natsume Souseki Kanji Spotlight Grammar Time! Using Ka Japanese Readers: Frank and the Obaasan (beginner) + Jigokudani Monkey Park (Intermediate)   ➡️ LEARN ABOUT BECOMING A MAKOTO+ MEMBER. CLICK HERE

Makoto E-Zine series #41 Recommended for beginners and lower intermediates of Japanese. Now includes handy QR codes on each page to scan and instantly hear that page's sound files. (You can still download the sound files and PDF for no extra charge)FREE sound files 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: July 2021TWO NEW READERS: The Closet (beginner) + The Celestial Maiden's Feathered Robe (Intermediate) Laughs, Jokes, Riddles, and Puns Vocabulary: そりが合わない Prefecture Spotlight: Nara Etymology: しょぼい Anime Phrase of the Day: Ranma Haiku: By Buson Kanji Spotlight: 海 Grammar Time! All about the particle も mo The Closet (beginner) + Princess The Celestial Maiden's Feathered Robe (Intermediate) Buy now and start reading in seconds.

Makoto E-Zine Series #101 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 101 (July 2026) — the first issue of the next hundred 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 (July 2026, Issue 101): After the fireworks of issue #100, #101 gets to enjoy the quiet luxury of being a perfectly ordinary number — which means it's simply a magazine full of Japanese to dig into. Frank clocks in for a full shift at the diner, a rain-soaked stranger shows up at a castle gate claiming to be a princess, and the etymology section explains why the gods get credit for thunder. All in the fully redesigned format introduced last issue: PDF, ePub, web, and the iPhone & Android apps, all from the same source. Readers: Beginner Reader (Let's Read): 看板を読む子 (Reading the Signs) A bored kid in the back seat reads restaurant signs out the car window — and accidentally gives Mom entirely the wrong idea. Presented in hiragana-spaced and kanji+furigana formats for multiple reading passes, with grammar notes covering の modifiers, 何も～ない, ～ている, ～ことにする, のなら, and て-form sequencing. Japanese Reader: えんどう豆の上のお姫さま (The Princess and the Pea) After last month's ghost story, something gentler: Andersen's classic retold in clear, approachable Japanese. A prince wants a real princess, and the queen has a testing method involving one very small pea and a great deal of bedding. Full vocabulary, grammar notes, and audio — watch for ～かどうか (whether or not), ～たり～たり, ～ようで, and the confident conclusion pattern ～にちがいない. Frank and the Obaasan: Season 3, Episode 9 A Day at the Restaurant (定食屋の日常) Last month Frank got a job. This month he actually has to do it. A full day at the teishoku diner — morning prep, lonely regulars, and Frank's particular gift for saying goodbye to fish. Includes structured Japanese, vocabulary/grammar support, and Japanese-only reading. Language & culture lessons: Grammar Time — Beginner: ～てもいい (JLPT N4) The everyday permission pattern: "you may ~" / "is it okay to ~?" — with examples across verbs, adjectives, and nouns. Grammar Time — Intermediate: ～ものの (JLPT N2) The "although ~" pattern for when the first half of your sentence writes a check the second half can't cash — a contrast connector you'll meet constantly in written Japanese. Onomatopoeia Focus: Rain しとしと, ざあざあ, and ぽつぽつ — three ways Japanese hears the rain, from a gentle drizzle to a downpour to the first scattered drops that make you regret not bringing an umbrella. Vocabulary (5 entries, N5 to N1): いただきます, 久しぶり, 気になる, 念のため, and 気が置けない — graded across all five JLPT levels, each with usage notes, example sentences, and audio. Etymology: 雷 Why is thunder called かみなり? Because to the ancient Japanese, it was quite literally the sound the gods make — a word history that traces the kanji back to lightning spreading across the sky beneath rainclouds. Kanji Spotlight (JLPT N5 to N1): 館, 親, 登, 現, and 矛 — readings, meanings, stroke order, compound words, and example sentences for each. Prefecture Spotlight: 神奈川 (Kanagawa) Home to Yokohama — one of Japan's first ports opened to foreign trade in 1859 and now home to the country's largest Chinatown — plus Kamakura's Great Buddha and more. Anime Phrase of the Month 「同じ気持ちじゃない時、どうしたらいいんだろう？」 from ちいかわ — Hachiware wonders what to do when someone doesn't feel the same way. Small, cute, and quietly devastating, as Chiikawa tends to be. Haiku Spotlight: 正岡子規 (Masaoka Shiki) 「ずんずんと夏を流すや最上川」— the mighty Mogami River sweeps summer itself downstream, in one of Shiki's most energetically modern-sounding classical haiku. With five English translations and full analysis. Jokes & Riddles, Katakana Match (Nation Names), and more Includes: 106 pages (PDF) in the fully redesigned Makoto format 27 MP3 audio files 4 Anki flashcard decks 2 eBook formats (PDF + ePub) Scan-and-listen QR codes for quick mobile access Full integration with the Makoto Japanese Explorer app and Sentence Explorer — magazine content is built into the Read tab with inline audio, tappable vocabulary, furigana-on-demand, translations, notes, and vocabulary tracking Issue 101: no milestones, no fireworks — just a magazine full of Japanese worth digging into. Whether you're testing princesses with produce, learning to hear the rain in Japanese, or just here to see how Frank handles the lunch rush — welcome to the second hundred. 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 #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