Search results for "makoto e-zine":

Makoto E-Zine series #90 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 90 (August 2025)Fun, culturally rich reading and listening practice for learners of Japanese Makoto is a monthly digital magazine for beginner to lower-intermediate learners of Japanese. Each issue features short articles, cultural notes, language lessons, jokes, and native-audio recordings—designed to make learning fun, immersive, and memorable. In this issue (August 2025, Issue 90): This month’s theme is 平成時代 (The Heisei Era)—a reflective, nostalgic journey into the cultural currents that defined Japan from 1989 to 2019. Whether you're a Shōwa old-hand, Heisei native, or Reiwa rookie, we hope this issue brings back memories—or makes some new ones. Highlights include: Laughs, Jokes, Riddles, and Puns – because language learning should never be boring Vocabulary Spotlight: うり二つ (lookalike; spitting image) Prefecture Spotlight: Mie – home of Ise Shrine and the ninja of Iga Etymology Deep Dive: 浴衣 (ゆかた) – from bathrobe to summer fashion icon Anime Phrase of the Day – quote and explanation from a popular anime Onomatopoeia: Summer rain – the many moods of Japanese raindrops Haiku Spotlight: Yosa Buson – poetic imagery for rainy days Kanji Focus: 雨 (rain) Grammar Time! ～なくてはならない (how to say “must do” in polite Japanese) Japanese Readers: Beginner: A summer vacation story Intermediate: An overview of the Heisei era (with Sentence Explorer integration on Makoto+) Includes: 63-page PDF and ePub formats 27 MP3 audio files (normal and slow speed) 1 Anki flashcard deck (beginner story vocabulary) Scan-and-listen QR codes for quick mobile access Integration with Makoto+ Sentence Explorer for the intermediate reading Perfect for learners who love Japanese culture and want engaging, real-world content. Use it to build vocabulary, sharpen listening skills, and explore the language in all its cultural richness—rain or shine. Clay & Yumi ➡️ How to read the eBooks: You may need to follow the steps outlined in our eBook guide. ❝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, Makoto+ Sentence Explorer integration, & 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. Also, all sentences and vocabulary found in the intermediate story have been added to Makoto+ Sentence Explorer.  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 #92 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 92 (October 2025)Your monthly passport to Japan’s language, culture, and timeless stories. Each month, Makoto delivers fun, culturally rich content for learners of Japanese. Short articles, cultural notes, grammar lessons, etymology deep-dives, jokes, and professionally recorded native audio make studying Japanese engaging, memorable, and something to look forward to. Discover the timeless folktale The Straw Millionaire, learn why Nintendo’s name means “leaving luck to heaven,” explore autumn onomatopoeia, and enjoy jokes, haiku, grammar tips, and more in this month’s issue. ✨ Highlights of Issue 92: Laughs, Jokes, Riddles, and Puns Vocabulary: 玉にきず Prefecture Spotlight: Gifu Etymology: 任天堂(にんてんどう) Anime Phrase of the Day Onomatopoeia: Cool evenings Haiku : Masaoka Shiki Kanji Spotlight: 車 Grammar Time!  ～なさい Japanese Readers: Frank & the Obaasan (beginner) + The Straw Millionaire (Intermediate) 📦 What’s Included: 68-page PDF & ePub formats 36 MP3 audio files (normal and slow speed) Anki flashcard deck for beginner story vocabulary Scan-and-listen QR codes for instant mobile audio playback Makoto+ Sentence Explorer integration for interactive reading Why you’ll love Makoto:Every issue blends authentic Japanese with helpful explanations, giving you the tools to grow your reading, listening, and cultural understanding. Whether you’re revisiting folktales you’ve heard before or discovering new words like ちやほや, each page is designed to spark joy and deepen your knowledge. 🔊 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 Sentence 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 #93 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 93 (November 2025)Your monthly passport to Japan’s language, culture, and timeless stories. Each month, Makoto delivers fun, culturally rich content for learners of Japanese. Short articles, cultural notes, grammar lessons, etymology deep-dives, jokes, and professionally recorded native audio make studying Japanese engaging, memorable, and something to look forward to. This November issue celebrates warmth, humor, and a touch of the unexpected—from a grandmother convinced her Roomba is alive to Fukui Prefecture’s dinosaurs and handmade washi paper, and the hilarious (yet cautionary) folktale Gonzōmushi, where greed literally turns a man into a bug! ✨ Highlights of Issue 93: Laughs, Jokes, Riddles, and Puns Vocabulary: のどから手が出る Prefecture Spotlight: Fukui Etymology: サラリーマン Anime Phrase of the Day: from Yowamushi Pedal Onomatopoeia: Words for Exhaustion (へとへと, ぐったり, ふらふら, ヘロヘロ) Haiku: Kobayashi Issa – “A radish puller points the way—with his radish!” Kanji Spotlight: 国 Grammar Time! ～にくい Japanese Readers: Frank and the Obaasan: Frank Needs a Job (Beginner) + Gonzōmushi (Intermediate) 📦 What’s Included: 65-page PDF & ePub formats 35 MP3 audio files (normal and slow speed) Anki flashcard deck for beginner story vocabulary Scan-and-listen QR codes for instant mobile audio playback Makoto+ Sentence Explorer integration for interactive reading Why you’ll love Makoto:Every issue blends authentic Japanese with helpful explanations, giving you the tools to grow your reading, listening, and cultural understanding. Whether you’re revisiting folktales or discovering new words like のどから手が出る, each page is designed to spark joy and deepen your knowledge. 🔊 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 Sentence 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 #75 Recommended for beginner to intermediate learners of Japanese. You can also buy this series on Amazon by clicking here - Makoto e-Zine #75 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: 61 Pages Formats: Download the PDF and ePub for No Extra Charge Audio: 31 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 #75 Recommended for beginners and lower intermediates of Japanese. 61 Pages  2 eBook Formats  31 Sound Files  Scan QR Codes for Quick Access to Sound Files  Free Anki Flashcard Deck (for this issue's main story) IN THIS ISSUE: May 2024 Laughs, Jokes, Riddles, and Puns Vocabulary: 的を射る Prefecture Spotlight: Oita Etymology: 閑古鳥が鳴く Anime Phrase of the Day Haiku : Masaoka Shiki Kanji Spotlight: 外 Grammar Time! BECAUSE：なに・なん Japanese Readers: エレベーター (beginner) + Joumon 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 #94 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 94 (December 2025)Your monthly passport to Japan’s language, culture, and timeless stories. Each month, Makoto delivers fun, culturally rich content for learners of Japanese. Short articles, cultural notes, grammar lessons, etymology deep-dives, jokes, and professionally recorded native audio make studying Japanese engaging, memorable, and something to look forward to. This month shines a light on one of Japan's most beloved trickster monks—Ikkyū-san. Long before anime heroes outsmarted rivals with quick wit, there was Ikkyū, the mischievous young monk who solved every problem not with strength, but with clever wordplay and calm thinking. In our featured story, Ikkyū takes on a lord's impossible challenge using nothing more than logic and language—and a clever play on the word "hashi." Meanwhile, Frank continues bumbling through life in Japan, this time at City Hall dealing with hanko stamps, My Number cards, and cultural confusion. ✨ Highlights include: Laughs, Jokes, Riddles, and Puns – A trip to the doctor reveals an unexpected diagnosis Vocabulary Spotlight: 人目を引く – "eye-catching"—literally, to pull people's eyes Prefecture Spotlight: Ishikawa – Home to Kenrokuen garden, the Noto Peninsula's thousand rice fields, geisha districts, and exquisite gold leaf crafts Etymology Deep Dive: ついたち – Why the first day of the month is called "tsuitachi" (hint: it involves the moon) Anime Phrase of the Day: From Kaiju No. 8—"I can see right through monsters, even down to their guts!!" Onomatopoeia: Cold Words – ひんやり, ぶるぶる, がたがた, ぞくぞく, びゅうびゅう and more—from mild chills to bone-freezing cold Haiku Spotlight: Yosa Buson – Daffodils blooming here and there in the cold capital Kanji Focus: 円 (circle; yen) Grammar Time!: ～やすい (easy to do; prone to) Japanese Readers: Frank and the Obaasan Episode 2: Frank Goes to City Hall (Beginner) – Hanko? ハ、ハンコ？！ 一休さん：このはしわたるべからず (Intermediate) – The classic tale of Ikkyū's wordplay triumph over a lord's impossible challenge Includes: 56-page PDF and ePub formats MP3 audio files (normal and slow speed) Anki flashcard deck (beginner story vocabulary) Scan-and-listen QR codes for quick mobile access Integration with Makoto+ Sentence Explorer for interactive reading Perfect for learners who love Japanese culture and want engaging, real-world content. Use it to grow your vocabulary, improve listening skills, and enjoy Japanese through humor, folklore, and a little monkish wisdom. 🔊 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 Sentence 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 #65 Recommended for beginner to intermediate learners of Japanese. ➡️ How to read the eBooks: You may need to follow the steps outlined in our eBook guide. ❝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.❞   You can get this issue at a discounted price by subscribing Makoto+:   https://makotoplus.com 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 Makoto E-Zine series #65 Recommended for beginners and lower intermediates of Japanese. 52 Pages  3 eBook Formats  25 Sound Files  Scan QR Codes for Quick Access to Sound Files  Free Anki Flashcard Deck (for this issue's main story) The Fun Japanese Not Found in Textbooks. If you like our readers and lessons, you will love Makoto, the magazine 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: July 2023 52 Pages  3 eBook Formats  25 Sound Files  1 Anki Flashcard Deck Laughs, Jokes, Riddles, and Puns Vocabulary: 赤子の手をひねるよう Prefecture Spotlight: Akita Etymology: おなら Anime Phrase of the Day Haiku : 正岡子規 Kanji Spotlight: 後 Grammar Time! いつ Japanese Readers: the Beachgoing Season (beginner) + Buying Mittens Part 3 (Intermediate) Buy now and start reading in 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!). If you choose 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 order, please check your spam folder or email us for support.

Makoto E-Zine series #68 Recommended for beginner to intermediate learners of Japanese. ➡️ How to read the eBooks: You may need to follow the steps outlined in our eBook guide. Page Count: 50 Pages Formats: Download the PDF and ePub for No Extra Charge Audio: 19 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 Makoto+:   https://makotoplus.com Discover the Fun Side of Japanese Not Covered in Textbooks. If you enjoy our readers and lessons, you'll absolutely 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 #69 Recommended for beginners and lower intermediates of Japanese. 50 Pages  2 eBook Formats  19 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 2023 Fun and Games: Laughs, Jokes, Riddles, and Puns Vocabulary Corner: 影が薄い Explore Japan: Prefecture Spotlight on Kagoshima Word Origins: Etymology of 虫の知らせ Pop Culture: Anime Phrase of the Day Poetic Inspirations: Haiku by 正岡子規 Kanji Focus: 先 Grammar Workshop: なにも・だれも・どこにも Japanese Reader: "Koharubiyori" for Beginners and "Kitasato Shibasaburou" for Intermediate learners Buy now and start reading in 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 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 order, please check your spam folder or email us for support.

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 #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

Makoto E-Zine series #73 Recommended for beginner to intermediate learners of Japanese. You can also buy this series on Amazon by clicking here - Makoto e-Zine #73 ➡️ 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: 57 Pages Formats: Download the PDF and ePub for No Extra Charge Audio: 16 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 #73 Recommended for beginners and lower intermediates of Japanese. 57 Pages  2 eBook Formats  16 Sound Files  Scan QR Codes for Quick Access to Sound Files  Free Anki Flashcard Deck (for this issue's main story) IN THIS ISSUE: March 2024 Laughs, Jokes, Riddles, and Puns Vocabulary: 根も葉もない Prefecture Spotlight: Saga Etymology: 二の舞 Anime Phrase of the Day Haiku : 芥川龍之介 Kanji Spotlight: 左 Grammar Time!  たち・がた・ら Japanese Readers: Spring Equinox Day (beginner) + Nitobe Inazou (Intermediate) 🛒 Purchase now and start your enriching Japanese learning journey in just 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 $5 a month or $50 a year. Cancel at any time! Click here to learn more. 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 #99 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 99 (May 2026) 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 — all designed to make Japanese feel natural, usable, and enjoyable. In this issue (May 2026, Issue 99): This month moves from kitchen mishap to one of Japan's most famous ghost stories. A beginner story about an American making curry from scratch sets up a quietly devastating run-in with the metric system, while a classic Edo-period 怪談 about a maid, ten precious plates, and a well you don't want to stand near at midnight delivers some of the most haunting Japanese in folklore. In between, Frank survives his third job interview — barely — by confessing to a sushi-shop crime of love. Readers: Beginner Reader: カレー (Curry) Mark moves to Japan and decides to cook dinner from scratch. He buys the roux, chops the vegetables, and confidently ignores the part of the instructions written in milliliters. What he ends up with is not curry. Presented in hiragana-spaced, kanji+furigana, and natural formats for multiple reading passes. Intermediate Reader: 番町皿屋敷 (The Dish Mansion at Banchō) One of Japan's most enduring ghost stories. A samurai. A loyal maid named お菊. Ten precious heirloom plates — and only nine after midnight. A voice in the well counting one… two… three… and stopping at nine, every night, until a wandering monk does the one thing that finally lets her rest. Guided reading with full vocabulary, grammar notes, audio, and kanji breakdowns. Frank and the Obaasan: Season 3, Episode 7 三度目のバイト先 Two days at a sushi place. One day at a convenience store. Frank's resume is not selling itself. But when the owner of a small 定食屋 asks why he keeps getting fired, Frank's answer — "My love is too strong" — turns out to be exactly the right answer. Includes structured Japanese, vocabulary/grammar support, and Japanese-only reading. Language & culture lessons: Grammar Time: ～はずがない (JLPT N5) A versatile pattern for "there's no way…" Includes examples for verbs, nouns, and both adjective types. Onomatopoeia Focus: Soft Things ぷにぷに, むにゅむにゅ, and ぐにゃぐにゃ — three flavors of "soft" that English would just call "squishy" and leave it at that. Vocabulary: 肩が軽くなる Japan's version of "a load off my shoulders." Includes comparison with ほっとする. Etymology: サボる The surprisingly tidy journey from French sabotage (factory-floor resistance) to Japanese skipping class. Kanji Spotlight: 書 (JLPT N5) Readings, meanings, stroke order, and example words. Prefecture Spotlight: 長野 (Nagano) Home to nine of Japan's twelve tallest mountains, the famously bathing snow monkeys at Jigokudani, Matsumoto Castle, and the 1998 Winter Olympics. Anime Phrase of the Month Haiku Spotlight: 小林一茶 (Kobayashi Issa) A quiet early-summer haiku about new tea cutting through midday drowsiness — with five different translations to compare. More... Includes: 100 pages (PDF) 26 MP3 audio files 4 Anki flashcard deck 2 eBook formats Scan-and-listen QR codes for quick mobile access Full integration with Makoto+ Sentence 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 — whether you're guessing at milliliters, counting plates by a well, or trying to convince a chef that loving food too much is actually a job qualification. 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 #60 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: February 2023 60 Pages | 3 eBook Formats | 20 Sound Files | 1 Anki Flashcard Deck Laughs, Jokes, Riddles, and Puns Vocabulary: 鼻につく Prefecture Spotlight: Tochigi Etymology: しかと Anime Phrase of the Day Haiku : 夏目漱石 Kanji Spotlight: 本 Grammar Time! これ・それ・あれ Japanese Readers: Setsubun (beginner) + The Oni of Setsubun (Intermediate)  Buy now and start reading in seconds. 

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

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 #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.