Very happy to have found you! I am traveling to Japan in February and would like to have at least a little bit of knowledge to not be totally lost. I understand it is not a lot of time. I also want to make sure that I am not disrespectful in any way.

Good morning sensei Bennett, As per your request, here's a picture of one of my trees. Bonsai, and Japanese culture in general fascinates me. I can't wait to learn more from you. Arigato!

Konnichiwa, On the second day of the hiragana challenge we learn i, mi, shit, ko! 🎄✨ Watch the video and comment when you finish! Please peactis the writing to improve your overall understanding and retention (you'll remember it better)! Day Two! Ganbatte kudasai (try your best)!!!! Joe Sensei. @Ev Ginguene @Meyu Artist @Irdzra Khairuddin @Phil C @Blaize Agena @Brittney Cox @Steve Goldun @Karin Ware @Wilson Sanchez @Sheila Pinto @Fenny Kirmil @Nathan Feick

Konnichiwa, On the first day of the hiragana challenge we learn a, ki, ka, su! 🎄✨ Watch the video and comment when you've finished! For extra points, do the writing exercise and post a photo of your answers. This will really cement your learning! Below is the first video and worksheet. I know some of you have seen this before, but we'll take on this challenge together and master the 46 characters by Christmas!! Day One! Ganbatte kudasai (try your best)!!!! Joe Sensei. @Ev Ginguene @Meyu Artist @Irdzra Khairuddin @Phil C @Blaize Agena @Brittney Cox @Steve Goldun @Karin Ware @Wilson Sanchez @Sheila Pinto @Fenny Kirmil @Nathan Feick

A strong earthquake (震度6強) hit Aomori Prefecture last night. Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi reported that 30 people have been injured and one house fire has been confirmed so far. Because of the ongoing risk, the government and Japan Meteorological Agency have issued a caution notice: 「北海道・三陸沖後発地震注意情報」 A warning that a follow-up major quake might occur. The Prime Minister asked people in affected areas to be ready to evacuate immediately if they feel shaking, and to stay alert for at least one week. 🈶 Key Japanese Phrases 地震（じしん）jishin earthquake 避難する（ひなんする）hinan suru evacuate 揺れ（ゆれ）yureshaking / tremor 防災（ぼうさい）bōsai disaster preparedness 命を守る（いのちをまもる）inochi o mamoru protect your life 注意情報（ちゅういじょうほう）chūi jōhōcaution notice / alert 🧠 Key Phrase: 揺れを感じたら、すぐに避難してください。 yure o kanjitara, sugu ni hinan shite kudasai. If you feel shaking, evacuate immediately. This line is being repeated on Japanese news broadcasts right now. 🫵 Your Turn Answer this simple question (English or Japanese OK): If an earthquake happened where you live, do you know a safe place to go? Or write it in Japanese: - 地震の時、安全な場所はどこですか？ Feel free to share: - evacuation routes - safe spots at home (table, doorway, open area) - supplies you keep ready (water, torch, battery pack, etc.) Let’s learn language and safety awareness together 🌏🙏