About Our Translations

Japan Picks delivers the charm of Japan in 12 languages. On this page, we explain how we write, translate, and ensure the quality of our articles.

Our Writers: Japanese Authors Living in Japan

All articles on Japan Picks are written in Japanese by Japanese authors who actually live in Japan.
We deliver real information from the perspective of people who use the products in their daily lives, visit the stores, and experience the culture firsthand — not from the viewpoint of a one-time tourist.

For example, we choose products that we repeatedly purchase at drugstores, sunscreens we use depending on the season, and souvenirs well-reviewed by family and friends — selected from the perspective of someone who actually lives here.

Meet Our Writers

    
Yuya Masuo

CEO of LifeStories Inc.
After gaining experience at various recruitment agencies, I established my own company in Fukuoka.
I specialize in topics related to career change, skill development, and business, and currently work as an editor and supervisor.
I also share insights on certification courses and side jobs on YouTube—feel free to check it out if you're interested.
>> Appearing on Manap


    
Koma

Leveraging her past experience working at LINE Yahoo Corporation, she now serves as Editor-in-Chief of the lifestyle media platform “Life Stories,” which provides useful information for everyday life.

With the motto of “supporting and empowering women through their concerns,” she is involved not only in editing but also in writing.

She has also obtained numerous certifications, including the Japan Cosmetic Licensing Association Certification and Nissho Bookkeeping Grade 2.

Currently, she is also a mother of two, working hard to balance her career with parenting.

Translation Process: A Two-Step Approach with AI and Human Review

Articles written in Japanese are expanded into each language through the following process.

Step 1: AI Translation (ChatGPT, Claude)

We use the latest AI translation technology to translate into 12 languages. AI translation has rapidly improved in recent years and now achieves very high quality, especially for conveying information.

Step 2: Localization for Each Language

Rather than simply translating, we adjust the content to match the cultural background and interests of readers in each language region.

Korean version: Enhanced information on cosmetics and beauty
Traditional Chinese (Taiwan) version: Tailored for families and bulk shopping needs
Simplified Chinese (China) version: Emphasizes trust in Japanese quality
English version: International English, easy to read for non-native speakers
French version: Focused on craftsmanship and quality
German version: Emphasizes detailed and accurate information
Italian version: Resonates with aesthetic sensibility and food culture
Spanish version: Neutral Spanish for a wide range of readers
Portuguese version: Friendly tone primarily for Brazilian readers
Polish version: Carefully responds to the admiration for Japanese culture
Turkish version: Expressions that take cultural considerations into account

About the Accuracy of Information

We continuously review information about Japan in the following areas:

Product information: Names, price ranges, and where to purchase
Store information: Business hours, locations, and stock availability

However, prices and business hours may change without notice. When you actually shop or visit, please check the latest information on official websites or other reliable sources.

The Limitations of AI Translation

There is something we want to share honestly. AI translation is excellent, but not perfect.

Some expressions may feel unnatural to native speakers
Concepts unique to Japan (such as “wabi-sabi” or “mottainai”) are kept in the original language or supplemented with explanations

Technical terms and proper nouns are unified using our own translation glossary, but this is not always perfect

If you notice “this translation is off” or “this information is outdated,” please contact us through the [contact form]. We will use your feedback to improve.

Why We Use AI Translation

If we were to ask professional translators for all 12 languages, the products and information we could introduce would be significantly limited due to cost and time.

By using AI translation:

  • We can deliver more products and information to more people
  • We can maintain a high update frequency and provide the latest information
  • By publishing in 12 languages simultaneously, people around the world can access information at the same time

We believe this choice leads to wonderful shopping experiences in Japan for many more people.

Copyright and Citation

The content of Japan Picks articles (text, structure, and selection criteria) belongs to our site across all language versions. Product images and store information are used based on the rights of each manufacturer and store.

When citing, please clearly indicate Japan Picks as the source with a link.

Contact

  • Inquiries about content
  • Reporting translation errors
  • Interview and partnership inquiries

[Contact Form]