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.
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
Our Writers
