Post and share Japanese cultural articles. Kimono, hair arrangement, tea ceremony, ikebana, Japanese traditional dancing, Japanese cooking, etc.

With her "Hiragana Song", Cyber Bunny has made learning the basics of Japanese easy for everyone. Whether it is her funny short learn Japanese, or visits to exciting places in Tokyo and around, Cyber Bunny's video always impress to show a side of Japanese culture that we have not seen yet. Her bubbly personality and quirky style of mixing traditional kimono wear with modern Harajuku influences gives that little extra to her persona. Let's meet Japan's most kawaii language teacher and culture ambassador.

What made you decide to do Youtube videos?

I’m born and raised in Hawaii, which has a large market for Japanese tourism. Many of my friends and coworkers asked me how to say certain useful phrases relevant to their industries. So, I decided to make videos for the whole world for everyone to reference! If one person has a question, then there will be more who do.

Could you tell us more about the evolution of your content throughout the years?

At first, I didn’t know what I was doing. I knew I wanted to teach Japanese the way I learned it… which wasn’t by going to a classroom or using fancy terms. I started with the basics of Hiragana and Katakana, then did covers of anime songs, then vlogs of “Things to do in Tokyo”, then made comedy skits on Tik Tok. I’m still all over the place but, whatever I post, it has to be fun and entertaining with the right amount of education!

What are some tips from you for people you would like to start to learn Japanese?

“Feel the language, don’t study it…”
Everyone’s studying process is different. My attention span is short, so I need music and visuals to help me stay focused. It helps the brain learn faster if learning is fun and enjoyable.

What are some frequent and common mistakes Japanese learners make?

The most common mistake for pronunciation is that students have a hard time letting go of romaji after they’ve mastered hiragana and katakana. It’s easy to become a bad habit.

Another mistake is losing motivation or working up the courage to set aside time to study. I try to make it as “cool” and motivating as possible, so my viewers get excited to learn!

Do you have any good advice for Kanji learning?

Memorize the radicals, stroke orders and its placements instead of memorizing the whole Kanji. It’s similar to dancing a set of choreography. A whole Tik Tok dance video is like one kanji.

What sets Japanese language apart from other languages? What makes it unique in your opinion?

People have told me they like speaking Japanese because of how it makes them feel… classy and proper. Japanese culture is very polite and humble. Also, anime is a huge influence.

How important is the intonation in Japanese? What are some things Japanese learners should pay attention to?

Very important. Listen to the entire context of the sentence rather than the word alone, which will give you an idea of that word.

To “Keigo” or not “Keigo”, what are some tips from you for a correct way to use it?

If you’re with friends, most Japanese will point out that you don’t have to use
“Keigo” around them. They feel uncomfortable and distant. If you’re working in an industry serving Japanese customers… definitely “Keigo.” Talk to yourself in Keigo until your tongue tangles itself. Practice makes perfect!

How can Japanese learners benefit from your videos?

Japanese teachers around the world actually use my videos during their class time… which I think is awesome! The comment section says it all and I’m very happy my videos can be used in a fun and formal environment!

My videos benefit those who want to learn passively. They put me on repeat during their workouts, chores, etc. Also, for anyone just looking for a different perspective of learning about japanese language and culture!

I’m also very popular among children because I’m a fluffy white bunny!

We want to thank Cyber Bunny for taking the time to answer our questions. Cyber Bunny's videos are a most for people who want to learn Japanese. Don't forget to check out her social media for more great content.

(By Stefan)

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