Japanese schools teach students to clean up after themselves, starting in first grade. This tradition, called o-soji, promotes respect for surroundings. Some US schools, like Armadillo Technical Institute, have adopted this practice. Students can learn a lot in school if they apply themselves. And American schools can learn a lot from school practices in Japan […]
Most mobile phones sold in Japan are waterproof due to the popularity of using them in the bath or shower. Japanese bathtubs are typically larger and deeper than American ones, and many people use their phones while bathing, leading to the rise in popularity of waterproof devices. Over 90% of mobile phones sold in Japan […]
The Japanese tea ceremony has different schools of thought, but all involve precise rituals. Guests wash their hands, eat sweets, and observe the cleaning of tea tools. The tea is brewed and served, with guests passing the bowl and bowing to the host. Afterward, the equipment is cleaned and examined before the ceremony ends. The […]
Japanese etiquette is a set of rules that establish social rank, education, and family background. It is based on a well-documented set of behaviors for different places and environments. Personal feelings are separated from public behavior, and it is considered polite to hide one’s real feelings. Etiquette guidelines can be broken down into basic situations, […]
Japanese persimmons are a sweet fruit that grows on trees in Asia and around the world. There are over 800 varieties, with some popular types being Fuyu, Jiro, and Hachiya. The fruit is high in beta carotene, vitamin A, and vitamin C. It can be eaten fresh, used in recipes, or preserved. A Japanese persimmon […]
The Japanese bullet train, or Shinkansen, is a high-speed rail system that carries millions of passengers annually. It covers most of the southern island of Japan and is a popular alternative to air travel due to its efficiency and safety record. While it currently relies on advanced rail techniques, maglev trains are planned for implementation […]
Japanese desserts use local and foreign ingredients, with mochi as a central element. There are many variations of wagashi, dango, and jellies. Green tea is often served with sweet desserts. Some desserts are twists on foreign imports, such as castella and green tea-flavored chocolate bars. Sweet breads like melonpan and anpan are also popular. Japanese […]
During World War II, Japanese-Americans, including American citizens, were forcibly detained in internment camps due to fear and hate towards Japan. The conditions were poor, and many lost their property. In 1944, the Supreme Court ruled it violated civil rights. In 1988, Congress paid reparations of $20,000 to each person interned. Japanese-American internment refers to […]
Godzilla, the famous cinematic monster, was made an official citizen and tourism ambassador for Tokyo’s Shinjuku Department in 2015. At the welcoming ceremony, Godzilla was described as “the pride of Japan” and received a giant replica of his head. His residence papers noted his role in promoting entertainment and attracting visitors. Godzilla’s original roar was […]
Japanese curry, or kare, has a thick, sweet gravy made from roux and is commonly prepared at home. Its origins are attributed to the British Navy during the Meiji period, but it has since evolved into a unique dish with regional variations. The gravy is made using pre-prepared curry roux, which contains a base of […]
To become a Japanese interpreter, one must be fluent in the language and can improve their skills by taking higher-level courses, finding language exchange partners, or immersing themselves in Japan. Government agencies and translation companies are potential employers, and knowledge of Japanese customs is important. To become a Japanese interpreter, you must first be fluent […]
Japanese horseradish, or “wasabi,” is a root vegetable used in Japanese cuisine. It is difficult to grow and often sold as a paste or powder. Its peppery flavor is similar to hot mustard and it is commonly used as a topping for sushi. It is believed to have anti-microbial effects and can be mixed with […]
Over 250,000 Japanese nationals moved to Brazil between 1908 and 1950, making it home to the largest Japanese population outside Japan. About 3.5 million Brazilian residents are Japanese-Brazilians, with 73% living in São Paulo. In 2002, there were approximately 570,000 Japanese citizens living in Western countries, while 123,000 Westerners permanently lived in Japan. Most Japanese […]
Hikikomori, a phenomenon where young Japanese people isolate themselves in their bedrooms for years, affects at least half a million people aged 15 to 39. The cause is unclear, but pressure to succeed in Japanese society is believed to be a factor. Japan also has a high percentage of older people, adult male adoptions, and […]
Japanese soldiers in World War II shouted “to hell with Babe Ruth!” as he was seen as a symbol of American patriotism. Babe Ruth had previously gone on a goodwill tour of Japan as part of the American baseball All-Stars team. Professional baseball player Babe Ruth was a celebrity who was part of a Japanese […]
The Japanese creation myth explains the formation of Japan’s sky, earth, and islands. It was part of the Kojiki, compiled in 712 by O no Yasumaro and assigned by Empress Gemmei. The story involves three creator deities, Izanagi and Izanami, who mate and produce weak children until they speak to each other in the correct […]
Japanese mythology is based on the Shinto religion, which includes thousands of gods, goddesses, and spirits. Major deities include Amaterasu, Hachiman, and Susano, with deities called “kami” representing the life force in every being and nature. Susano is linked to storms, while Amaterasu is the sun and fertility kami, and Hachiman is the kami of […]
Understanding and following Japanese business etiquette is crucial for Western businessmen visiting Japan. Personal appearance, body language, seating arrangements, drink consumption, and gift-giving are all important aspects of Japanese business etiquette. Visitors should dress professionally, pay attention to body language, wait to be seated, follow drinking customs, and handle business cards and gifts with care. […]
