niche_japan2025

スポンサーリンク
LOANWORD

Can Maine Be Written as “麺因”? The Hidden Charm of the “Quiet America” Japanese People Don’t Know

Maine, famous for its lobsters and breathtaking autumn foliage, lies in the northeastern United States. Some references use the Kanji “麺因州,” but this is a Chinese transliteration, not used in Japanese writing. Here, we uncover the correct way to refer to Maine, its cultural background, and the reasons Japanese people find it so captivating.
LOANWORD

Is New Hampshire Written as “新罕布夏”? Japanese Perceptions and Cultural Connections

When written as “新罕布夏,” New Hampshire transforms from a geographic name into a symbol of connection.This phonetic kanji form reveals how the state’s values—education, independence, and harmony with nature—align closely with traditional Japanese sensibilities.Exploring this translation offers not only linguistic insight but also a deeper cultural appreciation of a state that values both intellect and serenity.
CONTENT

The Sacred Setting of the Film “KOKUHO” – Grand Salon Juso (Osaka), the Cabaret Where Harue Works

The story of Harue and the cabaret in KOKUHO transcends glamour—it reflects the pride, sorrow, and resilience of women who lived through Japan’s Showa era. The film’s central setting, Grand Salon Juso, remains today as a living testament to cultural endurance, illuminating the enduring power of art and memory.
CONTENT

The Sacred Filming Location of “KOKUHO” — The Cherry Blossom Path at Higashi-Osaka Municipal Nisshin High School (Osaka) Reflecting the Memories of Youth

Beyond its narrative, KOKUHO captures the profound connection between a town and its people. The cherry blossoms of Higashi-Osaka Municipal Nisshin High School illuminate the screen as a visual metaphor — a reminder that a single fleeting moment of youth can become eternal.
LOANWORD

No Kanji for Copenhagen? The Beautiful Impressions and History of the Nordic City as Seen by the Japanese

The name “Copenhagen,” meaning “the merchants’ harbor” in Danish, carries a rhythm and warmth that can’t be captured in kanji.Written in katakana, it preserves its gentle tone and cultural nuance. To many Japanese, Copenhagen symbolizes happiness, design, and a calm way of living.This article delves into why this Nordic city resonates emotionally beyond language or script.
LOANWORD

Does Abu Dhabi Have a Kanji Representation as “阿布扎比”? How Do Japanese People Perceive the Capital of the United Arab Emirates?

The name Abu Dhabi is said to derive from Arabic, meaning “Father of the Gazelle.”True to its name, the city exudes vitality and elegance amid the desert landscape.In this article, we explore the story behind its Chinese representation “阿布扎比”, while highlighting how Japanese people perceive its culture, sports, and timeless beauty.
CONTENT

The Sacred Site of SLAM DUNK — Tōbaru Nishi Park (Okinawa), the Model for the Place Where Ryota Miyagi and His Brother Practiced Basketball

The emotional scene of Ryota and his brother playing basketball together in “THE FIRST SLAM DUNK” deeply moved audiences. Tōbaru Nishi Park, whose scenery mirrors that moment, continues to quietly captivate visitors with its calm beauty and emotional depth. It’s not just a location—it’s a place where memory, passion, and reality converge.
CONTENT

The Sacred Place of Slam Dunk: Toguchi Beach (Okinawa) – The Real-Life Model of the Secret Base Where Ryota Miyagi and His Brother Once Spent Their Days

Toguchi Beach in Yomitan, Okinawa, is a serene coastal gem known for its calm waves and stunning sunsets. In THE FIRST SLAM DUNK, it serves as the model for the secret base where Ryota and his brother shared their memories. The quiet strength within its stillness perfectly mirrors the film’s message of resilience and connection, captivating every visitor who walks its shores.
CONTENT

The Sacred Site of Demon Slayer – Kanaguya (Nagano): A Luxurious, Otherworldly Inn Reminiscent of the Infinite Castle

Nestled within Shibu Onsen, Kanaguya has become known as a place where the worlds of anime and reality intertwine. Its magnificent four-story wooden structure mirrors the Infinite Castle from Demon Slayer, while the warm, glowing ambiance recalls the bathhouse from Spirited Away. Combining tradition and fantasy, Kanaguya captures the imagination of all who enter—a true sanctuary of modern Japanese storytelling.
CONTENT

Takehara, Hiroshima — A “Demon Slayer” Sacred Site Whose Retro Atmosphere Evokes the Taisho-Era Scenery Seen in the Entertainment District Arc

Takehara is a harbor town rich in history and culture, enchanting travelers from around the world. Its preserved Taisho-era houses and Western-style buildings mirror the refined aesthetic of “Demon Slayer’s” world, making it a real-life echo of the anime’s charm. Here, visitors can step into a living story, surrounded by the quiet beauty and timeless spirit of Japan’s past.
スポンサーリンク