niche_japan2025

The name Casablanca evokes a variety of images in Japan. From the classic film “Casablanca” to the graceful white lily of the same name, and even the passionate world of football in Morocco, the city represents more than just a place. Though no Kanji form exists, and the Chinese “卡薩布蘭卡” is merely a sound-based rendering, the word Casablanca carries special meaning and charm in Japanese culture.

The Brazilian city of Manaus is known to travelers as the starting point for Amazon exploration. At the same time, it gained worldwide recognition as a venue for the 2014 FIFA World Cup. While there is no kanji representation in Japanese, its sound and historical background leave a distinct impression on the Japanese imagination.

In Japanese writing, Kansas has no kanji notation and is expressed solely in katakana. The state’s name comes from the indigenous Kansa people, emphasizing its deep historical roots. For Japanese people, Kansas represents more than farmland. It is also a cultural symbol through The Wizard of Oz and a sports powerhouse through the University of Kansas Jayhawks and the Kansas City Chiefs. This combination of tradition and modern recognition makes Kansas unique in the way it is perceived from abroad.

Although Arkansas is not as famous in Japan as states like New York or California, it offers many surprising features. From rice production that resonates with Japanese food culture to hot springs rare in the United States, Arkansas holds attractions that remain largely unknown to Japanese travelers. This article uncovers these hidden aspects.