niche_japan2025 | Page 27

What is Taido? A Martial Art that Combines the Beauty of Performance with the Growth of Body and Mind

Unlike traditional martial arts that emphasize competition, Taido focuses on personal growth and harmony of body and spirit. It integrates circular and spiral movements that make techniques not only effective but also visually captivating. Whether you are a beginner or someone interested in Japanese culture, learning Taido provides an opportunity to experience both physical training and cultural enrichment.

2025.08.27

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What Makes Karate Fascinating? A Clear Guide to Its History, Techniques, and Etiquette

Karate, originating in Okinawa, combines powerful techniques with deep respect for etiquette. Unlike sports that focus only on physical performance, karate teaches students to balance body, mind, and spirit. This introduction explains its unique value and why it appeals to practitioners around the world.

2025.08.27

SPORT

What Are the Impressions of Japanese Visitors to Stonehenge, Avebury and Associated Sites? Exploring Their Fascination and Surprises

For Japanese travelers, Stonehenge and Avebury represent a profound journey into history and spirit. The megaliths are often seen as places of prayer and harmony with the cosmos, evoking comparisons with Japan’s own shrines and ancient traditions.

2025.08.26

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What Do Japanese Fans Think of Solo Leveling? An Easy-to-Understand Guide for Overseas Fans

With its theme of a hero’s rise from the weakest to the strongest, Solo Leveling resonates deeply with Japanese audiences. This article highlights which elements are praised, which spark debate, and explains them in a way that is easy for foreign readers to understand.

2025.08.26

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Japanese Views on X-MEN: Sharing Empathy for Discrimination and Diversity with Global Audiences

To Japanese audiences, X-MEN is more than entertainment. It symbolizes the struggles of being different in a society that values uniformity. The mutants’ fight against prejudice resonates deeply, offering a message of acceptance, resilience, and solidarity. This makes X-MEN a powerful cultural touchpoint in Japan.

2025.08.26

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What Are Japanese Impressions of “Only Yesterday”? A Clear Explanation of the Nostalgia and Empathy Inspired by This Masterpiece

This film does not focus on dramatic events but carefully portrays the small moments of everyday life. Japanese viewers are moved by the quietness and realism, often watching while overlaying the story with their own memories.

2025.08.26

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The Allure of Papahānaumokuākea: How Japanese People Describe Its Natural and Cultural Significance

In 2010, Papahānaumokuākea was recognized as a UNESCO World Mixed Heritage Site for its exceptional blend of natural and cultural value. For many Japanese visitors, this vast ocean sanctuary represents more than a tourist destination. It is seen as a place of learning, reverence, and shared human heritage, offering insights that resonate across cultures.

2025.08.26

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What Are the Impressions of Japanese Visitors to the Hidden Christian Sites in Nagasaki and Amakusa?The History and Cultural Appeal to Share with the World

In the mountains, fishing villages, and hidden churches of Nagasaki and Amakusa, Japanese people encounter traces of a faith that survived against all odds. To them, the heritage is not simply about religion but about the strength of human spirit and the preciousness of freedom.

2025.08.26

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Why Is Chicago Written in Kanji as “市俄古”? A Japanese Writing Guide for Foreign Readers

Foreign readers may be surprised to learn that Chicago was once written in Japan not only as シカゴ but also as 市俄古, using kanji. This practice, called ateji, shows how Japan historically blended Western culture into its own writing system. By looking at this unique example, we can explore how Japanese adapted to foreign influences.

2025.08.26

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Why is Peru Written as “秘露” in Japanese Kanji? An Explanation of Ateji Culture for Foreign Readers

The term “秘露” was invented to represent the name Peru in Japanese. Its characters have no direct meaning related to the country but reflect a historical practice from the Meiji era. This article explains the background of this form, comparing it with other country name adaptations.

2025.08.26

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