niche_japan2025 | Page 27

The Charm of Shogi: Japanese Wisdom Seen Through Its Differences from Chess

Although Shogi may seem complicated, it is a board game that can be fully enjoyed once you learn the basic movements and rules of the pieces. Unique systems such as the drop rule and promotion add tension and the possibility of comebacks. Even for first-time foreign learners, it offers a fascinating intellectual experience.

2025.10.02

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Futon Explained: Understanding Japan’s Traditional Bedding vs the Western Futon

In many countries, a “futon” means a sofa bed or convertible mattress, but in Japan it is a traditional bedding style laid directly on the floor. This difference is more than just design; it represents different living cultures and values. Understanding futons is the first step to appreciating Japanese life.

2025.10.02

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Kanji Origins and How They Are Used in Different Countries: Basic Knowledge for Foreign Learners

Kanji are a rare type of logographic script, still widely used in China and Japan. While they may seem difficult for foreign learners, with the right methods, kanji can be easier to understand and even enjoyable to study.

2025.10.02

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Where to Find the Best Ramen Shops in Okayama

Okayama Prefecture is often associated with its scenic spots and famous fruits, but it also has a thriving ramen culture. From long-established shops serving nostalgic soy-sauce ramen to modern eateries offering rich pork bone or refined chicken-based broths, the ramen scene here is full of variety. This article highlights some of the most popular ramen shops in Okayama, with detailed explanations of their unique flavors and atmospheres. Whether you’re a traveler passing through or a local looking for new spots, these ramen shops are worth a visit.

2025.10.02

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Demon Slayer Pilgrimage Spot – Gojo Municipal Folklore Museum (Nara), where the Taisho-era Cityscape Lives On

In the quiet town of Gojo, the Municipal Folklore Museum stands as a living testament to history. The former Yoshino Bank, constructed in the Meiji period, has been carefully preserved and now welcomes visitors who want to explore both regional history and the world of Demon Slayer. Its stone exterior, high ceilings, and large windows vividly echo the Taisho-era cityscapes depicted in the anime, making it a fascinating destination for travelers.

2025.10.02

CONTENTDemon Slayer

The Kanji Representation of Montenegro is “黒山” Explaining Its Origin and the Impressions Held by Japanese People

In Japanese, Montenegro is written as “黒山” (Black Mountain), a name that reflects both its rugged mountains and symbolic cultural depth. For Japanese audiences, the country evokes images of hidden beauty, resilience, and strength, linking language with perception.

2025.10.02

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Iceland in Kanji: ‘氷島’ or ‘氷州’? Why Japanese Travelers Find It Both Fascinating and Familiar

For Japanese people, Iceland is seen as both mystical and familiar. The kanji forms such as 氷島 and 氷州 highlight its icy landscape, while the phonetic transcription 愛斯蘭 shows historical ties in language. Beyond names, Japanese impressions of Iceland are shaped by auroras, hot springs, sagas, and soccer, making it a country admired for both mystery and resilience.

2025.10.02

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Can Amman Be Written in Kanji? How Do Japanese People View the Capital of Jordan

Amman, the capital of Jordan, is not only a base for world heritage sites and tourism but also a city that stands out for Japanese people because its name is impossible to write in kanji. From travel to sports, this article explains the multifaceted images that Japanese people hold of this city.

2025.10.01

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Kuwait City and Kanji: How Japanese People Perceive the Capital of Kuwait

When Japanese people think of Kuwait City, they often imagine oil, skyscrapers, desert landscapes, and Islamic traditions. Unlike some countries or regions, Kuwait City has no established kanji form, making its identity strongly tied to its katakana name. In addition to its economic significance, Kuwait City is also associated with sports enthusiasm, cultural traditions, and modern development.

2025.10.01

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Does Port Harcourt Have a Kanji Notation? The Image Japanese People Hold vs. the City’s Reality

Port Harcourt, located in southern Nigeria, is known for its vital role in oil and energy exports. Yet in Japanese, the city’s name is represented only in katakana with no kanji equivalent. Beyond this linguistic aspect, Japanese people often associate the city with industry, security concerns, and unfamiliarity as a tourist destination. This article dives into both the notation and the perceptions.

2025.10.01

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