niche_japan2025 | Page 29

Explaining Clearly Why Mozambique Is Written as “莫三鼻給” in Japanese Kanji

Japanese writing sometimes uses kanji purely for their sounds rather than meanings. The country Mozambique, once written as “莫三鼻給,” is a striking example. For foreigners, this may look strange, but it reveals an important aspect of Japanese culture: the flexibility of the writing system to adapt foreign words.

2025.08.25

LOANWORD

Japanese Perspectives on HUNTER×HUNTER: Exploring Both Its Strengths and Criticisms

Japanese readers view HUNTER×HUNTER as a philosophical work that transcends the boundaries of typical shonen manga. Its portrayal of blurred morality and its intellectual combat system keep many deeply engaged.

2025.08.25

CONTENT

The History of Pride and Hardship: Japanese Views on the Sado Island Gold Mines

Recognized as a World Cultural Heritage Site in 2024, the Sado Gold Mines are seen by Japanese people with mixed feelings: pride in their role as a pillar of the nation’s economy and technology, and solemn respect for the workers who faced dangerous and exhausting labor.

2025.08.25

TOPIC

Why Do Japanese Visitors Feel Deeply Moved at the Empire State Building? The Charm of Views That Change Between Day and Night

Japanese tourists often say that visiting the Empire State Building feels like “stepping into the New York they had always imagined.” Whether it’s the iconic night view, the romantic image from famous films, or the seasonal atmosphere from the observation deck, the building offers Japanese visitors a mix of nostalgia, excitement, and discovery.

2025.08.25

TOPIC

Where does the soil that defeated players take home from Japan’s National High School Baseball Championship (Koshien) come from? A special blend preserved by Hanshin Landscaping

At Koshien Stadium, losing teams do not just leave in disappointment. Instead, they carry home the infield soil, a practice that has become one of Japan’s most touching traditions. This soil, carefully managed by Hanshin Landscaping, is a blend of Kagoshima’s fertile black earth and Kyoto’s hill sand, embodying both the physical strength of the ground and the emotional strength of its players.

2025.08.25

SPORT

A Clear Look at How Japanese People Perceived the Appeal and Value of Howl’s Moving Castle

When Japanese audiences first encountered Howl’s Moving Castle, they were struck by its artistic brilliance and profound themes of aging, love, and peace. At the same time, many noted that the narrative was challenging to follow, sparking widespread discussion and interpretation.

2025.08.24

CONTENT

How Do Japanese People Evaluate Princess Mononoke? Interpreting Through Views of Nature and Society

When Princess Mononoke premiered, it became a national phenomenon in Japan, drawing over 16 million viewers. Beyond its visual and musical brilliance, the film sparked serious debates about humanity’s relationship with nature. This article examines why Japanese audiences continue to treasure the film more than two decades later.

2025.08.24

CONTENT

Israel in Kanji is 「以色列」? A Japanese Language Trivia Every Foreigner Should Know

For learners of Japanese, seeing Israel written as 「以色列」 may look confusing. However, this notation is a historical phonetic borrowing. Kanji here do not convey meaning, but approximate the sound of the word. This shows how Japanese integrated foreign names through Chinese transcription.

2025.08.24

LOANWORD

How Do Japanese People Evaluate the Film “Harbin”? 3 Key Points Foreigners Should Understand

When “Harbin” premiered in Japan in 2025, it did more than entertain—it provoked debate. Some praised its cinematic quality and educational value, seeing it as a chance to understand Korea’s independence movement. Others, however, criticized it as glorifying assassination and felt it disrespected Japan’s historical figures. The film thus became not just art, but a political and cultural flashpoint.

2025.08.24

CONTENT

A Clear Guide to the Surprises and Charms Japanese Visitors Experience in Times Square

When Japanese visitors step into Times Square, they are struck by a mix of wonder and unease. The sight of glowing billboards and the sound of music and voices from every direction create an unforgettable atmosphere. However, the overwhelming crowds and the risk of scams make many Japanese feel both thrilled and cautious at the same time.

2025.08.24

TOPIC