niche_japan2025 | Page 4

Why is Seattle written in kanji as “舎路” or “沙港”? How Do Japanese People Perceive Seattle?

In Japanese writings, Seattle has been expressed with kanji transcriptions like “舎路” (Sharo) and “沙港” (Shakō). These are not official names but cultural reflections of how Japanese people perceived Seattle—sometimes as a distant foreign land, other times as a vital Pacific port. Over time, Japanese views have expanded to include Seattle’s identity in sports, technology, and global culture.

2025.09.06

LOANWORD

Why is San Francisco Written as “桑港” in Kanji, and How Do Japanese People View the City?

The kanji name 桑港 for San Francisco was not chosen at random. It combines a phonetic transcription with a symbolic reference to the city’s identity as a global port. For Japanese people, 桑港 has represented immigration challenges, fascination with Western culture, and admiration for sports icons—all of which continue to shape how the city is remembered.

2025.09.06

LOANWORD

Why Do the Chinese Write Dhaka as “达卡”? A Look at the Difference from Japanese

Foreigners may wonder why Dhaka appears as 达卡 in Chinese while in Japanese it is simply ダッカ. The answer lies in the different writing systems and cultural traditions of the two languages. This article highlights the reasons for this difference and shows how to avoid misunderstandings when learning Japanese or Chinese.

2025.09.06

LOANWORD

What Image Do Japanese People Have of Indianapolis? A Multifaceted City Beyond Just Car Racing

For many Japanese, Indianapolis is synonymous with speed and excitement thanks to Takuma Sato’s victories at the Indy 500. Yet the city also leaves a strong impression as a place that balances affordability, education, and cultural richness. This multifaceted image makes Indianapolis an attractive city not only to visit but also to live in.

2025.09.06

TOPIC

Why Is South Sudan Represented in Kanji as “南蘇丹,” and How Do Japanese People Perceive the Country?

In 2011, South Sudan declared independence, marking its place as the world’s youngest nation. Interestingly, in Japanese it can be written not only in katakana but also as "南蘇丹". This article explores the origin of this kanji form and the way South Sudan is perceived in Japan, from conflict-related images to future possibilities.

2025.09.06

LOANWORD

Is Buenos Aires Written in Kanji as “阿根廷” or “布宜诺斯艾利斯”? What Are Japanese Perceptions of Buenos Aires?

While most Japanese now recognize Buenos Aires in katakana, there is a fascinating history behind its kanji notations. From 阿根廷 used in older Japanese texts to 布宜诺斯艾利斯 in Chinese, these characters reflect cultural adaptation across Asia. For Japanese people, Buenos Aires is not only a distant city but also an image of romance, art, and football fever.

2025.09.06

LOANWORD

The Charm of the Acropolis: An Easy-to-Understand Guide from a Unique Japanese Perspective

While many around the world admire the Acropolis as the birthplace of democracy, Japanese visitors often interpret its value differently. They are particularly sensitive to the changes of light, the passing of seasons, and the quiet beauty that surround the ruins.

2025.09.06

TOPIC

How Do Japanese People Perceive Ha Long Bay? Explaining Differences in Views of Nature and Aesthetic Sensibilities

For many, Ha Long Bay is a destination of stunning views and exciting cruises. Yet for Japanese travelers, it is much more than that. They find in the bay a quiet reflection of traditional aesthetics, similar to ink paintings and haiku poetry. By learning how Japanese people interpret the mist, silence, and natural harmony of Ha Long Bay, foreign visitors can unlock new ways of appreciating its mystique.

2025.09.06

TOPIC

How Is One Punch Man Rated in Japan? Exploring Its Humor and Social Satire

In Japan, One Punch Man is valued not only as entertainment but also as a thought-provoking work that challenges traditional anime tropes. The story of Saitama, a hero too strong to find joy in battle, reflects themes of loneliness, futility, and societal critique. Understanding the Japanese reception provides new insights into the anime’s global popularity.

2025.09.05

CONTENT

Yu-Gi-Oh! in Japan: The Reason It Evolved from a Children’s Game into an Adult Competition

In Japan, Yu-Gi-Oh! is seen as both a competitive sport and a collectible with real value. From nationwide tournaments to rare cards worth thousands of dollars, it represents a unique fusion of play, culture, and investment that attracts attention from around the world.

2025.09.05

CONTENT