niche_japan2025

In Japanese, North Carolina is always written in katakana, while in Chinese it is rendered in kanji transliteration. This article highlights the difference in notations and examines how Japanese people perceive the state, especially through sports and nature.

Tehran, known in kanji as “丁蘭,” has long carried layered meanings in Japan. It is perceived not only as a political stage but also as a city of rich culture, tourism, and passionate sports. This complexity makes Tehran a place of fascination for many Japanese.

Unlike cities such as London or Paris that once had historical kanji notations, Luanda has none. Written simply in katakana, Luanda represents more than just a distant capital. To Japanese audiences, it is often associated with resources, inequality, and international sports, forming a complex and evolving image.

Hungary is often seen by Japanese people as a nation of rich traditions, world-class music, unique cuisine, and sporting excellence. The Kanji transcriptions “洪牙利” and “匈牙利” not only reflect a linguistic adaptation but also highlight the cultural connections between Japan and Central Europe. For Japanese audiences, Hungary represents elegance, warmth, and resilience, qualities that remain deeply memorable.

For many Japanese, Honduras feels like a distant land, both geographically and culturally. In Chinese, it is represented as “洪都拉斯,” a phonetic transcription, while in Japan the name is known in Katakana. Today, Honduras is seen through various lenses—its rich biodiversity, archaeological treasures, complex safety reputation, and its identity as a soccer-loving nation.