niche_japan2025 | Page 8

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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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Why is Istanbul Written in Kanji as “斯当歩児”? Japanese Perceptions of Istanbul

For the Japanese, Istanbul has long been seen as a gateway between East and West. Once called “斯当歩児” in kanji transcription, the city carries with it layers of historical memory, cultural fascination, and sporting passion. Today, Japanese perceptions of Istanbul go beyond textbooks, extending to tourism, cuisine, and the emotional intensity of football.

2025.09.05

LOANWORD

San Jose as Saint Joseph: The Cultural Meaning of Its Japanese Kanji Notation “聖ホセ”

In Japanese, the city of San Jose is sometimes written as “聖ホセ,” a blend of Kanji and Katakana. This style reflects not only the Spanish origin of “San José” but also the Japanese tendency to preserve both sound and meaning in place names. By learning this, we gain a deeper understanding of the city’s religious background and linguistic adaptation.

2025.09.05

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Why Is San Diego Written in Kanji as “聖何塞” or “三提”? Explaining the History and Meaning of Japanese Representations

Most foreign place names in Japanese are expressed in katakana, but historical documents show San Diego in kanji such as “聖何塞” (Seikakō) and “三提” (Santei). These forms are fascinating examples of how Japan once relied on kanji-based transcriptions influenced by Chinese and phonetic conventions. Understanding them offers insight into Japanese linguistic history.

2025.09.05

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