niche_japan2025 | Page 85

What Do Japanese Visitors Think of Oahu? Attractions and Tips Foreign Travelers Should Know

Japanese visitors often find Oahu both comforting and surprising. The island’s easy accessibility, the presence of Japanese-speaking staff, and familiar dining options provide a sense of safety. At the same time, many express admiration for the island’s natural beauty, cultural richness, and shopping opportunities. By exploring these perspectives, foreign travelers can gain insights into what makes Oahu appealing and how to avoid common pitfalls.

2025.08.26

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Why Is Demon Slayer Set in the Taisho Era? A Clear Explanation of the Fusion of Japanese and Western Influences

During the Taisho Era, Japan stood at the crossroads of tradition and modernity, balancing ancient customs with Western innovations. By placing its story in this era, Demon Slayer highlights both the visual contrast of clothing and architecture and the emotional tension of a society caught between change and continuity. This makes the setting more than just historical—it becomes an essential part of the narrative itself.

2025.08.25

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How Japanese Viewers Felt About Ponyo on the Cliff by the Sea: Nostalgia and a Sense of Comfort

Since its release in 2008, Ponyo on the Cliff by the Sea has fascinated both domestic and international audiences. Japanese viewers, however, saw the film through a different cultural lens. While many appreciated its nostalgic landscapes and warm hand-drawn visuals, others debated whether its simple storyline was too shallow for adults. Understanding these impressions helps explain why the film resonates differently across cultures.

2025.08.25

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Why Foreign Tourists Love Tonkatsu in Japan: An Easy Guide to Its History and How to Enjoy It

For many travelers, trying sushi or ramen is essential, but in recent years, tonkatsu has emerged as a surprising favorite among foreign tourists. Thick slices of pork, fried to perfection, combined with the tradition of a set meal, make it both a hearty dish and a unique way to experience Japanese culture.

2025.08.25

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How Japanese People View “Letters from Iwo Jima” Generational Perspectives on the Film’s Portrayal of War

Although produced in Hollywood, Letters from Iwo Jima is unique in that it unfolds primarily in Japanese with a Japanese cast. While portraying the tragedy of war, it also brings forth the universal desire to live through the soldiers’ letters. This struck a deep chord with many Japanese viewers.

2025.08.25

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Why Do Japanese Write Ghana as “加納”? An Easy Guide to the History of Japanese Writing

For foreigners, the kanji “加納” can be confusing. It is both a common Japanese surname and place name, but it was also used as an ateji for Ghana. While modern Japanese relies on katakana, old documents may still show Ghana written as 加納. This article helps clarify the difference.

2025.08.25

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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

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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

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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

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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

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