niche_japan2025 | Page 99

Why Is Switzerland Written as “瑞西”? A Guide to the Origins of Kanji Naming in Japanese

The Japanese name for Switzerland, "瑞西", is more than just an old-fashioned expression. It reflects a deep cultural interpretation rooted in symbolism, geography, and values. Understanding this term opens the door to the history of kanji-based naming conventions in East Asia.

2025.08.03

LOANWORD

Why Is The Legend of Zelda So Deeply Loved in Japan? Exploring the Series’ Appeal and What Resonates with Japanese Players

In Japan, The Legend of Zelda stands out not only as a classic game franchise, but also as a symbol of artistic expression and narrative depth. With its timeless themes, evolving gameplay, and unique harmony with Japanese cultural values, it remains one of the most respected and beloved titles among Japanese players of all ages.

2025.08.03

CONTENT

Final Fantasy’s Reputation in Japan — Unveiling the Legacy and Essence of the Series

In Japan, Final Fantasy has transcended generations, uniting fans through its stories, music, and evolving gameplay. It’s not merely a franchise; it’s a cultural symbol that continues to inspire, innovate, and bring people together. From 8-bit nostalgia to cutting-edge visuals, its legacy is unmatched.

2025.08.03

CONTENT

Why Is “Hong Kong” Written as 「香港」 in Japanese? Unraveling the Linguistic Mystery Through the Meaning of Kanji and the Sound of Cantonese

In Japanese, "Hong Kong" is written as 香港, not simply translated phonetically into katakana. This choice is a result of Japan’s tendency to blend phonetic structure with visual meaning. This article explores why kanji is used instead of katakana, and the linguistic and cultural connections behind that choice.

2025.08.03

LOANWORD

Why Are More Taiwanese Players Joining Japanese High School Baseball?Cross-Border Aspirations United by Koshien

Japanese high school baseball, especially Koshien, has become a powerful dream for many young Taiwanese athletes. As more players cross borders in pursuit of both sports and education, this trend reveals deeper connections between training, discipline, and international ambition.

2025.08.03

SPORT

Is Japanese High School Baseball the Most Popular Sport, Even Surpassing the Pros? Why It Continues to Be Celebrated as a National Tradition

While professional sports entertain, high school baseball in Japan inspires. It brings together families, communities, and an entire nation, driven not by money or fame, but by passion, discipline, and collective pride. In this article, we’ll explore how this uniquely Japanese tradition has become a national spectacle of emotion and identity.

2025.08.03

SPORT

Is Japanese High School Baseball Unique in the World? A Clear Explanation of Its Reasons and Background

High school baseball in Japan is not just a sport; it’s a national ritual that blends education, emotion, and tradition. While many countries see youth sports as part of physical education, Japan elevates it to a stage of drama, dedication, and media fascination. This article explores how Japan’s high school baseball stands out globally, and why it evokes such powerful cultural resonance.

2025.08.03

SPORT

Why is Taiwan written as “台湾” in Japanese? A Cultural and Linguistic Perspective

In Japanese, the use of the characters "台湾" for Taiwan is influenced by more than just phonetics or convenience. It reflects a blend of linguistic policy, cultural consideration, and historical familiarity. This article breaks down the true reasons why "台湾" has become the default expression in Japanese communication.

2025.08.03

LOANWORD

What Is J-pop? The Appeal and Characteristics of Japanese Pop Music for Beginners

J-pop isn't just about catchy tunes. It's a reflection of Japan's artistic identity, where music intersects with fashion, anime, and youth culture. From idols to indie creators, J-pop showcases an unmatched diversity. In this guide, we take you through the key elements that define J-pop and explain how it has become a powerful cultural export from Japan.

2025.08.02

TOPIC

Why Is “Portugal” Written as “葡萄牙”? The Hidden Background of Japanese Phonetic Kanji Transcription

Many may wonder how “葡萄牙” represents Portugal in Japanese. This kanji transcription, however, reflects the deep intersection between the Japanese language and foreign cultures. It is a clear example of how Japanese adapts foreign words into its own linguistic framework.

2025.08.01

LOANWORD