LOANWORD

Although the name “Benin” is rarely heard in Japan, in Chinese it is expressed as “贝宁.” Known for its history of the slave trade and as the birthplace of Vodun, Benin is building stronger ties with Japan through unique culture, international cooperation, and sports.

When Japanese people see the term “布隆迪,” few realize it refers to Burundi. In Japanese, there is no tradition of writing country names in kanji, so the katakana form “ブルンジ” is the only standard usage. This article explores how Japanese people perceive Burundi and how sports have shaped awareness of the nation.

Haiku captures Japan’s seasons and nature in just a few words. It is one of the shortest poetic forms in the world, yet it holds infinite depth. Known internationally as “Haiku,” it is now enjoyed across cultures. This article explains its appeal and significance in a way that is easy for foreign readers to understand.

In Japan, bonsai is more than a decorative plant. It is a reflection of philosophy, tradition, and the passage of time. Each carefully shaped tree captures the essence of landscapes in miniature, offering both aesthetic delight and spiritual depth. Around the world, bonsai has become a respected art form and a source of peace.

When Japanese people encounter the name “Raleigh,” they often connect it with study abroad, research, and IT industries. Yet Raleigh is not only an academic city but also a place of sports passion, home to the Carolina Hurricanes and major college athletics. This combination of knowledge and energy shapes a unique Japanese perception of Raleigh.

Though Costa Rica is usually written in katakana in Japanese, its meaning as a “rich coast” has inspired some to translate it as “豊海岸.” For many Japanese, the country symbolizes biodiversity, environmental leadership, and a peaceful national identity, making it a nation of admiration and curiosity.

While Fiji is usually written in Katakana in Japanese, the Kanji “斐濟” is also used, particularly in Chinese-speaking regions. Beyond its name, Fiji evokes in Japanese minds images of a warm culture, breathtaking nature, and world-class rugby. This article takes a closer look at why Fiji leaves such a strong impression on Japanese people.

Though there is no official Kanji name for Malta, historical texts once represented the country with the characters “里荅烏文.” This rare transcription sparks curiosity among those interested in cultural history. For modern Japanese, Malta is viewed as a land of sunlit coasts, safe travel, and international exchange, making it both a study-abroad hub and a dreamlike tourist destination.

In Japan, “Pennsylvania” is written in katakana because it does not originate from kanji-based cultures. From symbols of American independence to sports enthusiasm, the state inspires diverse images among Japanese people.

Florida is widely known as a tropical paradise, home to Disney World and Major League Baseball spring training. However, its kanji representation, “弗羅里達,” is rarely recognized today. This article takes a closer look at this unique writing style while exploring the diverse images Japanese people hold of Florida.