LOANWORD

The use of “加蓬” as the kanji representation of Gabon is not widely known in Japan, where the katakana form “Gabon” dominates. Yet, this kanji form reveals more than just a linguistic adaptation—it connects Gabon to historical documentation, international relations, and cultural recognition. Beyond the name, Japanese people often associate Gabon with lush rainforests, exotic wildlife, and star athletes like Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.

Montreal is known as a city where arts and nature harmonize, and in Japan it is often admired as a "European-style city in North America." Alongside this modern image, the historical kanji form "門土里留" adds an intriguing cultural layer.

The name Damascus resonates strongly in Japan, not only as the ancient city of Syria but also as a symbol of luxury and technical mastery in blades and outdoor gear. More recently, it has appeared in sports and international events, broadening its image. Understanding these perceptions highlights why Damascus is more than just a place name in Japanese culture.

Although Naples is generally written in katakana in modern Japanese, historical records show that it was once expressed using kanji approximations like “拿破里.” Beyond its written form, Naples carries a rich set of associations in Japan—from music and pizza to football and passion. Understanding these layers reveals why Naples continues to fascinate Japanese people.

The city of Milan has long fascinated Japan, appearing in early texts as “未蘭” or “米蘭.” While these kanji spellings are now rare, they remind us of cultural exchange in the past. Today, Japanese impressions of Milan extend far beyond language: it is seen as the global capital of fashion, a center of art and history, and a city of passion through football.

In Japan, Mozambique is commonly represented in katakana rather than kanji. While the historical form “莫桑比克” exists, it is rarely recognized today. Japanese impressions of Mozambique are shaped by multiple perspectives, including its exotic landscapes, athletic achievements, and its image as a country in need of international cooperation and support.

While Guinea-Bissau may appear distant and unfamiliar to most Japanese, it carries a fascinating history, including an old kanji representation rarely seen today. Beyond perceptions of instability, the country is rich in natural beauty, cultural heritage, and sporting potential, offering far more than the common stereotypes suggest.

Unlike other world regions with historical Kanji notations, South Carolina has always been represented in Katakana in Japanese. This article highlights not only the absence of Kanji but also the rich cultural and social elements—such as Civil War history, Myrtle Beach, and college sports—that define how Japanese perceive the state.

For Japanese people, Minnesota is strongly associated with nature, education, and sports culture. From the 1,000 lakes to the University of Minnesota and passionate ice hockey fans, the state offers a unique blend of natural beauty and human achievement. This article provides a closer look at these images and what they mean to Japanese visitors and students.

To Japanese people, Barcelona represents much more than a tourist destination. It is a city of passion, creativity, and identity, symbolized in Kanji as “巴塞洛納.” From world-famous soccer and Gaudí’s architecture to Mediterranean cuisine, this article examines why Barcelona remains an enduring source of admiration in Japan.