LOANWORD

While Saint Petersburg is commonly written in katakana, the alternative form “聖ペテルブルク” has long appeared in dictionaries and historical texts in Japan. Today, Japanese perceptions go far beyond language: the city is admired for its artistic treasures, its role in world sports, its presence in literature, and its distinctive cuisine.

Addis Ababa, located at an altitude of over 2,300 meters, is the political and cultural heart of Ethiopia. This article reveals why it has no Kanji form and explores the appeal it holds for Japanese people.

Toronto is a multicultural hub and Canada’s largest city, often described as one of the most livable and culturally diverse places in the world. While the Kanji form “多倫多” is rarely used in Japan today, it reflects a historical effort to represent foreign names. This article highlights the unique image Japanese people associate with Toronto, from its sports and education to everyday life.

Shinrin-yoku is not just a walk, but a practice of aligning body and mind with the rhythm of nature. By pausing in the forest, listening to birdsongs and the sound of the wind, and taking deep breaths, stress can be reduced and immunity strengthened. This is why the practice has been rediscovered as highly valuable in today’s urbanized world.

Lesotho is often called the “Kingdom in the Sky” because its entire territory lies above 1,000 meters. In Japanese, it is always written in katakana as “レソト,” while in Chinese, the phonetic transcription “莱索托” is used. Beyond the writing systems, this article delves into how Japanese people view Lesotho, touching on its culture, geography, and sports.

In Japan, Minneapolis is recognized more by its cultural, academic, and natural features than by its name itself. With no official kanji form, it stands out as a city where Japanese impressions are deeply tied to its harsh winters, artistic atmosphere, and vibrant sports culture.

While Indiana is officially written in Katakana as “インディアナ州,” it stands out because no Kanji translation has ever been standardized. For Japanese people, the state is remembered less for sightseeing and more for its iconic Indy 500 race, rich farmland, and its deep connection to basketball.

For Japanese people, Massachusetts is often described with words such as “intellect,” “freedom,” and “passion.” Alongside the unique fact that there is no kanji representation, this article introduces the state’s diverse appeal through the lenses of education, history, sports, and nature.

The name “Botswana” has no official kanji representation, and katakana is its only standard form in Japanese. Japanese people perceive the country as one with rich nature, diamond resources, and stable politics, while also paying attention to its role in international cooperation and sports.

Serbia was once written as “塞爾維亜” in kanji, but today katakana is the standard. This article highlights not only the differences in notation but also the ways Japanese perceptions of Serbia are shaped through history, culture, and sports.