LOANWORD

Kaizen is globally recognized as Japan’s unique culture of continuous small improvements. It is not about one-time reforms but about the persistent attitude that makes it powerful.

In Japanese, North Carolina is always written in katakana, while in Chinese it is rendered in kanji transliteration. This article highlights the difference in notations and examines how Japanese people perceive the state, especially through sports and nature.

Tehran, known in kanji as “丁蘭,” has long carried layered meanings in Japan. It is perceived not only as a political stage but also as a city of rich culture, tourism, and passionate sports. This complexity makes Tehran a place of fascination for many Japanese.

Unlike cities such as London or Paris that once had historical kanji notations, Luanda has none. Written simply in katakana, Luanda represents more than just a distant capital. To Japanese audiences, it is often associated with resources, inequality, and international sports, forming a complex and evolving image.

Hungary is often seen by Japanese people as a nation of rich traditions, world-class music, unique cuisine, and sporting excellence. The Kanji transcriptions “洪牙利” and “匈牙利” not only reflect a linguistic adaptation but also highlight the cultural connections between Japan and Central Europe. For Japanese audiences, Hungary represents elegance, warmth, and resilience, qualities that remain deeply memorable.

For many Japanese, Honduras feels like a distant land, both geographically and culturally. In Chinese, it is represented as “洪都拉斯,” a phonetic transcription, while in Japan the name is known in Katakana. Today, Honduras is seen through various lenses—its rich biodiversity, archaeological treasures, complex safety reputation, and its identity as a soccer-loving nation.

The Kanji “喬治亜” not only represents the state of Georgia phonetically but also serves as a symbol of cross-cultural interpretation. For Japanese people, Georgia embodies a blend of tradition and modernity—from its role in American history and Southern cuisine to its iconic sports teams and breathtaking landscapes. This multifaceted perception continues to shape how Georgia is viewed in Japan.

Known by the transcription 阿海阿, Ohio’s kanji representation is purely phonetic. To Japanese people, it is remembered as a destination for study and business, while also being associated with calm natural landscapes and a passionate sports culture.

To understand Japan’s heart and soul, one must understand geisha. They represent refinement, discipline, and artistry, cultivated over centuries. Unlike modern entertainers, geisha continue to preserve traditions while adapting to new times, making them living bridges between Japan’s past and present.