LOANWORD

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.

Discovered in Japan in the early 20th century, umami has become internationally recognized as a basic taste alongside the other four. In Japan, it serves as the foundation of dishes such as miso soup and dashi, and abroad it connects cultures through shared culinary experiences.

From family-packed lunches to ekiben showcasing regional flavors, bento reveals the diverse ways Japanese people connect daily life with cultural tradition. Whether enjoyed at school, in the workplace, or during long journeys, bento provides a lens into Japan’s unique relationship with food and community.

The Chinese notation “徳克薩斯州” carries an exotic and distinctive nuance for Japanese readers, while the katakana version “テキサス州” feels more familiar and everyday. Through these contrasts, Japanese people perceive Texas with an image that combines freedom and strength, forming a unique cultural impression.

The use of the kanji “加州” to represent California highlights not only a historical method of abbreviation but also a cultural bridge between Japan and the United States. To Japanese people, California embodies innovation, opportunity, and global influence, shaping how the state is admired and understood across the Pacific.

Japanese sake has evolved from a sacred offering in rituals to a global culinary treasure. Its diversity in flavor, connection to regional identity, and versatility with food pairings make it a unique cultural ambassador that fascinates travelers and food lovers worldwide.

Among Japan’s many traditional dishes, tempura stands out for its delicate balance of flavor, texture, and artistry. With its origins in the 16th century and evolution into a cultural icon, tempura is not only delicious but also a reflection of Japanese aesthetics and hospitality.

In Japan, Rwanda is always written in Katakana, with no Kanji equivalent in official or common use. Beyond the script, Japanese perceptions of Rwanda are shaped by its history of conflict, its stunning natural environment, and its emerging role as a model of African development.

While Guinea is commonly written in the Latin alphabet today, the country was historically transcribed in kanji as "幾内亜" or "銀名". These names symbolize Japan’s past attempts to adapt foreign geography into local writing. At the same time, Japanese impressions of Guinea remain complex and layered, reflecting both positive associations with culture and sports and negative concerns tied to poverty and instability.

In Japan, foreign city names are usually written in katakana rather than kanji. Bengaluru is no exception. Known as India’s fastest-growing tech hub, the city evokes a mix of business opportunities, cultural curiosity, and urban challenges for Japanese people.