While I've read several reports of Japan's football victory over the Chinese team at the East Asia Championship, I have yet to read any reports detailing the nationalistic reactions of Chinese fans disappointed by their teams loss--except on Japanese television (which I'm watching right now).
In addition to chanting anti-Japanese slogans, pelting Japanese players with plastic bottles and debris, and practically mobbing the Japanese team bus, many Chinese fans also burnt Japanese flags outside the stadium (they must sell them by the box in China for just such occasions).
I've blogged about the reaction of Chinese sports fans to victories by Japanese sports teams before, but I figured public displays of anti-Japan sentiment would have been mostly stamped out in time for the Beijing Olympics, when China presents a very whitewashed face to the world.
But perhaps not.
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2.20.2008
Japanese food safety: pesticide detected in mackerel processed in China
As people in the United States recoil at the images of sick and possibly BSE infected cows being abused and mistreated before being forklifted into the slaughterhouse, people in Japan are (once again) responding to news that more food imported from China contains poisonous pesticide residue.
Last week it was imported frozen gyoza (Japanese style pork dumplings) and this week it is frozen mackerel landed in Denmark but processed in and imported from China. The amount of pesticide is very low and probably poses no real health risk, but it still surpasses Japanese government standards.
Japanese take food safety very seriously, and even though there have been countless domestic food safety concerns (and in the past, widespread poisonings), this latest incident is sure to have more Japanese asking questions about the food they eat--which is a good thing.
But whether the threat is real or just manufactured by a Japanese government that hands massive subsidies to Japanese farmers and needs to encourage domestic food production and consumption, we'll probably never know.
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Last week it was imported frozen gyoza (Japanese style pork dumplings) and this week it is frozen mackerel landed in Denmark but processed in and imported from China. The amount of pesticide is very low and probably poses no real health risk, but it still surpasses Japanese government standards.
Japanese take food safety very seriously, and even though there have been countless domestic food safety concerns (and in the past, widespread poisonings), this latest incident is sure to have more Japanese asking questions about the food they eat--which is a good thing.
But whether the threat is real or just manufactured by a Japanese government that hands massive subsidies to Japanese farmers and needs to encourage domestic food production and consumption, we'll probably never know.
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2.18.2008
Japanese Streets: People in Motion
This photos from my travels on Japanese Streets was taken from the roof of a capsule hotel in Tokyo. Early one morning, after a restless sleep in a tiny fibreglass compartment, I wandered up the stairs with my camera and found the door to the roof unlocked.I walked out and basked in the early morning Tokyo sunshine, looked across the street, and saw from a silent vantage point a surge of Japanese motion.
It's a scene repeated at Japanese trains and subway stationsmany times a second every day, but from my peaceful perch, it was a little surreal and somewhat sublime.
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2.16.2008
Japanese Streets (the magazine)
As you may have seen elsewhere on this site, I occasionally post photos of "Japanese streets", pictures from my travels around Japan. I just came across a magazine and website called Japanese Streets, which is a little different than my Japanese street photos. Japanese Streets magazine is all about street culture and fashion in Japan, where my posts and photos are all about...streets. Maybe that's why they get all the traffic...
Visit Japanese Streets website.
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Visit Japanese Streets website.
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2.15.2008
Japanese & Asians: not all the same
Stating that Japanese and other Asians are not all "the same" is stating the obvious. But over the years, I've lost count of how many times people have assumed my wife (Japanese) is Chinese simply because she's Asian. Most of the time it's an ignorant assumption, other times it's ignorant and racist, but it's always annoying (and just a little entertaining).
But I have a new theory as to why so many Westerners (or maybe I should say North Americans?) often assume most Asians, Japanese among them, are Chinese. And my theory is this: in most Western countries, people from China, Korea, and Taiwan often open, own, and operate Japanese restaurants. To the average Westerner, the mixing of Japanese cuisine with Chinese staff and service might confuse people about which is which and who is who.
OK, this theory is a stretch and there are probably many better explanations (such as an utter lack of knowledge about Asia in general). But when I went for take-out sushi at a Chinese Japanese restaurant this evening, I watched people come and go and wondered how many of them realized their sushi was actually Chinese.
Still just as delicious of course, but like Japanese and Chinese people, clearly not the same.
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But I have a new theory as to why so many Westerners (or maybe I should say North Americans?) often assume most Asians, Japanese among them, are Chinese. And my theory is this: in most Western countries, people from China, Korea, and Taiwan often open, own, and operate Japanese restaurants. To the average Westerner, the mixing of Japanese cuisine with Chinese staff and service might confuse people about which is which and who is who.
OK, this theory is a stretch and there are probably many better explanations (such as an utter lack of knowledge about Asia in general). But when I went for take-out sushi at a Chinese Japanese restaurant this evening, I watched people come and go and wondered how many of them realized their sushi was actually Chinese.
Still just as delicious of course, but like Japanese and Chinese people, clearly not the same.
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Learning Japanese, turning Japanese
About 8 years ago, bored and wandering the streets of Vancouver, I went to a Japanese restaurant for lunch. On the way out, I noticed a "Free Japanese Lesson" poster on the notice board by the door. At the time I was doing a lot of freelance work and had some spare time to fill, so I wrote down the number and decided to give it a try.
That simple decision altered my life in many ways (as simple decisions often do) and eventually lead me to Japan. And while my life has changed in so many ways related to that decision to learn Japanese, I still have not mastered the Japanese language.
I've decided to learn Japanese properly--not just on my own or with language exchange partners, but by enrolling in a Japanese program at a local University. But after three classes, I discovered that while they teach grammar and speaking, their recommended method for learning to read and write Kanji, Hiragana, and Katakana is to use the Internet.
With that in mind, I'm working on compiling a list of free online Japanese language resources for those who, like me, want to learn to read and write Japanese without paying too much for it. Once I find the best online resources, I'll post regular progress reports as I try to formalize my very casual understanding of the Japanese language.
In the mean time, if you know of any good online Japanese language resources, drop me a line...
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That simple decision altered my life in many ways (as simple decisions often do) and eventually lead me to Japan. And while my life has changed in so many ways related to that decision to learn Japanese, I still have not mastered the Japanese language.
I've decided to learn Japanese properly--not just on my own or with language exchange partners, but by enrolling in a Japanese program at a local University. But after three classes, I discovered that while they teach grammar and speaking, their recommended method for learning to read and write Kanji, Hiragana, and Katakana is to use the Internet.
With that in mind, I'm working on compiling a list of free online Japanese language resources for those who, like me, want to learn to read and write Japanese without paying too much for it. Once I find the best online resources, I'll post regular progress reports as I try to formalize my very casual understanding of the Japanese language.
In the mean time, if you know of any good online Japanese language resources, drop me a line...
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2.14.2008
Japan considers lowering age of adulthood
In Japan the debate on lowering the age of majority, or adulthood, from the current 20 years to 18 years has been going on for some time now. Proponents argue it will enable more Japanese young people to take part upcoming referendums on changes to the Japanese constitution, but those against the change--such as the Japanese Temperance Union--claim it will lead to increased binge drinking among younger Japanese.
From what I've seen, artificially extending childhood beyond biological maturity has little positive effect on any society. Just look at the United States, where anyone under 21 it still technically a child, yet binge drinking is almost epidemic among 15-21 year olds--if you believe the medical reports on the subject.
From what I've seen in Japan, the average Japanese 18 year old is mature enough to vote in a referendum on the future of the Japanese constitution. They may not be mature enough to drink responsibly all the time, but then how many in Japan--or elsewhere--really are?
It's been proved many times: laws don't stop people from drinking any more than they stop people from speeding, smoking, stealing, or embezzling. But they do stop people from voting.
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From what I've seen, artificially extending childhood beyond biological maturity has little positive effect on any society. Just look at the United States, where anyone under 21 it still technically a child, yet binge drinking is almost epidemic among 15-21 year olds--if you believe the medical reports on the subject.
From what I've seen in Japan, the average Japanese 18 year old is mature enough to vote in a referendum on the future of the Japanese constitution. They may not be mature enough to drink responsibly all the time, but then how many in Japan--or elsewhere--really are?
It's been proved many times: laws don't stop people from drinking any more than they stop people from speeding, smoking, stealing, or embezzling. But they do stop people from voting.
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2.13.2008
Japan Government lodges protest
Just a quick update on the latest alleged rape case in Okinawa: the Japanese government has officially lodged a protest with the United States over this incident. It may seem strange that a crime such as this could provoke an international "incident", but this is the nature of U.S., Japan, and Okinawan relations: one spark sets everything ablaze.
From Japan Today: Gov't officially protests to U.S. over alleged rape in Okinawa
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From Japan Today: Gov't officially protests to U.S. over alleged rape in Okinawa
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Okinawa a recipe for trouble
The recent story of a Japanese schoolgirl in Okinawa allegedly raped by a 38 year old U.S. serviceman has been in the news for a few days now, and I was purposefully trying not to write about it. In Okinawa, crimes involving Americans tend to be over-reported, blown out of proportion, sensationalized, exaggerated.
But after reading a few reports about this incident, I remembered a National Geographic article from the early 1990's which discussed tensions between locals and U.S. forces in Okinawa. A crucible it's not, but by it's very nature Okinawa is volatile situation waiting to happen.
Warmed by sunshine and tropical oceanic breezes, and renowned for nightlife and a relaxed, easy going lifestyle, Okinawa lends itself to certain leisurely pursuits: drinking and "casual" encounters among them. And on top of this, many local women find U.S. servicemen attractive targets--for whatever reason.
Yet many Okinawans--some would say most--want U.S. forces out for good. While bases add much to local economies, many say they're more trouble than they're worth. Crime rates near U.S. bases are higher, and in the past at least, U.S. servicemen acted with impunity off base--which created a great deal of resentment among local Okinawans.
For geopolitical reasons, it's unlikely U.S. forces will leave Okinawa anytime soon and locals will have to continue living with the giant in their front yard. But any environment that mixes servicemen, alcohol, and a tropical climate with and an abundance of curious and affectionate young women is a recipe for trouble. But that doesn't mean it needs to be a recipe for crime without punishment--as it has been in the past.
Link to story on Japan Today
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But after reading a few reports about this incident, I remembered a National Geographic article from the early 1990's which discussed tensions between locals and U.S. forces in Okinawa. A crucible it's not, but by it's very nature Okinawa is volatile situation waiting to happen.
Warmed by sunshine and tropical oceanic breezes, and renowned for nightlife and a relaxed, easy going lifestyle, Okinawa lends itself to certain leisurely pursuits: drinking and "casual" encounters among them. And on top of this, many local women find U.S. servicemen attractive targets--for whatever reason.
Yet many Okinawans--some would say most--want U.S. forces out for good. While bases add much to local economies, many say they're more trouble than they're worth. Crime rates near U.S. bases are higher, and in the past at least, U.S. servicemen acted with impunity off base--which created a great deal of resentment among local Okinawans.
For geopolitical reasons, it's unlikely U.S. forces will leave Okinawa anytime soon and locals will have to continue living with the giant in their front yard. But any environment that mixes servicemen, alcohol, and a tropical climate with and an abundance of curious and affectionate young women is a recipe for trouble. But that doesn't mean it needs to be a recipe for crime without punishment--as it has been in the past.
Link to story on Japan Today
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2.12.2008
Books on Japan
Books on Japan
When it comes to Japan, the Japanese, and their place in Asia and the world, what we can't learn from travel we can fortunately learn from books. And there are a lot of fantastic, informative, entertaining, and educational books on Japan available today--just a few clicks away.
Here is a selection of individually chosen books on Japan that can help you learn more about this fascinating country.
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When it comes to Japan, the Japanese, and their place in Asia and the world, what we can't learn from travel we can fortunately learn from books. And there are a lot of fantastic, informative, entertaining, and educational books on Japan available today--just a few clicks away.
Here is a selection of individually chosen books on Japan that can help you learn more about this fascinating country.
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Japan Travel
Japan Travel
Travel is one of the only ways to really get to know a country, a people, and even yourself (books help too of course). Years ago I packed a backpack, bought a open plane ticket and JR rail pass, and set off for a two month solo trek around Japan. It was one of the best experiences of my life, and is one of the reasons I still write about Japan today.
In the coming months, I'll be putting together a series of articles (posts) on Japan travel: what to know, what to see, what to do, and what to avoid. I know there's a plethora of great Japan travel books and websites out there, but there's also a lot of real-world information they tend to overlook.
So the Japan travel information you get on HiltonJapan.com you hopefully won't see anywhere else. And if you don't find it useful, you might find it interesting at least. Stay tuned...
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Travel is one of the only ways to really get to know a country, a people, and even yourself (books help too of course). Years ago I packed a backpack, bought a open plane ticket and JR rail pass, and set off for a two month solo trek around Japan. It was one of the best experiences of my life, and is one of the reasons I still write about Japan today.
In the coming months, I'll be putting together a series of articles (posts) on Japan travel: what to know, what to see, what to do, and what to avoid. I know there's a plethora of great Japan travel books and websites out there, but there's also a lot of real-world information they tend to overlook.
So the Japan travel information you get on HiltonJapan.com you hopefully won't see anywhere else. And if you don't find it useful, you might find it interesting at least. Stay tuned...
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Videos on Japan
Videos on Japan
A collection of randomly assembled links to videos on Japan, about Japan, or created by Japanese artists.
Here's the latest:
I promise, this is the last Japanese Ronald McDonald video I'm going to post for at least...three months. In this one, Japanese Ronald McDonald visits two competing Japanese fast food chains, MOS Burger and Lotteria, with disastrous results. As usual, I'm not sure exactly what the point is, but from watching the video I think Japanese Ronald is looking for an easy way out because he sure doesn't look very happy.
Also, I should point out that while Lotteria food is bad enough to make 7-Eleven microwavable cheese burgers seem almost palatable, MOS Burger actually brands itself as a gourmet burger chain, and their fare is really quite good (for a burger chain). Still, give me Chicken Pecker any day.
Previous Videos on Japan:
Dancing man wearing a horse mask cooks wild mushrooms
Ronald McDonald insanity
More Videos on Japan coming soon...
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A collection of randomly assembled links to videos on Japan, about Japan, or created by Japanese artists.
Here's the latest:
I promise, this is the last Japanese Ronald McDonald video I'm going to post for at least...three months. In this one, Japanese Ronald McDonald visits two competing Japanese fast food chains, MOS Burger and Lotteria, with disastrous results. As usual, I'm not sure exactly what the point is, but from watching the video I think Japanese Ronald is looking for an easy way out because he sure doesn't look very happy.
Also, I should point out that while Lotteria food is bad enough to make 7-Eleven microwavable cheese burgers seem almost palatable, MOS Burger actually brands itself as a gourmet burger chain, and their fare is really quite good (for a burger chain). Still, give me Chicken Pecker any day.
Previous Videos on Japan:
Dancing man wearing a horse mask cooks wild mushrooms
Ronald McDonald insanity
More Videos on Japan coming soon...
Subscribe (RSS) to HiltonJapan.com
Another Japanese Ronald McDonald Video
I promise, this is the last Japanese Ronald McDonald video I'm going to post for at least...three months. In this one, Japanese Ronald McDonald visits two competing Japanese fast food chains, MOS Burger and Lotteria, with disastrous results. As usual, I'm not sure exactly what the point is, but from watching the video I think Japanese Ronald is looking for an easy way out because he sure doesn't look very happy.
Also, I should point out that while Lotteria food is bad enough to make 7-Eleven microwavable cheese burgers seem almost palatable, MOS Burger actually brands itself as a gourmet burger chain, and their fare is really quite good (for a burger chain). Still, give me Chicken Pecker any day.
Also, I should point out that while Lotteria food is bad enough to make 7-Eleven microwavable cheese burgers seem almost palatable, MOS Burger actually brands itself as a gourmet burger chain, and their fare is really quite good (for a burger chain). Still, give me Chicken Pecker any day.
2.09.2008
Japanese video edits: Insane Ronald-san
Japanese video edits: Insane Ronald-san
Mass kudos to the artist who edited this series of clips of the Japanese Ronald McDonald (known as Donald, or Ronaldo-san in Japan). This is wild beyond wild, and captures (for me at least) the essence of all that is McDonald's hyper-marketing machinations. If they could, I have no doubt they would produce commercials like this, play 'em in endless loops in elementary schools around the world at full volume, and transform us all. Or maybe they already did...
Anyway, watch and be truly blown away by a masterful editing, blending, and remixing job--and truly horrified and scarred for life by Mr. McDonald. And if you can watch this more than once, you are a stronger person than I. Wow.
Mass kudos to the artist who edited this series of clips of the Japanese Ronald McDonald (known as Donald, or Ronaldo-san in Japan). This is wild beyond wild, and captures (for me at least) the essence of all that is McDonald's hyper-marketing machinations. If they could, I have no doubt they would produce commercials like this, play 'em in endless loops in elementary schools around the world at full volume, and transform us all. Or maybe they already did...
Anyway, watch and be truly blown away by a masterful editing, blending, and remixing job--and truly horrified and scarred for life by Mr. McDonald. And if you can watch this more than once, you are a stronger person than I. Wow.
Japanese performance art: Dancing man cooks wild mushrooms
When I came across this Japanese video on YouTube, I wasn't sure if I should post it to my blog or quickly click back on my browser. But after watching it in it's entirety I must admit, it's strangely compelling and builds anticipation almost like a horror film or really bad acid trip. And it turns out the dancing man in the horse mask (oh yes, it's that good) eating wild mushrooms is a Japanese performance artist.
Enjoy but be warned: you may find this art a little disturbing:
And here's a link to the artists homepage
Better still, here's a link to where you can buy the exact same horse head mask.
Enjoy but be warned: you may find this art a little disturbing:
And here's a link to the artists homepage
Better still, here's a link to where you can buy the exact same horse head mask.
2.08.2008
Buying real estate in Japan
When I search Japanese real estate websites, I'm often tempted to buy a condo or mansion in Japan. What attracts me the most are the prices. For example, a 2 bedroom condo that would cost $400,000 in, say, Vancouver BC, can sell for as little as $60,000 in many Japan cities.
But the real estate market in Japan is somewhat unique: prices for older units really only go down. So while a $400,000 condo in Vancouver will probably be worth $420,000 next year (if current trends continue) that $60,000 Sapporo mansion could very well be worth $50,000 a year later.
Because when it comes to purchases (unlike traditions) Japanese generally place more value on something that is brand new. So a new condo in a not-so-nice area can be worth far more than a larger, older condo in a nicer area, for example. Also, Japanese economic growth has been relatively flat for many years, and this has kept real estate prices in many areas quite low (don't expect any bargains in Tokyo or Osaka however).
If you ever find yourself in the market for Japanese real estate, check out Foreclosed Japan and see just how far your dollar, Euro, and Pound can go. But remember: purchase prices can be lower in Japan, but ownership costs can be higher.
But the real estate market in Japan is somewhat unique: prices for older units really only go down. So while a $400,000 condo in Vancouver will probably be worth $420,000 next year (if current trends continue) that $60,000 Sapporo mansion could very well be worth $50,000 a year later.
Because when it comes to purchases (unlike traditions) Japanese generally place more value on something that is brand new. So a new condo in a not-so-nice area can be worth far more than a larger, older condo in a nicer area, for example. Also, Japanese economic growth has been relatively flat for many years, and this has kept real estate prices in many areas quite low (don't expect any bargains in Tokyo or Osaka however).
If you ever find yourself in the market for Japanese real estate, check out Foreclosed Japan and see just how far your dollar, Euro, and Pound can go. But remember: purchase prices can be lower in Japan, but ownership costs can be higher.
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