The NUFS TimesDeath
Fes valCelebra ng
life bydancingwith the
dead

th

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12 Edition, December, 2023 Nagoya University of Foreign Studies

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Individuality Can Do It

Front Line of Hotel Recrui ng

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Myriad Slang on SNS

The experimenta on between
language and social
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media in Japan

Breaking Through theHaze: Is Japan Too So ?
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Polarized
globalpespec ves
clash
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©IAEA

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57 Takenoyama, Iwasakicho, Nissin, Aichi 470-0197 Japan

Entrepreneurship transforms Is year-round recruitment a miraclesolu on? Companies haveJapan’s collec vis cbegun changing methods. Page
corporate culture... Page

Fukushima Water
Released“Kokoro no Tomo”

One song unites Indonesia
and Japan. Fromlyrics to the heart… Page

5

LGBTQ in Japan’s Fashion

Challenging norms with authenc self-expression andPagecultural movements

6

An example of the grotesquecigare e packaging designs
required by the government of
somecountries,
such asthe United Kingdom andAustralia

He shared information about advertising campaign techniques andhow “soft selling” is implemented incontemporary advertising. When
asked about current consumer
magine, amidst crowded
trends, he described that famousstreets, towering skyscrapers,
actors used to be in cigarette adverand blinding neon lights, youtisements to make smoking “lookAn illustra on of marke ng techniques thatare finally in the bustling heart ofcool.” This tactic is utilized greatly
advise against the use of tobacco, drawn byTokyo. But amongst the cacophony in “soft-sell marketing” to divert
Alana V. Grimes.
of competing advertisements, billattention from the negative aspects
boards, and screens lining theof cigarettes, such as their negative
streets, a symphony of captivating
effects on health, which would disimages intrigues you. Unlike overly suade potential consumers. Mr.
assertive advertising in the West,
Isogai explained that the advertisJapan’s nuanced and aesthetic im- ing of tobacco products is no longer
agery, inspired by its unique history allowed in Japanese mass media,
and culture, introduces a new apbut he believes that people startproach to marketing. This new form smoking because of the influence ofthat has completely revolutionized their surroundings, dramas, andmarketing is known as “soft sellmovies.
marketing.” It is encountered every“The Health Promotion Act,” a legday during life in Japan, and we all
islation that aims to discourage toconsume it. So what is this phenombacco usage and promote publicenon?
health, is displayed front and center
Unlike traditional marketing, a
on Japanese cigarette packets. Inmore assertive counterpart known
terestingly, the packaging does notas the “hard sell,” “soft sell market- encourage the discontinuation ofInterview with Mr. Atsushi Isogai,
distributors, and manufacturers.
ing” refers to a sales approach prior- smoking tobacco products for perOne of the most defining features of media manager of SANTSU(right)
itizing subtle language and nonsonal health benefits, but rather for=Nagoya City, Aichi Pref.
British tobacco packaging is theaggressive techniques. Companies
the consideration of the general
combined health warning, including the Japanese packaging.
have increasingly recognised the
public. This approach can be seen ina grotesque photo and a message
importance of building a relationposters by Japan Tobacco InternaNavigating the subtle art of persuch as, “smoking causes lung canship with the consumer; the nutional, which promote better smoksuasion is a skill imperative for allcer,” or “smoking clogs your arteranced strategy of “soft-selling” em- ing manners.
aspects of life. Language and comies.” Similar to the American Spirit
phasizes the creation of this connecmunication are deeply rooted in soMr. Isogai presented a Japanese
product packaging, language is used
tion, often incorporating elements ofciety, and the interplay of cultural
advertisement for American Spirit
harmoniously alongside imagery tostorytelling and aesthetics. These
nuances, design, and language intobacco that illustrates soft-sellcreate a particular effect. Whileelements play an important role inadvertising beg many questions
marketing in the tobacco industry. Japanese tobacco products and adnot only the advertising campaigns
about our own psychology and how
This technique is realized throughvertising emphasize the importancethemselves, but also product packwe consume the world around us.
linguistic and multimodal elements. of considering one’s surroundings,
aging. This approach aligns with
The tobacco industry’s economic
Translated from Japanese, theBritish products focus on the negathe emphasis that Japanese culture
success in a world that promotes
question is proposed of how a truly tive impact that cigarettes have onplaces upon customer care and hoshealth and wellbeing more thanpure tobacco flavor can be achieved. the buyer.
pitality.
ever before shows that the marketIt claims that sustainable farming
We conducted a survey to hearing of their products has had a sigJapan is globally renowned for its
methods, friendly to the earth, arefrom Japanese and international
nificant impact on societal percephospitable and courteous culture.
the best way to achieve flavor. A
students on their impressions oftions and consumerist patterns.
However, a curious contradiction
nurturing image of two hands tentobacco packaging. They had to seoccurs when considering “soft sell
derly holding the product serves as
It is widely recognised that smoklect the best description for the premarketing” in the context of a con- the backdrop. These word and iming tobacco products can have detrisented images, and decide whichtroversial industry such as tobacco. age choices encourage the reader tomental health effects, and tobacco
one they would be more likely to
The contrast between such meticu- purchase the brand’s cigarettes out
companies around the world do notpurchase. The survey gained thirty
lous etiquette displayed in everyday of consideration for the earth, therehide this fact. The UK, for example,
responses, with 10.7% of particisituations and the taboo image that fore utilizing emotional appeal.
addresses the audience directly
pants being Japanese and 89.3% ofsmoking tobacco poses seems towith unappealing designs in alignOn the other side of the world, aparticipants being any other nationhighlight a divergence between trament with government legislation.
conflicting approach comes to light. ality. Less than 8% smoke, leaving
ditional courtesy and evolving socieIn Japan, the soft sell approach to
The packaging that houses tobacco a substantial 92.9% of respondents
tal norms. The practice of smoking
marketing cigarettes has cleverly
products in the UK includes a fasci- classified as “non-smokers.” We
tobacco displays an interesting parrepositioned negative health warnnating design choice to try to deter asked the respondents which word
adox of how Japanese society comings with messages about considerbuyers of the product. This isbest describes their first impression
bats contemporary challenges withation towards one’s surroundings,
through the deliberate use of theof British packaging and Japanesein the Japanese social fabric.
ultimately rebranding the Tobaccocolor Pantone 448C, which is
packaging. The words ranged fromindustry. To what extent do we perWe received a professional perspec- dubbed the “ugliest color in the“negative” descriptors to “positive”
ceive the product as the product,
tive from Mr. Atsushi Isogai, a me- world.” The British Government’s
ones. Unsurprisingly, an overwithout all of the frills? Next time
dia manager responsible for deciDepartment of Health and Social
whelming majority of 57% of voters
you go to a store or look at a billsion-making processes for the Japa- Care has implemented a “Tobacco
opted for “disgusted” towards Britboard, think back to this. Are you anese advertising agency, SANTSU. Packaging Guidance” for retailers,
ish packaging, compared to 7% forvictim of the soft-sell?
By Alana V. GRIMES,
Amelie M. TURNER
and Kaylee M. THOMASI

2

Nagoya University of Foreign Studies

December, 2023

Biz & Recruiting
By Rico B. ILAG, Takeru SASADA and Hans H. W. A. URDAHL

I

n the dynamic landscape ofJapan’s workforce, an intriguing topic emerges: finding
individualism within a collectivist
work environment. This article
aims to explore how individuals canbreak away from traditional company culture norms and carve theirown unique paths. By highlighting
the experiences of those who haveembarked on their own career journeys, we hope to shed light on thealternative options available to Japanese youth and inspire them tomaintain their creative license.

Startup Spirit Transforms
Japan’s Corporate Culture
F

CFirst, we will delve into the prevailing culture of Japanese companies,
which is deeply rooted in collectivism. This tightly-knit work environment often poses challenges for individuals seeking to pursue their
passions. However, we will also
highlight the evolving landscape,where winds of change are blowing,encouraging a more open and flexible approach to work life.
Japanese work and company culture has an infamous reputation forbeing extremely intense and overwhelming. The pressure to conform
coupled with a stressful work environment can cause employees tosuffer from extreme mental andphysical health problems. Whilesome of these issues still persist
today, Japan has been trying tomend a lot of these problems byadding new laws that protect workers rights. The Work Style Reform
Law is a prime example of thispush. Before this law was institutedon June 29th, 2018, employers
were allowed to work their employees for an unlimited amount of overtime hours. This law, however, now
limits the amount of overtime hours need to compete globally throughthat an employee can receive. Ancollaborative efforts.
other change that is starting to hapMr. Matsumoto further explained
pen in Japan is a push for a morethat Japan’s collectivist workplace
individualistic work culture. Somealigns with Maslow’s hierarchy ofare trying to break out of the culturneeds. Initially, the focus was on
al norms and pave their own career
survival. After losing the war andpath.
facing extreme poverty, people
During our research process, we
flocked to companies that offered
were able to establish contact with financial support and good pay.
an associate professor at the Nago- Companies, in turn, brought people
ya University of Foreign Studies,
together to produce goods and susMr. Masayoshi Matsumoto. Mr.
tain livelihoods. Even without speMatsumoto is affiliated with thecialized knowledge about the comDepartment of Global Business’s
pany or industry, individuals wereFaculty of Contemporary Internataken in, guided, and taught by thetional Studies and has a master’s
company. It was a collective effort
degree in economics.
for survival. Remarkably, this approach led to innovations such as
Mr. Matsumoto explained to us
those seen at Toyota, where individthat the collective nature of the lauals unfamiliar with cars collabobor environment in Japan does not
rated, sharing ideas to create excelstem solely from Japanese people’s
lent products.
preference for group activities. The
concept of creating things in JapanThe second stage was seeking a
was born out of necessity – natural secure environment. Despite lower
resources like oil and gas were
wages compared to other places,
scarce, and the climate is unsuitapeople valued the possibility of
ble for winter agriculture. In order working at the same company forto sustain lives, it became imperaan extended period, prioritizing stative to create something and sell it bility of their lives. The Japaneseabroad. The underlying principle
system of lifetime employment,
was not just about producing things born in aligning Maslow’s hierarchycollectively, but also repeatedlyof needs, worked well for Japan.
crafting high quality products. As a
Mr. Matsumoto decided to start his
result, the idea of working together
own business because, in Japan, it
in a group emerged, driven by the
had become challenging for a single

I

Above: Former Mr. Matsumoto’s partner company that makes strings locatedin the tex le town of Ichinomiya, Aichi.
pref. (a work from the photo exhibi on“Nokogirinokodo” by Hideki Hayashi)
Le : Mr. Wakameda, the CEO of Tokai
HR co
Below: Interview with an entrepreneur,
Mr. Matsumoto (right)a young Japanese citizen who madethe decision to pave their own career path. He started his journey inuniversity as a writer, making
online economic newspapers thatspecialized in Nagoya’s venturebusinesses, and publishing them on
his digital platform, Nagoya
Startup co. At the time, digital media was in its infancy and competition was scarce. However, as thecompetition grew with time, Nagoya
Startup co could not keep up andwas disbanded. After the company’s
fall, Mr. Wakameda went on to
found Tokai HR, a company thathelps long-established, traditional
companies in Aichi make new profitable products.
Since Mr. Wakameda started his
entrepreneurial journey during university, we asked him if he believedthat it was a good choice to start soyoung. In response, Mr. Wakameda
explained that these days, there area lot of people who start their own
business when they are young or
students. He says that if you areyoung, there’s sufficient time tomake up in case you fail. Young entrepreneurs have more room for exploration.

When asked about his experience
with Nagoya Startup co and Tokai
HR, Mr. Wakameda talked about
the pros and cons that come withbeing a solo entrepreneur. When
Mr. Wakameda was at Nagoya
Startup co, he stated that it was agreat time for him to get his nameknown. However, he also said that
it is very hard to get anywhere
without proper connections. When
Mr. Wakameda founded Tokai HR,
he was able to make the connections
he needed to create products thatcan be competitive on the global
scale. However, he mentions how
tiresome it can be dealing with policompany to create a product, make tics and making negotiations withprofit, and maintain competitiveother companies. In essence, both
ness. In contrast, global success sto- individualism and collectivism areries like Apple and Tesla emphaimportant for success. Mr. Wakamesized the power of cross-company
das company, Tokai HR, is a good
alliances, where companies collabo- example of this balance. Mr. Wakarated, contributing their respective meda is his own boss, which at theend of the day allows him to makeproducts to create something evenbetter.
decisions for himself. With this bitof individualism, he is not confined
Mr. Matsumoto’s goal was to bringto the rules and policies that cometogether the best offerings from difwith working for a company. Howferent companies to create excepever, Mr. Wakameda still has ational products. Instead of eachteam that helps him achieve hiscompany spending significant regoals. Here’s a word he quoted fromsources on a single product, the idea
an African proverb: “If you want towas to pool expertise in different
go far, go together.”areas, producing high-quality products at a lower cost. Each company
Lastly, Mr. Wakameda left us withsome
advice to share with thoseis responsible for producing a partof the product, with Matsumoto’s
who have a passion for entreprecompany taking on the responsibil- neurship: “one should find games
ity of the collective creation. Tradi- that they can win.” By this hetional companies, stuck on the idea means that one should conduct aof everything being done internally, self-analysis to identify the specificthings that they excel at and build
often faced stagnation in recent
times. His company aims to blend
their business around those skills.
the strengths of Japanese and forMr. Wakameda also adds that takeign companies, creating an organi- ing on challenges is crucial. In thiszational structure where individuera, almost everything can become abusiness. Even creating something
als shine within a collective effort.
on your own and selling it on platWe also had the pleasure to interforms like Mercari can be considview an entrepreneur from NUFS,
ered entrepreneurial experience. In
Mr. Daiki Wakameda, about indian age where you can monetize yourvidualism and the collectivist work
strengths, it is beneficial to set
environments he experienced. Mr.
aside time to contemplate ways to
Wakameda is the prime example ofmake money.

3

Nagoya University of Foreign Studies

December, 2023

Biz & Recruiting

RedeﬁningÊRecrui ngÊ
MethodsAC
H

A
R

By Manon L. DUFOUR, Kathy H.
VO and Yuuki SAHASHI

T

J
P

P

-COVID

The interview with Ms. Tsuchiya
do now. I think that this may resultand Ms. Nadai differed quite signifi- in a job-seeking process that favors
cantly from that of Ms. Hotta who
only a few outstanding students.”
has quite a long experience in theThis point is supported by her sechotel industry. Our first question to ond argument: “Students have to
Ms. Tsuchiya and Ms. Nadai wasstart various activities in preparaabout whether the recruitment peri- tion for job hunting in their first or
od has remained the same through- second year.” These preparationout the hotel chains, and if any ofactivities would be complicated tothe hotels that they applied to have set up if recruitment was accessible
adopted a long-term hiring period
all year round. Students who do notsimilar to the one at Hoshino Rerequire preparation activities would
sorts. The companies that Ms.
be at a distinct advantage, as they
Tsuchiya and Ms. Nadai had apwould be able to start their job
plied to varied in whether or notsearch earlier.
they adopted the yearly hiring.
Thanks to the opinions of Ms. Hot“Only two companies in Nagoya andta, Ms. Nadai and Ms. Tsuchiya, we
Kyoto that I applied to had thehave a clearer picture of the evoluyearly hiring but the rest were seation of recruitment in the hotel insonal,” says Ms. Nadai. “For me, I
dustry and the changes that COVID
can’t remember but I knew it was-19 has brought about. However,the question of how this shift toa year-round recruitment cameabout remains unanswered.

hroughout history, Japanremains one of the most reserved countries when it
comes to its culture and traditions.
For example, when the pandemic
happened, Japan was one of the lastcountries to open its borders to tourism, whereas its Western counterparts, such as Europe and America,
opened their borders quite early on.
Therefore, we found it quite unexpected for Japanese society, wellknown for upholding its traditions
and collectivistic values, to startmoving towards a more individualistic hiring method and expand theMs.Ê ReiaÊ Ho aÊ General manager
hiring season to be year-round. The
at the Kai Beppu Hotel in Kyushu
objective of this article is to analyze
and compare Japanese hiring prac- processes until the scale of the comtices in the hotel industry pre andpany grew. According to Ms. Hotta,
post-COVID, examining how these “It wasn’t until after 2001 that we
shifts impact both current and pro- expanded our facilities outside ofspective job seekers in the industry. Karuizawa. As the company exGiven that Japan leans more topanded, the hiring methods underwards collectivism, societal and fiwent a significant transformation.”Ms.ÊKanakoÊTsuchiyaÊNUFS student
nancial pushback from rival compa- However, she acknowledges thatnies could occur, specifically due to the nature of Hoshino Resort, being rare. Some companies in the otherthe desire to maintain the tradition- a large company, makes the transi- industries recruited all year roundal hiring period that starts in April. tion to year-round recruitment more though,” added Ms. Tsuchiya.
Moreover, the potential extension of challenging. Smaller companies
Ms. Tsuchiya further describes her
the year-round hiring process will
might have an easier time transijob-searching experience: “Therebe fraught with challenges if thetioning to a year-round system. She
were entry sheets that had to be
public remains unsupportive.
posits that the benefit or detrimentsubmitted in March and most interof year-round recruitment could
The Japan Business Federation
views were held after the Golden
depend on a company’s size.
(Keidanren) has officially anWeek holidays in May and then the
nounced an agreement with univer- She also explains how methods ofcompanies would make job offers insities to expand its hiring season for communication with job seekers
June.” With similar experiences as
new graduates starting in April
have changed significantly, saying, Ms. Tsuchiya, Ms. Nadai explains2019. Japanese“Before thethat, in her third year of university,
companies such
COVID-19
outher friends and seniors would often
Japan Business Federa on
as Hoshino Rebreak,wecontalk about job hunting, and she was
A comprehensive economic organisorts, with around za on comprising of 1,512 repre- ducted Skype in- often told that it was best to have asenta ve companies in Japan, 107 terviews for can- clear idea of job offers by June of
55 different locana onwide industrial associa ons didates studying that year. Third and fourth-year
tions spreadthroughout Japan and the regional economic organiza- abroad. However, students like Ms. Tsuchiya and Ms.
ons for all 47 prefectures. It is de- due to the panand across the
Nadai often have similar experiencvoted to bolstering the Japanese
world, were also
demic,
wetransies of pressure, deadlines, andeconomy and enhancing the wellbeginning to vary being of its ci zens. The
tioned from tradi- stress, because it is difficult to contheir recruitment current chairman of thetional interviews centrate on school and find a job at
method to recruit board is Masakazu Tokuto video screenthe same time.
the best students. ra, chairman of Sumitoings.” As the panLastly, having been job hunting in
mo chemical Co. Ltd.
In an organized
demic unfolded,
the hotel industry in the past year,
Zoom meeting, we
reliance on video
we wanted to know Ms. Tsuchiya
met with Ms. Reia Hotta, the curconferencing platforms, such as
and Ms. Nadai’s overall opinions on
rent general manager at the Kai
Zoom, increased as physical office
whether or not it is beneficial to
Beppu Hotel located in Kyushu,
visits were no longer feasible.
adopt the year-round hiring period.
who began to work at the hotel
In addition to Ms. Hotta, we were
“I prefer year-round recruitment. At
amidst the early period of the panalso able to interview two NUFS
the moment, everyone is looking fordemic. Our interview initially ensenior students, Ms. Kanako
a job at the same time. I feel likecompassed a broad overview of her
Tsuchiya, a senior student from the people might wanna do other activibackground, subsequently progressDepartment of World Liberal Arts, ties or enjoy their final days ofing towards more intricate inquiries
as well as Ms. Miyuri Nadai, a sen- school during that time, so I don’t
about her perspectives on the reior student from the Department of think there will be a big difference
cently initiated hiring processes.
Global Business. Their goal is toin the candidates whether or not
She joined the hotel industry as awork in the hotel industry and they they are hired in spring or othernew graduate in April of 2015, havhave agreed to take part in our intimes of the year,” explains Ms.
ing originally graduated with aterview to discuss their experiences Tsuchiya. Ms. Nadai on the other
Bachelor’s degree in Japanese lanwhen it comes to the Japanese hir- hand, was more in favor of the anguage.
ing process in Japan. Both Ms.
nual hiring period in April, stating
Hoshino Resorts, which has been in Tsuchiya and Ms. Nadai have taken that “With year-round recruitment,
business for over 109 years, did not part in several recruitment camsmart students will start their jobstart incorporating the year-roundpaigns in different hotels.
hunting activities earlier than they

Indeed, in the case of large companies such as Hoshino Resort, or other hotels mentioned by Ms. Nadai,
the transition has already been
made via COVID, making it possible to popularize tools such as
Zoom, which facilitate the transition to an annual process, as inter-

Ms.ÊMiyuriÊNadaiÊNUFS student
views are only a click away. Thisfacility suits both people working inhuman resources and future students looking for work like Ms.
Tsuchiya. The stress and financial
cost of interview after interview,and having to travel to different
cities is solved just by owning acomputer. As Ms. Tsuchiya pointed
out, year-round recruitment alsorelieves the stress of having to finda job absolutely, at the risk of waiting another year before being able
to work full time.
However, year-round recruitment
is far from being a miracle solution.
Firstly, as Ms. Hotta mentioned, it’scomplicated to set up in large
groups, requiring a huge amount ofadministrative organization thatsome groups are unwilling or unable to impose on themselves. On theother hand, the well-establishedJapanese system is one that suits
the majority. As Ms. Nadai pointed
out, it provides good preparation for
professional work and also allows
them to concentrate on their studies
outside of the hiring season. The
hotel industry has begun changing
its recruitment methods, which
could have an impact on other Japanese industries in the future.

4

Nagoya University of Foreign Studies

December, 2023

Integrated Culture
By Jack C. BALL, Kangmin LEE
and Mana NAKAGAWA

A

core part of humanity’s collective development, language has always been vitalto our understanding of both ourselves and the outer world. In thecurrent information age, however,
how we communicate through bothspoken and written language has
rapidly changed alongside the instantaneous spread of ideas throughthe Internet. Social media has
greatly contributed to this changeby accelerating the creation of newslang and generational trends.

Experimen ng with Slang
L

S

M

J

factor], or like Japanese in general,
loves wordplay. So, if there’s something clever about it, [that can leadto a spread in adoption].”Of the examples she listed that adhered to such observations were
yoroshiku which is sometimes written with the characters for four, six,and nine (“4-6-4-9”) and oshikatsu
which is a word for passionate fandoms for certain activities, media
franchises, idols, and so on. As forthe debate over whether or not theconnection between Japanese language trends and social media canbe considered a unique situation,
she believes it to instead be part ofa larger chain of continual refinement and change.

A noticeable linguistic gap has
been steadily growing between older“I don’t think it’s unique, I think it
and younger generations in Japan.
just kind of expands on something
Part of this gap is influenced bythat’s been happening in [the] JapaEnglish, which became somewhat
nese language [in an overall sense].
commonplace in Japan starting in
We can clearly see with historicalthe later half of the 20th century. In
trends that languages [in general]
this article, we look back at how thechange in different eras because of＜Research method＞
Japanese language has changed asclass, and when Japan [especially]We
conducted
streetintera result of several factors from soviews on November 11th.
opened to the Portuguese when it
cial media, online messaging, andRandom ques ons were
was in its Warring States Period,
asked of people at a shopsocietal attitudes towards individuJapanese started using Portuguese
ping mall. Ques ons included
al dialects. Furthermore, we conage and frequency of SNS
words and slang kind of came out ofuse. Similar ques ons wereducted a survey to know what peothat…. I think the Internet is just
asked
using
GoogleForms.
ple think about new words and
The total number of responsone more iteration of, like, an openslang. Finally, we interviewed aes was 44.
ing of the linguistic space.” In otherprofessional in order to gain a betwords, the Japanese language ison by the growth of dialect studies
youngerter understanding of how and why
within Japan since the 1990s, andthan them.
simply following a commonly shared
this phenomenon has been a part of
the returning popularization of repath for all languages, and interacJapan’s language and culture forLastly we
gional dialects through TV and film,
tions online are another step in thisthe past few decades.
asked theirthose who have wished to be moreconstant evolution of linguistic variopinions
The Japanese language was notety.
open about their individuality in aabout such
always uniform in its compositionsociety where assimilation andwords. A
In Japan, the digital era has orand use until the Edo period, when group dynamics are the norm have
lot of older
chestrated a profound renaissancea notion arose to revitalize a single tried their hands in creating digital
generationin linguistic expression through soshared dialect that had supposedly entertainment with spoken dialects.
people havecial media. The survey findings reexisted long ago. As researcher Ne- Written content, places more of an
positivevealed a marked disparity between
riko Musha Doerr explains in heremphasis on experimenting withgenerations, exposing a widening
feelings
article, “Standardization and Para- characters (hiragana, katakana,about newlinguistic chasm. This divide, howdoxical Highlighting of Linguistic
kanji and the latin alphabet or awords. They Ms. Lucy Glasspool,
ever, isn’t merely about language; itDiversity in Japan”: “This attempt
combination of all four).
Associate prof. of NUFS
think suchmirrors deeper societal shifts andto recreate a lost original, unitary
One current trend in the Japanese a phenomenon is interesting, yetperceptions. Lucy Glasspool’s inlanguage unfolded amidst a vast
language involves creating new Jap- feel that it’s important to choosesights shed light on the nuanced
diversity of linguistic forms. Until
anese words from English. We con- appropriate words depending on the adoption of contemporary terms,
the end of the Edo era (1603-1868)
ducted a survey to measure thesituation. Overall, those 60 years
weaving together catchiness andin the late nineteenth century, peoawareness of eight words that are
and older could not understand the cultural relevance. This mirrors
ple from different regions and clasrepresentative of this trend.
slang of younger generations.
historical linguistic patterns, imbuses could not understand each othing current changes with echoes of
er’s speech, depending on geograph- We asked people to guess each
As an associate professor for thethe past. The fusion of Japanese
ical distance and class (Yasuda
word’s meaning. In total, 44 individ- School of Contemporary Internaand English within this evolving2003). This was the context inuals answered the questionnaire.
tional Studies at NUFS, Lucylexicon is a testament to culturalwhich the standardization of lanGlasspool has long examined theFrom this data set, it is clear thatexchange, highlighting Japan’s deliguage began” (392). After Japan
linguistic background and overarchdisuru is the most well known wordcate balance between tradition andopened its borders to the world,ing development of the Japaneseout of these options. This word firstglobal influence.
English became a hallmark of thelanguage through the perspective ofappeared in the 1990s among hip
educated populace. Moreover, Engthe country’s pop culture. From the However, this evolution has creathop listeners. By the late 2000s, itlish terminology became more comoutset of our interview, she wased a palpable generational gap,
became common as a piece of Intermon following the aftermath ofvery open-minded and friendly, and prompting concerns and intrigue
net slang. emoi appeared in theWorld War Two.
provided plenty to mull over as weamong different age groups. To
1980s, but it was only used in thediscussed the matter of this contem- bridge this linguistic divide, fosterAs social media platforms began
music industry. By 2007, it had
porary topic. Although her work has ing intergenerational dialogue andlaunching Japanese versions of
spread to youths who were enambeen spread across a variety of sub- understanding becomes paramount.
their sites in the late 2000s’, theored by popular music and the artjects from race and gender studies
It’s a call to cherish linguistic evoluJapanese population swiftly transi- ists behind their favorite songs. rito analysis of social classes and na- tion as a cultural treasure rather
tioned from mobile web browsers
muru and chirusuru are the newstionality, she has noted several
than a generational barrier. Emand cell phone emails to social me- est terms out of these four.
characteristics that underlie certain bracing change doesn’t mean fordia, adopting to its features with
Of this quartet of words, yuzane is popular terms for Japanese speech. saking tradition; it’s an opportunity
relative ease. Certain platforms,
the most recent to appear. Evenfor synergy, where the past and presuch as Line and the video-sharing
When asked about how specific linyounger generations don’t necessent harmonize. In conclusion,site NicoNico (which popularized
go may come about and become relsarily know the exact meaning.
Japan’s linguistic journey on social
the now common Japanese vernacuevant to contemporary speech, she
media reflects a society grappling
lar wwww as a version of “LOL”)
We also asked people “Do you feel
replied that “they obviously are likewith the pace of digital evolution.
like you don’t understand the mean- wwww (equiv. to “lol”), they become
were created in 2012 and 2006 reEmbracing this shift while preservspectively.
ing of words when you are talking
widespread, but a lot of words withing cultural heritage fosters a more
to young people?” Surprisingly, over in a given group get used within
These sites have remained popular
inclusive society, one where every
70% of people answered they oftenthat group, yet they’re unintelligible
by catering to Japanese sensibilities
generation contributes to the vior sometimes feel so. Even people in outside of the group. That’s part ofand placing a heavy focus on creatbrant tapestry of Japan’s linguistic
their 20’s can’t seem to understand what makes them popular within
ing personalized content. Spurned
landscape.
the language of those only slightly
the group. I suppose catchiness [is aDecember, 2023

Nagoya University of Foreign Studies

5

Cultural Exchange
By Yasmin A. TEGUH
and Kayla F. YULFININTA

C

apturing someone’s heart has
always been a singer’s maingoal. However, it was neverMayumi Itsuwa’s first intention.
Mayumi Itsuwa is a Japanese singer who made her debut in 1972. She
gained popularity through the single “Koibito Yo.” Mayumi Itsuwa
never expected her song, “Kokoro no
Tomo,” to become so popular. Whatwas so surprising was that the song
was not popularized in Japan, butrather in Indonesia.
Considering that the song's meaning is “Friend of the Heart,” it is not
surprising that so many people fellin love with it because of its mellow
and soothing rhythm. The song was
first released in 1982, yet it still
stays in the Indonesian people’s
hearts for years until now. It gained
popularity after a radio announcer
from Indonesia attended Mayumi’s
concert in 1983 and heard the song
during one of her performances.
Touched by the music, he decided tobroadcast it on the radio. That is
how it all started.

'Kokoro no Tomo' Unites
Indonesia and JapanF

LH

ary to September, one of them beinga festival that was held near Nagoya’s Kanayama Station. There wereshadow puppet displays, dancing,as well as traditional Indonesianmusical instrument performances,such as gamelan. Another cultural
exchange through music is JKT48
and AKB48. JKT48 (JKT stands for
Jakarta) is the first AKB48 sistergroup (idol group) founded in 2011
outside of Japan. There were two
members from AKB48 who joined
the JKT48, this showed the unity
between Japan and Indonesia interms of music entertainment. In
2018, JKT48 sang the song “Kokoro
no Tomo” for the JJC (Jakarta Japan Club of Embassy of Japan).

On the other hand, Japan’s relationship with Indonesia has also
been showing progress, as around
60 Indonesian restaurants are
spread throughout Japan, such as
Sama-Sama Nagoya in Sakae, BuIndonesia calledlan Bali in Shinsakae-machi, and“Kokoro no ToDapoer Indonesia in Ōsu. Thesemo” POP! inrestaurants provide an introduction
2014. The series
for Japanese people to Indonesianis co-produced
cuisine, which includes rendang
with Sony Mu(meat stewed in coconut milk andsic Entertainspices), nasi goreng (Indonesian
ment as part offried rice), and sate (Indonesian
Although the reception in Indonethe Cool Japan
meat skewers). The mutual cultural
sia wasn’t very strong at first, it
strategy, a
exchange enhances the relationshipgained traction over time because of strategy used by
between the two countries, fosteringa variety of media exposure, includ- the Japanesea greater awareness and knowledge
ing TV shows and music progovernment toof each other’s current influences
Japanese and Indonesian media coverage of Mayumi
grammes in the late 2000s. The
promote theirand traditions, and helping JapaItsuwa as well as the Empress and Emperor’s visit tosong’s popularity was revived when country bynese people know the history beIndonesia
it was reintroduced as a duet inshowcasing ditween Indonesia and Japan. Food
2005, sung with Indonesian artist,
versity and appealing Japanese cul- the songs, video games, and anime
has the power to bridge cultural
Delon Thamrin, to raise money fol- ture. In January 2018, Rina Katathat gave rise to the otaku culture.
divides and promote understandlowing the devastating Sumatra
hira choreographed a “Kokoro No
This is all demonstrated by the way
ing.
earthquake. Furthermore, the Japa- Tomo Dance” to mark the 60th an- Japanese pop culture was brought
nese Emperor and Empress paid aniversary of Japan and Indonesia’s to Indonesia through the publicaThere is no denying the connection
visit to Indonesia on August 19th,
between culture and cuisine. Engagdiplomatic ties.
tion of Japanese comics translated
2023. At the Bogor Palace, Presiinto Indonesian by PT. Elex Media ing in a meal together at a restauParticipants expressed how olddent of Indonesia, Joko Widodo, andKomputindo, a publishing subsidirant or dinner table might facilitate
songs like “Kokoro no Tomo” bringFirst Lady, Iriana, hosted a lunchary of Gramedia, the country’s most talks between individuals from difback memories, with the younger
eon for them. The sasando, a tradiwell-known book store and publish- ferent backgrounds. In this case,generation in particular expressing
tional stringed instrument, wasing house. These comics included
Japanese people can see the Indonestrong thoughts of nostalgia. They
used to perform the song during thesian cultures through what they are
Doraemon, Dragon Ball, Detective
claimed that the song “evokes nosevent. The song’s words may not
Conan, and others. In the 1990s,
eating and hopefully they will untalgia due to the song being rehave been understood by everyone,
anime began to air on television as derstand more about Indonesia andleased in 1982, when such a unique
but it nonetheless resonated withwell.
become interested in it. The moresound is rare in today’s mainstream
the memories and personal experiJapanese people become interested
music. Many people turn to classic
These days, cultural events serve
ences of many. As one Indonesianin Indonesia, the more the two
old tunes for a breath of fresh air.”as important hubs for the developsaid, “The song is very reminiscentcountries will work together in othThey then made lists of timelessment of creative expression betweenof old Indonesian songs and it
er projects.
music they still listen to, which in- Indonesia and Japan. For example,
transferred very well into Indonecluded hits like “Stay with Me” bysince COVID-19, these events have
Mayumi Itsuwa’s 1982 song,sian.” Another person recalled that
Miki Matsubara, “First Love” bybeen resumed and Comic Frontier“Kokoro no Tomo,” is a cultural pheit was featured in several TV shows
Hikaru Utada, and “Plastic Love”(ComiFuro) in 2022 drew overnomenon that has sparked a fasciin the late 2000s, creating a strong
nation for Japanese culture amongby Mariya Takeuchi. The song’s
20,000 visitors over the course ofimpression of Japan. The song grew
impact went above just music, too,
two days, and is becoming more and Indonesian youth. The song’s melpopular in Indonesia through plenty
as it sparked curiosity in Japanese more popular. It is a vibrant celelow rhythm and heartfelt resonanceof media exposure.
films, traditions, and culture, inbration of Japanese pop culture,transcend language barriers, fosterLooking back, of course, the key
creasing cross-cultural understand- where visitors are able to view theing a shared sense of nostalgia
question is how “Kokoro no Tomo”
ing between Indonesia and Japan,
creations of a variety of local artists, across generations. Its influence
gained traction among general Inespecially among younger people.
who produce diverse works. Not on- extends to cultural events like Comdonesian audiences. To answer
ly can visitors engage in artworks,
ic Frontier (ComiFuro) and “Japan“Kokoro no Tomo” may be one ofthese questions, we conducted an
but also cosplay, a popular activity Indonesia Friendship Day,” where
the first catalysts of Japan and Inonline survey among Indonesianin Japanese pop culture. These fes- diverse expressions of art, cosplay,donesia’s international relationship,participants ranging from 18 to 57
tivities extend beyond events meant and traditional performances meld
marking the beginning of a Japayears old. Of the 59 respondents,
into celebrations of cultural unity.
to celebrate Japanese pop culture,nese culture boom in Indonesia. The
only three had never heard of theas the Indonesian Embassy in ToThe song symbolizes the enduring
impact of this song on Indonesiansong before. Most respondents think
kyo recently held a collection of ac- friendship between Indonesia andyouth demonstrates more profoundthat the song’s popularity is due totivities titled, “Japan-Indonesia
Japan, highlighting the transformacultural fascination and has since
its soothing rhythm and how easy it
Friendship Day.” This year it istive power of art, culture, and espesparked more interest in Japanese
is to sing, which appeals to the avcially music worldwide. The song
meant to symbolize the 65th anniculture among the Indonesian socieerage Indonesian. Additionally,versary of both Indonesia andwill always remain in the hearts of
ty. They have been increasingly
they stated that the song has inJapan’s diplomatic relationship.
Indonesian people as it is a timelessdrawn to various aspects of Japadeed improved the relations besong that has a lot of meaning fornese culture, especially pop culture. In Tokyo’s Yoyogi Park some comtween Indonesia and Japan because
Indonesia and Japan. Both the elThis is evident from the ongoingmunity groups also organized severit deepens the awareness of Japan
derly generation and the younger
fascination Indonesia has with Jap- al Indonesian arts and culture festiin Indonesia. “Kokoro no Tomo”
ones are listening to older music
anese entertainment—for instance, val events of their own from Januwas featured in a TV program in
again for nostalgic reasons.

6

Nagoya University of Foreign Studies

December, 2023

Gender & Fashion
By Lynn M. FERRAGE, Chae-Un
MOON and Hillary D. MORA“FThe Myriad Voices ofFashionashion is not about oppression, but about freedom.” This statement, enE
LGBTQ I ﬂJ
dorsed by designer Issey Miyake,resonates as a guiding principle in
the world of Japanese fashion,
where the influence of the LGBTQ+
community emerges as a catalyst
for change. The imprint of the
LGBTQ+ community on Japanesefashion goes beyond mere garments;
it evolves into a cultural movement.
Their bold approach has injected agust of freedom into an industry
long governed by rigid standards,
paving the way for a more fluid andinclusive expression. These pioneers
have transformed the very perception of fashion, encouraging an aesthetic where gender fluidity andambiguity are celebrated. Their creations have served as catalysts forInterview with Lecturer Junko Nishikimi=Nagoya University of Arts and Sciences
deeper reflection on identity, helping to create a space where the digarding what students wear to
Lecturer Nishikimi highlights theversity of gender expression is wel- school. At the event, many members challenges of rapid obsolescence due
comed and celebrated. The LGBTQ+ of Niigata Prefecture who are sexu- to the pressure of annual releases.
community’s imprint on Japanese
al minorities complained about the She advocates for solutions thatfashion goes far beyond fabrics and gender-based skirt requirement,
strike a balance between creativity
seams; it has paved the way for arecalling how stressful junior highand survival in a competitive marmore authentic, inclusive and inno- and high school had been for them. ket. First of all, now we rarely disvative form of expression. Japanese They felt uncomfortable and overcuss unisex clothing—rather, we
runways thus become playgrounds whelmed, but their fashion choices discuss clothing that is genderfor a diversity of identities, whereoutside of school made them feelneutral, gender-nonconforming, ortraditional dress codes are deconrepresented and listened to.
gender-inclusive. Lecturer Nishistructed to embrace an aesthetic
kimi explains that unisex designs
Fashion lecturer Junko Nishikimi
that encompasses the plurality ofcater to both genders, whereas genfrom Nagoya University of Arts andexpressions.
derless designs eliminate gender
Sciences sheds light on the chaldistinctions, allowing anyone to
Fashion influence on generational
lenges and opportunities in Japan’s
freely wear clothes. This distinction
voicesemerging genderless fashion trend.
emphasizes the push for inclusivity
After interviewing a member from Recognizing diverse preferences,in fashion.
the NPO ASTA, an LGBTQ+ associ- she emphasizes the importance of
influential figures embracing these
While there has long been genderation mainly active in Aichi andstylestoreshapesocietal
percepneutral
clothing on the market, it
Gifu prefectures, several statements
tions
gradually.
Lecturer
Nishikimi
has
typically
been very specialized
have been reported: “In Japan, theunderscores
the
role
of
fashioninorhigh-concept.
Thirty years ago, a
LGBTQ+ community faces stigma,
fostering
comfortandselfrelatively
affluentclientele could
with misconceptions around gay
expression.
She
advocatesforclothpurchasewhat
wasthen referred toindividuals being fashionable anding
toaccommodate
personal
comas“unisex”
clothingfrom high-end
labeled as ‘abnormal,’ leading tofort,creating
anenvironment
where
designers
like
Yohji
Yamamoto.
employment discrimination. Public
individuals can authentically emThings have changed in the modern
fashion standards impose conbrace
theiridentities.
era. The brands that are adopting
straints, especially for transgender
this style of dressing to celebrate
individuals, conflicting with their
Addressing the hurdles in gendergender fluidity are typically moretrue gender expression. Fashion
conforming fashion, Lecturer Nishimainstream and also have moreserves as a vital tool for LGBTQ+
kimi shares personal struggles,
color. Traditionally, unisex apparelindividuals to authentically express
highlighting the scarcity of genderhas been both gender- and colorthemselves, transcending societal
neutral options in Japan. The imneutral, but the latest style of gennorms and registered genders. Howpact of location becomes apparent,
der-inclusive apparel embraces theever, there’s no inherent link bewith school dress codes limiting extween one’s natural style and their pression, while places like Haraju- full spectrum of colors found on the
LGBTQ+ flag. For example, in thequeer identity. Self-acceptance libku encourage full self-expression,
last year, a new fashion style called
erates creative expression in clothshowcasing the role of public per“pop & block” has emerged, a trend
ing choices, challenging societal
ception in challenging genderthat draws inspiration from the anpressures of lookism prevalent innorms. Can fashion truly transcend
drogynous and gender-neutral
Japanese culture. Breaking freegender boundaries? Lecturer Nishimovements of 2022. While it’s imfrom these constraints allows indikimi believes it depends on individportant to note that not everyone
viduals to confidently embrace theirual feelings and perspectives.
who wears these styles are mempreferred styles, fostering empowerWhile creators can design bounda- bers of the LGBTQ+ community,
ment through genuine selfry-defying fashion, the wearer’s out- the trends were nonetheless started
expression and liberation from solook ultimately determines the suc- by LGBTQ+ individuals.
cial judgment.”
cess in challenging established genFashion Subcultures
Coming out as a member of the
der norms. Differentiating between
LGBTQ+ community is still difficult
In the ever-evolving landscape ofunisex and genderless clothing.
in Japan. However, with more peofashion, the emergence of genderFashion styles, such as lolita andple feeling empowered by represenless fashion in the 2010s triggered agenderless fashion, have helped ourtation in the media and the fashion youth bring change. Not only areseismic shift. Beyond the runways
industry, change is rapidly apand Instagram streams, genderlessthey creating new and immersive
proaching. On November
fashion serves as a rebellious anstyles, but they are also bringing
18th, 2023, an event was held bythem echoing the sentiments of aawareness and validity to voices
Nijizu in Central Japan. The group
generation unwilling to be confinedthat have been around for years.
supporting LGBTQ+ students wasby societal expectations. This conIn terms of industry improvements, temporary resurgence of genderlessdemanding freedom of choice re-Ffashion is, at its core, a continuumof Japan’s rich tapestry, bridging
the gap between the past and thepresent. It’s a cultural reflection, atribute to a heritage where genderboundaries have always been
blurred, paving the way for a revolution that redefines the very essence of identity in the realm of
fashion and beyond. “What I want
to do is like what Jun from Undercover and I have been doing – variety, and a wider view. I want to widen the lens for people in the fashionindustry. And I want to remove thewall like the one in Berlin. I want todeliver that kind of message
through clothes.”
The eccentric and androgynous
style of Visual Kei interlaces with
LGBTQ+ artists and aficionados,conveying a bold and unconventional vision of gender. The codes of Lolita fashion, often associated withinnocence and femininity, provide aplayground where traditional gender boundaries blur. For many
LGBTQ+ community members, thisaesthetic offers freedom of expression, allowing each individual tochallenge and redefine societal gender expectations, thus creating a
profound connection between Lolita
fashion and the influence of gender
identity diversity within the
LGBTQ+ community.
Within the realm of fashion subversion, a unique fusion called“Brolitas” has emerged, blending
the worlds of “bro” and “Lolita fashion.” These individuals boldly embrace a masculine interpretation of
the whimsical Lolita style. Their
motivations for venturing into this
distinct fashion territory are as diverse as the spectrum of colors in a
rainbow, often arising from a desire
for transformative and comforting
escapism amidst the challenges ofdaily life. Furthermore, Danso fashion emerges as a symbol of acceptance, reshaping the future ofstyle.
Following this exploration of fashion’s impact on self-expression, it isessential to remain vigilant about aconcerning trend within the industry: the phenomenon known as“queerbaiting.” It is crucial to discern this exploitative practice fromthe genuine influence of the
LGBTQ+ community on fashion,
which is rooted in creativity, sincere
self-expression, and the challenging
of gender norms. The dynamic landscape of Japanese fashion reflects a
broader dialogue on individual expression and societal acceptance.
The impact of the LGBTQ+ community on Japanese fashion transcends mere clothing. Japanese fashion subcultures have also provided
a fertile ground for experimentationand creativity. They allow individuals to break free from societal constraints and express their true identities. Lecturer Nishikimi advocates
for a nuanced approach to genderless fashion, stressing inclusivity,
comfort, and the need to steer societal change. The dynamic landscapeof Japanese fashion reflects a
broader dialogue on individual expression and societal acceptance.

Editor in Chief : Kazuhiko KOJIMA, Adviser : Hiroko TOKUMOTO, Masahito YUGE, Adviser & Proofreader : Jacob TEICHRIB

December, 2023

Nagoya University of Foreign Studies

7

Spirit & Life
By Olivia G. HARBROW,
Madelyn L. KINEMAN
and Megan C. LANDMAN

H

ave you ever danced withthe dead? In many cultures, death is seen moreas a “see you later,” not just sayonara. Though many cultures mourntheir dead, others maintain strong
connections with the dead by celebrating the memories of their lives
through traditions such as death
festivals. We spoke to two membersof such cultures to ask about theirexperiences with dancing with thedead.
In New Zealand, the Māori community strongly connects with deaththrough their connection to Atua(gods/goddesses). New Zealand has
many tribes that celebrate Matariki
in various ways. Our interviewee
from New Zealand, Chyvaurne
Tohou, is from the Ngati Ko tribe.
She tells us how Matariki is celebrated on the 28th of June with acommunity of close-knit family andfriends. This community festival is
the Māori New Year because they
follow the traditional Māori calendar rather than the solar calendar.
Excitingly, it will be celebrated as anational holiday for the first time in
New Zealand’s history. It’s a celebration to release the previous
year’s built-up negative feelings,
while acknowledging the death oftheir loved ones, which encourages
their lost friends and family members to move on to the next part oftheir transition in the circle of life.

"This is the acknowledgment that
our culture actually deserves."
Chyvaurne Tuhou
Chyvaurne further explains to us
how this celebration revolves
around the star cluster Matariki,
which is kaitiaki, their guardians(Seven Sisters, Subaru- In Japan'ssky) in the festivities. This cluster
holds a lot of meaning to the Māori
people during the time of the Matariki festival because it connects
them to their ancestors. She saysthat during this time, the spirits ofthe dead are led by their ancestors
to Cape Reinga, the tip of New Zealand, where they dive off into thedepths of the underworld and reunite with their kaitiaki (guardians),
tīpuna (ancestors) and Atua. Then,they are released into the stars.

DF
A Celebra on of Life ThroughDancing with the Dead

Above: Interview
with Prof. Naoko
Kobayashi (right) by
Olivia Harbrow=Aichi Gakuin University, Nissin city,
Aichi pref.
Below: Matariki
song lyrics

Right: Chyvaurne Tuhou and her
Marae, Ngā Kō Tribe, Enderley, New Zealandlows the younger
generation to reflect andacknowledge theirdead and their ancestors, thus encouraging them tomove on to the next
part of the transition.
The Māori tribes
celebrate andacknowledge Matariki with theirfamily and in theirtribes in different
ways, such as Kapa
haka festivals, starobservations, fireworks, hangi, andconcerts.
Chyvaurne mentions how her tribe,
the Ngāti Kō, andher family willhead to the Marae A sacred place belonging to the Iwa(tribe) that holds
equivalent importance for their tribe as a Shinto
shrine or a Buddhist temple to
Japan’s religious systems to celebrate Matariki. Māori people gather
in their Marae for spiritual and social purposes, to come together toperform traditional songs and dances and pursue traditional arts suchas Harakiki weaving and Kairou forcarving. Matariki is a time of acknowledging the dead and releasing
negativity while encouraging thespirits of the deceased to be released up to the stars of the sevensisters. Matariki is a time of acknowledgment and thankfulness to
the Gods and a time of harvest andfeasting.

release of ancestors into the stars
and a continuation of the circle oflife into death. Professor Kobayashi
told us how the main goal of Obon isto ensure the spirits of family members are able to briefly visit the living, but also to make sure thatwhen they leave again, they can go
to paradise and not hell.
Obon welcomes ancestors
home time and timeagain, whilst Matariki
assists those who havepassed to move onto thenext world and remain
there amongst their gods
and the stars.
Both Matariki and Obon
are times of harvest andcelebrating food; Professor
Kobayashi explains how,for Obon, “vehicles” forancestors are made from
cucumbers and eggplants in the
shapes of horses and oxen, with the
cucumber horses helping spirits tocome home quickly. The eggplant
oxen take them away slowly, prolonging their time here. She showed
pictures of both of these horses andoxen in people's homes and in the
popular video game “Animal Crossing,” where players can decorate
their homes with them.
Food is often placed on the altar as
offerings. One picture we wereshown of such an altar had pizza on
offer. When we asked about it, Professor Kobayashi explained that it
was the first year after the grandmother of the household had passed
away. As she loved pizza, they had
placed some on the altar for her.

what she believed was the most important aspect of Obon, our interviewee, Professor Naoko Kobayashi(PhD), stated that she believedgathering with family and the relationships it fostered were the mostimportant. She elaborated that it
was through Obon that she firstmet her grandmother and grandfather, further highlighting the festival’s importance to family.

While Obon is about offerings, Matariki occurs during the harvestingseason. A ceremonial offering is
made in the hope of a prosperous
harvest for the year to come; once
the harvest is collected, they cook
the food in the hangi and celebrate
and share the food. Dancing is an
integral part of both festivals, with
the Bon-odori (A traditional dance)
performed in parks and open spaces
to welcome spirits back home forObon. Matariki has dancing andtraditional arts such as weaving
and carving. Both festivals also utilize singing and chanting to help
guide the spirits of their ancestors
and emphasize dancing with thoseyou love.

Death is a universal human experience - it is the circle of life. But not
everyone celebrates the dead anddeath in the same way. For instance, in Tibet, Buddhist funerals
last for 49 days, during which the"What is your favourite thing aboutfamily gathers to grieve openly as a
the festival?" "Maybe the gatheringcommunity. In Bali, crying is disof families… eating gorgeous food…
Chyvaurne mentions that throughcouraged, and the grieving process
it's very enjoyable."out her childhood, she used to callis brief. There is no “correct” way tothe stars the teapot stars due toProfessor Naoko Kobayashi cope with loss, but it is something
their resemblance to a teapot before
As an expert in Japanese religious we all must do. In this respect, dolearning about their true meaning.
studies, Professor Kobayashi told us you think festivals that celebrate
Chyvaurne realized the importance
In some aspects, Obon and Matari- about the Obon festival, both fromthe dead rather than mourn themof teaching the younger generation
ki have similarities and differences the perspective of a scholar and aare helpful? Does normalizing death
about their history. She mentioned
in their customs. Though Obon isin life and focusing on the person
participant. It is said that on the
how important it is for her to celeand not their passing allow us to
not a national holiday, many return first day of the month, when thebrate with her immediate family
home to spend time with their fami- Obon period begins, the lid of thegrieve less and enjoy life more?
and to teach her children the imlies. During this time, it’s essential cauldron of hell opens, and the spir"It's a cleanse for us. And it's reallyportance of Matariki through varito spend time together in terms of
its of the ancestors come out. Like
just a time to reflect on the past andous activities, songs such as the Mawelcoming the spirits of ancestors
Matariki, Obon welcomes the spirits those we have lost, and then we celtariki Song (see image) and talking
home and strengthening connecof ancestors back home for a brief
ebrate with those who are still here
about the Seven Sisters. Learning
tions among the living. When asked time. But Matariki acts as a final
with us."
Chyvaurne Tuhou
about the meaning of Matariki al-"We acknowledge them, we think
about them, we talk about themand then that acknowledgement
allows them to release their spirit
and they go back up to the Seven
Sisters."
Chyvaurne Tuhou

8

Nagoya University of Foreign Studies

December, 2023

Science & Environment
By Finley D. CHADWICKO'LEARY, Eunwoo JEONG
and Mone V. B. REID-WRIGHTT

he international community
has been witnessing a polarized debate surrounding therelease of treated water from the
Fukushima nuclear plant, stemming from the 2011 Tōhoku earthquake that caused a nuclear disaster. Despite numerous scientists
asserting that the water is safe for
consumption, skepticism persists,
fueled by political maneuvers andselective concerns from various governments.

Polarized Global Perspec ves
T

F

W

R

cause issues to the fishing industry
as its reputation will take a hit. The
government has promised that any
financial impact on the fishing industry will be reimbursed by thenational government.
Japan’s Prime Minister, Fumio Kishida has promised a high level oftransparency. Leaflets, television
broadcasts and internet campaigns
have been a few of the many waysthat the government has been keeping the Japanese population informed about the situation.
The Japanese government has
tried repeatedly to change public
opinion in countries which denounce the release on the worldstage. The state media corporationsof China and Russia often use“buzz” words to interest readers and draw attention to thearticle. They use words suchas “toxic” or “irresponsible”
when discussing the releaseof the treated water. Thishas made the general publicfeel worried about the safetyof the water, and anger towards the Japanese government.

In the wake of the Japanese government's third release of Fukushima treated water between the 2nd
Interview with Prof. Ichiro Yamamoto=Nagoya University of Arts and Sciencesand 20th of November, thediscourse surrounding its
potential environmental
impact has sparked extensive commentary. Despite
this discourse, experts inthe field, such as Professor
Jim Smith of the Universityof Portsmouth, and Professor Ichiro Yamamoto of the
Nagoya University of Arts
and Sciences, assert thatthe tritiated water, chemiChinese state-run media
cally identical to regularoutlets ran multiple paid adwater, is virtually impossivertisements on social media,
which denounced the disble to separate. Professor
Smith emphasizes that the
charge of the treated water,
released water is “less thanin multiple countries and
1% of the Japanese limit for dislanguages. In China the pubAbove: Levels of discharge from Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant andcharge,” highlighting the stringent
lic were furious at the Japaother Japanese power plants comparednese government. Multiple
measures employed. At less thanto others in East Asia Right: Compari1500 Becquerels per litre (bq/L), the son of tri um concentra ons
Japanese schools were vanwater’s tritium levels fall over 6.67
dalized and shops in Japan(Both graphics from Ministry of Econotimes below the World Health Orwere pounded with spam
my, Trade and Industry materials)
ganization’s (WHO) drinking water
calls. These actions led to the
Yamamoto, the chairperson of thelimit of 10,000 bq/L.
Japanese government calling
Subcommittee on the Handling ofon a Chinese diplomat to try
Both the International Atomic En- the ALPS-Treated Water, told us
to calm the situation.
ergy Agency (IAEA) and independ- that the water was tested by bothent scientists have assessed radiathe Japanese government and theIn the future, Japan shouldtion doses to be remarkably low,
IAEA and was found to contain lessConcentra on of try to improve their internaNa onal WHO standards
discharged ALPS tional relations by collaboratsafety
for drinking
negating any detrimental environthan 1500 bq/l of tritium. This istreated water
standard
water
mental impact. Professor Smithing with the countries that
only 15% of the WHO’s level for safe
underlines this, stating, “There isdrinking water and is only a fracaccuses Japan of being a “saboteur have criticized them by writing joint
more natural radiation in the fishtion of the national safety standof the ecological system and polluter standards for the release of nuclear
than chemical.” Despite the wideard’s 60,000 bq/l limit.
of the ocean,” while failing to adby-products or by inviting inspecspread media coverage and local
dress its own practices. The IAEA,
tors from these countries to oversee
However, amidst these scientificconcerns, the data suggests that thethe release of the treated water.
after a two-year review, supports
assurances, the political game surAfter the meltdown of the Chernotreated water poses no significant
Japan’s plans, deeming them conrounding the Fukushima treatedthreat to the oceans’ ecosystems.
sistent with global safety standards byl Nuclear Power Plant in Pripyat,
water release is increasingly eviand asserting a “negligible radiolog- Ukraine tried their best to improve
In comparison to other countries,
dent. China, a vocal critic, conical impact to people and the envitheir public perception. They did
Japan’s approach to releasing triti- demns the discharge, with its cusronment.” In response, the Chinese this by allowing collaboration of
ated water appears notably cautoms agency expressing concerns
multiple countries in order to help
foreign ministry expresses regret
tious. Remarkably, these releases
about the “radioactive contaminawith the cleanup effort and developover the IAEA’s “hasty release” ofhave not resulted in any discernible tion of food safety.” China’s foreign
its report and warns Japan to bear ment of nuclear safety standards.
environmental impacts near theministry spokesperson, Wang
the consequences if it persists in its On the contrary, Japan has taken arespective discharge areas.
Wenbin stated that the act of recourse.
defensive approach to criticism fromleasing the water is an “extremely
The overarching message is clear:other countries. Despite the allegaselfish and irresponsible act,” sugProfessor Yamamoto says that bethe Fukushima treated water retions and hypocrisy, Japan may
gesting that the treated water from fore the release process, the Sublease adheres to rigorous standards,
need to collaborate with these counthe Fukushima Daiichi NPP is more committee on the Handling of theand the scientific evaluations assert
tries if they wish to improve theirdangerous than the water that is
ALPS-Treated Water called on the
no discernable impact on the envipublic relations with them. This
released by the Chinese nuclear
Japanese government to continuronment. It becomes imperative towould undoubtedly diffuse some ofpower plants, and therefore reously measure and monitor the tritdiscern the scientific reality fromthe tensions and anger directed toquires a different response.
ium levels of both the seawater andthe political rhetoric surrounding
wards the Japanese government
sea life. The results of this monitorthe issue, emphasizing the need for China’s condemnation extends toand people. Offering to work withing and measurement are still being
an evidence-based approach to units ban on Japanese seafood, citing
the Chinese government to collaboshared with the IAEA. The governderstanding and addressing conscientific concerns about water conrate on standards for the release ofment insists that the water is notcerns related to the Fukushima
tamination. Hong Kong authorities
nuclear by-products would be a wingoing to impact the local fishingtreated water release.
win for Japan, because it would reclaim that the seafood ban against
industry. Japan’s Prime Minister
Japan persists because they can notstrict the Chinese release of nuclear
Despite criticism from home andwas so adamant in his belief in thebe sure that radioactive substances,waste water. However, if they reabroad, the Japanese government
water that he even ate sashimi
other than tritium, are not present
fuse to work with Japan, then theyhas made consistent assurances
made from fish caught in the waters
in fish that is caught in Japanese
will be seen as hypocritical for conthat the release of the treated waterof Fukushima. However, the govwaters.
demning Japan but not working tofrom Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear
ernment understands that the refix the issue.
Power Plant is safe. Professor
The hypocrisy deepens as Chinalease of the treated water will still