Glossary
Academic Achievement
The extent to which a student has attained their educational goals. It becomes a primary focus from middle school onwards in Japan, driven by competitive entrance exams.
Example:
Students often attend cram schools to boost their academic achievement and secure a spot in top high schools.
Aging (Societal Trend)
The demographic phenomenon where the median age of a population rises due to increasing life expectancy and/or declining birth rates, leading to a larger proportion of older individuals.
Example:
Japan's rapid aging population presents challenges for its social security and healthcare systems.
Community (in volunteerism context)
A group of people living in the same place or having a particular characteristic in common. In Japan, there's a strong sense of responsibility towards one's local and national community, often expressed through volunteerism.
Example:
After the earthquake, the entire community rallied together to help those affected, showcasing strong social bonds.
Company Loyalty
A strong sense of allegiance and commitment to one's employer. This is a traditional value in Japanese work culture, often leading to long-term employment.
Example:
Many employees demonstrate deep company loyalty by dedicating their entire careers to a single firm.
Conformity
Behavior that matches the norms or expectations of a group. In Japanese middle schools, there can be a strong emphasis on fitting in with peer groups.
Example:
To avoid standing out, many students felt pressure towards conformity in their fashion choices and hobbies.
Consensus-building
A process of reaching a general agreement among a group, where all members feel their views have been considered. This is a common approach in Japanese decision-making.
Example:
Before making a major decision, the company engaged in extensive consensus-building to ensure everyone was on board.
Continuous Improvement
An ongoing effort to enhance products, services, or processes. This concept, known as Kaizen, is deeply embedded in Japanese work culture and business practices.
Example:
The factory implemented a system of continuous improvement, constantly seeking small ways to make production more efficient.
Critical Thinking Skills
The ability to analyze information objectively and make reasoned judgments. This is increasingly emphasized in Japanese middle school education.
Example:
Debates in class encourage students to develop their critical thinking skills by evaluating different perspectives.
Depopulation
A significant decline in the population of a specific area, often seen in rural regions of Japan due to people moving to cities.
Example:
Some remote villages in Japan are facing severe depopulation, with many homes left empty.
Group Harmony
A core value in Japanese society emphasizing collective well-being and smooth interpersonal relations over individual desires. It often involves avoiding conflict and maintaining a peaceful atmosphere.
Example:
During a class project, everyone worked together to ensure the presentation was perfect, demonstrating a strong sense of group harmony.
Group Identity
A sense of belonging and shared purpose within a collective, particularly emphasized in Japanese elementary education. It fosters cooperation and a feeling of unity among students.
Example:
Through shared responsibilities like serving lunch, elementary students develop a strong group identity.
Group Success
The achievement of goals or positive outcomes by a collective rather than an individual. In Japan, this is often prioritized over individual recognition, especially in professional settings.
Example:
The company celebrated the project's completion as a testament to group success, acknowledging everyone's contribution.
Harmony (in relationships)
A state of agreement or concord, especially in interpersonal interactions. Maintaining harmony is highly valued in Japanese relationships, often leading to conflict avoidance.
Example:
To maintain harmony within the team, members often prioritize consensus over individual opinions.
High School and College Entrance Exams
Highly competitive examinations that determine a student's admission to desired high schools and universities in Japan. They are a major source of academic pressure.
Example:
The pressure to perform well on high school and college entrance exams can be intense for Japanese students.
Independent Learning
A method or process where learners take initiative and responsibility for their own learning. It is a key focus in Japanese high school education.
Example:
For their final project, students were encouraged to pursue independent learning on a topic of their choice.
Individual Achievement
The recognition and success of a single person's efforts or accomplishments. While valued, it is often balanced with the importance of group harmony in Japanese society.
Example:
Even though Ken won the top prize in the science fair, he humbly credited his team for their support, balancing his individual achievement with group recognition.
Jポップ (J-pop)
Japanese popular music, known for its catchy melodies and diverse styles, often featured in anime and dramas.
Example:
Many students enjoy listening to Jポップ to immerse themselves in contemporary Japanese culture.
Low Birth Rates
A demographic trend characterized by a decrease in the average number of children born per woman, contributing to population decline and aging.
Example:
The government is implementing new policies to combat the persistent low birth rates in the country.
Moral and Character Education
Instruction aimed at developing ethical values, good behavior, and personal integrity. It is a significant component of the Japanese elementary school curriculum.
Example:
Lessons on honesty and respect for elders are central to moral and character education in Japanese schools.
Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB)
Japan's premier professional baseball league, featuring top teams and players from across the country.
Example:
Many talented players from the Nippon Professional Baseball league go on to play in Major League Baseball.
Research
Systematic investigation into a topic to establish facts or reach new conclusions. It is an important aspect of independent learning in Japanese high schools.
Example:
The science club spent months conducting research for their entry into the national competition.
Respect (in relationships)
A feeling of deep admiration for someone or something elicited by their abilities, qualities, or achievements. It is a cornerstone of Japanese relationships, particularly in hierarchical settings.
Example:
Showing respect for elders and superiors is a fundamental aspect of Japanese etiquette.
Social Responsibility
The obligation of individuals and organizations to act in ways that benefit society at large. In Japan, this often translates into active participation in volunteer efforts.
Example:
Many companies encourage their employees to engage in activities that demonstrate social responsibility, such as environmental clean-ups.
Social Skills
Abilities needed to interact and communicate effectively with others. These are a key focus in Japanese elementary education, promoting harmonious group interactions.
Example:
Learning to resolve minor conflicts peacefully with classmates helps children develop essential social skills.
Specialized Curriculum
A course of study designed for a specific field or area of knowledge. Japanese high schools often offer these, allowing students to focus on humanities, science, or vocational training.
Example:
The high school offered a specialized curriculum in engineering for students aspiring to technical careers.
Student-Centered Learning
An educational approach where the student is at the center of the learning process, with activities and instruction tailored to their needs and interests. Japanese education is shifting towards this model.
Example:
Instead of just lectures, the teacher incorporated more group discussions and projects, promoting student-centered learning.
Training and Development
Programs and opportunities provided by companies to enhance employees' skills, knowledge, and professional growth. These are extensive in Japanese corporations.
Example:
The company invested heavily in training and development programs to keep its employees updated with the latest technologies.
Urbanization
The process by which an increasing proportion of a country's population comes to live in urban areas, often leading to increased isolation in cities.
Example:
Many young people move to Tokyo for job opportunities, contributing to rapid urbanization in Japan.
Work Ethic
A belief in the moral benefit and importance of work and its inherent ability to strengthen character. Japanese culture is known for its strong work ethic, emphasizing diligence and dedication.
Example:
Her strong work ethic meant she often stayed late to ensure all tasks were completed perfectly.
おせち料理 (おせちりょうり)
Traditional New Year's dishes, prepared in advance and packed in special tiered boxes, with each item symbolizing wishes for the coming year.
Example:
Families gather to enjoy おせち料理 on New Year's Day, savoring dishes like black beans for health and rolled omelets for scholarship.
お祭り (おまつり)
Japanese festivals, often held to honor gods, celebrate harvests, or mark seasonal changes, featuring parades, music, and special foods.
Example:
During summer, vibrant お祭り are held across Japan, with people wearing yukata and enjoying street food.
お雑煮 (おぞうに)
A traditional New Year's soup containing mochi (rice cakes), with recipes varying significantly by region.
Example:
Every family has their own unique recipe for お雑煮, reflecting regional ingredients and preferences.
アニメ (anime)
Japanese animation, recognized globally for its distinctive art styles and diverse genres.
Example:
Many students discover Japanese culture through popular アニメ series like 'Demon Slayer' or 'My Hero Academia'.
アニメ (anime)
Japanese animation, characterized by distinctive art styles and often exploring diverse genres and themes.
Example:
Many students discover Japanese culture through popular アニメ series like 'Demon Slayer' or 'My Hero Academia'.
アプリ (apps)
Software applications designed to run on mobile devices or computers, providing specific functionalities.
Example:
There are many useful アプリ for learning Japanese, from dictionary apps to flashcard programs.
インスタ映え (Insta-worthy)
A Japanese term referring to something that is visually appealing and highly suitable for sharing on Instagram, often driving tourism to specific locations or experiences.
Example:
The vibrant cherry blossoms in spring are incredibly インスタ映え, attracting countless photographers.
エンターテイメント業界 (entertainment industry)
The sector encompassing various forms of entertainment, including anime, manga, video games, and music, which has been significantly impacted by digital technology in Japan.
Example:
Japan's エンターテイメント業界 is globally renowned for its innovative anime and video games.
オンラインショッピング (online shopping)
The act of purchasing goods or services over the internet, typically through e-commerce websites or apps.
Example:
オンラインショッピング has become incredibly popular in Japan, with platforms like Rakuten and Amazon dominating the market.
オンライン予約 (online booking)
The process of reserving services or products, such as hotel rooms, flights, or restaurant tables, through the internet.
Example:
Thanks to オンライン予約, I can secure my spot at the ramen shop even before arriving in Tokyo.
オンライン旅行会社 (Online travel agencies)
Digital platforms that allow users to search for and book various travel services, such as flights, hotels, and tours, over the internet.
Example:
Instead of visiting a physical travel agent, many students use オンライン旅行会社 like Expedia or Booking.com to plan their trips.
オンライン旅行手配 (online travel arrangements)
The comprehensive process of organizing and securing all aspects of a trip, such as flights, accommodation, and activities, using digital platforms.
Example:
The pandemic led to a surge in オンライン旅行手配 as people preferred to plan their trips from home.
オンライン配信サービス (online streaming services)
Digital platforms that deliver media content, such as movies, TV shows, music, and live events, over the internet.
Example:
Thanks to オンライン配信サービス, you can watch the latest Japanese dramas from anywhere in the world.
ガラケー (flip phones)
Traditional Japanese mobile phones, often characterized by a clamshell design and basic functionalities, preceding the widespread adoption of smartphones.
Example:
Before 2008, ガラケー were the dominant mobile phones in Japan, known for their unique features.
コロナ禍 (koronaka: the coronavirus pandemic)
Refers to the period and societal impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which significantly influenced work styles and daily life.
Example:
During the コロナ禍, many businesses adopted remote work policies to ensure employee safety.
スタートアップ企業 (startups)
Newly established companies, often characterized by innovation and rapid growth potential, particularly in technology sectors.
Example:
Many スタートアップ企業 in Japan are focusing on developing new sports tech solutions.
スポーツテック (Sports Tech)
The integration of sports and technology to enhance athletic performance, improve sports environments, and develop advanced equipment.
Example:
Wearable devices that track an athlete's performance data are a prime example of スポーツテック.
スマホ (smartphones)
Mobile phones that offer advanced computing capabilities and connectivity, becoming essential tools for daily life in Japan.
Example:
From navigation to online shopping, your スマホ is an indispensable tool for daily life in Japan.
ソーシャルメディア (social media)
Web-based platforms that enable users to create and share content or participate in social networking.
Example:
ソーシャルメディア platforms like Instagram and Twitter are crucial for sharing travel experiences and connecting with friends.
タブレット端末 (tablets)
Portable personal computers, typically with a touchscreen interface, used for various purposes including media consumption and communication.
Example:
Watching live sports on a タブレット端末 has become a popular way to follow games on the go.
ツアーの予約 (tour bookings)
The act of reserving a spot on an organized guided tour, which can be done online or through a travel agency.
Example:
To ensure you get a spot on the popular Mount Fuji climbing excursion, it's wise to make your ツアーの予約 early.
テレワーク (terework: remote work)
A work arrangement where employees perform their duties from a location other than the traditional office, often from home, utilizing technology.
Example:
テレワーク has become a common practice, allowing employees more flexibility and reducing commute times.
トラベルテック (Travel Tech)
Technology-driven services and products within the travel industry, encompassing digital tools for planning, booking, payment, transportation, accommodation, sightseeing, and local information.
Example:
Using an app to book your bullet train tickets and find local restaurants in Kyoto is an example of トラベルテック in action.
ネットスーパー (online grocery stores)
Online services that allow customers to order groceries for home delivery, offered by supermarkets, convenience stores, and specialty shops.
Example:
During busy weeks, using a ネットスーパー to get groceries delivered saves a lot of time.
バーチャルリアリティ (virtual reality)
A simulated experience that can be similar to or completely different from the real world, often used in entertainment and training.
Example:
During the pandemic, many concerts shifted to バーチャルリアリティ platforms to allow fans to attend remotely.
ビデオゲーム (video games)
Electronic games played on a screen, with Japan being a major innovator and producer in the global gaming industry.
Example:
Japan is famous for creating iconic ビデオゲーム franchises like 'Super Mario' and 'Pokémon'.
ビデオゲーム (video games)
Electronic games played on a screen, a major part of Japan's entertainment and technology landscape.
Example:
Japan is famous worldwide for its innovative ビデオゲーム developers and iconic franchises.
ライブ配信 (live streaming)
The real-time transmission of video and audio content over the internet, commonly used for events, concerts, and gaming.
Example:
Many Japanese artists use ライブ配信 to connect with their global fanbase during online concerts.
ワークライフバランス (Work-Life Balance)
The concept of achieving a healthy equilibrium between professional responsibilities and personal life, including family, leisure, and self-care.
Example:
More Japanese companies are now promoting ワークライフバランス to improve employee well-being and productivity.
一汁三菜 (いちじゅうさんさい)
The traditional ideal Japanese meal style, consisting of one soup and three side dishes, promoting nutritional balance.
Example:
A typical healthy Japanese home meal often follows the 一汁三菜 principle, offering a variety of flavors and nutrients.
中学校 (Chūgakkō)
Japanese middle school, typically covering grades 7-9. This stage emphasizes academic achievement, critical thinking, and preparation for high school entrance exams.
Example:
Students in 中学校 often spend long hours studying for competitive entrance exams to their desired high schools.
人工知能 (AI)
Artificial intelligence, the simulation of human intelligence processes by machines, especially computer systems.
Example:
Many smart home devices in Japan use 人工知能 for voice control and personalized recommendations.
仕事 (Shigoto)
The Japanese word for work or job.
Example:
After graduating, he immediately started looking for a 仕事 in the IT industry.
伊達巻 (だてまき)
A sweet rolled omelet, often included in Osechi Ryori, symbolizing knowledge and scholarship.
Example:
The fluffy, sweet texture of 伊達巻 makes it a favorite part of the New Year's feast.
伝統芸能 (でんとうげいのう)
Traditional performing arts in Japan, passed down through generations, emphasizing historical and cultural customs.
Example:
When studying Japanese culture, understanding 伝統芸能 like Noh and Kabuki is essential to grasp the nation's artistic heritage.
体育 (たいいく)
Physical education, a required subject in Japanese schools that promotes physical fitness and discipline.
Example:
During 体育 class, students participate in various sports and exercises, often including traditional Japanese martial arts elements.
体験 (experiences)
Activities or events that individuals participate in, often sought after by travelers for their unique cultural or personal value.
Example:
Travelers to Japan often seek authentic 体験 like tea ceremonies or traditional craft workshops.
公立 (Kōritsu)
Refers to public institutions, typically schools, funded by the government.
Example:
Most Japanese children attend 公立 elementary schools in their local neighborhoods.
出世 (しゅっせ: career advancement)
The traditional emphasis on climbing the corporate ladder and achieving higher positions within a company.
Example:
While 出世 was once the primary goal for many, younger generations are now prioritizing personal fulfillment over rapid career advancement.
出生率の低下 (shusseiritsu no teika: declining birthrate)
The decrease in the average number of live births per woman, directly impacting the size of the future workforce and increasing healthcare costs.
Example:
The 出生率の低下 is a critical concern for Japan's economic stability and social welfare system.
剣道 (けんどう)
A modern Japanese martial art of sword-fighting, using bamboo swords (shinai) and protective armor (bogu).
Example:
The sharp shouts and swift strikes are characteristic of a competitive 剣道 match.
副業 (ふくぎょう: side jobs)
Additional employment or work undertaken alongside one's primary job, often for extra income or to pursue personal interests.
Example:
Many people are taking on 副業 to supplement their income or explore new skills outside their main profession.
勉強 (Benkyō)
The Japanese word for studies or studying.
Example:
He spends many hours every day on his 勉強 to prepare for the exams.
卒業 (Sotsugyō)
The act of graduating from a school or university.
Example:
Her family celebrated her 卒業 from high school with a special dinner.
和 (Wa)
A fundamental Japanese concept meaning harmony, peace, and unity. It is crucial in understanding Japanese relationships and societal interactions.
Example:
The concept of 和 is deeply ingrained in Japanese culture, influencing everything from business negotiations to family dynamics.
和食 (わしょく)
Traditional Japanese food culture, registered as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage, known for its emphasis on fresh ingredients, nutritional balance, and seasonal presentation.
Example:
和食 is celebrated worldwide for its healthy and artful presentation, often incorporating seasonal ingredients.
団体旅行 (group tours)
Travel arrangements where a group of people travels together, often with a fixed itinerary and guided by a tour leader.
Example:
While popular with older generations, younger travelers are increasingly opting for individual trips over traditional 団体旅行.
大手企業 (major companies)
Large, established corporations with significant market presence and resources.
Example:
Even 大手企業 are investing heavily in the burgeoning sports tech market.
学期 (Gakki)
The Japanese word for a school term or semester.
Example:
The new 学期 begins in April, marking the start of the academic year.
学校 (Gakkō)
The general Japanese word for school.
Example:
Every morning, children walk to 学校 with their friends.
専門店 (specialty stores)
Retail outlets that focus on selling a specific category of products, such as electronics, books, or clothing.
Example:
Some 専門店 are adapting to the digital age by offering their unique products through e-commerce.
小学校 (Shōgakkō)
Japanese elementary school, typically covering grades 1-6. It focuses heavily on developing social skills, group identity, and moral education.
Example:
In 小学校, students learn not just academics but also how to cooperate by cleaning their classrooms together.
少子化 (しょうしか: Declining Birthrate)
A major societal issue in Japan characterized by a sustained decrease in the number of births, leading to a shrinking and aging population.
Example:
The government is actively seeking solutions to address 少子化 and its long-term economic impact.
少子化対策 (shoshika taisaku: policies to promote childbirth)
Government initiatives and measures implemented to encourage higher birth rates, such as financial incentives, improved childcare, and parental leave.
Example:
The new 少子化対策 aims to provide more support for families raising children, including subsidies for childcare.
就職 (Shūshoku)
The act of finding employment or getting a job.
Example:
Many university students begin their 就職 search long before graduation.
山車 (だし)
Elaborately decorated floats pulled during Japanese festivals, often featuring intricate carvings, puppets, or musicians.
Example:
The Gion Matsuri in Kyoto is famous for its massive and beautiful 山車 that parade through the city streets.
恵方巻き (えほうまき)
A lucky sushi roll eaten whole and in silence while facing a specific auspicious direction on Setsubun, believed to bring good fortune.
Example:
Eating 恵方巻き without stopping or speaking is a fun and superstitious tradition during Setsubun.
教育 (Kyōiku)
The Japanese word for education, referring to the entire system and process of learning and schooling in Japan.
Example:
Japan's 教育 system is renowned for its rigorous academic standards and emphasis on discipline.
文武両道 (ぶんぶりょうどう)
The concept of balancing academic excellence with proficiency in martial arts or sports, emphasizing a well-rounded individual.
Example:
Japanese schools often encourage students to pursue 文武両道, excelling in both their studies and extracurricular activities.
旅行業界 (travel industry)
The sector of the economy dedicated to providing services for travelers, including transportation, accommodation, tour operators, and related businesses.
Example:
The 旅行業界 in Japan is constantly innovating to attract more international visitors.
既読 (read)
A feature in messaging apps, notably LINE, that indicates when a recipient has read a message.
Example:
The 既読 feature on LINE became crucial after the 2011 earthquake, allowing people to confirm their loved ones' safety.
日本舞踊 (にほんぶよう)
Traditional Japanese dance, often performed with intricate movements and expressive storytelling.
Example:
A skilled 日本舞踊 performer can convey deep emotions through subtle hand gestures and body posture.
晩婚 (ばんこん: delayed marriage)
The trend of individuals marrying at an older age than previous generations, contributing to lower birth rates.
Example:
Increased educational and career opportunities for women have contributed to the rise of 晩婚 in Japan.
未婚 (みこん: unmarried individuals)
Refers to the increasing number of people who remain unmarried, which is a factor in the declining birthrate.
Example:
The growing number of 未婚 individuals reflects changing attitudes towards marriage and family in modern society.
柔道 (じゅうどう)
A modern Japanese martial art and Olympic sport that focuses on throws, grappling, and submission techniques.
Example:
In 柔道, practitioners aim to use an opponent's weight and momentum against them.
根回し (Nemawashi)
An informal process of quietly laying the groundwork for a proposal or decision by talking to all relevant parties beforehand. It is a crucial aspect of consensus-building in Japan.
Example:
Before the official meeting, Mr. Tanaka engaged in 根回し by speaking individually with key stakeholders to gather support for his idea.
格安航空会社 (budget airlines)
Airlines that offer lower fares by reducing certain services and amenities, making air travel more accessible and affordable.
Example:
Traveling within Japan has become much cheaper due to the rise of 格安航空会社.
歌舞伎 (かぶき)
A classical Japanese dance-drama known for its elaborate costumes, dramatic makeup (kumadori), and stylized performances.
Example:
The vibrant stage, exaggerated movements, and striking makeup make a 歌舞伎 show an unforgettable experience.
武道 (ぶどう)
Traditional Japanese martial arts, emphasizing not only physical training but also mental discipline, respect, and spiritual development, rooted in the samurai spirit and Zen philosophy.
Example:
Practicing 武道 like Judo or Kendo teaches discipline and respect, not just fighting techniques.
漫画 (manga)
Japanese comics and graphic novels, known for their unique artistic conventions and wide range of genres.
Example:
Reading 漫画 is a great way to improve your Japanese reading skills and learn about Japanese storytelling.
漫画 (まんが)
Japanese comics and graphic novels, covering a wide range of subjects and appealing to all ages.
Example:
Reading 漫画 is a great way to improve your Japanese reading skills while enjoying captivating stories.
煮しめ (にしめ)
A dish of various vegetables and sometimes seafood stewed together in a dashi-based broth, often part of Osechi Ryori.
Example:
The savory and comforting flavors of 煮しめ are a staple in many Japanese households during New Year's.
狂言 (きょうげん)
A form of traditional Japanese comic theater, performed as an interlude during Noh plays, focusing on the humorous aspects of ordinary life.
Example:
After a serious Noh act, a lively 狂言 piece about a mischievous servant often brings laughter to the audience.
現地情報 (local info)
Information pertaining to a specific geographic location, including details about attractions, dining, transportation, and cultural norms, often accessed via digital platforms.
Example:
When exploring a new city, a good travel app provides essential 現地情報 about nearby temples and popular eateries.
生徒、学生 (Seito, Gakusei)
Both terms refer to students. 生徒 (Seito) is typically used for students in elementary, middle, and high school, while 学生 (Gakusei) is generally used for college or university students.
Example:
The 生徒 gathered in the schoolyard for morning assembly, while the 学生 were busy studying in the university library.
百貨店 (department stores)
Large retail establishments offering a wide range of consumer goods, often organized into departments.
Example:
The rise of online shopping has raised concerns about the future sustainability of traditional 百貨店.
神 (かみ)
Deities or spirits in the Shinto religion, often associated with natural elements, ancestors, or specific places.
Example:
Japanese people often feel the presence of 神 in beautiful natural landscapes like mountains and forests.
神輿 (みこし)
Portable shrines carried during Japanese festivals, believed to temporarily house a deity.
Example:
The energetic procession of people carrying a heavy 神輿 is a highlight of many local festivals.
私立 (Shiritsu)
Refers to private institutions, typically schools, funded by private organizations or tuition fees.
Example:
Some parents choose to send their children to 私立 schools for their specialized programs or smaller class sizes.
節分 (せつぶん)
The Bean-Throwing Festival, celebrated on the day before the beginning of spring in Japan, to drive away evil spirits and invite good luck.
Example:
During 節分, families throw roasted soybeans out their doors while chanting 'Demons out, good luck in!'
紅白なます (こうはくなます)
A pickled salad of shredded daikon radish and carrots, colored red and white, symbolizing celebration and good fortune, often served in Osechi Ryori.
Example:
The crisp texture and refreshing taste of 紅白なます provide a nice contrast to other rich New Year's dishes.
職場 (Shokuba)
The Japanese word for workplace or office.
Example:
Maintaining good relationships with colleagues is important in the Japanese 職場.
職業 (Shokugyō)
The Japanese word for profession or occupation.
Example:
What 職業 do you aspire to have in the future?
能 (のう)
The main part of Noh theater, characterized by its use of masks and often featuring supernatural characters like gods, demons, ghosts, and spirits.
Example:
A performance of 能 might depict a tragic tale of a warrior's ghost seeking peace.
能楽 (のうがく)
A major form of classical Japanese musical drama, encompassing both Noh and Kyogen.
Example:
The intricate masks and slow, deliberate movements are hallmarks of 能楽 performances.
自然 (しぜん)
Nature; a fundamental concept in Japanese culture, deeply respected and often seen as imbued with spiritual significance.
Example:
The Japanese aesthetic often emphasizes harmony with 自然, reflected in gardens and traditional art.
航空券予約 (flight bookings)
The process of reserving and purchasing airplane tickets, often done digitally through online platforms or airline websites.
Example:
Before studying abroad, you'll need to complete your 航空券予約 well in advance to get the best price.
豆まき (まめまき)
The act of throwing roasted soybeans during the Setsubun festival to ward off evil spirits.
Example:
Children eagerly participate in 豆まき, shouting 'Oni wa soto, Fuku wa uchi!' as they throw beans.
過労死 (Karoushi)
A Japanese term meaning 'death from overwork.' It refers to fatalities caused by work-related stress, heart attacks, or strokes due to excessive working hours.
Example:
The government is implementing new policies to prevent 過労死 and promote healthier work-life balance.
選抜高校野球 (せんばつこうこうやきゅう) / 甲子園 (こうしえん)
The National High School Baseball Championship, a highly anticipated annual tournament held at Koshien Stadium, symbolizing teamwork, perseverance, and community spirit.
Example:
The summer 甲子園 tournament is a huge cultural event in Japan, captivating the entire nation with its dramatic high school baseball games.
郷土料理 (きょうどりょうり)
Regional specialties or local cuisine, unique dishes that reflect the ingredients and culinary traditions of a specific area in Japan.
Example:
When traveling, trying the local 郷土料理 like Hiroshima's Okonomiyaki or Okinawa's Goya Champuru is a must.
野球 (やきゅう)
Baseball, a highly popular sport in Japan, often considered the national pastime.
Example:
Going to a professional 野球 game in Japan is an exciting cultural experience, complete with unique cheering styles.
雅楽 (ががく)
Ancient Japanese court music and dance, considered the oldest form of music in Japan.
Example:
Listening to 雅楽 transports you back to the imperial courts of ancient Japan with its unique instrumental sounds.
音声操作 (voice-based operation)
The ability to control devices or systems using spoken commands, often powered by artificial intelligence.
Example:
With 音声操作, you can easily turn on your smart lights or play music without touching a button.
音楽 (music)
Musical compositions and performances, a significant component of the entertainment industry, increasingly distributed via online platforms.
Example:
Japanese pop 音楽 (J-Pop) has gained a large international following through streaming services.
高校 (Kōkō)
Japanese high school, typically covering grades 10-12. It offers specialized curricula and focuses on independent learning and preparation for higher education or careers.
Example:
After 中学校, many students choose a 高校 based on its academic reputation or vocational programs.
高齢化社会 (こうれいかしゃかい: Aging Population)
A society where the proportion of elderly people is significantly increasing, leading to various social, economic, and healthcare challenges.
Example:
Japan is a prime example of a 高齢化社会, facing unique challenges in supporting its growing senior demographic.
黒豆 (くろまめ)
Black soybeans, a common Osechi Ryori dish, symbolizing health and hard work for the new year.
Example:
Eating 黒豆 at New Year's is believed to bring good health and diligence throughout the year.