ht - october 2011.pdf
TRANSCRIPT
-
8/21/2019 HT - October 2011.pdf
1/48
23 9 20 20 25 30 0
10October
2011 No. 300
450
Japan to the WorldJapan to the WorldISSN 1348-7906
Aizuwakamatsu A Castle Town with an Abundanceof Greenery
Japan Moves
to Become aCultural Power
300Commemorative Issue
-
8/21/2019 HT - October 2011.pdf
2/48
-
8/21/2019 HT - October 2011.pdf
3/48
Topics & Events
October Issue Contents 10
Topics & Events 3-5
Spotlight, Social News
6-7
Feature
8-15
Insight into Japan
17-29
New Expressions & Buzzwords, Close Up Japan, Keys to
Understanding Japan, Japan Watching, Japanese History Makers
Visa Q&A Q&A 30
From the Editorial Desk
31
Cover Story 34-37
Japan Profiles 38-39
Masterpieces of Japanese Film & Animation, Japanese Fairy Tale
40-41
Challenging theKanji!
42-43
Japanese Cultural Understanding Test
44
Write the gift name, your name, address, gender, age, nationality and the article(s) you enjoyed in this issue and send it to usby postcard or e-mail. Competition closes October 5. Winners will be selected by lottery and receive gifts directly.
E
1 0
5
3
1,000
K
en K
atayama
CD
10
3
CD
1
The 1,000 Peoples Prayer Project has been put together in order
to support the reconstruction effort following the Great East Japan
Earthquake. Ken Katayamas song Inori (prayer) will be sung in cho-
rus and part of the proceeds from CD sales will be donated to charity.
Regardless of whether they are amateurs or professionals, chorus members
are being recruited to take part in the project. The deadline for applications
is October 3. The CD will be released next January.
1,000
1,000 Peoples Prayer Project Looking to Recruit Chorus Members
Recording venues:
Tokyo: October 4, Tsunohazu Kumin Hall
(Shinjuku Ward)
Osaka: October 13, Abeno Kumin Center (Abeno
Ward)Nagoya: October 14, Nagoya Eastern Culture
Little Theater (Higashi Ward)
10
4
10
13
10
14
www.maion.jp/INORI_info.htm
-
8/21/2019 HT - October 2011.pdf
4/48
4
Topics & Events
Jap@n Products
This decorative plant is also a natural deodorant. The black compost is made of bamboo charcoal and contains
living microbes (bacillus) that are activated by contact with water and air. They decompose and remove bad
smells in about two hours. As long as theres some natural l ight, you can leave it anywhere, anytime of the year.
There is a choice of three decorative plant varieties: sansevieria francisii, sansevieria bacularis and pachira. The
compost comes in two shapes: cylindrical or cubed. 2,480 yen.
2
3
2 2,480
Hibiya-Kadan Co., Ltd.
www.su-su-su.com/
10
1 9 2 6
4,000 8,000
Kyogen Meets the Magic Flute will be performed in
Osaka, Kitakyushu, Yokohama and Tokyo from October 19
to 26. The performance presents Mozarts Opera, The Magic
Flute as a kyogen (a traditional form of Japanese entertain-
ment). The speech is in Japanese, but you can understand the
story by the action as the music and scenario are the same as
the original opera. The music will be played by Blsersolisten
der Deutschen Kammerphilharmonie Bremen. Tickets cost
from 4,000 yen to 8,000 yen.
www.merit-enta.jp/
Magic Flute Adapted into a Kyogen
J
apan
c
reation s
pace m
onova
25
A new showroom has opened in Shinjuku, Tokyo, where
you can see outstanding Japanese products up close. The
Japan Creation Space Monova introduces products produced
by companies that make use of technology and materials from
different parts of Japan. From daily necessities like soap to
cloth for kimono, goods from about 25 companies are on dis-
play. Some of them are available to buy. Some limited period
displays are also featured. Entrance is free of charge.
www.monova-web.jp/
Outstanding Japanese Productson Display
S
USUSU
K.OGINO
-
8/21/2019 HT - October 2011.pdf
5/48
5
The Biggest Film Festival in Asia
24
1 0
2 2 3 0
2008
1,000 2,500
500
The 24th Tokyo International Film Festival, the biggest
film festival in Asia, will be held from October 22 to 30.Since 2008 the festivals theme has been ecology. This year,
in addition to that theme, therell also be activities to encour-
age support for victims of the Great East Japan Earthquake
such as fundraising and collecting messages from Japanese
and international celebrities. Films will be screened both at
Roppongi Hills, the main venue, and at other movie theaters
in Tokyo. Entrance for the general public: 1,000 yen to 2,500
yen. Students can see some films for 500 yen.
www.tiff-jp.net/
A manufacturer of sakehas launched a cosmetic product that utilizes sake. Sakeis
made from rice. This product was developed because sakemakers have smooth white
beautiful hands. Quite a few cosmetics based on rice bran and sake lees are on the
market, but products based on sakeitself are rare. Five types are available including:
Shuteki Joshi Aqua Moisture Gel (2,310 yen) and Shuteki Joshi Body Cream (1,575
yen).
2,310
1,575
5
Kiku-Masamune Sake Brewing Co., Ltd.
www.kikumasamune.co.jp/
Shuteki Joshi
6
200
A website that instructs users on how to play wadaiko
(Japanese drumming) in English has just been opened. The
teacher is KAGEYAMA Isaku, a wadaiko player who gives
concerts all over the world. The $200 course lasts for six
months. Full of tips and advice about technique, the content
is updated once a month. One months free trial is available.
Your questions in English will be answered personally.
www.loopto.com/taikolessons
Website Teaches How to Play Wadaikoin English
2011 TIFF
Gift for 2 people, a set including Aqua Moisture Gel and Body Cream.
1
2
-
8/21/2019 HT - October 2011.pdf
6/48
competition is open until September 30. The best personal,
heartwarming story that wins the contest will be made into an
episode to be aired August 2012 (TBA).
9
30
8
www.fusosha.co.jp
The Wonderfu l World of Sazae-san byHASEGAWA Machiko started out in 1946 as
a four-panel newspaper comic strip. This year
Sazae-san celebrates its 65th anniversary. In 1969, Fuji TV
Network began airing an animeversion and the series still
continues today. It is so popular that every Japanese person is
familiar with the everyday life of Sazae-san a rather clumsy
but kind character and her family, whose appeal spans gen-
erations. All the characters that appear in this series are named
after objects related to the sea.
1946
65
1969
3
Last July, the first official book titled Sazae-de
Gozaimasu: Anime Sazae-san Koshiki Dai-zukan (Official
Picture Guide to Anime Sazae-san) was published and has
rapidly sold over a hundred thousand copies. The officialguide includes a family tree, behind the scenes information
about the TV production, a board game and coloring pages.
7
10
To commemorate the release of the book, the Anata-mo
Yappari Sazae-san (you are also a Sazae-san) Campaign
6
Spotlight
Spotlight
Currently the Prime Minister is NODA Yoshihiko
Two years ago the Democratic Party of Japan was born,
replacing the Liberal Democratic Party that had been in power
for about a half century. However, the party has not honored
its pledges made two years ago during their election campaign
and both Prime Minister HATOYAMA Yukio and KAN Naoto
resigned after having only served terms of approximately
one year. The key to whether Mr. Noda can establish a stable
regime depends on whether he can gain cooperation from Mr.
OZAWA Ichiro who leads the largest group in the party, a
group that Mr. Noda has had confrontations with in the past.
Ozawa is now involved in a financial scandal and is being
Social News
First Ofcial Book of the Sazae-san AnimeSeries
Sazae-de Gozaimasu:
Anime Sazae-san Koshiki Dai-zukan (Animated Sazae-san Official Picture Guide)
Fusosha Publishing Inc. 1,365 yen.Japanese only.
1,365
Gift for 2 people
2
-
8/21/2019 HT - October 2011.pdf
7/487
Sung and danced by the actors who played the twins,
ASHIDA Mana and SUZUKI Fuku, the theme song Maru
Maru Mori Mori! was a big hit. After listening to the songjust once, kids became hooked and wanted to learn the dance
moves. The song was much discussed as many children sang
and danced along to it at both home and school.
www.universal-music.co.jp/
The DVD box set of Marumo no Okite will be
released on September 21. This TV drama was
broadcast from April to July this year on Fuji TVnetwork. Popular with all ages, this story will make you
laugh and cry.
9
21
DVD
4
7
TAKAGI Mamoru is a single guy who works for a
stationery manufacturer. Mamoru gets custody of twinsKaoru and Tomoki after the death of SASAKURA
Junichiro, their father and Mamorus close friend who
had been raising them on his own. Even though the
young twins give him a hard time, Mamoru overcomes
all obstacles and ends up with a true family.
The twins find a dog and take it home. The dog is called
Mook and plays an important role in the story. It can talk to
humans. While it watches tenderly over the young twins, its
strict with their foster parent, Mamoru. It encourages and
scolds Mamoru and becomes a reliable friend.
sued. But he created the two-party system in Japan. In order to
successfully hold the party together, Mr. Noda is considerate
of Ozawas group. He admits that he has a sober appearance
and calls himself a dojouloach (a fish that has a plain appear-
ance). He says, I cannot be a goldfish. I will my do best as a
dojou.
2
1
Marumo no Okite (Marumos Rules) Released on DVD
DVD
Marumo no Okite
DVD-BOX-SET
23,940 yen.
Japanese only.
DVD-BOX
23,940
-
8/21/2019 HT - October 2011.pdf
8/48
This months Hiragana Times is our 300th edition of
the magazine. Back in 1986 when the first Hiragana
Times was published, the Japanese economy was at
its peak, and Japan was almost as great an economic power
as the USA. Its now 25 years later and Japan has changed
greatly after experiencing the failure of the bubble economy,
the Leman shock and the Great East Japan Earthquake. On
the other hand, with the economic success of Asian countries
(especially China), the world faces a new age.
300
1986
25
While corporations from advanced countries moved their
manufacturing overseas, the economies of those nations suf-
fered and unemployment rates soared. Because of this, in
place of manufacturing, many nations seeking fresh sources
of income, instead depended on finance deals. However, as a
result, many nations including the USA are experiencing the
same conditions Japan did after the economic bubble burst.
This year Japans GDP ranking fell from second to third
place in the world after the USA and China. Under these
circumstances, Japanese values have been changing. It has
become apparent from surveys that the numbers of Japanese
who place greater importance on a spiritually rich existence
rather than materially rich life achieved within a competitive
society are increasing.
8
300 Special Issue300 Special Issue
Japan Moves to Become a Cultural Power
-
8/21/2019 HT - October 2011.pdf
9/489
One of the main reasons for this is that most Japanese now enjoy
a comfortable standard of living. The majority of Japanese families
possess basic necessities such as electrical appliances or cars, while
facilities like railroads and convenience stores are well developed.
Japanese are now seeking a cultural environment which will enrich
their spirit.
The unique quality of Japanese culture seems to lie in its refined
aesthetics. For instance, Japanese cuisine is not only delicious but is
presented on exquisite dishes, resulting in wonderful color combina-
tions and the good manners of waiting staff also add to its charm.
Taken as a whole, these details lift dining to the level of a beautiful
work of art.
Thus the elegance of Japanese culture can be seen in traditional
arts, architecture, manufactured goods and more. This comes from
the tireless quest for improvement typical to the Japanese, often
reflected in the punctuality of Japans transportation systems and in
the unparalleled hospitality found in ryokan.
Japans government is hoping that Cool Japan cultural property
born out of this perfectionism will be a new source of growth fol-
lowing in the footsteps of the manufacturing industries. Animeand
manga is already well-known, and Japanese cuisine is also well
received worldwide. Recently the standard of service found in hair-
dressers and ryokanis also making waves abroad.
Cool Japan is now gaining ground overseas, especially in
Europe, the USA and Asia. Hiragana Times has asked foreign read-
ers what they found appealing about Japan. Many of the replies cited
the variety and tastiness of Japanese food, they also cited customerorientated hospitality including the friendly smiles and useful advice
received from shop assistants.
300
-
8/21/2019 HT - October 2011.pdf
10/4810
Also many cited the convenience and punctuality of the public
transportation system, good public order, Japanese standards of
hygiene, and the nations strong moral code. Rebecca, an artist from
Australia says, I like the fact that stores can leave items for sale out
on the street with almost no fear of theft. The fact that I can walk
home by myself at 5 am wearing a short skirt and more-or-less feel
safe in doing so. The fact that I can leave my bag on a train and have
it back in ten minutes untouched.
5
10
Among the replies, Japanese kindness was cited most often.
Chinese student LUO Cheng Hua said, When I ask someone for
directions, they kindly tell me by pointing or writing them on a sheet
of paper. I am thankful to the person who showed me how to buy a
ticket when I took a train for the first time. Many non-Japanese are
bewitched by Japanese culture (see page 13 ~ 15).
13 15
This October, the first Japanese Culture & Language
Understanding Evaluation by the Japanese Culture & Language
Understanding Board is scheduled to be held in Tokyo. It is hoped
that the evaluation will have an important role to play in promoting
Japanese culture overseas.
10
1
Culture Day, on November 3 (this is a national holiday), encour-
ages Japanese people to enjoy their native culture. Many events take
place a few weeks before and after the day, including an awardsceremony for those who have contributed to Japanese culture. The
Cultural Agency is encouraging organizations to hold culture events.
Japan Moves to Become a Cultural Power
-
8/21/2019 HT - October 2011.pdf
11/4811
11
3
The easiest way to get a taste of Japanese culture is through travel.
In Japan there is an abundance of natural beauty and a great manyplaces of historical interest which tourists can enjoy all year round.
Canadian writer Andrea MORI says, I like the fact that there are so
many seemingly contradictory aspects to the country, such as tradi-
tional versus modern, or urban versus rural, that manage to coexist in
relative harmony.
At the moment the Japanese government is trying to encourage tour-
ism in order for it to become one of Japans main industries and the
governments Tourist Office is advocating a new tourism through
which tourists can discover Japanese life and culture. New tourism
involves taking a fresh look at the local traditions and the culture of
regions throughout Japan, it proposes new styles of traveling and plac-
es an emphasis on communication with local people around Japan (see
page 12: REAL JAPAN Mini Tours).
12
As a part of this promotion, trial tours for non-Japanese are
scheduled to take place in many localities from October to January.
Participants can take tours at a reduced price but are required to coop-
erate by providing their comments and opinions on the tour.
10
1
Thus, Japan has now stepped up to move from being an economic
power to becoming a cultural power. Fortunately Japan has abun-
dant cultural recourses. Japanese culture has the potential to make the
countrys revival possible.
-
8/21/2019 HT - October 2011.pdf
12/4812
Kusatsu, Gunma Pref
NEW TOUJI Tour Kusatsu Hot Springs Cure
anything other than Broken Hearts
N
EW TOUJI T
our
Tottori Nashi no Hana Onsen Kyo, Tottori Pref
Tottori Chubu, Tour of Popular Korean TV Drama Locations
TV
Western Tottori Pref
Experience Japans coastline, forests, tourist attractions and onsens with cycling
and kayaking! Kaike & Daisen Exciting Tour
Fuji, Shizuoka Pref
Experience the blessings of Mt. Fuji
Kanonji, Kagawa Pref
Tour to the gallant and beautiful Sanuki Toyohama Chosa Festivaland a taste
of old Japan at Town of Zenigata
Tokamachi and Tsunan-machi, Niigata Pref
Tour of Sato-yama with Art as Your Guide
Nikko, Tochigi Pref
ECO R
IDE &
W
ALK
Tanabe, Wakayama Pref
Celebrating 3 Stars on Michelin Green Guide Japan !
Relax and Rejuvenate with Mikan Picking (Agriculture)
& Walks Through World Heritage Site Kumano Kodo Tour
Koya-cho, Wakayama Pref
Free Plan World Heritage Site Koyasan 1 night 2 days
1
2
Kobe, Hyogo Pref
Two-day tour of Autumn Leaves and Nightscapes at Rokko-san
2
Ojika-cho, Nagasaki Pref
World-recognized hospitality Experience the nature,
food and people of a little island in the western sea
(Japanese)
Nanto, Toyama Pref
Visit Japans Tradition and Warmth in Gokayama A piece of world heritage among the mountains
Handa, Aichi Pref
Tour of Handa the city of Kura, Tokoname the city of pottery,
and Chita Peninsula home to abundant seafood
Toba, Mie Pref
Experience Toba! The forest is the oceans lover tour!
Ise-Shima, Mie Pref
Inspirational! Ise-Shima Cultural Tour of Land of Sacred Forests and Ama Divers!
Wazuka, Kyoto Pref
Uji Tea Historical Road Cultural Scenes along Tea PlantationsOvernight Plan
Gokase-cho, Miyazaki Pref
Welcome home to Gokase the land of sunsets!
Nishi-Awa, Tokushima Pref
Nishi-Awa, Tokushima: A trip through Japans True Scenes and Real Country-life
colored with folklore and tradition
For more information
jtbwallet.jp/special/inbound/english.html
Noboribetsu, Hokkaido
Natural Treasures and Historical TreasuresA trip looking into to activities of mankind
Noboribetsu, Hokkaido
Agriculture, Fishery, Dairy, MonozukuriIndustries An Autumn Tour of Gourmet and Learning
Hakodate, Hokkaido
Christmas Fantasy with Snow and Light
REAL JAPAN Mini Tours
Japan Moves to Become a Cultural Power
-
8/21/2019 HT - October 2011.pdf
13/4813
Explosions, Giant Robots,Monsters and Super Sentai
Tokusatsu, or live action dramas from Japan fea-
turing superheroes, monsters and special effects,
are now popular all over the world. Sergio DE
ISIDRO from Spain is just one of many passionate
fans. As a teenager, I developed an interest in kai-
juu eiga (monster movies), which eventually led
me to Super Sentaiseries and Kamen Rider series
(Japanese heroes with super powers).
10
The first Japanese Super Sentai
series I watched was Hyakujuu
Sentai Gaoranger, and although it
was in Japanese and I did not speak
the language I was totally hooked.
From there I discovered the Showa
era tokusatsuand it totally blew my
mind. I wouldnt be living in Japan
if not for tokusatsu. Also, I think
Japanese society is thoroughly influ-
enced by tokusatsu: most kids, if not
all, watch these series while growing
up and are taught about justice and
retribution, he says.
De Isidro is so passionate that he owns around 300 tokusat-sufigures. Lots of them are small capsule toy figures. I have
run out of space to display them now so I rarely buy toys any
more unless they are totally wicked that is.
300
When De Isidro was a teenager,
finding out more about tokusatsu
was hard. But, since the number of
tokusatsufans has increased overseas
recently, it has become much easier to
get information.
10
Hes a particular fan of Showa era tokusatsu, but he enjoys
all tokusatsu. Explosions, lasers, fist fights, motorbikes, giant
robots, superpowers, evil monsters, heroes of justice... what is
NOT appealing about tokusatsu?
Ishimori Production Inc and Toei Company, Ltd.
Ishimori Production Inc and Toei Company, Ltd.
Non-Japanese Captivatedby Japanese Culture
-
8/21/2019 HT - October 2011.pdf
14/4814
Japanese Music Freak
E v e r s i n c e s h e h e a r d O T O M O
Yoshihide and Hikashu broadcast on a
radio program, Slovenian Zana Fabjan
BLAZIC has been passionate about
Japanese music. It was something none
of us had ever heard before, we were real-
ly young at that time, and we just started
to dance and freak out in the room, she
says.
At the beginning I was into free and improvised music
and bands like Boredoms, Boris and MELT-BANANA. Later
on I became interested in Visual Keiand J-pop as well. She
thinks modern Japanese music is unusual because, it interprets
Western music in a unique way. Maybe they lack the under-
standing of the original or take it out of
context. Kind of a cartoonish interpre-
tation. Whatever it is, its amazing, she
says.
J-
Because she is so interested in Japanese music, she saves
up like crazy in order to visit the country six months every
year. Since Ive started coming to Japan more often, I really
got into the indie scene and the electro club scene. Now my
favorite bands are Praha Depart and Andersens and my favor-
ite DJs are NAKATA Yasutaka from capsule and OSAWAShinichi.
6
DJ
Coming to Japan has meant that shes been
able attend many gigs and to meet her favor-
ite bands. I met many musicians that I like,
if you are in Japan they are really approach-
able. And I guess its easier if youre a for-
eigner, they show a certain amount of inter-
est in you as well. Im happy I could meet
MELT-BANANA, Acid Mothers Temple
and of course all indie bands that I like. My
happiest moment was when I met Nakata
Yasutaka, Im a big fan of his. It was on the
last day of my stay in Japan the previous
time. I was so excited I thought I dont need
an airplane to fly home.
Non-Japanese Captivated by Japanese Culture
-
8/21/2019 HT - October 2011.pdf
15/4815
Narrating Traditional Stories
American Timothy NELSON-HOY lives in Japan and is a
student of gidayu, the traditional Japanese art of chanting a
play, best known for its use in bunraku(traditional Japanese
puppet theatre). A tayu (gidayuchanter) narrates the events
of the play and does the dialogue for characters using a mix of
melody and spoken word, he says.
I like singing
and I like storytell-
ing, so gidayu is a
very natural fit. Its
a very unique and
intense experience to channel a com-plete story through your voice, play-
ing all the characters with all of their
conflicting motivations and following
their various emotional journeys, he
explains. A shamisenplayer accom-
panies the tayu, providing instrumen-
tal backup and also playing various
musical cues that signal events like
rain, crying, or running.
Ive had an interest in bunraku since elementary school.
In college, I was lucky enough to do foreign study with a
group that trains foreigners to performbunraku, and I was one
of the tayufor that group. Gidayuis a very portable art, so I
tried my best to keep up practicing after the program ended,
and eventually began studying formally with the Gidayu
Association, he says.
Nelson-Hoy, who was studying for 2 kyu of the Japanese
Language Proficiency Test (JLPT) when he began his studies
says that he didnt encounter too many linguistic problems
at the beginning as teachers kept the vocabulary to his level,
though they did speak pretty quickly.
2
Nelson-Hoy is active in promoting the art amongst the for-
eign community in Japan. Dramatic singing is something that
has very broad appeal, so I think gidayu has the potential to
bring a lot of joy to the
various expatriate com-
munities.
Nelson-Hoys class performs once at the end of each year.
When I next perform itll most likely be accompanied by a
shamisenplayer, but first I have to get good enough to per-
form.
Gidayu performance
2010
Gidayu Association,Incorporated
www.gidayu.or.jp/
-
8/21/2019 HT - October 2011.pdf
16/4816
Aoyama Theatre, Tokyo
Oct. 29 ~ Nov. 6
Theater BRAVA! Osaka
Nov. 12 ~ 13
www.ongakuza-musical.com
I Love Botchan 2011The Eleven Days during which Natsume Soseki Wrote Botchan
Original Japanese Musical by the Ongakuza
Paid Research e-gaikokujin Recruiting has assisted a growing number of leading
Japanese companies, and our research monitors have been involved
in everything from the in-house testing of websites and mobile Internet
platforms, to crash testing laptop computers.
All work is paid. Register now! There
are NO sign-up fees and registration
takes only a few minutes.
e-gaikokujin.com
The Flying ClassroomTheater Company
CARAMELBOXWorld Masterpiece Theater
by Yutaka Narui vol.3
The Flying ClassroomTheater Company
CARAMELBOXWorld Masterpiece Theater
by Yutaka Narui vol.3
Ikebukuro, Tokyo: Oct. 13 ~ 23Kameari, Tokyo: Oct. 29 ~ 30
Kitakyushu: Nov. 5 ~ 6
Original: Erich KstnerTranslation: Shiro Yamaguchi
(Kodansha Paperback)
www.hiraganatimes.com
-
8/21/2019 HT - October 2011.pdf
17/48
These are dishes cooked using inexpensive ingredients that are easily available. The cuisine reflects the
tastes of ordinary people and is also referred to as home cooking. Recently unique local dishes have been
making waves because of the B1 Grand Prix: a competition in which local dishes are pitted against each other
to promote their local area.
New Expressions& Buzzwords
B Class Gourmet
17
No. 067
The number of people who preserve leftover vegetables or vegetables purchased on special discount at the
supermarket is increasing. Drying vegetables improves the taste of the ingredients and shortens cooking
time. Theyre a big help to working women and also reduce household spending. Books on the topic sellwell.
B
- 1
Audio File Available
www.hiraganatimes.com
a i u e o
Multi-level Japanese Text
Dried Vegetables
Text: KINOUCHI Hiromichi
(that) are easily available inexpensive ingredients using cooked dishes (these) are ordinary people of
(the) tastes reflects (the) cuisineand home cooking as also is referred to
recently to promote (their) local area local dishes are pitted against each other
(the) B1 grand prix (a) competition (in which) because of unique local dishes
have been making waves
leftover vegetables or (the) supermarket at special discount on purchased vegetables
[dry and] preserve (the number of) people (who) is increasing drying vegetables (the) ingredients of
(the) taste improvesand cooking time shortens working women to
(theyre a) big help to and (also) household spending reduce on the topic books [also] sell well
Chouri shite nokotta yasai ya su-pa- no tokubai bi ni katta yasai o/wo,
hoshite hozonn suru hito ga fuete imasu. Hoshi yasai wa/ha sozai no
umami ga mashi te, chouri no jikanno/wo mijikaku shimasu. Hataraku josei o/wo
ooi ni tasuke, kakei no shishutsu o/wo herasemasu. Kanrennno honn mo urete imasu.
Doko ni demo aru yasui shokuzai de tsukutta ryouri desu. Shominn no
kankaku o/wo daiji ni shita ryouri de, jitaku de chouri shita mono mo iimasu.
Saikinnwa/ha machiokoshi no tame ni kakuchi no ryouri o/wo kisoi au
Bi-wannGuranpuri taikai no okage de, yuni-kuna sono tochi no ryouri ga
wadai ni natte imasu.
B kyuu gurume
Hoshi yasai
-
8/21/2019 HT - October 2011.pdf
18/48
3
Japans Single Occupant Households Exceed 30%
Close Up JapanClose Up Japan
18
According to the 2010 national census, Japans total population is 128 million and the number of females
exceeds that of males by three million. The number of private households increased to 50 million, 930 thou-
sand, making it the highest since 1920 when the survey started. The reason for this is because the numbers of
elderly single and unmarried have increased.
2
010
1
2
8
00
3
00
5
,093
1
920
ka (ga) ki (gi) ku (gu) ke (ge) ko (go )
(the) two thousand ten [year] national census according to Japans (total) population
one hundred and twenty-eight million [people] is and females of (the) number (that of) males
three million [people] exceeds by [total] (private) households (the) number of fifty million nine hundred thirty thousand [households]
to increased (the) survey (when) started nineteen twenty [year] since the highest
making (it) this (the) reason for single [living] elderly and unmarried
of (the) numbers have increased because is
Ni senn juu nendo no kokusei chousa ni yoru to, Nihonn no jinkou wa/ha
ichi oku ni sennhappyaku mannninn de, josei no kazu ga dansei o/wo
sanbyaku mannninn uwamawatte imasu. Zennsetai suu wa/ha go sennkyuujuu sannmannsetai
ni fue, chousa ga hajimatta senn kyuuhyaku nijuu nenn irai, saikou to
narimashita. Sono riyuu wa/ha hitori de sumu koureisha ya mikonsha
no kazu ga fueta tame desu.
Nihonnno hitori gurashi setai ga sannwari o/wo koeta
-
8/21/2019 HT - October 2011.pdf
19/48
31%
20%
29%
19
Those living alone make up 31% of total households, while married couples make up 20%. What used to
be the standard Japanese family unit of husband, wife and children, now counts for only 29% of households.
The average family unit now holds only 2.46 members, the smallest its ever been.
3
1 %
2
0 %
2
9 %
1
2
.46
kya kyu kyo gya gyu gyo
Explanatory Examples
~ dewa/ha When read the syllable preceding the /mark (wa) is used, but when using a PC to convert to correct hiraganachar-
acters, the syllable following the /mark (ha) is used instead. Therefore, it is read ~ dewa, but entered as ~ deha.
hi joushiki A single space is used after a prefix or before a suffix, a counter or a particle, such as Watashi ga ~.
Nihonn While read as Nihon,to get correct hiraganacharacters on a PC, enter Nihonn.It is always recommended to enter
an additionalnto words ending with an
n.
onnna In conversation it is pronounced as on na,but it is entered as onnnain order to get correct Japanese characters.
pa-thi- Read as pa-ti-,to get correct katakanathe letter his added when using a PC.
koubann The Japanese oucombination is pronounced similar to the oain float, NOT like the ouin would.In Japanese,
vowels are pronounced separately, as in ko u ban.
koutsuu When one uis followed by another uthey are pronounced separately, as in ko u tsu u.
English furiganaNote
Examples
(the) desk Words in parentheses are not translated into Japanese.
[in fact] Words in square brackets are not translated into English.
go When English translation is different to the Japanese, the original Japanese is placed in < >after the English.and When a sentence is continuing in Japanese, the conjunction is shown in italic.
~ indicates the rest of phrase to follow
This represents Japanese pronunciationand Japanese characters to be typed.
[Hiragana Times Method]
Phonetic (Ro-maji) Writing Style
20%
(nijuu pa-sento)pronounced asone word
Living alone
Married couples
Husband, wife and children
those living alone total households of thirty-one percent (make up)while married couples
twenty percent make [made] up Japanese family (the) standard (unit) of what used to be
husband, wife and children now twenty-nine percent (of households) counts for only [per household]
(the) average family unit two point four six members (now) holds only ever the smallest its been
Hitori gurashi ga zennsetai no sanjuu ichi pa-sento, ippou, fuufu nomi wa/ha
nijuppa-sento deshita. Nihonn no kazoku no hyoujunn de atta
fuufu to kodomo wa/ha ima ya nijuu kyuu pa-sento ni sugimasenn. Ichisetai atari no
heikinnkazoku suu wa/ha nii tennyonnroku ninnni sugizu, kako saishou desu.
-
8/21/2019 HT - October 2011.pdf
20/4820
Japan has the highest ratio of elderly in the world, a result that was also reflected in a previous study done in
2005. The number of single occupancy households among elderly people aged 65 years old and over is four
million, 580 thousand thats 15.6% of the total. Out of those, men account for one million, 300 thousand,
while women make up three million, 270 thousand. Thats means that one in ten elderly men and one out of
five elderly women live alone.
2
005
6
5
4
58
1
5.6
1
30
3
27
1
0
1
5
1
1
At 16 million, 790 thousand, those under 15 years of age make up just 13% of the population the lowest
percentage in a developed country. The working population between the ages of 15 and 64 stands at 80 mil-
lion, 730 thousand; thats 63.7% of Japanese. Those aged 65 years and over are numbered at 29 million 290
thousand, which is 23% of the total population.
1
5
1
,679
1
3
1
5 6
4
8
,073
6
3.7
65 2,929
2
3
sa (za) si (ji) su (zu) se (ze) so (zo )Close Up JapanClose Up Japan
15.6
u is added afterjuugoto makepronunciationeasier
Japan two thousand five [year] in (a) previous study (done) in (a result that was also) reflected ratio of elderly
(in) the world the highest has aged sixty five years old and over elderly people among single occupancy
households (the) number of four million five hundred eighty thousand is (the) total of fifteen point six percent
(that) is out of those men (account for) one million three hundred thousand [people] (while) women
three million two hundred seventy thousand [people] make up elderly men one in ten (and)
elderly women one out of five alone live that (thats) means
fifteen years of age (those) under sixteen million, seven hundred ninety thousand [people] at (the) population
of (just) thirteen percent make up (a) developed country in the lowest percentage
fifteen and sixty four (the) ages of between (the) working population
eighty million seven hundred thirty thousand [people] stands at Japanese of sixty-three point seven percent
(that) is aged sixty-five years and over those twenty-nine million two hundred ninety thousand [people]
are (numbered at) the) total population of twenty-three percent (which) is
Juu go sai mimannwa/ha senn roppyaku nanajuu kyuu mannninn de, jinkou
no juu sannpa-sento ni atari, senshinkoku dewa/ha mottomo hikui ritsu desu.
Juu go kara rokujuu yonn sai no roudou jinkou suu wa/ha
hassennnanajuu sannmannninn de, Nihonjinn no rokujuu sanntennnana pa-sento
desu. Rokujuu go sai ijou no kourei sha wa/ha nisennkyuuhyaku nijuu kyu mannninn
de, sou jinkou no nijuu sannpa-sento desu.
Nihonnwa/ha nisenngo nenn no zenkai chousa ni tsuzu/duki kourei ka ritsu
sekai ichi desu. Rokujuu go sai ijou no kourei sha no uchi hitori gurashi no
setai suu wa/ha yonhyaku gojuu hachi mann de, zentai no juugouten roku pa-sento
desu. Sono uchi dansei ga hyaku sanjuu mann ni nn, josei wa/ha
sanbyaku nijuu nana mannninn desu. Kourei sha dansei no juu ninnni hitori,
kourei sha josei no go ninnni hitori ga hitori de kurashite iru koto o/wo imi shimasu.
-
8/21/2019 HT - October 2011.pdf
21/4821
These figures indicate that aging became more apparent in a society with low mortality and a low birthrate.
Also its becoming evident that the numbers of those living alone, especially among Japans long-lived
female population, are increasing.
The Japanese government is now grappling with issues such as dwindling pension funds and employment.
However, by providing various services like food and travel orientated at singles, as well as building carefacilities for the elderly and providing nursing services, the private sector is coping well with this trend.
sha shu she sho ja ju je jo
(the) Japanese government now dwindling pension funds and employment issues
such as with is grappling however (the) private sector singles orientated at
food (and) travel (various services) like (by) providing as well as care facilities for the elderly building (and)
nursing services providing [and others] this trend with well is coping
these figures low mortality and alow birthrate with asociety in
aging more became apparent that indicate also (the numbers of) those living alone
especially (among) (Japans) long-lived female (population) are increasing that (its) becoming evident
Nihonnseifu wa/ha, ima, genshou suru nenkinnkikinn ya koyou mondai
nado de kuryo shite imasu. Shikashi, minkannkigyou wa/ha, hitori muke ni
shokuzai , ryokou nado no teikyou, mata roujinn ho-mu no kensetsu,
kaigo bijinesu no teikyou nado, kono nagare ni takumi ni taiou shite imasu.
Korera no suuji wa/ha, chouju to shoushi ka no shakai no naka de
kourei ka ga sara ni susunda koto o/wo shimeshite imasu. Mata, hitori gurashi,
toku ni chouju no josei ga fuete iru koto o/wo monogatatte imasu.
-
8/21/2019 HT - October 2011.pdf
22/4822
In Japan, even in the middle of the night, women can walk along the street in big cities like Tokyo without
feeling threatened. In order to quickly react to crimes, a police box is located on each block. Although
many foreigners complain about frequent interrogations, they still hold Japans good public order in high
esteem.
By extension, even during the Great East Japan Earthquake in March, Japanese were well regarded for their
high moral standards and ability to keep public order. Its also well known that theres a high probability that
lost property will turn up, either at the police station or the train station.
3
ta (da) chi (ji/di) tsu (zu/du) te (de) to (do )
Keysto Understanding Japan
Keysto Understanding Japan
Japan Boasts GoodPublic Order & HighMoral Standards
Japan in (the) middle of (the) night even in Tokyo like big cities in
women threatened without feeling (along the) street walk can crimes
to quickly react in order to block each on (a) police box
is located many foreigners frequent interrogations about
complain although Japans public order good (in) high esteem (they still) hold
by extension March in [occurred] the Great East Japan Earthquake during even
Japanese (their) high moral standards and public order to keep ability
were well regarded (for) lost property (the) police station or (the) train station (either) at will turn up
(theres a) high probability (that) that also (its) well known
Nihonn dewa/ha shinya demo Toukyou nado no dai toshi de
josei ga kikenno/wo kanji nai de machi o/wo aruku koto ga dekimasu. Hanzai
ni subaya ku taisho dekiru you ni, burokku goto ni koubann ga
haichi sarete imasu. Ooku no gaikokujinnwa/ha tabi kasanaru shokumu shitsumonn ni
fumanndesu ga, Nihonnno chiannno yosa wa/ha takaku hyouka shite imasu.
Sarani Sanngatsu ni okita Higashi NihonnDai Shinsai no toki mo,
Nihonjinn no moraru no takasa to chitsuj o o/wo tamotsu nouryoku ga
hyouka saremashita. Otoshimono ga keisatsu ya tetsudou no eki ni todokerareru
kakuritsu ga takai koto demo shirarete imasu.
Chiann no yosa to moraru no takasa
-
8/21/2019 HT - October 2011.pdf
23/4823
tsa ti/thi tyu tse tso di/dhi dyu/dhu
Recently you often see young women wearing false eyelashes. They also use mascara to make their eyes
look bigger. These women look just like animecharacters.
by Hiragana TimesEditor-in-Chief
Young Women Wearing False Eyelashes are Cute!?
At a recent event I had the opportunity to talk with some women wearing false eyelashes. There I also
bumped into Lisa, an American acquaintance of mine, who is a student in Japan. Lisa has a modest appear-ance and doesnt use make up.
recently false eyelashes wearing young women often
(you) see they also (their) eyes bigger to make look
mascara use just like anime characters (these women) look
recent a event at I false eyelashes wearing (some) women with
to talk (the) opportunity had there of mine (an)American acquaintance
(who is a) student in Japan Lisa also (I) bumped into Lisa (a) modest appearance hasand
make up doesnt use
Saikinnaru ibento de, watashi wa/ha tsuke matsuge o/wo shita joseitachi to
hanasu kikai ga arimashita. Sokode watash i no shiriai no Amerika jinn
ryuugakusei no Risa nimo aimashita. Risa wa/ha jimina youshi de
keshou o/wo shimasenn.
Saikinn wa/ha, tsuke matsuge o/wo suru wakai josei o/wo yoku
mikakemasu. Kanojotachi wa/ha, sarani me o/wo ookiku miseru tame ni
masukara o/wo tsukaimasu. Marude anime no kyarakuta- no you ni nari masu.
Tsukematsuge no josei wa/ha kawaii !?
-
8/21/2019 HT - October 2011.pdf
24/4824
1
0
cha chu che cho na ni nu ne no nya nyu nyo
Ten minutes later, Lisa returned. I was surprised by the change. Her eyes looked so big and strange.
Even so, so as not to hurt her feelings, the women did not say what they really thought. Instead, they
yelped, You are so cute! She seemed satisfied with their reaction.
I said to her playfully, Why dont you wear false eyelashes? Im sure you would look prettier. The
women wearing false eyelashes around her jokingly egged her on by saying, Lisa-san, do you want to give it a
go? We will help you with your make up! Lisa was embarrassed, but she was persuaded by the women and
went to the restroom with them.
ten minutes later Lisa returned (the) change by
(I) was surprised her eyes so bigand strange looked
even so (the) women her (feelings) not to hurt so as really
what they thought did not say instead (you) are so cute [that]
(they) yelped she their reaction with satisfied seemed
I playfully you [also] false eyelashes wear why dont?
prettier (you) would look [that] Im sure [that] said (to her) around (her)
false eyelashes wearing (the) women jokingly Lisa-san
do you want to give it a go we (your) make up with will help you by saying
egged (her) on Lisa was embarrassed but (the) women by (she) was persuadedand
with (them) (the) restroom to went
Juppunn go ni Risa wa/ha modotte kimashita. Sono kawariburi ni
odorokimashita. Kanojo no me ga totemo ookiku, okashiku mieta no desu.
Sore demo, joseitachi wa/ha kanojo o/wo kizu/dutsukenai tame ni, hontou no
kimochi o/wo tsutaemasendeshita. Kawarini, Totemo kawaii! to
koe o/woagemashita. Risa wa/ha sono hannnou ni manzoku shita you deshita.
Watashi wa/ha karakau you ni Risa mo tsuke matsuge o/wo shitara dou?
Motto kirei ni naru to omou yo to iimashita. Mawari ni ita
tsuke matsuge no joseitachi wa/ha, omoshiro hanbunn ni Risa sann,
tameshi ni yatte mitara? Watashitachi ga keshou o/wo tetsudatte ageru! to itte,
hayashitatemashita. Risa wa/ha tomadotte imashita ga, joseitachi ni settoku sare,
issho ni keshoushitsu ni ikimashita.
-
8/21/2019 HT - October 2011.pdf
25/4825
ha (bapa) hi (bipi) fu (bupu) he (bepe) ho (bopo )
Some time later I met up with Lisa again. She was wearing false eyelashes, but looked depressed.
When I asked the reason, she said, After that event, I was hunting for a job, but I failed all my interviews.
I asked, You didnt go to the interviews looking like that did you?
She said, Of course, I did. Everyone said I looked cute with them on. When I explained that conser-
vative clothing and light make up are favored in Japanese company interviews, she looked puzzled. TheJapanese custom of not expressing ones true opinion for fear of hurting peoples feelings had hurt her. I was
so sorry for her, but still I could not tell Lisa that the false eyelashes did not suit her.
some time later again Lisa with (I) met up she false eyelashes
was wearing but looked depressed (the) reason (I) asked when after that event
(I) was hunting for (a) job but (my) interviews all (I) failed
[that] (she) said I [(I) believe] looking like that (the) interviews to
you didnt go did you [that] asked
she of course I did everyone with them on [that] (I looked) cute
said [that] said I Japanese company interviews
in conservative clothing and light make up are favored that
explained when she looked puzzled peoples feelings
hurting for fear of (ones) true opinion not expressing (the) Japanese custom (of)
her had hurt I her for so was sorry
[I thought that] but still (the) false eyelashes did not suit (her) that
Lisa (I) could not tell
Sore kara shibaraku shite, mata Risa to aimashita. Kanojo wa/ha tsuke matsuge o/wo
shite imashita ga, genki ga arimasenn. Riyuu o/wo tazuneru to, Ano ato ni,
shuushoku katsudou o/woshimashita ga, mensetsu de zenbu ochite shimatta no desu
to iimashita. Watashi wa/ha, Masaka, sono keshou de mensetsu ni
itta n ja nai yo ne? to kikimashita.
Kanojo wa/ha, Mochironn ikimashita yo. Minnna kono hou ga kawaiit te
itta kara to kotaemashita. Watashi ga, Nihonnno kaisha no mensetsu
dewa/ha jimi na fukusou to usu geshou ga kangei sareru to
setsumei suru to, Risa wa/ha konwaku shimashita. Hito no kokoro o/wo
kizu/dutsukeru koto o/wo osorete hontou no koto o/wo iwanai Nihonnno kanshuu ga
kanojo o/wo kizu/dutsuketa no desu. Watashi wa/ha kanojo ni totemo sumanai
to omoimashita ga, sore demo, tsuke matsuge wa/ha niawanai yo to
Risa niwa/ha iemasendeshita.
-
8/21/2019 HT - October 2011.pdf
26/48
Priest who Taught that Sinnersare more Deserving of a Placein Paradise
Shinran
1173 1262
26
After reading about Shinrans teachings in the book Tannishou, one of the worlds most influential phi-losophers, German Martin Heidegger, remarked, If I had known about this fantastic saint ten years ago,I would have learned Japanese and dedicated my life to spreading his teachings throughout the world. Inorder to correctlypreserve Shinrans teachings after his death, Tannishou was written in the Kamakura period
by one of Shinrans disciples. Written about 700 years ago, the work consists of 18 chapters. The thirdchapter contains these mysterious teachings: Even the good can go to paradise, not to mention the bad, who
are more deserving.
1
0
7
00
1
8
3
fa fe fo hya hyu hyo fyu
The book Tannishou, translated into modern Japanese, has been in print for a long time. It has also been translated into English, Chinese,
Korean and other languages.
Note
All right Reserved.
the worlds most influential philosophers one of
German Martin Heidegger (the book) Tannishou in Shinrans teachings after reading about
[this] remarked ten years ago this fantastic saint
if I had known about Japanese have learnedand his teachings throughout the world spreading
dedicated (my) life to (I) would Tannishou his death after Shinrans teachings correctly
preserve in order to (the) Kamakura period in (Shinrans) disciples of one by was written
about seven hundred years ago written [and] eighteen chapters (the work) consists of
the third chapter [in] (these) mysterious teachings contains the good even
paradise to can go not to mention the bad (who) are more deserving
Sekai de mottomo eikyouryoku o/wo motsu tetsugakusha no hitori,
Doitsu no MaruthinHaidega- wa/ha, Tannishou de Shinrannno oshie o/wo yomi,
kou katarimashita. Juu nenn mae ni konnna subarashii seija o/wo
shitte itara, Nihongo o/wo manabi, kare no oshie o/wo sekaijuu ni hiromeru koto o/wo
ikigai ni shita darou. Tannishou wa/ha Shinrannno shigo, sono oshie o/wo tadashiku
nokosu tame ni, Kamakura jidai ni deshi no hitori ni yori kakaremashita.
Oyoso nanahyaku nennmae ni kakare, juuhasshou kara narimasu.
Sono dai sannshou niwa/ha nazomeita oshie ga arimasu. Zennninn de sae
rakuenn e/he ikeru no dakara, mashite, akuninnwa/ha ikeru no da.
Akuninnkoso ga rakuenne/he ikeru to toita shouninn
-
8/21/2019 HT - October 2011.pdf
27/4827
Shinran was born in Kyoto. His father died when he was four years old and mother when he was eight. Little Shinran thought he would be the next to die. He was obsessed with the afterlife, and left home at theage of nine to become a priest. He trained for 20 years at Mt. Hiei. However, not being able to conceiveof the world beyond this, he descended the mountain in disappointment.
4
8
9
2
0
Shinran lived in a period when political power was shifting from nobles to samurai, and, in addition, wars,typhoons and earthquakes shook the country. Many victims of catastrophes were scattered here and there;
people had hardly any food and had lost hope. Buddhism, that had sustained the Japanese mentally, was in
decline.
bya byu byo pya pyu pyo
8
(hachi sai)pronounced asone word
is locatedbetween Kyotoand ShigaPrefectures
Shinran Kyoto in was born (his) father four years old when (he was) and
mother eight [years old] when (he was) died little Shinran
(the) next to die he would be [that] thought (the) afterlife
(he) was obsessed withand (a) priest to become (the) age of nine at left home
he Mt. Hiei at twenty years for trained
however (the) world beyond this of not being able to conceive in disappointment (he) descended (the) mountain
Shinran lived (in) a period political power nobles from samurai to was shifting
when and in addition wars typhoons (and) earthquakes [and others] (the) country
shook catastrophes of victims many were scattered (here and there) people
(any) food had hardlyand hope [for living] had lost (the) Japanese mentally
(that) had sustained Buddhism was in decline
Shinrannwa/ha Kyouto ni umaremashita. Chichi wa/ha yonnsai no toki ni,
haha wa/ha hassai no toki ni nakunar imashita. Osanai Shinrann wa/ha,
tsugi ni shinu nowa/ha jibunnno bannda to kanjimasu. Shigo no sekai ga
atamakara hanarezu, sou ni naru tame kyuu sai de ie o/wo demasu.
Shinrannwa/ha Hieizann de nijuu nenn kann shugyou shimashita.
Shikashi, raise ni tsuite no kotae o/woerarezu, shitsui no uchi ni gezannshimasu.
Shinrannga ikita jidai wa/ha, seikennga kizoku kara bushi ni kawaru
jidai de ari, sore ni kuwaete, tatakai, tai fuu, jishinn nado ga kuni o/wo
yurugase mashita. Saigai no giseisha ga takusann afurete imashita. Hitobito wa/ha
tabemono ni komari, ikiru kibou o/wo ushinatte imashita. Nihonjinnno kokoro no
sasae to natte ita Bukkyou wa/ha suitai shite imashita.
-
8/21/2019 HT - October 2011.pdf
28/4828
Shinran, who had lost his way, was deeply moved by the idea that all people were equally saved and beganto enthusiastically spread Hounens doctrine. As more people began to follow these teachings, the ImperialCourt perceived them as a threat, and as a result, banned the chanting. Hounen and Shinran were exiled.
Feeling dispirited, Shinran had a fateful meeting with Hounen, who would become his mentor. Hounenpreached that those who cast themselves on Amidas mercy would be led to paradise. He taught that peopleonly had to chant the prayer in order to gain the deitys support.
ma mi mu me mo mya my myo
feeling dispirited Shinran (his) mentor (who) would become Hounen with (a) fateful meeting
had Hounen Amidas mercy on (who) cast themselves those
paradise to would be led that preached (the) deitys support gain
in order to (the) prayer (people) only had to chant that (he) taught
(who) had lost (his) way Shinran all people (that) were equally saved (the) idea by
deeply was movedand Hounens doctrine enthusiastically began to spread these teachings
follow people more began to as (the) Imperial Court (a) threat as perceived (them)and as a result
(the) chanting banned Hounen and Shinran were exiled
Shitsui no Shinrannwa/ha, shishou to naru Hounenn to unmeitekina deai o/wo
shimasu. Hounenn wa/ha, Amida no jihi ni sukui o/wo motomeru hito wa/ha
rakuenn e/he michibikareru to tokimasu. Amida no sukui o/wo eru
niwa/ha, nenbutsu o/wo tonaeru dake de yoi to oshiemashita.
Mayotte ita Shinrannwa/ha, subete no hito ga byoudou ni sukuwareru oshie ni
fukaku kandou shi, Hounennno oshie o/wo seiryokuteki ni hiromemasu. Kono oshie ni
shitagau hito ga fue hajimeru to, Choutei wa/ha osore o/wo kanji, sono kekka
nenbutsu o/wo kinshi shimashita. Hounenn to Shinrannwa/ha tsuihou saremasu.
-
8/21/2019 HT - October 2011.pdf
29/4829
Chapter three of Tannishou can be translated as meaning. The good struggle to go to paradise, doinggood things in this world. They are not completely putting their faith in Amida, but Amida still leads those
people to paradise. As a matter of course the bad who cast themselves on Amidas mercy are led to para-dise.
Five years later, in 1211, his punishment was revoked, but he was shocked to find out that Hounen had died. In addition to Honens teachings, Shinran also preached that people should live happily in this world too. Breaking with convention, Shinran married in a storm of criticism. He preached up until his death aged90 and managed to capture the hearts and minds of many people.
5
1
211
9
0
3
ya yu yo ra ri ru re ro rya ryu ryo wa o/wo n
five years later twelve eleven [year] in (his) punishment was revoked but
Hounen had died that to find out (he) was shocked Shinran
Honens teachings in addition to this world in too happily (people) should live that
(also) preached convention breaking with Shinran criticism of (a) storm in
married aged ninety (his) death up until (he) preachedand
many people of (the) hearts and minds managed to capture
Tanishou of chapter three as meaning can be translated the good
this world in good things doing paradise to struggle to go Amida in
completely (they) are not putting (their) faith but those people still Amida
paradise to leads as a matter of course Amidas mercy on (who) cast themselves
the bad paradise to are led
Tannishou no dai sannshou wa/ha kou kaishaku sarete imasu. Zenninnwa/ha,
kono yo de yoi koto o/wo shite rakuenn e/he ikou to suru. Amida o/wo
kokorokara shinkou shite iru wake dewa/hanai. Shikashi, souiu hitotachi sae, Amida wa/ha
rakuenn e/he michibiite kureru. Mashite, Amida no jihi ni sugaru
akuninnwa/ha, rakuenn e/he michibikareru noda.
Sono go nenngo no sennnihyaku juuichi nenn ni tsumi wa/ha tokaremasu ga,
Hounennga nakunatta koto o/wo shiri, shokku o/woukemasu. Shinrann wa/ha
Hounennno oshie ni kuwae, kono yo demo shiawase ni ikite iku beki da to
tokimashita. Kanshuu o/wo yaburi Shinrannwa/ha, hihann no arashi no naka de
kekkonn o/wo shimashita. Kyuuju sai de nakunaru made oshie o/wo hirome,
ooku no minshuu no kokoro o/wo tsukamimashita.
-
8/21/2019 HT - October 2011.pdf
30/4830
It might be difficult to explain this concisely as
there could be a variety of reasons for this. One of
them could be down to your low income.
Looking back at the history of this case, Immigration might
have come to the conclusion that your wife had to work
because your income was insufficient and that as long as your
income remains the same, theres a possibility that your wife
will do this again.
When you bring your family to Japan with you, you are also
responsible for supporting your family. That support meansbeing able to feed your family. If its decided that you dont
have sufficient means to support your family by yourself, it
might be difficult for your wife to be granted permission to
reenter the country.
Im living in Japan using a skilled labor visa. My wife
was also living in Japan under a dependent visa. However,
since Immigration discovered that she had been engaged in
activities other than that permitted by the status of residence
previously granted, she was unable to obtain permission to
extend her term of residence and had to return to her native
country. Once there she twice applied for permission to stay,
however permission was not granted either time. Could you
let me know why this is?
Immigration Lawyer
Office: 1544-2 Koshi, Nakano-shi, Nagano
1544-2
TEL: 0269-22-3518
E-mail: [email protected]
URL: immigration-lawyer.jpn.org/english/TATEDA Jun
1544-2 Koshi, Nakano-shi, Nagano
E-mail: [email protected]: http://naturalization.jp/
Application for PermanentResidency/Long-term
Residency& Naturalization
Nagano, Niigata, Yamanashi, Saitama
Free consultation over the phone(In Japanese only)
Mobile for naturalization application
http://yamazumi.net VISA
Incorporating companies
Apply Business Loan
Vehicle registration
Translate, Legalize Documents
Rent application for UR Housing
FREE ConsultationCALL: 04-2968-6669
E-mail: [email protected]
4-2-201 Nishi-sumiyoshi
Tokorozawa City Saitama
When a Spouse is Not Permittedto Extend Their DependentsVisa No. 2
2
-
8/21/2019 HT - October 2011.pdf
31/4831
Makoto Visa Office
Immigration Lawyer SUGITA Makoto
TEL: 03-5858-8491
5-33-17-212 Kameido Koto-ku Tokyo
E-mail: [email protected]
http://makoto-visa-office.com/
Thanks From All Our Staff to Readers of the Hiragana Times
We would like to celebrate the 300th commemorative issue with
you. The first Hiragana Times was written only in hiragana and
was only a four page tabloid free paper. A few years later kanjiwith
furiganaand English were added. At that time the computer was not
yet used in business and production was done at printer. However,
most printing companies refused to take our orders as there wasnt any staff who couldhandle such a complicated magazine.
300
4
After a while, it became possible to make the magazine using a simple word pro-
cessor we later switched to using a Macintosh. Nowadays, it has even become pos-
sible to make a digital version due to the expansion of the Internet. Hiragana Times
editing as well as production techniques have changed with the times.
The unauthorized reproduction, photocopying or copying of articles or photographs appearing in this magazine is strictly prohibited. Please keep in mind that articles printed inHiragana Times may be published without notice in PDF Version, on the Hiragana Times website, in other media related to Hiragana Times and possibly by third party mediaapproved by Hiragana Times. Web Hiragana Times Hiragana Times
From the Editorial Desk
From the Editorial Desk
Editorial Note
(K.H.)
To order by
TEL: 03-3341-8989www.hiraganatimes.com
Digital
HOW TO SUBSCRIBE TO HIRAGANA TIMES
Postage included
SAL (Surface Air Lifted) SAL
Payment Method
1) Credit Card Visa, MasterCard, American Express, JCB or Diners Club.
2) Cash on delivery (Only in Japan. Please pay when you receive the first delivery)
Hiragana Times October 2011
Publisher &EditorHASEGAWA Katsuyuki
Assistant EditorFelicity HUGHES
TANAKA Kuniko
IllustrationYOSHIDA Shinko
DTP
NAKADA Natsuko
AdvertisementHASEGAWA Riki
MarketingYAMADA Noboru
TAKAHASHI Yoshinori
ISOZAKIImmigration Lawyers Office
Free Consultation
Email : [email protected]
call: 048-816-7874
389-2 Mimuro, Midori-ku, Saitama City, Saitama
www.visa.isozaki-office.com
We can help you with:
Visa & immigration
Naturalization
(Tokyo ,Saitama , Kanagawa , Chiba)
YOKOHAMA, KAWASAKISpecialized in Kanagawas bureau
Please contact
by mail form of website.
Free consultation by Skype
is also available.
I speak Japanese very slowly
and simply.
7 days week 9 am to 8 pm.
(by appointment)
Web:http://visa-japan.net/
Phone: 045-514-5790
Fax: 045-514-3599SkypeID: DAISUKE ISHIWATA
JAPAN FEDERATION OF GYOSEISHOSHI
LAWYERS ASSOCIATIONS
Registration No.10090740
ISHIWATA GYOSEISHOSHI OFFICE
1415-105 Yabecho, Totsuka-ku, Yokohama-shi, Kanagawa
VISA IMMIGRATION COMPANY ESTABLISHMENT
VARIOUS BUSINESS LICENSES
GYOSEISHOSHI
Daisuke Ishiwata
1.Ashimoto chuui. Watch your step.
2. Gyuudon(beef ball)
3. Torii
4.Amakudari
5. 3. (Tanaka is out)
6. Takeshima
7. Shizuoka-ken (prefecture)
8. 100v
9. Shinjuku Nichoume
10. Sakura
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8. 100
9.
10.
Hiragana Times Japanese Cultural Understanding Test No. 6 Answers
-
8/21/2019 HT - October 2011.pdf
32/48
:Shinjuku: Itabashi : Nihonbashi : Kanda: Den-en-chofu NEW!
Green Forest HightsWarabi Stn. (JR Keihin Tohoku)
http://www.guesthouse.cc
Weekly pay
Monthly pay
OIZUMI-GAKUEN/WARABI/IIDABASHI/NISHI-KAWAGUCHI
32
38,000
Those who can read Japanese
http://www.hiraganatimes.com/bellhouse/
-
8/21/2019 HT - October 2011.pdf
33/48
Enjoy a local experience at home
!!
Comfortable living environment
Private bedroom
-Sharing a house with 5- 8 people-Houses Available in many Popular Locations:
- Kichijouj - Jiyuugaoka - Ikebukuro
- Kinshicho - Nakano and more
Rooms starting at 50,000/mo.
Tel: 03-3760-1392 E-mail: [email protected]
www.comeonup-house.com
33
Non-Japanese willreceive a 15% discount.When making areservation, pleasemention Hiragana Times.
APARTMENT1R 2LDK58,500120,500
ODAKYU LINE20 30mins from Shinjuku
KEIKYU LINE13mins from Shinagawa
E-mail: [email protected] TEL 044-933-7000
www.minowagroup.jp/minowahomes
-
8/21/2019 HT - October 2011.pdf
34/4834
L
ocated in the west of Fukushima Prefecture,
Aizuwakamatsu City has long thrived as a castle town.
Its famous for its history and rich nature. Situated inthe Aizu Basin, the area has snowy winters and very hot sum-
mers. The east of the city faces Lake Inawashiro, the fourth
largest lake in Japan, and
rising high in the north is
the majestic Bandai San
(Mount Bandai).
4
W h e n t h e y h e a r t h e n a m e
Aizuwakamatsu, many Japanese
will think about the Byakkotai (White
Tiger Force), a group of teenage samurai recruited by the
Aizu domain. The Byakkotai fought in the Boshin War
(1868~1869) to maintain the Tokugawa Shogunate. Nineteen
of the groups members committed suicide on Iimori Hill in
order to remain loyal to their masters and families whom they
believed to be dead. Halfway up Iimori Hill, the
graves of the 19 Byakkotai are visited by many
people. This sad story is famous and there have
been many TV dramas based on it.
1868 1869
19
To visit historic sites related
to the Byakkotai and other sight-
seeing spots, its convenient to
use sightseeing buses such as the
Haikara San and Akabei.
Running every 30 minutes, these buses stop at the major tour-
Photos courtesy by
Aizuwakamatsu City
www.city.aizuwakamatsu.fukushima.jp/
Tokyo
Aizuwakamatsu City,Fukushima Prefecture
Aizuwakamatsu A Castle Town withan Abundance of Greenery Lake Inawashiro and Bandai San
Graves of Byakkotai
Byakkotai statue and Aizuwakamatsu Station
-
8/21/2019 HT - October 2011.pdf
35/4835
500
One of the charms of sightseeing around the city is to look
at the old fashioned buildings. There remain a number of
buildings from the Edo to Taisho periods in Aizuwakamatsu
City. Constructed in a mixture of Japanese
and Western styles, these buildings are used
as restaurants, general stores and other estab-
lishments. Especially popular among them
are unique cafs. These rows of buildings
are found on Nanokamachi and Noguchi
Hideyo Seishun Streets, to the south of JR
Aizuwakamatsu Station.
JR
Sazaedo Hall, located halfway up Iimori Hill, is recom-
mended for those with an interest in unique buildings. At
16.5 meters tall, its a small building, but its interior structure
is quite unusual. From the entrance you climb up in a spiral
along a narrow hallway that winds round at an angle of 270
ist spots in the city. A one-day pass for them is available for
500 yen. Its fun to travel around the city on one of these col-
orful buses.
30
500
The first spot to visit
on the sightseeing bus is
Tsuruga Castle in the cen-
ter of town. The castle was
renovated last year and its
roof tiles were replacedwith red ones similar to
those used at the end of the
Tokugawa Shogunate. Now
visitors can see what the
castle used to look like in
those days. Tsuruga Castle
is also where many people
come to see cherry blos-
soms when theyre in season.
Every autumn, the Aizu Festival is held. The main event is
the Aizu domain procession, where 500 people dressed up as
past lords of the domain or as Tokugawa Shogunate period
style samuraiparade through the city. During this period, thewhole city is energized by the festival which brings the his-
tory of Aizu to life.
Aizuwakamatsu Sightseeing and Product Association
www.aizukanko.com/
Inawashiro Town
www.town.inawashiro.fukushima.jp/
Tsuruga Castle
Sightseeing bus, Haikara San
Aizu Festival
-
8/21/2019 HT - October 2011.pdf
36/4836
degrees. Instead of making a U-turn at the top, you wind back
down another hallway at an angle of 270 degrees. Before you
know it, you arrive back at an exit next to the entrance.
16.5
The Sazaedo Hall was built in
1796. Originally a Buddhist temple,
it housed statues of Kannon (the
Goddess of Mercy) from 33 templesin Western Japan. Just by entering
Sazaedo Hall, visitors here were able
to simulate the experience of making
a pilgrimage to the Kannon statues at
those 33 temples. The Kannon statues
were removed from the hall in the
Meiji period. As one of the very few
wooden buildings in Japan with a dou-
ble-spiral structure, in 1995 Sazaedo
Hall was designated an important
national cultural property.
1796
33
1995
The charms of Aizuwakamatsu City lie not just with its
historic buildings and quaint landscape. The food produced by
the fertile Aizu Basin is another attractive feature of the city.
Aizuwakamatsu is blessed with an abundance of clear ground-
water; sakeand soba(noodles) are made using this high-qual-
ity water. The local climates extremes of temperature have
also earned the area quite a reputation.
Since Aizuwakamatu City is in an
inland area removed from the ocean, a
number of its traditional dishes contain
dried seafood. Kozuyu is a traditionaldish often served on festive occasions
consisting of a soup made from dried
scallops with vegetables and ofu(dried
wheat gluten) added to it. In recent
years, original local specialities, such
as sauce katsudon, (a pork cutlet on
a bed of rice topped off with a special
sauce), and curry yakisoba, (stir-fried
noodles with curry on top), have been
gaining popularity.
Its also a good idea to go on a short tr ip from
Aizuwakamatsu City to Lake Inawashiro, which takes 30minutes on the JR Banetsusai Line. Lake Inawashiro is a
place where you can play various outdoor sports in summer or
Kitashiobara Village
www.vill.kitashiobara.fukushima.jp/
Noguchi Hideyo Seishun Street
Nanokamachi Street
Sazaedo Hall
-
8/21/2019 HT - October 2011.pdf
37/4837
watch white swans in winter, thereby enjoying Aizus natural
beauty all year around. Another popular tourist spot in the
town of Inawashiro is a memorial hall to honor NOGUCHI
Hideyo, a famous bacteriologist whose likeness is printed on
1,000 yen bills.
JR
30
Nor th of Mount Banda i
stretches a plateau called
ura (rear) Bandai, whereGoshiki Numa (a cluster
of lakes) is located. A
3.6 kilometer hiking trail
through the area offers
views of ten large and
small lakes showing different
colors, such as cobalt blue, red
and emerald green, depending on the min-
erals contained within them.
3.6
10
The three tears of Aizu,
is an Aizu expression describ-ing the way visitors there typically behave. This expression
means: visitors to Aizu first cry over the difficulty of fitting
in with the people there, then when they are accepted they are
moved to tears by how compassionate the people are, and
finally, they shed tears of sadness when they leave the city.
To get to Aizuwakamatsu
City from Tokyo, travel on theTohoku Shinkansen Line for
roughly one hour and 20 min-
utes to JR Koriyama Station.
There, transfer to the JR
Banetsusai Line and travel for
about one hour and five minutes to Aizuwakamatsu Station.
An expressway bus, which takes approximately four hours
and 30 minutes, is also available from Shinjuku.
JR
1
20
JR
JR
1
5
4
30
Text: SHIBATA Rie
Bishamon Numa, one of the Goshiki Numa
To rest your legs while sightseeing, you can take a cof-
fee break at one of the cafs in the area participating in the
Machi Aruki Sweets project. The idea behind the scheme
is to provide special sweets for 500 yen each at all of these
cafs. The project is popular because its possible to enjoy
sweets at a stylish caf during an enjoyable walk around
the city. Till September 30.
500
9
30
From above, kozuyu,
sauce katsudon, curry yakisoba
-
8/21/2019 HT - October 2011.pdf
38/4838
Have you ever heard the word urushi? Urushi(lac-
quer) is natural paint made of sap extracted from
lacquer trees. Wooden objects coated with lacquer
are called lacquerware. The fact that in written English some
people refer to lacquerware as japan, demonstrates lacquer-
wares importance as one of Japans most treasured artifacts.
Lacquerware wajima-nuri produced in Ishikawa Prefecture
is well-known.
j
apan
Born into a family of kijiya(craftspeople who construct the
wooden bases) for wajima lacquerware, KIRIMOTO Taiichi,
went on to study design at college after graduating from high
school. Soon after entering college, Kirimoto was deeply
moved by the words of a teacher he held in high regard:designing is the act of enhancing the quality of peoples lives
and making them feel more comfortable.
Many people still believe that wajima lacquerware is a
luxury item. During the bubble years (the economic bubble
of late 80s Japan), pieces of makie(a technique for drawing
a picture or a pattern in lacquer,
sprinkling it with gold and silver
po wd er an d the n po lishing it)
furniture that were worth over 10
million yen were sold one after
another. Such a situation is not
going to last for long, so we should
seize the day, Kirimoto said to his
father. But after his father advised
him to devote himself to the work
at hand, he instead focused on put-
ting the business on a firm footing.
1980
1,000
Before long, the bubble economy burst and orders for
artistic lacquerware plunged. This prompted Kirimoto to start
making lacquerware for everyday use as an urushidesign
producer. But in the traditional world of wajimalacquerware,
the general practice is that nushiya (those who produce and
sell lacquerware) take orders from customers first, and then
pass on those orders to kijiya. Some of the nushiyawerent
pleased with Kir imotos innovative methods and stopped
ordering wooden bases from him. Kirimoto, however, persist-
KIRIMOTO Taiichi
JapanProfiles
JapanProfiles
Overturning its Image
as a Luxury Item:Lacquerware forEveryday Use
WajimakirimotoKirimoto Wooden Studio
www.kirimoto.net/
-
8/21/2019 HT - October 2011.pdf
39/4839
In 2007, Kirimoto designed and supervised the production
of a small hexagonal box (called Bote Laque Wajima) for
Louis Vuitton. Further proof that Kirimotos products have
been gaining a global reputation came when the chairman
of a global entertainment company, who has a fondness for
Japanese food, ordered a variety of anti-scratch lacquerware
from the workshop.
2007
Since Im doing things a bit differently, I
sometimes find myself isolated within the pro-
duction area of Wajima, says Kirimoto. But
when customers embrace my product ideas, it
makes me feel so happy and energized. How
can he combine the skills of craftsmen and create
lacquerware that consumers will find necessary
in daily life? Since hearing his
mentors advice in college, this has
been the key issue for Kirimoto.
ed in his belief that, urushican make life more comfortable
and convenient.
Some people say that lacquerware cannot hold hot food and
is a pain to take care of. But as long as you dont pour boil-
ing hot soup into lacquerware or put it in a microwave, thereis no problem. All you have to do to take care of lacquerware
is wash it in cold or warm water using a sponge with mild
detergent. After rinsing it, dry it with a towel. If you discover
scratches on your lacquerware after repeat-
ed use, you can have it recoated.
One after another, Kirimoto has been coming up with piec-
es of lacquerware which go beyond the conventional wajima-
nuri, including anti-scratch pasta plates, cell phone straps
and business card holders. Under the brand name of Wajima
Kirimoto, he opened a shop in Kanazawa in addition to the
one in Wajima, and also established an online store. There
are shops dealing in Kirimotos products throughout Japan,
including well-established department stores in Tokyo.
Text: MATSUMOTO Seiya
-
8/21/2019 HT - October 2011.pdf
40/4840
Though originally created by TAKEUCHI Naoko for
young girls, in the 90s this cartoon series even became
popular with male and adult female readers. The series
was then adapted into an animation for TV, a musical and a
live action TV drama. Both the cartoon and animation series
have been translated into numerous languages and are popular
all around the globe.
1990
Heroine TSUKINO Usagi and her junior
high school friends, who in the story trans-
form into sailor-suit wearing warriors in
order to fight evil, have formed the model
for female protagonists in animeever since.
A key part of Sailor Moon is Usagis catch-
phrase Tsuki-ni Kawatte Oshioki-yo! (in
the name of the moon, I will punish you!).
Her fellow Sailors include MIZUNO Ami, HINO Rei,
KINO Makoto and AINO Minako who also represent
Mercury, Mars and other planets in the solar system. Other
characters include Usagis boyfriend CHIBA Mamoru who
disguises himself as Tuxedo Mask to protect the Sailor Senshi
(warriors) and Usagis future daughter, Chibiusa who comes
to the present from the 30th Century.
30
This animated film version
was released in 1995. The story
begins with Usagi, Chibiusa and
others baking cookies together.
They make fun of the ugly cook-
ies that Chibiusa makes. Upset,
Chibiusa takes her cookies and
leaves the house.
1995
Chibiusa meets a boy named
Perle in front of a sweet shop.
Perle plays music on his flute,
making the cookies in the win-
dow display dance. Chibiusa befriends Perle and gives him
the cookies she baked when they part. In the meantime, Usagi
hears the news that children all around the world are mysteri-
ously going missing in the dead of night.
Bishojo Senshi Sailor Moon:Super S Sailor 9 Senshi Shuketsu!
Black Dream Hole no Kiseki (Miracle of the Black Dream Hole)Directed by SHIBATA Hiroki
Super S
9
Story of Lunar PrincessesSafeguarding World Peace
DVD cover. 76 minutes. 3,990 yen
DVD76
3,990
-
8/21/2019 HT - October 2011.pdf
41/4841
That night, led by an alluring melody played on the
flute, Chibiusa sleepwalks out of the house. Usagi and
the girls follow her to discover all the kidnapped chil-dren in the town embarking aboard a huge flying ship.
The source of the music is a boy named Poupelin, who
is Perles older brother. The brothers were ordered by
Queen Badiane, who is planning to take over the world,
to take the children away to her castle in the sky.
Queen Badiane is using their energy to feed her
Black Dream Hole that will eventually engulf the
whole of the Earth. Perle who started to question Queen
Badianes orders revolts against his brother Poupelin.
Poupelin attacks the girls by manipulating weapons
with his flute.
Usagi and her friends transform into Sailor Senshi.
They follow the ship back to the castle with Perle, and
then defeat Poupelin and the evil fairies. However,
Queen Badiane, protected by a charm, tries to draw all
of Chibiusas special energy.
Sailor Moon stands up to Queen Badiane alone,
while the other Sailor Senshi channel their pow-
ers through her and finally succeed in destroying the
queen. Finally Chibiusa is rescued.
Text: MATSUURA Tsuneo
Once upon a time, a very old man sat on a mountainside
was about to eat his omusubi (onigiri/rice ball) when he
dropped one by accident. The omusubitumbled down into
a hole. Then from the hole he heard a funny little song
Omusubi Kororin. As he tried to find something else to
drop into the hole, he himself tumbled down the hole. As a
token of their appreciation for the omusubi, the mice living
in the hole said to the old man: here is a big tsudura(bas-
ket) and a small tsudura, you can take whichever one youlike. The old man took home the small basket and was
surprised to find it filled with treasures. The greedy old
man living next door heard the news and decided to do the
same thing. Hoping to take home both baskets, the greedy
old man meowed like a cat to frighten off the mice. The
mice panicked and blew out the candle, so the old man was
forever unable to find his way out of the hole.
Omusubi Kororin(Tumbling Rice Ball)
Japanese Fairy Tale
41
-
8/21/2019 HT - October 2011.pdf
42/484242
hallenging the Kanji!
L
ast month we introduced kanjicreated by combining
two kanji. This month we introduce kanjicreated by
combining a kanjicharacter and a radical (symbol
used in kanji) which also has a meaning. (kusakan-
muri) represents grass.The radical gives us the image of
grass coming from the ground. It is not a kanji, so it is not
used alone.
(hana / flower) is a combination of and
(ka / change).It means flower as grass transforms into
flower. is combined with (ta/ rice field).
It means grass that is planted in a rice field or seedling.
(kuru-shii/ agonizing) is a combination of and (furu-i). Grass has been used as traditional medicine.
Old grass is tough, bitter, and difficult to consume, so it
came to mean nigai (bitter) or kuru-shii (agonizing).
(kusuri / medicine) is combined with
(tano-shiior raku/ fun or happy). This combination means
taking grass to recover from illness makes you happy.
(kusakanmuri) RepresentsGrass and (sanzui) Water
flowerchange
grass
-
8/21/2019 HT - October 2011.pdf
43/4843
water
swim
long
(risshinben) represents mind. (iso-
ga-shii/ busy) is made combining this radical with
(na-kusu / lose): if you are busy, you lose
your mind. The kanji (wasu-reru / forget)
works in a similar way. (sei / nature or sex) is
a combination of with (i-kiru/ live). It
means mind to live.
(sanzui) represents water. (kiyo-i /
transparent water) combines this radical with
(ao / blue) and means transparent. (oyo-gu
/ swim) is combined with (naga-i / long), it
means one is in water for a long time or swim-
ming.
(shinnyou) means move on. (michi
/ road) is a combination of with (kubi/ head). The kanjicame to mean road as people
walk along a road with their head facing forward.
(hen/ return) is combined with
(han / against), and it means moving in the other
direction.
(ukanmuri) represents roof or house.
(an-shin/safe) is a combination of with
(onna / woman). One feels safe when a
woman is at home. (ji/ character) is created
by combining with (ko/ child). A good
way to memorize this kanji is by thinking about
how children learn characters at home.
mind
busy
lose
house
woman
safe
-
8/21/2019 HT - October 2011.pdf
44/4844
How do you read/pronounce, and what is the meaning
of, the kanjicharacters in photo one?
What is the name of Japanese food in photo two?
What is the name of the place in photo three?
Recently many young children call their grandmother
ba-ba instead of obaasan. What do they call their
grandfather instead of ojiisan?
Japanese often use the term oaiso at Japanese res-
taurants. What does it mean?
What is stapler commonly called in Japanese?
What is the title of the person who is second in charge
of a political party? Currently Mr. KOSHIISHI Azuma
is in this position in the Democratic Party of Japan.
What is pachinko? Select one from the options
below. 1. Food 2. Animal 3. Plant 4. Slot game 5.
Name of a PC
What is the name of the chain of islands that have also
been called the Galapagos of the Orient and were
registered by UNESCO as a World Nature Heritage
site this year?
What is the name of the famous manga, created by
Fujiko F Fujio, in which the main character is a cat?
1
2
3
s
tapler
F
Japanese Cultural Understanding Test
The questions below reflect things that almost all Japanese know.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
English Challenge
Questions:
2 3
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
The answers will be available in our next issue, or visit: www.hiraganatimes.com/test-answer/
www.hiraganatimes.com/test-answer
The answer to No. 6 is on page 31. No. 6
31
1
-
8/21/2019 HT - October 2011.pdf
45/4845 45
More than 80,000 Party Goers
Cant Be Wrong!
Our international parties have taken place
since 1988 to provide Hiragana Times read-
ers with the opportunity to meet and chat with
one another. Now, everyone is welcome! With
more than 80 parties a year, held in both Tokyo
and Osaka, we believe that we are Japans
No. 1 party host! With more than 80,000 people
in attendance over the