2025-03

Others

The Japanese Genius Who Dumped Trash in the Desert!? Professor Shuichi Oyama’s A Revolutionary Project Turning Waste into Greenery

If someone told you that a Japanese person was dumping massive amounts of trash in the desert, what would you think?Would you be outraged, thinking, “That’s environmental destruction!” or “How irresponsible!”However, this “trash dumping” is not what it seems. In fact, it’s part of a revolutionary project that is turning deserts into green landscapes using waste!The mastermind behind this project is Professor Shuichi Oyama from Kyoto University. In Niger, West Africa, he has successfully developed a method to green the desert by burying trash—something no one had ever attempted before.This project is based on an incredible reversal of thinking:Instead of “dumping trash = pollution,” it’s about “utilizing trash = environmental restoration.”This surprising approach is changing the landscape of the desert.
Culture&Tradition

The Culture and History of Japanese VTubers: Why Did They Become So Popular in Japan?

VTubers (Virtual YouTubers) are content creators who use avatars to upload videos or livestreams. Unlike traditional YouTubers and streamers, they don’t have to show their real faces, creating a unique entertainment culture.Japan, in particular, has seen a massive growth in VTuber culture, which has since spread worldwide. But why did VTubers originate in Japan, and why did they become so popular? In this article, we will explore the history, cultural background, and appeal of VTubers.
Culture&Tradition

What is Japanese Idol Culture? Unique Features and Differences from Overseas Idols

Japanese idol culture is a unique phenomenon in the global music industry. While “idols” in many countries refer to professional artists or actors, in Japan, idols are often seen as figures who fans support and watch grow.This article will explore how Japanese idol culture developed, what makes it unique, and how it differs from idol cultures in other countries.
Culture&Tradition

The Appeal of Vocaloid and Why It Became Popular

Vocaloid is a Japanese voice synthesis technology that has revolutionized the music industry. Characters like Hatsune Miku have played a major role in this transformation.However, Vocaloid is more than just a voice synthesis software. It has become a cultural phenomenon that allows creators worldwide to produce and share music freely. But what makes Vocaloid so appealing? Why has it gained such immense popularity? This article explores the key factors behind its success.
Others

Who is Sasuke Haraguchi? From Genius Young Music Producer to Vocaloid Producer

Recently, Sasuke Haraguchi has been gaining attention as a Vocaloid producer. Many Vocaloid fans may have heard his songs, but what they might not know is that he started composing music at the age of five and made his professional debut as “SASUKE” at just 15 years old.
Culture&Tradition

Lightning-Fast Delivery! The Legendary “Hikyaku” of Edo Japan

In today’s world, we take fast delivery services like Amazon and Uber Eats for granted. But did you know that Japan had an incredibly efficient delivery system way back in the Edo period (1603-1868)?These couriers, known as Hikyaku (飛脚), were professional runners who transported letters and packages on foot. Some of them covered more than 100 km (62 miles) in a single day, a feat that sounds almost superhuman!In this article, let’s explore the fascinating history of Japan’s high-speed delivery service, the Hikyaku, and some of their unbelievable achievements.
Culture&Tradition

The Unique Features of Japanese Castles: How Do They Differ from Western Castles?

There are many types of castles around the world, but Japanese castles have particularly unique features. Compared to Western castles, their shape, materials, and purpose are quite different. So why did Japanese castles develop in such a distinct way? In this article, we will explore the characteristics of Japanese castles and how they differ from those in other countries.
History

🇯🇵 Why Japan Recovered So Fast After WWII – The “Miracle” That Shocked the World

Japan’s Situation in 1945 – A Nation in RuinsAt the end of World War II, Japan was completely devastated. Cities were reduced to ashes, the economy had collapsed, and millions were left homeless and starving.
Culture&Tradition

What is the Japanese Tea Ceremony? A Tradition of Aesthetics and Philosophy

The Japanese tea ceremony, or “sadō” (茶道), is more than just preparing and drinking tea—it is a deeply rooted cultural practice that embodies aesthetics and philosophy.At the heart of tea ceremony lies the concept of “wabi-sabi” (侘び寂び), which finds beauty in imperfection and simplicity. Another essential philosophy is “ichi-go ichi-e” (一期一会), meaning “one time, one meeting.” This idea emphasizes that each moment is unique and should be cherished, a concept that continues to influence Japanese culture today.
Culture&Tradition

The Legendary Large-Scale Incidents Caused by 2ch Users

“2channel” (commonly known as “2ch”) is Japan’s largest anonymous online forum, founded in 1999.Because users can post freely without revealing their identities, discussions often became chaotic and controversial. However, thanks to this anonymity, users could also unite with overwhelming power, influencing society in unexpected ways.