17-Japan, a Pop Culture Empire

Lost in Translation

A 2003 film featuring Scarlett Johansson and Bill Murray, providing an outsider's perspective on Japanese culture.

Kawaii culture

A Japanese culture characterized by cuteness, often expressed in fashion and aesthetics, primarily among women but also including males.

J Pop

Japanese pop music, a large and influential genre within Japan's music industry.

Manga

Japanese comic books or graphic novels, which are a significant part of Japanese pop culture.

Cosplay

Costume play; a popular activity in Japan where individuals dress as characters from anime, manga, video games, and other media.

Ginza

A famous district in Tokyo known for high-end shopping and entertainment.

Cool Japan

A government initiative aimed at promoting Japanese culture globally, particularly in areas like fashion, television, and art.

Comiket

Comic Market, a massive self-published manga and anime fan convention in Tokyo.

K-Pop

Korean pop music, a genre that has gained massive global popularity, sometimes overshadowing J-Pop.

Soft power

The ability of a country to influence others through cultural or ideological appeal rather than military force.

EDM

Electronic Dance Music; a genre popular in Japanese nightlife and dance parties.

Robotics in art

The incorporation of robotics technology into artistic expressions, exemplified by artists like Sputnikko in Japan.

Anime

A style of animation that originated in Japan, featuring distinctive colorful artwork and vibrant characters.

Fashion shows in Japan

Events showcasing both high-end couture and amateur fashion, highlighting a blend of traditional and modern styles.

K-Pop vs J-Pop

The comparative rise of Korean pop music over Japanese pop music in global influence and popularity.

Tokyo 2020 Olympics

An event partially aimed at boosting the image of Japan's culture through international outreach.

Japanese nightlife

A vibrant and unique aspect of Japanese culture featuring a variety of entertainment including dance parties.