#69 OCTOBER 2013

JAPANESE GLOBALIZATION Internationalization at Home and Abroad 6 JET Program

Doshisha University accepting 9 foreign exchange students

Points-Based System for Highly Skilled Foreign Professionals 11 12 Nippon Budōkan Features

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PRIME MINISTER'S STUDENT'S SCIENCE AND DIARY CORNER TECHNOLOGY

Also COFESTA 2013 Kannazuki Motoman makes history

© COPYRIGHT 2013 CABINET OFFICE OF WHERE TO FIND US The views expressed in this magazine by the interviewees Tokyo Narita Airport terminals 1 & 2 ● JR East Travel Service Center (Tokyo Narita Airport) ● or contributors do not necessarily represent the views of Kansai Tourist Information Center (Kansai Int'l Airport) ● JR Tokyo Station Tourist Information the Cabinet Office or the Government of Japan. No article Center ● Foreign Press Center/Japan ● Foreign Correspondents' Club of Japan ● Delegation of or any part thereof may be reproduced without the express the European Union to Japan ● Tokyo University ● Waseda University ● Asia Pacific Univeristy permission of the Cabinet Office. Copyright inquiries ● Ritsumeikan University ● Kokushikan University ● University of Tsukuba ● Keio University ● should be made through a form available at : Meiji University ● Osaka University ● Kyushu University ● Kyoto University ● Tohoku University ● Nagoya University ● Sophia University ● Doshisha University ● Akita International University www.gov-online.go.jp/eng/mailform/inquiry.html ● International University of Japan

2 | highlighting japan ISSUE 69, OCTOBER 2013

16 Theme for october: Akita International University’s Exchange Programs JAPANESE GLOBALIZATION

his issue sheds Tokyo International 14 Exchange Center light on Japan's initiatives

UNESCO World Conference aimed at promoting cross- on Education for Sustainable 15 cultural communication and Development understanding, and changes to the Japanese education 20 system that will help to develop Medical Excellence Japan (MEJ) human resources better prepared for career pathways in an international setting. Japan’s contribution to overseas countries through voluntary international cooperation and expansion of business that is 18 firmly rooted in inbound services JICA’s Japan Overseas Cooperation Volunteers is also explored.

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JAPANESE 47 PREFECTURES 47 PREFECTURES ABROAD FROM A TO Y FROM A TO Y Mr. Mori Mikio Hyogo Ibaraki

EDITOR Roger D. Smith (EDITOR) ON THE COVER PROJECT MANAGER Jonathan Grogan Japanese Globalization: CONTRIBUTORS Alena Eckelmann, Terrie Lloyd, Selena Internationalization at home and aboard Hoy, Danny Minn, Veena Hoshino, Jonathan Grogan, Louis Dai, Nayalan Moodley (CONTRIBUTORS) Anna Cock Gibson (PROOFREADER) DESIGN Payoon Worachananan (DESIGNER, ILLUSTRATOR) ADMINISTRATION/ACCOUNTING Emi Sakuyama, Michiko Anezaki, Jeanette Komatsu (ADMINSTRATION)

october 2013 | 3 Prime Minister's Diary

a force for peace and stability, just PRIME MINISTER VISITS as it has been until now, or rather, to a degree even greater than AND THE it has been thus far, given the increasingly tragic state suffusing the globe. Japan will newly bear the flag of ‘Proactive Contribution to Peace.” He also said, “Japan intends to make efforts towards measures that will ensure the participation of women at all stages, including the prevention and resolution of conflicts as well as peace- Left: Prime Minister Abe shaking hands with Prime Minister in Canada building, and that will also th Right: Prime Minister Abe delivering an address at the 68 Session of the General safeguard the rights and the Assembly of the United Nations physical well-being of women rom September 24 to Canada. In the United States, he who are exposed to danger in September 27, Prime attended the 68th Session of the times of conflict.” Minister Abe visited General Assembly of the United Prime Minister Abe stated Canada and the United Nations (UN) and delivered an that the Government of Japan FStates. In Canada, Prime Minister address at the General Debate. will implement ODA in excess of Abe held talks with Mr. Stephen Prime Minister Abe said, “I US$ 3 billion over the next three Harper, Prime Minister of pledge here that I will make Japan years for those purpose.

PRIME MINISTER ATTENDS ASIA-PACIFIC ECONOMIC COOPERATION (APEC) 2013 n October 7, during his “So my message to you is the “Through the ‘APEC spirit’, visit to the Republic of following. When considering the we will mobilize the region’s Indonesia to attend the mounting need for infrastructure technologies, knowledge, and Asia-Pacific Economic build-up and urban development in capital in order to push forward OCooperation (APEC) Economic your countries, always remember in creating the world’s most Leaders’ Meeting, Prime Minister that you have Japan, a country advanced infrastructure.” Shinzo Abe delivered a keynote always intent to contribute speech at APEC CEO Summit 2013. to your endeavours, with its “Japan has the experience of technologies and experiences, in achieving rapid economic growth partnership with people whose even while overcoming energy in-depth knowledge of the local shortages, pollution, and other markets is indispensable. And such limitations. And we are a it goes without saying that for people who will not be stingy in investors, tremendous investment sharing any of those experiences opportunities will also emerge in and technologies.” such areas.” Session of leaders and their spouses

4 | highlighting japan >> TOPICS CoFesta 2013

CoFesta (JAPAN INTERNATIONAL CONTENTS FESTIVAL) is the world’s largest comprehensive PRIME MINISTER contents festival. The events connected with the contents industry, like games, animation, manga, ATTENDS JAPAN-ASEAN characters, broadcast, music and film, are held in cooperation with each other. SUMMIT While various contents from Japan influence and he Sixteenth Japan-ASEAN Summit was improve each other, and cooperate in the media held on October 9, 2013 in Bandar Seri technology industry to spread our message, CoFesta Begawan, Darussalam. Prime aims to be the world’s largest contents festival Minister Abe attended the meeting. which creates new capability and spreads it abroad TPrime Minister Abe noted that Brunei widely. Darussalam marked his 8th ASEAN Member This year, CoFesta is held primarily between State that he has visited since taking office and October and December and expects 2 million people reflects the importance Japan puts on ASEAN. in attendance. The festival attracted 1.8 million He looked forward to visiting all ten Member visitors last year. States by the end of this year, which marks the 40th anniversary of ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation, as well as welcoming all ASEAN leaders to Tokyo in December during the ASEAN- Japan Commemorative Summit. Prime Minister Abe wished that all ASEAN leaders will enjoy their stay in Japan, and stated that Japan is preparing for the summit so that the visits would be fruitful and worthy of commemorating the 40th anniversary. Tokyo Game Show 2013 (held in September) He also mentioned that the most significant outcome of the commemorative summit would The main official events be to address to the world a vision that will direct October 2013 the future of Japan and ASEAN, and wished that 17 thu 24 thu concrete measures and projects can be discussed 40th Japan Prize so that there will be productive results. 26th Tokyo International Film 17 thu 25 fri Festival

22 tue 24 thu Japan Content Showcase 2013

24 thu 26 sat Digital Content EXPO 2013

november 2013

7 thu 10 sun Manga Festival in

Japan-ASEAN Summit Meeting International Broadcast 13 wed 15 fri Equipment Exhibition 2013 a.k.a. Inter BEE 2013 Photographs and text courtesy of the Public Relations Office of the Government of Japan. Text courtesy of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan website. december 2013

4 wed ATP Award TV Grand Prix 2013 OCTOBER 2013 | 5 Feature JAPANESE GLOBALIZATION

JET Program: communicating with Japanese students through the joy of teaching

Christine Maeda with local elementary school students DANNY MINN

OST Japanese know of foreigners mainly countries such as the US, Canada, the UK, in public schools helping the students Ireland, , and , in 2013, with English learning. What they might JET welcomed over 4,000 participants from 40 not know is that most of these foreigners countries including people whose employment Mhave been dispatched through the Japan Exchange contracts were extended. and Teaching Program, or the JET Program. JET has JET program is administered by The Council recruited more than 58,000 young people from 63 of Local Authorities for International Relations different countries to come to Japan over the last 27 (CLAIR). The project is also cooperated by the years. While most of them hail from English-speaking following Japanese government ministries:

6 | highlighting japan ....Eating lunch with the kids every day allows me to interact with them in a more“ informal setting and to answer their various questions regarding my country and the world in general.” Ministry of Internal Affairs and are not expected to make their pronunciation and international Communications, Ministry of students fluent, but rather to studies. Zack is married to a Foreign Affairs, and the Ministry contribute toward a positive Japanese National, and they now of Education, Culture, Sports learning experience so that have a three-year-old daughter. Science and Technology. Local students will feel more receptive Still teaching English as a job even government organizations are about learning foreign languages after the end of his JET contract, also fundamental to the operation and socializing with foreigners he said, “I try to incorporate of the program. Its main purpose now and in the future. cultural elements into my lessons is to promote internationalization We talked to Zack Robertson, whenever possible. Eating lunch by inviting young people to from Texas in the USA. Zack with the kids every day allows me assist in exchange programs worked as an ALT near Fukuoka to interact with them in a more and foreign language education from 2005 to 2010. ALT is short informal setting and to answer in local governments, boards for Assistant Language Teacher. their various questions regarding of education, and schools ALT's mother tongues are English my country and the world in throughout Japan. It seeks to but in some cases, languages general.” foster ties between Japanese other than English, however, they Heading further north, citizens and JET participants at work as assistants in teaching Christine Maeda, a CIR the person-to-person level. English as a foreign language. (Coordinator of International What’s interesting is that ALTs work at elementary, junior Relations) currently resides in fluency in languages is not stated high schools and high schools Himi City, which faces the Sea as a goal; in fact, participants to teach students English of Japan in Toyoma Prefecture.

Christine Maeda and other Toyama CIRs David Flynn assisting his students

OCTOBER 2013 | 7 Feature JAPANESE GLOBALIZATION

Christine begins her day with the English phrase “Good morning” and a bright smile. CIRs are mainly attached to international exchange divisions in local public bodies and engage in international interchange. Although Christine’s parents are originally from Japan, she grew up in Torrance, California, and rediscovered her roots at high David Flynn school. Having graduated with a degree in English, she is enjoying 32-year-old David Flynn works All things come to an end teaching English and culture, as an ALT for schoolchildren at though, and for those teachers communicating with local people, Towada City, Aomori Prefecture. who return home, the JET Alumni and her ongoing search for the He is one of a growing number Association, which is run by self while a member of the JET of JET participants who joined ex-JET program participants, Program. the program in their 30’s. His promotes understanding of Christine said, “Attention to motivation for making the leap Japanese culture around the detail and excellent hospitality from a stable job in Canada was world through classes like are some aspects of Japanese the desire to experience living Japanese cooking, language, culture that should be imported abroad and a deep rooted passion ikebana (Japanese flower to America.” for Japan. arrangement), tea ceremony, and Venturing further north again, He certainly got somewhere wadaiko (Japanese percussion abroad. instruments). After the disastrous David commented, “When earthquake and tsunami in 2011, I first got here, I couldn’t read many alumni have donated much any Japanese!” Since arriving time and money to relief and two years ago, he has worked rebuilding efforts. hard learning Japanese. He With such a large number of stresses the need to focus on teachers passing through the communication and “having program, the JET program has fun through learning” in his been a tremendous success. teaching. He maintains this idea Mixed international families, in his extracurricular activities overseas cultural events, return such as teaching a group of visits to postings years later, 115 children how to hip-hop and lifelong long-distance dance and winning a yosakoi friendships, are all evidence of (traditional Japanese dance) the lasting goodwill, energy, and competition with his team in dreams that the program has Christine Maeda Aomori City. created.

8 | highlighting japan Doshisha University accepting foreign exchange students A Place of Diversity, Tradition, and Innovation

VEENA YOSHINO

ALKING through University is located. As soon Doshisha University is the streets of as you enter the Imadegawa one of the 13 ‘Global 30 (G30) Kyoto, the old Campus, you can feel the history. Universities’ making significant capital of Japan, The large building immediately progress in achieving their goal. Wyou get to walk past countless opposite is the oldest brick Other listed universities are shrines with red torii gates, building in Kyoto City. It is not Tohoku University, Tsukuba glorious temples with large bells, hard to imagine being a student University, Tokyo University, and discrete houses lining narrow of one hundred years ago, setting Nagoya University, Kyoto alleyways. It is here in the heart foot in Doshisha for the very first University, Osaka University, of Kyoto, across from the Kyoto time and beginning a new life Kyushu University, Keio Imperial Palace, where Doshisha journey. University, Sophia University,

Doshisha University chapel OCTOBER 2013 | 9 Feature JAPANESE GLOBALIZATION

Meiji University, Waseda University, and Ritsumeikan University. G30 is a project in which 13 universities selected by the Japanese government are joining forces to ultimately increase the number of international students to 300,000 by year 2020. International students can now apply from abroad, take online interviews, write their entrance examinations in English, and once enrolled in the school, choose from a variety of courses conducted in English. On top of an incredible cultural experience that is Global Village in learning commons building

promised, scholarships are also generous. These are only some basics of the project; a lot is being done in creating a learning environment where both Japanese and international students are able to influence each other and correspond about the globalizing world. Doshisha University has a very interesting history. It was founded by two popular historical figures, Jō Niijima, who is said to be the first Japanese to attend a university abroad, and Yae Niijima, his wife. Jō Niijima travelled to the US at a time when Japan was still in national isolation, and when citizens were strictly prohibited from travelling abroad. His academic experience, and the encounter with Christianity in the US, had a profound effect on him and eventually led him to create Doshisha. While Doshisha’s Imadegawa Campus is home to six buildings designated as national cultural property, other buildings are undergoing continuous modernization. This April, the Learning Commons building was newly opened. It features a group work area fitted with a touch screen TV, that can be used for searching international news from over a hundred countries worldwide, an academic

Shoeikan, Doshisha University

10 | highlighting japan support area (where instructors are readily career support system in partnership with Japanese available), a multimedia lounge, a workshop, an companies, so that international graduates can English-only zone, and there is a tatami area with apply their newfound skills before returning home, traditional Japanese décor. thus contributing to the globalization of Japan from When interviewed, three university staff within. pointed out that there are a considerable number of international students entering the university, hence a diverse student environment is starting Student to come to fruition. Students are taking an active interest in each other’s background, whether it interview be language, culture, religion, or hobbies. Now Jean Pierre Steve (Haiti) the focus is on providing even higher quality programs as well as strengthening relationships with universities around the world. There are “The classes are way tougher than those at still many obstacles to overcome, however, as of schools in Haiti, with loads of assignments. September 2013, Doshisha University has built But it is exciting to be able to learn about relationships with 167 universities in 39 countries, various aspects of Japanese society and and the number is still growing. economics through everyone’s presentations One member of staff, Ms. Matsumoto, stated on their respective topic of interest. In that “We are willing to do our best to support February this year, I participated in a students who have a strong desire to study in University sponsored visit to Kazamaura our school and who do well in the entrance Village of Aomori Prefecture, which is examination”. associated with Joseph Hardy Neesima (Jō Over half of the international students say that Niijima), together with other international the main reason they chose to study at Doshisha students at Doshisha University. I had never is that they had an interest in Japanese culture experienced such cold weather but was really and society. Certainly this is something that they impressed by the snowy landscape that I saw can easily find in Kyoto. Doshisha is working for the first time in my life. ” on their next goal, which is to create a strong

>> TOPIC 1 Points-Based System for Highly Skilled Foreign Professionals

In May 2012, Japan introduced a points-based system for Highly Skilled Foreign Professionals (HSFP) for the purpose of contributing to economic growth and industrial innovation in Japan. The system helps foreign professionals choose Japan as a desired place for work. This opportunity is open to academics, engineers, or business managers. Applicants are assessed on educational attainment, period of professional experience, promised annual salary, and professional achievements, etc. What are the benefits? They include: permission for multiple activities, permission to bring one’s parents, relaxed conditions for the permission for permanent residence (It will be granted after about five years of stay), permission for the spouse to work, and permission to bring a domestic worker, etc. More details http://www.immi-moj.go.jp/newimmiact_3/en/index.html OCTOBER 2013 | 11 Feature JAPANESE GLOBALIZATION

Jōdō practice at an international Budō cultural seminar NIPPON BUDŌKAN

Japanese Martial Spirit Meets the World

Japanese children at Budō demonsrtation Aikidō demonstration

of the structure is provided by four Training Center and Budō JONATHAN GROGAN internal columns that imitate the International University. The construction of a traditional sumo 4-day course is open to foreign The history of Nippon ring. practitioners living in Japan and Budōkan is one of The main aim in the foundation offers classes about the history international exchange.” So says of Nippon Budōkan is educating the and philosophy of Budō, as well Mr. Yoshio Mifuji, the Secretary healthy youth of Japan and “provide as practical experience such as, General. Completed in 1964 for the a place to cultivate international kyudō (archery), aikidō, kendō, Tokyo Olympics of the same year, exchange through Budō.” karate, shorinji kempō, sumo, Nippon Budōkan incorporates One such example is the jūdō, naginata (halberd), and jōdō some unique elements into its International Seminar of Budō (staff). design. The roof mirrors the shape Culture, now in its 25th year, held Each year, the Japanese of Mount Fuji, while the support annually at the Nippon Budōkan Budō delegation, a group

12 | highlighting japan composed of 70 or so high level Mifuji believes that Budō teachers, visits an overseas country training has a strong demand to demonstrate martial arts and internationally because of the very deepen international friendship and practical problem that it solves, understanding. In November 2012, “how to defend yourself without a demonstration was held in New seriously hurting yourself or an Delhi, India that attracted as many opponent.” Yet Budō does not end as 6,300 spectators. 2013 has seen here. It is also a discipline that can the 60th anniversary of international be transmitted without the need relations between Cambodia and for words, a universal “language of Japan with practitioners from both the body” as Mifuji describes it. Of countries participating in a joint course, language may be required in demonstration, this time at the communicating some of the inner Jūdō practice Budōkan. teachings of Budō. Meditation, an important component of training, helps practitioners free their minds from distracting thoughts or zatsunen, and focus on what is important. The ability to dispel stress and pent up emotions through meditation and breathing exercises may have a strong application in our modern societies. Mifuji says that “so much emphasis is placed on giving the right answer in school and not on teamwork, yet working in a group and solving problems together can lead to great success. In Budō, there are many paths; it is not the path that 60th anniversary of Japan-Cambodia diplomatic relations is ‘right’ but the way one walks a path and finding one’s goal.” With 5,000,000 Budō practitioners in Japan and a further 50,000,000 worldwide, Budō has a bright domestic and international future. If you’re looking for better health, a better life and spending an enjoyable time with others, why not try looking up your local dōjō? In any case, it is a great achievement that organizations such as Nippon Budōkan have now become an international vehicle for greater cultural exchange, mutual Jūdō practice with Indian students understanding and peace.

OCTOBER 2013 | 13 Feature JAPANESE GLOBALIZATION

Offering a Home to Visiting Students and Researchers: Tokyo International Exchange Center

ROGER D. SMITH

n 2012, 137,756 foreign students came to Japan for their studies at undergraduate and graduate as well as at special training level. The majority were from IChina, Korea, and , but the total number includes almost every country in the world in 2012. Upon arrival in Japan, one of the very first challenges they face is to secure reasonably priced and convenient housing. The Tokyo International Exchange Center (TIEC), run by the Japan Student Services Organization (JASSO), offers a range of accommodations to visiting students TIEC hall of residence in Tokyo, where there are opportunities for international cultural exchange. Furthermore, volunteering groups are ready to support. The TIEC headquarters is located in Odaiba, Tokyo, where they have 796 rooms for singles, couples and families. “Plaza Heisei” includes facilities for conferences, meetings, exhibitions and exercise. The residence halls offer housing to those on scholarships, and the rooms are equipped with kitchens, bathrooms and an area for sleeping for the residents. Shared facilities include lounges, a music room, a tea room and an arts and crafts room. Gymnasiums and a training room for maintaining health are provided as well. Lastly, a recreation room, cooking instruction room and

TIEC lecture hall playroom exist for those with families or those who just wish to relax for the evening.

14 | highlighting japan “Plaza Heisei” is used mainly for administration foreign students and outgoing Japanese students, and for academic conferences. Many of the halls aimed at undergraduate and graduate-level studies. and seminar rooms are equipped for simultaneous JASSO accumulates information on studying translation, lectures and large-scale events. in Japan. Japanese students who wish to study TIEC also hosts a number of events, including abroad can also find support through various JASSO presentations of research, reception parties and sponsorship programs. In 2010, it sponsored 10,200 international festivals — and fresh foods are even Japanese students to study abroad in locations such provided for students. Japanese graduate students as North America, Asian and Europe. live there as resident assistants to help with problems related to everyday life in Japan. Interview with TIEC’s supervisory organization, JASSO, also offers various forms of support to foreign students, Foreign Student including scholarship programs for both incoming Mr. Agut Hidayat “I am currently a graduate student studying at GRIPS (National Graduate Institute For Policy Studies) policy research center, visiting from the Indonesian Ministry of Finance. The one thing that strikes me most about Tokyo International Exchange Center is its diversity. Not only people from around the world study here, but the facilities allow for daily interaction among the students. JASSO offers a safe and professional environment in which to study as well as organizing occasional events for us. I am very grateful for the opportunity to share my experience with so many others.” TIEC international festival

>> TOPIC 2 For the Achievement of Sustainable Society UNESCO World Conference on Education for Sustainable Development

Global challenges for sustainable development, such as global warming, sustainable use of natural resources and energy, food security, disaster risk reduction, and universal health coverage to protect lives and health, etc, need to be solved in order for people all over the world to live lives with dignity for the future generations. To this end, all people need to understand the global challenges, and each of us should change our awareness and act locally in our daily life. The idea, Education for Sustainable Development (ESD), encourages such movement. Japan and UNESCO will co-host ‘the UNESCO World Conference on Education for Sustainable Development’ in Aichi-Nagoya and Okayama, Japan in November 2014 as the finale to the “United Nations Decade of Education for Sustainable Development (UNDESD) (2005-2014).” The World Conference will review the achievement of the UNDESD as a showcase of lessons and good examples to promote ESD further beyond 2014. OCTOBER 2013 | 15 Feature JAPANESE GLOBALIZATION

Japanese students challenging the world: Akita International University’s Exchange

Programs AIU University Library

Trying to prepare for the the world. (as of September ROGER D. SMITH globalization age, where interests 2013) A compatible GPA system and values often cross borders coupled with credit transfers S globalization and where students need solid allows students to take courses continues, the language and communication at universities abroad while graduates of Akita skills, as well as an education gaining credits for their efforts at International University at overseas programs, Dr. Mark home. Former AIU President, Dr. A(AIU), located in Akita, will play Williams, Vice-President of AIU Mineo Nakajima established this leading roles on international stated: “Akita International system, providing opportunities stages. Established in 2004, AIU University contributes by for Japanese students where none offers students a fully English- nurturing students with practical existed before. based curriculum. Its students abilities, including excellence The student’s aim is to become are required to participate in a in English and other foreign self-reliant, to acquire the one-year study-abroad program, languages, along with a rich skills needed for autonomous similar to the Erasmus scheme in liberal arts education.” learning and to become adaptable Europe, while the Akita campus One of the keys to providing to changing environments. also hosts a number of foreign this education is the exchange This helps establish the skills students on short-term study program. AIU is partnered necessary to eventually assume programs. with 155 universities around positions of leadership.

16 | highlighting japan Active learning support center Foreign languages supporters Lecture theatre

To prepare for exchanges abroad, all students at AIU Student Interview must first take the English for Academic Purposes (EAP) course Ikuma Yasuda “Someone I know who attended AIU was which provides the fundamentals really passionate, and I entered AIU out of admiration for that required for advanced academic person and my own desire to grow. Factors like dorm life and learning. They are also strongly English-language debates, as well as the AIU curriculum, provide encouraged to participate in good training, and I also like having so many friends who are international festivals, speech able to motivate each other. Outside of class, I practice for Kanto contests and the like. Matsuri, one of the big three festivals of the Tohoku region. One program that has gained Working out both my class and club activity, I’ve also learned time immense popularity is called management skills.” “Project Based Learning” (PBL), whereby a multinational team Leon Ikeda “I aim to study in Australia. The required works on a common research academic achievements will push me to excel in my studies. I project with professors from have travelled overseas before, but this is the first time that I will both AIU and a US partner be living and studying abroad. It will be a great chance to learn institution. One example is a about a new way of life while also learning something about joint Pennsylvania-AIU project Australian business. I hope to take up the Global Business Program, studying the comparative effects so I see this as a great opportunity to play a role in international of ageing societies in Japan and business somehow. However, the most important component is the the US. During the 6-8 week opportunity to develop as an individual.” program, this Japan-US team engages in fieldwork at each Koharu Watanabe “Although there were some points that university. I felt uneasy about, such as the fact that all classes are taught in After graduation from AIU, all English, and the fact that I must live away from my parents and students are expected to have stay in a dormitory, I was certain that this decision will make me developed the abilities necessary grow and made up my mind to come to this university. At first, the to thrive in a globalizing world. classes in English were difficult, but because of this, my listening Those students who had a solid ability has improved a lot in the past year. I am interested in social university life will have a strong welfare, so I decided to study abroad at a university in Norway. I am sense of identity, confidence and already very excited about being able to take classes in one of the acquisitive learning. countries where social welfare began.”

OCTOBER 2013 | 17 Feature JAPANESE GLOBALIZATION

Mangrove, JICA volunteer assisting crop planting

Public-Private Volunteers Abroad: professionals in their respective fields. Now, there are some 458 active senior overseas volunteers. JICA’s Japan The attraction of becoming a junior volunteer is to obtain Overseas experiences that cannot be obtained in Japan and even youth who do not possess special sets Cooperation of skill are welcome to apply. The selection process is quite Volunteers demanding and requires an existing high level of linguistic ROGER D. SMITH and technical ability as well as that applicants be in good health. HE Japan International raising the self-reliance of their Once selected, volunteers are sent Cooperation Agency hosts, while also fostering mutual for further special training before (JICA) is a Japanese understanding. Junior volunteers the dispatch that emphasizes organization well known are typically people aged 20 to 39 linguistics, cross-cultural Tfor its official development who are eager to make use of their communication, health and safety, assistance (ODA) projects in own skills and experiences. A total and offers facts and history about developing countries. One of the of 1,744 young people are working their host country. main components of this program in developing countries (as of Recently, a new initiative has is a group of junior and senior August 2013) and are dispatched been receiving special attention in volunteers who offer their time for two years. In contrast, senior this field. It’s called the “private and expertise abroad in the cause overseas volunteers who are at sector partnership volunteer of humanitarian assistance and the age of 40 to 69 are typically system”, and it contributes to civil development. retirees who wish to make a training global human resources JICA volunteers live in the further contribution to society by cooperating with companies. dispatched area, work together after ending their careers. Each company can choose a host with the local people, speak the Senior overseas volunteers country and request a particular local language, and carry out offer the valuable skills and occupation, and dispatch on their activities with an emphasis on experience they have acquired as own terms. It is still in its infancy

18 | highlighting japan JICA volunteer assisting crop planting JICA volunteer with local children Filipino children sing with JICA volunteers

compared to the individual volunteer is 28-year-old Ryo is experiencing a “linguistic volunteer program, but what Takano. Formerly a sales executive barrier” that he hopes to makes the new program different with a life insurance company, overcome as many locals speak is the nomination process. Takano leapt at the chance to go a distinct dialect of Tagalog. Companies seeking to undertake abroad with the JICA private sector Takano expects participation a development project abroad partnership program, which was on the volunteer program to can dispatch employees who placed as the company’s human boost his linguistic ability, as are interested in becoming a resource training program. In well as his ability to work in an JICA volunteer. The employee comparison to other programs, overseas environment, and is will learn the language, culture, Takano was attracted to JICA’s looking forward to operating in custom, business skills and needs because of its tough requirements the international field as a future through volunteer activities coupled with the necessity to career pathway. with the locals. They construct associate at a grass roots level with Once volunteers return to a deep confidence by solving the local community, and work to Japan, they don’t just drop out. local problems. Companies help them. “If I can succeed at this, Through their experience and that hope to participate in I can do anything”, said Takano. expertise, returned volunteer overseas development are able Now stationed some 600km from members not only contribute to to recommend an employee as Manila in a small coastal town, cross-cultural communication a participant for the program. and some two months into the but also play a role in energizing The employee will then be volunteer program, Takano is Japan. Frequently, volunteer dispatched after being trained currently meeting local members experienced returnees are offered by JICA. The companies are then of the community to understand jobs by local governments and expected to offer specialized the local situation and assess companies seeking individuals advice or techniques in the fields problems. He hopes to provide who have experience in foreign of marketing, manufacturing work for the local community, problem-solving situations, and servicing. Since 2012, 28 many of whom are deprived, helping to broaden domestic corporations have signed on to through two industrial projects perspectives and communication. this initiative, and nine people and a tourism project that aims to All-in-all, JICA volunteers fill an have been dispatched abroad as a use the unique natural heritage of important role in representing JICA volunteer. the area, mangroves and jungle, Japan abroad and provide a caring Another such example of to attract visitors. Although some face for international exchanges a private sector partnership locals speak English, Takano with their devoted attitude.

OCTOBER 2013 | 19 Feature JAPANESE GLOBALIZATION

Medical Excellence Japan

building bridge with healthcare

TERRIE LLOYD An MEJ meeting in Vietnam

APAN has been long and business opportunity. and help promote the export of recognized for its The Ministry of Economy, Japanese know-how and systems. advanced health care Trade and Industry (METI) has To give the new entity the system and health identified precision techniques horsepower needed to get patients Jtechnologies. The nation’s and technologies, as well to choose Japan as a treatment medical infrastructure has as Japan’s fame as a quality place, MEJ recruited one of enabled it to have the world’s host, as points of leadership the nation’s top physicians, Dr. lowest cost of medical care in the medical tourism and Shuzo Yamamoto, a renowned ER among developed nations, trade sector, and set up in 2011 trauma specialist, as its president. while offering the longest life a specialist hospitality and Dr. Shuzo has impressive expectancies and one of the referral entity called Medical qualifications, serving for over lowest infant mortality rates. Excellence Japan (MEJ). The 17 years as a leading General The Organization for Economic organization has two roles: Surgeon and Ambulance Medical Cooperation and Development to help patients find and Instructor at “Kanagawa Traffic (OECD) has ranked Japan highly access top-level treatments Ambulance” inside “Saisei-kai in two fields, technology and in Japan and to help Japanese Kanagawa Prefecture Hospital”, diet, which has created two very medical providers, both in then after retirement as Honorary different points of focus for the manufacturing and services, Chairman of Japan Hospital foundation of health tourism to establish businesses abroad Association. Supporting Dr.

20 | highlighting japan Yamamoto at MEJ is the organization’s Secretary General, Mr. Hiroshi Asahina. Today, MEJ is the primary platform for Japanese health providers wanting to deliver health services to non-residents. It helps inbound customers seeking medical treatment to deal with language, scheduling, and accommodation issues, as well as of course recommending trusted providers. Currently, MEJ represents 57 hospitals and more than 21 companies who can take foreign patients or who supply Patient receiving CT examination in Vladivostok services and technology to providers who do. A second important role for MEJ is to help What is Japan becoming known disseminate Japanese medical expertise abroad. for? Primarily its expertise in surgical Working with METI to provide funding for hospitals techniques and advanced technologies, wanting to expand overseas, MEJ assists institutions focusing on quality, comprehensive care, through their foreign set up procedures, ranging from minimally invasive procedures, customized early stage research through to final construction and medicine, medical checkups, health exams, implementation. A recent flagship project has been the dentistry, and oral medicine. The new Hokuto Diagnostic Imaging Center in Vladivostok in strategy appears to be working well, and , which opened on May 28, 2013. The new center already MEJ has helped more than 300 is the brainchild of Hokuto Hospital in Hokkaido, in cancer patients from countries as diverse as collaboration with the Stroitel Medical Institute in Russia, and Cambodia. Vladivostok. Patients there can get MRIs, CTs, and Ultrasound scans, all with equipment made in Japan which is provided by Hitachi Medical Corporation. It is still early days for Japan’s medical tourism, but if MEJ’s experience is anything to go by, then METI’s plans to have the sector become a major contributor to the nation’s trade earnings in the future have a strong chance of becoming reality. Offering high-end techniques and technology not only help the nation add value to its technologies, but also provide advanced solutions for grateful travelers who Dr. Shuzo Yamamoto, President of MEJ otherwise would have to go without.

OCTOBER 2013 | 21 Series STUDENT'S CORNER Kannazuki The month 神無月 without gods

SELENA HOY

F you walk through natural so on. They are often represented women in order to play tricks on places in Japan, like a forest, by creatures such as kappa (water humans. However, the kitsune mountain or cliffs by the sea, sprites, for the god of water), have trouble changing their tails, you will probably see a piece kitsune (foxes, for Inari, god of rice so you can identify them by the Iof rope tied around an especially and fertility), oni, a kind of horned telltale fur sticking out of the large tree, or find zigzagged ogre representing the gods of bottom of a kimono! You can also paper streamers attached to wind and thunder, kodama (tree tell a fox in disguise when they an impressive boulder. These spirits) and many more. There are eat a large amount of aburaage plain-looking bits of paper and said to be yaoyorozu (as many as (fried tofu), their favorite food. string show the presence of kami, eight million) in all. Kappa live in ponds and rivers, or gods, and they can be found The spirits are powerful, but and like to bother swimmers. To everywhere. they can also be mischievous. For avoid harassment, it’s said that if Kami are found in nature example, kitsune are known for you should throw their favorite scenes and sometimes in animals. shape shifting and can change to food, cucumbers, in the water, They live in rivers, mountains, human form. They are especially they will let you swim by without trees, rain, wind, lightning, and fond of changing into beautiful bothering you.

22 | highlighting japan In Japan, the stories of spirits a safe birth, success in school, or time to discuss the year. What a like kappa and kitsune are such a luck in business. They help with sight! Many gods, all the forces of part of everyday life that there are health, safety in travel or a happy nature, all together in the same two kinds of sushi named after marriage. Yet, if you want to ask place. them: kappa-maki is a cucumber for a little help in October, the So October in most of Japan sushi roll and inari-zushi is a tenth month, you may find that has come to be known as piece of sweet fried tofu wrapped your local god is busy. Kannazuki, or month without around sushi rice. In the tenth month, all these gods. However, in Shimane As such, there are many unique gods leave their mountaintops prefecture only, this month is spirits that live in Japan. In the and places by the sea to meet at known as Kamiarizuki, or month month of October, however, there Izumo Grand Shrine in Shimane of gods. Izumo is going to be is a special story about the spirits prefecture on the Japan Sea crowded! that live in shrines. coast. It’s sure to be a lively Do not worry, as even if you Usually, gods take care of the meeting after such a long time by pay your visit to the shrine during forces of nature and address the themselves in the seaside cave kannazuki, your wish will still be prayers of people for things like or on top of a mountain. Now it's fulfilled.

octoberR 2013 | 23 Series SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

Motoman Makes History

ALENA ECKELMANN

OKYO 2020 – the world is watching in the automobile industry,” explained the Summer Olympics in Japan. Ayumi Hayashida, General Manager, Tokyo A massive event like this needs Administration Division & Corporate many helpers, but not all of them Communication Group, YASKAWA Electric Twill be humans in the future! Corporation. Priced at several million yen a Serving at restaurants, selling ice cream unit, Motoman is really multi-faceted. While

Ayumi Hayashida or beating the taiko drum, this all can be its core skills are welding, painting, assembly General Manager, done by Motoman, YASKAWA Electric and handling, it is now even being used in Tokyo Corporation’s new generation, human- the medical and biomedical industry. Administration Division & friendly robot. Even at the present time, Motoman’s main Corporate YASKAWA Electric is the world’s biggest use is in the automobile industry. Almost Communication Group, YASKAWA maker of industrial robots; it ranks in the all of Japan’s automobile manufacturers use Electric “Big Four” together with Germany’s Kuka, Motoman, and Europe’s main automobile Corporation Swedish ABB and Japan’s Fanuc Corp. manufacturers and related components Established in 1915, YASKAWA Electric manufacturers have come to employ initially produced motors and applications, Motoman in many ways. and over their almost 100 years in business, 70% of robots manufactured by YASKAWA the company has become a leader in Electric are exported overseas. 54% of all manufacturing inverter drives, servo drives products manufactured by the company and machine controllers. are also exported. Of the 54%, sales in Asia Up to the present, YASKAWA Electric has (which includes China) make up 27%, while released more than 270,000 robots for use America makes up 17% and Europe 10%. The in manufacturing to the world. In recent company has business centers in 28 countries years, the total volume of units released and has 14,000 employees throughout the has been increasing by around 20,000 units world. per year. In 1977, YASKAWA Electric put In 2015, YASKAWA will celebrate their their first all-electric industrial robot on the 100th anniversary, but the company is market. It was named Motoman (motor + not resting on their laurels. They envision human). Motoman to be a key helping hand in the “Motoman was not popular with service industry. “Aging society is a global potential clients initially, and we were issue. In future, Motoman will assist humans worried, but in the 1990s Motoman in the fields of medicine and welfare as well became a much sought-after worker at as in daily life. This is our new challenge,” Japan’s automated factories, especially said Hayashida.

24 | highlighting japan Exhibition of Motoman technology at YASKAWA Electric plant

A closer dialogue between the creating innovative ideas with regards to their use. This is robot maker, robot users and system where we can learn a great deal from Europe and the US,” integrators is needed to establish these he concluded. new applications for YASKAWA Electric’s robot technology. YASKAWA Electric has set up facilities (robot centers) in Munich, Germany; Ohio, USA; Saitama, Japan; and Shanghai, China which aim to deepen communication between the company and robot project business partners, In future, expansion of such centers in Asia is planned. “In Japan, we manufacture a robot first, and then we consider how to use it, whereas overseas, the idea for a certain application comes first, then a robot that provides the solution to the problem is created,” Hayashida explained. “We need more imagination. In Japan, we are good at making high performance robots but not at Motoman robots drumming

OCTOBER 2013 | 25 Series JAPANESE ABROARD

Lion of South East Asia: Mr. Mori, President, J Food & Culture TV

ROGER D. SMITH

IKIO Mori is a driven and passionate “There are three elements that are keys to a entrepreneur who has blazed his own businessman’s success,” said Mr. Mori. “The first path in the tough business world of is a combination of passion and desire to improve. Southeast Asia. Despite beginning The second is to make sure you achieve results. The Mhis career in a major corporation in Japan, Mori third is a profound knowledge of local conditions.” made up his mind to cross over to Singapore and For Mr. Mori, living abroad provided many gained employment with an American company. opportunities that might not have existed if he had Thereafter, he started up his own company in stayed in Japan, and in particular, deep knowledge the 1970’s. Mr. Mori now runs several successful of his adopted home. “Living in Singapore gave me ventures including Crown Line Group which now the chance to start my own company, which then has offices throughout Asia. allowed me to determine my own path and extent

Mikio Mori in front of Crown Line warehouse

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of success or failure. It is amazing ....It is amazing to consider to consider the strength of the the strength of the human spirit human spirit to survive even in the worst of circumstances, and “to survive even in the worst of I am quite fortunate to have had circumstances, and I am quite considerable success in my own fortunate to have had considerable ventures.” success in my own ventures. Recently, Mr. Mori started an entirely new venture. He established a company called ” J Food & Culture TV that aims Japan compete at those stages. to provide cable television My desire is to improve Japan’s programming dedicated to image abroad. I hope it will be my Japanese food, travel and longest lasting legacy among my entertainment for the Asian businesses.” market. By 2015, he hopes to have While media content and this channel broadcasting in over technology are significant drivers ten Asian countries. “Currently, for Mr. Mori’s new business, his NHK is the only Japanese channel personal values remain as his available overseas, and J Food & chief guiding force. One of the key Mikio Mori in his recording studio Culture TV aims to reveal another principles Mr. Mori likes most is exciting side of Japan. Now the remaining positive and striving to dominant image of Japan abroad improve oneself. “If you consider might be the Tohoku disaster, and the Chinese character for ‘to it is mostly negative. Japanese speak’ (haku, 吐く), it consists of cultural productions, such as a character meaning ‘mouth’ (口) movies, music and entertainment and one that looks like a positive television, are still among the best and negative sign (±). If you only though.” speak positive things and leave Mr. Mori stated that Korean the negative element out, you end and Chinese programming is up with the character for kanau dominant in Asia, but an interest (叶う), which in a sense means to still exists for Japanese cultural ‘follow one’s dreams’.” content. “By having a television This ability to speak and channel dedicated to Japanese think positively – no matter how culture, we can help improve the challenging the circumstances – is image of Japan abroad. Presently, an important factor in successful the Chinese and Koreans are very business and gives people, such strong when it comes to music as Mr. Mori, the ability to thrive in A logo symbolic of the company's ninja and dramas, so perhaps a TV even the toughest situations. mascot channel such as mine can help

OCTOBER 2013 | 27 47 Prefectures from A to Y HYOGO

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G h i j HYOGO k Connection to Himeji castle (The castle is currently l an Ancient Past undergoing restoration) Hyogo m restoration. Right now, the endearing name Hakuro-jo LOUIS DAI n castle is undergoing its Heisei (White Heron Castle). Using a o period restoration with the traditional Tosa and Nanban mix HE city of Himeji in aim of repairing the main of slaked lime, shell ash, hemp p Hyogo Prefecture keep’s white plaster wall and fibre and dulse iridea (a form is full of relics from roof tiles. of seaweed), the white plaster q Japan’s glorious The imposing structure of covers the castle’s exterior Tpast. Kanbei Kuroda, the main the castle’s main tower, as a with the exception of narrow r character in next year’s Taiga result, is under scaffolding openings in the walls that once s Drama, is a figure associated cover. Its lesser cousins served as weapons portals. with Himeji. I visited traces though, the east, west and The castle’s white tiers rest t left by Kanbei Kuroda and northwest small keeps are still on top of a base of stones that his ancestors. Indeed, only open for viewing. So too is the resemble open ogi folding fans, u 800 meters out from Himeji west bailey, an addition to the in some cases looming as high as v Station sits one of Japan’s most castle’s defensive measures 30 meters. Turrets, iron-plated celebrated historical icons, the in 1618, which doubled as gates and moats complete the w World Heritage listed Himeji the nagatsubone, the female castle’s formidable defences, and Castle. living quarters. are still in their original state. x The castle complex, as it is One of the most distinctive The restorations are y now, was built in 1609 by Lord features of the castle is due to finish in 2014 but in Ikeda Terumasa and has been the lustrous whiteness of the meantime, the castle’s z preserved through careful its walls, earning it the administration has installed a

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Engyoji Mt. Shosha

HYOGO

Himeji castle under restoration Walls of Himeji castle

lift for the purpose of viewing the 40-minute loop starts at the Bell served in traditional Engyoji red scene of restoration work. It sits of Benevolence, a large bronze lacquerware. just meters from the main keep’s bell that is rung for world peace, Himeji’s other historical sites, exterior wall, which stops at the and arrives at the main temple, such as the Nishioyashikiato castle’s top-tier level and the main Maniden, which was constructed Garden Kokoen, where visitors can roof, and offers panoramic views of in 970 but was rebuilt in 1930 participate in a tea ceremony, and Himeji City and close-up views of after being burned down. Himeji’s museums, add to the city’s the main keep’s exterior. Inside Maniden, candle light immersive quality. Every fall, they A half-an-hour bus ride north- casts flickering shadows across hold Nada no Kenka Matsuri, or the west from the castle is Mt. Shosha. the deep brown of the temple’s “Fighting Festival,” a soul-stirring At the top of the mountain, the wooden interior, and pilgrims Shinto ritual in which mikoshi forest shadows cast a solemn dressed in white, chant in unison. (portable shrines) are smashed silence on moss-covered roots and Next to the temple’s bell hangs an together amidst rousing shouts and a line of Kannon Bodhisattvas ornate bronze lamp tinged from taiko drums. The festival, with a statues that lead to the mountain’s the stream of smoke that rises history and tradition conveying most ubiquitous feature — the from the incense pot that sits enthusiastic passion to the present Buddhist temple complex Engyoji. beneath it. day, attracts over 100,000 ecstatic Founded in 966, the temple At Juryo-in, a sub-temple visitors every year. Irrevocably tied was an important training center immersed in the tranquil to the country’s epic ancient past, for priests in the western area of silence of the woods, visitors the city is a portal into another the Kansai district and became can have some shojin ryori, time and a wonderful escape from a site for Buddhist pilgrimage. A local vegetarian cuisine the white noise of city life.

OCTOBER 2013 | 29 47 Prefectures from A to Y IBARAKI

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h i j IBARAKI k Great Garden and Onsen, l Verdant Greenery Fukuroda-no-taki waterfalls m gardens are still enjoyed villa, overlooking the gardens. NAYALAN MOODLEY n by over a million visitors a While it's currently being o year. Kairakuen is a place of repaired after the Great East OARD the Joban Line striking beauty and serenity. Japan Earthquake, visitors can p limited express train The garden boasts a also visit the Kodokan, which from Ueno Station staggering 3,000 plum trees is a place of study and training q (Tokyo) bound for of 100 different varieties. attached to the gardens. BIwaki and in an hour you’ll Between February 20 and Nariaki upheld the vision that r arrive at Mito City, the capital March 31, the park hosts an training and study would be s of Ibaraki Prefecture. annual plum blossom festival performed at the Kodokan, Mito is home to one of the which sees the landscape followed by relaxation and t three “Great Gardens of Japan” transformed into a cloud of contemplation in Kairakuen. (Nihon Koen), Kairakuen. In delicate white and pink hues. For a change of pace, take u Japanese, Kairakuen means There are many other tree the JR Suigun line out of Mito v ‘garden that can be enjoyed species, each with their own for an hour and 10 minutes, by everyone’ and as the dedicated areas in the park. and you will eventually arrive w name suggests, it was open Entry to the park is free, and at Fukuroda Station. From to all who wished to use it. it is open all year-round. there, it’s a short bus ride to x Kairakuen was established For a small entry fee, the spectacular Fukuroda- y in 1842 by Nariaki Tokugawa visitors can also see Kobun- no-taki waterfalls. Three and even though much time tei that functioned as small tributaries merge in z has passed since then, the Nariaki’s private and public the hills above the falls and

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Kairakuen Kobun-tei IBARAKI

A restaurant that serves local food Sekisho-no-Yu Ibaraki

flow over the staggered cliff. The The Fukuroda area also With its rich cultural and falls crash down 120 meters of boasts a number of hot springs. natural heritage, as well as its terraced rock in an awe-inspiring Some 850 years ago, the area convenient location, Ibaraki is spectacle of beauty and sound. was predominantly used for ideal for travelers seeking to Fukuroda-no-taki is open all rice farming. Farmers noticed escape the urban intensity of year. that the ground water in their the city. If you need to recharge In autumn, the greenery gives paddies was heated and would and relax, Kairakuen and the way to rich reds and browns often use their paddies to Fukuroda area are definitely as the leaves change. From soak away the day’s tension. worth a look. November through February, Established 15 years ago, the falls are illuminated in Sekisho-no-Yu, now provides the evenings on weekends. At similar relief to travelers. The the height of winter, the falls waters remain undiluted to completely freeze over, turning preserve the healing properties the cliff face into a wall of of the minerals therein. Sekisho- ice. Spring brings with it wild no-Yu also has a restaurant cherry blossoms dotted across with an exquisite menu. All the landscape. During summer, the ingredients are local. There the cooler mountain air and is also a selection of locally nearby festivals make the area produced juices, micro-brews an attractive destination for and yogurts to sate parched campers. palates. Bamboo grove, Kairakuen

OCTOBER 2013 | 31 Matsutake Gohan ALL season cannot be spent without the the Nara and Heian Periods (710-1192). One of the F acknowledgement, or rather the strong most eaten matsutake dish is matsutake gohan, a aroma of matsutake mushrooms in Japan. mixture of this delicious mushroom and rice. Since This is especially so this year as the amount of matsutake already have a strong aroma, they are rainfall has been just right for a plentiful harvest usually only lightly seasoned and often eaten with of this luxury mushroom. Matsutake are pine white rice. If you have not tried matsutake yet, this mushrooms that grow mainly on roots of pine is the fall to! Why not enjoy the changing colors trees. According to historical records, they have of nature this season with a bowl of matsutake a long history in Japan and have been eaten since gohan?

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