Japan - Understanding the Land

Japan is a country that is comprised of over 3,000 islands. It is a modern day juxtaposition of things that seem to be a contradiction in everything we know. This, then, can be both one of its strengths and a weakness. The history and culture of Japan dates back to approximately 30,000BC but is one of the most technologically advanced cultures in the world today. But this isn't to say that it doesn't have a weakness or poverty issue.

Japan's political affiliation is one that is known as a constitutional monarchy. While still ruled by an Emperor, his power is extremely limited. The actual power is held by Japan's Prime Minister and, subsequently, the elected members of his Diet. The country's sovereignty is vested within Japan's people. Japan continues to maintain its close economic, military, and political ties with its main key ally, the United States. It has many other strong political ties such as being a standing member of the United Nations since 1956 has also been a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council for a total of 18 years.

A weakness of Japan has been a major pollution problem due to its rapid economic growth that immediately followed World War II. By 1970, environmental plans were put into place to combat the effects. Because of this, Japan has been at the core of developing some of the most environmentally friendly technologies available the world over. Japan is also working constantly to improve conditions for the climate, ranking the world's 30th best in the Environmental Sustainability Index. The technology that Japan creates isn't simply limited to environmental technologies, either. Japan boasts the second largest economy in the world, second only to the United States, and third in purchasing power.

One of Japan's major strengths is in the science and technology field. As one of the world leaders in scientific research, it has been accredited with amazing discoveries in the fields of technology, machinery, and biomedical research. It also is the world's largest automotive producer and possesses more than half of the industrial robots used for manufacturing. With all of these great things, though, Japan is facing a rapidly aging population that doesn't have the younger demographic to support it. This is one of the key hot button issues often being debated on how to keep the population from rapid decline. This is also where the poverty lies in Japan. Most of the citizens that are in poverty are of the older generation.

Sebastian has been traveling around South East Asia for some time and has put together a number of blogs on the subject. If your interested in Japan then check out http://www.japancares.com

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Top Ten Things to Do in Japan

Japan is one of the countries that have the best of both worlds. It's advanced in terms of technology, and yet, it has been able to retain its greatest heritage - its culture. Indeed, Japan has done an amazing feat as it can manage to stay as one of the world's leading economic powers while still being able to hold on to the roots of its past. And, as such, it has become one of the most interesting places to visit - a rich blend of history and technology.

1.) Watch the cherry blossoms fall

There's no symbol of Japan more famous than the beautiful Cherry Blossoms. Indeed, the cherry blossom, with beauty so intense but so fleeting, is something that you have got to see if you ever visit Japan. They bloom during the months of April and May, and by the end of these months, they fall to the ground like a dreamy curtain of pink and white. There's no other sight quite like it.

2.) Release your inner child

Japan is one of the few countries in the world with its own Disney Land. And, of course, because the Japanese are sticklers for culture, their Disney Land is built with a distinctly Japanese influence. It sets it apart from all other such theme parks in the world.

3.) Indulge the shopaholic in you

Tokoyo is one of the world's biggest shopping capitals. Ginza is a huge market where you can find anything you need, from the latest gadgets and gizmos to the latest manga release of your favorite anime series. In the morning, you can even see it transformed into the world's largest fish market. Indeed, Ginza is one place that you'd be sorry to miss.

4.) Sip some tea

Essentially, the Japanese are people who prefer everything to be clean and serene, that's why they love such peaceful activities as drinking, or rather, sipping tea. While you're in Japan, you should at least experience authentic Japanese tea. Or better yet, you can participate in the Japanese Tea Ceremony, a festival held both in Kyoto and Tokyo.

5.) Play in the snow

In some parts of the year, particularly in winter, Japan gets coated in a blanket of pristine white snow. During this time of the year, it would do you well to have some fun in Japan's steep ski slopes. You can even partake in the Snow Festival where ice parties take place for a whole seven days and where you can see beautiful ice sculptures.

6.) Relax in the hot springs

And, if your muscles need to loosen up a bit, why don't you give yourself a treat by visiting one of the many hot springs. These can be found in most parts of Japan, especially in Okinawa. The relaxing steam is sure to make you feel like you've shed a very heavy load.

7.) Become a samurai

Japan is quite famous for its noble Samurai who follow the Bushido code, and the swords or their 'katana,' though light and flexible, are sharp and deadly. You can buy your own katana for your collection's sake, but mind you, a lot of effort and time are put into these swords, so they won't be cheap. Some sellers are even picky as to who they're going to sell their swords to - that's how special these deadly weapons are.

8.) Watch giants clash

A sport like no other, sumo wrestling is one of the most interesting things that you will see in Japan. Sumo Wrestling is Japan's national sport, and it draws large crowds from all over. You can even place your bets to make watching it more exciting.

9.) Do some sightseeing

There are tons of things to see in Japan. It is, after all, rich in architecture and landscapes. You can take pictures of the famous Imperial Palace if you're into architecture or the famous Mt. Fuji if you're into nature.

10.) Bask in the Nightlife

And, of course, what better way to end the day than to experience Tokyo's nightlife. There's no other place in the world where 'glow-in-the-dark' is a fashion statement. Indeed, a great place to let loose and just be yourself.

Jonathan Williams is the travel writer for Destination Guide TV - the place to share travel videos [http://www.destinationguide.tv]. Visit [http://www.destinationguide.tv/japan] to view or share Japan travel videos [http://www.destinationguide.tv/japan].

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Japan As the Gateway to the New World Order

Japan was literally reduced to ashes at the end of the Second World War. Japanese people scavenged for anything to sustain themselves in those dark days following surrender. A piece of bark from a rotten tree or a limpid carrot root must have passed as a great meal.

Each exhausting day must have been just as bleak as the previous one. The infrastructure, what remained of it, was in total disarray. The country was in chaos. Panic was ensuing after news spread of the devastation that the atomic bomb had wrought on the peoples of Hiroshima and Nagasaki.

The losers (Japan) could not decide whether to embrace their conquerors or fight to the bloody death. It was only a painfully humiliating radio broadcast (at the urging of General McCarthur) by the Emperor Hirohito in which he admitted he was not divine that allowed the Allies to bring a horrific world event to a definable end.

One constant explains the miraculous economic recovery that Japan - a resource-poor island nation of 130,000,000 people - was to experience in the post-war years. That constant was its people and their strict adherence to rules, conformity, perseverance sacrifice, and a Confucian respect for the elderly.

Let us fast-forward to the Year 2006. Japan has regained some of its resiliency. The arrogant swagger of the early 80s has returned in some quarters after the economic malaise of the late 90s. An Internet Technology (IT) boom has arisen in an eerily similar manner to the one in the U.S. a few years' back. Large companies are restructuring and discovering new business paradigms and marketing models. New trends in retailing are emerging.

In Japan's aging society, youth rule the roost. The ubiquitous cellular phone is even more popular than cigarettes and booze. Old-fashioned, archaic company structures have given way to promotion by merit. Language of respect has all but disappeared except in stuffy, unwieldy organizations that represent the old Japan.

Let me address the negative side of Japan? Public manners are becoming atrocious in some circles. Elders are often ignored or disrespected. Murders, kidnappings, extortions and a host of other crimes that were almost unheard of (outside political and gangster circles in Japan until the mid-1980s) are surging at an alarming rate. These sore points are slowly being addressed.

Significantly, young people have no sense of urgency and no sense of direction. Money and the pursuit of it have weakened the Japanese underbelly. Grown, employed children often live at home until well into their thirties or forever. Supported by mom and dad, they stay put under the pretext that it is too expensive to live independently.

The terror and hardship of war mean nothing to these new-age drifters. They are showered with gifts, with money, with toys, with contraptions. They are the first generation of children spoiled by prosperity and they harbor no sense of community responsibility.

As bad a picture as I just painted, Japan is ready to be the center of a marketing boom. The technology, the infrastructure, and the trappings of modern life are all firmly planted. A new, prosperous lifestyle is emerging here that is fitting for the advanced society Japan has become. This is a great place to live and to work in the next generation, as the world shifts from the West to the East.

A savvy entrepreneur or netrepreneur should definitely be looking to the Orient and to modern Japan as the gateway to emerging markets.

If you want to take advantage of niche opportunities in Japan, subscribe to the Japan Business Insider Newsletter and use the 4000+ directory of English -language websites for Japan. To learn more, go to http://www.successinjapan.com

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Here's Your Shortcut to Teaching English in Japan

If you plan to enter Japan for anything other than sightseeing, like foreign-language teaching, or a long-term assignment to a Japanese company, you need a specified work visa.

To apply for a Japan work Visa you must contact a Japanese embassy or a consulate in your home country.

The following documents must be submitted regardless of the purpose of your visit:

* A Valid passport

*Two recent passport photos (from the last 6 months)

*The application forms, available at the Japanese embassy or consulate.

*Documents certifying the purpose of the visit.

You will probably need a Japanese cell phone in Japan. The reason is that the cellular network in Japan is different than in other countries. So the cell phone from your home country won't work in Japan. You should check with your local supplier before landing in Japan, because some 3G cell phones will be compatible with the Japanese system. But in most cases you'll find that it's necessary to Rent a Japanese cell phone. This can be done very easily through the internet - they will send the phone to you, or at Narita Tokyo airport booths.

Japan's culture is very unique.

I suggest you get ready for your time in Japan by getting to know a little bit about the Japanese etiquette. Knowing some background about Japan culture really will make you feel less confused when being in the company of Japanese people.

Avoid the most common, funny and embarrassing mistakes westerners do in Japan:

*Always address Japanese people by attaching 'san' to their last name.

* Even though bowing is a very important part of Japan culture, you are not expected to bow. The reason is that bowing is a very complex system which takes into account social status and age of the person you bow to. If you bow with an inappropriate inclination you might be insulting your fellow Japanese unintentionally.

*Never turn your back to someone in higher position than you.

*Never Stare into another person's eyes. The Japanese avoid eye contact to give others some privacy.

*Before entering a Japanese house and certain restaurants, you must remove your shoes. Slippers are the footwear for inside the house.

I hope you enjoyed this page about getting Ready to Teach in Japan.

For more info check out Tokyo Information And Getting Ready.

TokyoTopGuide makes sure you learn the secrets of Getting Ready for Japan which will reduce costly mistakes. Discover the ultimate Things To Do in Japan.

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Japan Casinos

Japanese people love gambling and all kinds of games of chance, and although Japan casinos are not plentiful due to governmental regulation, gambling is very popular with Japanese and foreigners alike. The Japanese have a long history of gambling, often involving traditional games that are not known outside its borders, and furthermore, they love to bet on sporting events such as horseracing and baseball. Consequently, current political moves to liberalize the Japan casino industry are likely to place Japan at the forefront of the Asian gambling market.

One of the most popular games of chance in Japan is called pachinko, a game like pinball, which is played by millions of Japanese in "pachinko parlors" all through the country. Pachinko machines offer lucky winners the chance to exchange their tokens for goods or money on the premises, and trillions of yen are spent every year on this most popular of pastimes. Indeed, it is estimated that more money is generated by this game than several of Japan's top car manufacturers combined.

Due to tight government legislation prohibiting casinos as such, Japan casinos are currently obliged to operate online, an industry which is fast growing into one of Asia's biggest, and also on cruise ships and boats operating in international waters, thus circumventing the restrictions on land-based gambling. There are moves afoot to change the rules on gambling to allow Japan casinos to be established throughout the country, offering not just basic gambling facilities, but also operating as entertainment and retail malls in their own right. This will generate extra revenue and provide customers with a more satisfying leisure experience. Furthermore, many proponents of casino reform in Japan feel that liberalizing the rules on gambling would make the country even more attractive to tourists, especially considering the number of casinos operating in other countries in the Far East.

In addition to traditional forms of gambling, Japanese people love to wager on sporting events, and in particular on horse racing; big races can regularly attract huge crowds, sometimes in excess of 100,000. The Japanese also gamble on cycling and other sports such as soccer, and in addition, there is a government lottery that offers maximum prizes of around a billion yen. Consequently, there is already a thriving gambling scene in Japan, and with the anticipated changes in the rules, it is surely not long before Japan casinos find themselves at the forefront of the Asian gambling industry.

This article is the property of Japan Casinos

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Japan Auto Industry

Japan is credited for the creation of many types of vehicles some of which include Nissan, Suzuki, Mitsubishi, Subaru, Toyota and Honda and over the years have become one of the largest vehicle manufacturers in the world. It is not possible to refer to certain vehicles without mentioning the Japan auto industry. They import vehicles to numerous countries across the world such as the United States, Ireland and the United Kingdom. There are certain requirements that must be met before the importation process can begin and each country requires certain documentation before conducting this transaction within the Japan auto industry.

New Tax Regime

A seven-band CO2 emission system will apply from 1 July 2008, payable on category A vehicles will no longer be based on the engine size but rather on the level of CO2 emissions from the car.

VRT will now be charged as a percentage of the OMSP in accordance with the following table:

CO2 Emissions (CO2g/km) VRT Rates

0 - 120g 14% of OMSP

More than 120g/km up to and including140g/km 16% of OMSP

More than 140g/km up to and including 155g/km 20% of OMSP

More than 155g/km up to and including 170g/km 24% of OMSP

More than 170g/km up to and including 190g/km 28% of OMSP

More than 190g/km up to and including 225g/km 32% of OMSP

More than 225g/km 36% of OMSP

The new system of taxation will be applicable to new and imported category A vehicles.

As the new VRT rates differ from the current rates, the new regime is likely to impact on the VRT to be paid on all passenger cars registered after 1 July 2008. Thereafter, cars with lower CO2 emissions will have their VRT rates reduced. Reductions can be expected across the range of lower emitting vehicles. At the other end of the scale, larger, luxury and high performance models with higher CO2 emissions will be subjected to an increase in the VRT charged.

The Japan auto industry is continually growing due to the number of people that choose to import cars from this country. There are usually different prices associated with the type of vehicle being imported, the country it is being imported to along with other factors. The Japan auto industry makes it easier for people to import cars from their country due to their costs. The first thing you will need to do is find a reputable importer within the Japan auto industry. There are several trustworthy options that can be used for importing vehicles to the United Kingdom; some of them are AutoAdvan, JEM Japanese and European motors, Japanese imports direct and Universal Motor group Japanese car importers. These companies are trusted names throughout the Japan auto industry.

This relief is limited, on a sliding scale, depending on the age of the vehicle. The scale is as follows:

Age of vehicle Maximum amount which may be remitted or repaid.

New vehicle, first registration €2,500

Not a new vehicle but less than 2 years €2,250

2 years or over but less than 3 years €2,000

3 years or over but less than 4 years €1,750

4 years or over but less than 5 years €1,500

5 years or over but less than 6 years €1,250

6 years or over but less than 7 years €1,000

7 years or over but less than 8 years €750

8 years or over but less than 9 years €500

9 years or over but less than 10 years €250

10 years or over Nil

The minimum amounts of VRT that will be charged have also changed. Under the old scheme there was a minimum €315.00 charge for all cars regardless of the value. In recognition of the larger number of rates and the wider range from 14% up to 36% a limit for each CO2 band was introduced. The limits are:

VRT Rate Minimum VRT

14% €280

16% €320

20% €400

24% €480

28% €560

32% €640

36% €720

AutoAdvan usually takes four to five weeks to ship the vehicle, but the time frame can change depending on weather conditions. You can contact the company in advance to get a quote on the prices, but the cost is generally 130 pounds for the vehicle to be imported from Southampton to Birmingham. This company offers three ways to purchase and saves you at least 20% on the UK dealer prices. The Japan auto industry also imports vehicles to the United States and Ireland. Whichever country the car is going there will be a price to pay for shipping, insurance, duty and taxes.

The duty cost is usually required for both new and used cars within the Japan auto industry. Vehicles coming into the United States usually acquire a 25% cost for vehicles that are considered trucks and 2.5 % for autos. There are also taxes such as gas guzzler taxes, which is based on the fuel economy rating of the vehicle, but this is only for certain cars. Insurance fees are usually dependent on the type of vehicle and where it is being imported. However, used cars that are being imported within the Japan auto industry, cost significantly less than new vehicles.

It can be a long and arduous process trying to find a dealer within the Japan auto industry, but many companies can be found online. Most people use auctions as a way to find genuine Japanese vehicles within the Japan auto industry. Tradecarview, RamaDBK limited, Japan Trading and dolphin Motors are just a few of the dealers that offer a wide range of Japanese vehicles.

These companies have inside information about the Japan auto industry and can help acquire any type of Japanese vehicle that is needed. Their websites contain pictures and information about new and used Japanese transportation along with shipping and other costs associated with importing the vehicles. They usually ship to several locations across the world such as Ireland, United Kingdom, United States, Singapore, Kenya and Jamaica. You can also use reputable online car auctions such as Japaneseusedcars.com, japaneseautoauctions.com or usedcarexport.com/auction. These sites specialize in selling high quality cars and offer great deals on several different types and brands of vehicles.

For more tips on buying a car please go to: Tips On Buying A Car

http://tipsonbuyingacar.com

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Japan Celebrates Constitution Memorial Day

Japan's Constitution Memorial Day: May 3, 2010 Constitution Memorial Day is a public holiday in Japan.

Japan commemorates the coming into effect of its new 1947 constitution. Japan's constitution reflects Japan's total abolition of war and military armament. Japan's Constitution Memorial Day is one of the four public holidays in the Golden Week which also includes Emperor's Birthday, Greenery Day, and Showa Day on April 29, Greenery Day on May 3, and Children's Day on May 4.

History of Japan's Constitution Memorial Day

Two years after the end of World War II, Japan promulgated a new constitution. It was recognized as a holiday since the passing of the new constitution on May 3, 1947. The renouncement of war is considered as Japan's sovereign right and using war as an instrument to settle international dispute is forever banned. Article 9 of the Japanese constitutions states that:

ARTICLE 9. Aspiring sincerely to an international peace based on justice and order, the Japanese people forever renounce war as a sovereign right of the nation and the threat or use of force as means of settling international disputes. (2) To accomplish the aim of the preceding paragraph, land, sea, and air forces, as well as other war potential, will never be maintained. The right of belligerency of the state will not be recognized.

A number of known personalities, writers, and members of media in Japan have long been criticizing the above law such as the 2003 editorials in some major newspaper publications in the country.

Japan's Constitution Memorial Day: Traditions, Customs and Activities

During this day, the National Diet Building, housing Japan's upper house, the House of Councillors and lower house which is the House of Representatives (National Diet of Japan), becomes open to the public.

Also, the Japanese government calls for a nationwide reflection on the meaning of democracy in Japan and its forever renouncement of war as stated in the controversial and criticized Article 9 of the 1947 Japanese constitution.

Noel Moitre writes about world travel. A Global World bridges cross-cultural and world communications between global companies and their worldwide customers. The blog: http://Holidays-Around-the-World.com describes when, where and how world holidays are celebrated.

Before you purchase calendars with only USA holidays, buy a World Calendar at http://aglobalworld.com with all holidays around the world.

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