Unveiling the Meaning Behind Japan's Nicknames

Japan stands as a renowned global destination, boasting a rich cultural tapestry and unique cuisine. Despite its widespread usage, Japan goes by three different monikers, with their meanings often eluding many. Let's delve into them with Klook.

For ages, 'Land of the Rising Sun' has been the default term used by the Vietnamese to refer to Japan.

According to the bilingual Japanese-Vietnamese dictionary compiled and published by Seiji Onochi in 1979, 'Rising Sun' is explained with three significances: the sun tree (mythology); the east; and the country where the sun rises (Japan).

In Eastern folklore, the hollow strawberry tree is referred to as the 'Rising Sun' or 'Empty Sun.' As the Sun God rides his chariot across the sky from East to West, he pauses beneath the roots of the rising sun tree. In ancient literature, 'Rising Sun' is also used to denote the place where the sun rises.

Ancient Chinese Records on Phù Tang as a Deity of Wood

The findings indicate that most Vietnamese affirm 'Phù Tang' to be Japan or a region of Japan. Conversely, Japanese respondents appear puzzled when selecting multiple-choice answers, one of which is their own country.

Dr. Phạm Thu Giang from the University of Social Sciences and Humanities, Hanoi, faced skepticism from Japanese individuals when translating 'Phù Tang' into Fusō (扶桑). She conducted a small-scale survey with 50 Vietnamese and 50 Japanese respondents, aiming to clarify this issue.

Research results also reveal inconsistencies in Chinese historical records regarding the Phù Tang tree and the land named after this plant. Phù Tang may serve as a metaphor, an idealistic concept, or even denote a real-existing nation or territory.

Hence, Phù Tang could be a term accepted by many Vietnamese with the meaning of Japan, yet it's not entirely accurate or widespread among the Japanese.

Interpreted by many, Japan, situated in the far east of Asia, is seen as the place where the continent's first sunrise is witnessed. Hence, it's no wonder 'Land of the Rising Sun' is the most prevalent alternate name for this nation.

In fact, the kanji characters in Japan's official name mean 'Root of the Sun,' and the people of this nation have long revered the sun's image. According to the ancient text Nihon Shoki, Japanese emperors are also considered descendants of the sun goddess Amaterasu.

For the Japanese, cherry blossoms symbolize beauty, fragility, and purity. As a flower that 'blooms briefly, then fades quickly,' cherry blossoms symbolize the 'way of death' for Japanese samurai—living and dying like cherry blossoms.

Though not officially recognized as the national flower, cherry blossoms hold a special place in Japanese culture. The imagery of cherry blossoms appears in traditional attire, cuisine, decorative patterns, as well as on the 100 yen coin and the 1,000 yen banknote. For these reasons, Japan is also known as the Land of Cherry Blossoms.

These delicate flowers can be found all over Japan. They typically bloom in spring around March and April, varying slightly depending on the location. In warmer southern Japan, they can bloom as early as late January, while in the northern Hokkaido region, they may bloom in May.

Hence, cherry blossom enthusiasts can embark on a journey from south to north over several months, although cherry blossoms typically only last for about 1-2 weeks when in bloom.

When in Japan, you can explore modern bustling cities like Tokyo and Yokohama or visit traditional and historic areas like Kyoto and Nagoya. You can also immerse yourself in the beautiful natural landscapes of Mount Fuji and the hot springs in Noboribetsu... Check out more of Klook's activities to discover Japan!

Reference article from: https://dulich.vnexpress.net/tin-tuc/quoc-te/y-nghia-dang-sau-ba-biet-danh-cua-nhat-ban-3675416.html