If you’re a fan of Japanese culture, you have probably run across yokai and kaiju. From anime to books to video games, these fictional creatures make frequent appearances in Japanese storytelling. It’s hard to imagine Japan without them. And yet, what exactly are yokai and kaiju? Are they good or evil? Are kaiju and yokai … Continue reading What are Yokai and Kaiju?
What Was the Showa Era (Period) in Japan?
The Showa Era is an interesting period in Japanese history. However, it can also be confusing to understand. In many ways, there were actually two Showa eras. World War II is the obvious dividing point between early and late Showa. These two periods are diametrically opposed. The military expansion and war years (1926-1945) bear little … Continue reading What Was the Showa Era (Period) in Japan?