Which stereotypes about the Japanese are true or not true?
Firstly, Japan isn’t expensive at all. Prices are lower than in the UAE.
Secondly, cars and sushi are well-known in the UAE, and we’re happy about this. But Japan’s excellent products are not fully represented by cars and sushi alone. Japan has much more to offer.
What is unique about Japan?
Japan has been the conflux of the East and the West. We’ve tried hard to learn from and acquire the Eastern culture and Western civilisation. Now, our way of thinking is deeply rooted in the East while we live Westernised lifestyles.
How do you explain the popularity of Japanese culture?
Japanese culture is both ultra-modern and traditional. Japanese animation, movies and fashion has become very popular all over the world. I know many Arabic people loved Japanese animation, like “Captain Majid” and “Dragon Ball”.
Japanese traditional culture is also well-known to the world. Now many universities have Japanese clubs that support both modern and traditional Japanese culture.
Can you sum up Japan’s presence in the UAE?
Japan has excellent relations with the UAE for more than 40 years. UAE people speak highly of Japan, not only its technology or high-quality products but also its people being well-organised, having good tradition and harmony.
In terms of the economy, Japan is the UAE’s third-largest trade partner. Now, Japanese business is picking up its dynamism, and many Japanese companies are very interested in doing business in the Middle East, especially in Dubai. Japanese business is about to come back to this region.
What is your hometown like? What sights in your country are not to be missed?
My hometown, Osaka, has been business centre of Japan for hundreds of years, while Tokyo is the centre of politics.
In addition to Tokyo, the capital of Japan, my recommendation is Kyoto, which was the capital for 1,000 years. Both cities have a lot of old historical temples and shrines, so you can enjoy another side of Japan.
Japan is a long, curved island, so we have a lot of fantastic places for sightseeing.
In the northern part, you can enjoy wonderful winter time in Hokkaido.
