2026 Jorshan's Blog

What Makes Japanese Cuisine Special? Japanese cuisine is one of the most recognized and appreciated food cultures in the world. From sushi and ramen to traditional home-cooked meals, Japanese food is known for its balance, freshness, and presentation. This survey aims to compare how Japanese students and international students perceive Japanese cuisine and identify the characteristics that make it unique compared to other cuisines around the world. Why Is Japanese Cuisine Different? Unlike many cuisines that focus heavily on spices or rich sauces, Japanese cuisine often emphasizes natural flavors, seasonal ingredients, and visual presentation. Meals are commonly designed to provide a balance of nutrition, taste, and appearance. Many people associate Japanese food with healthy eating habits, fresh seafood, rice-based dishes, and cultural traditions that have been preserved for g...

(Inter)cultural Communication & Nonverbal Communication This week’s class helped me better understand the importance of intercultural and nonverbal communication. Intercultural communication refers to how people from different cultural backgrounds interact and understand each other. Nonverbal communication includes body language, facial expressions, eye contact, gestures, and personal space. As a Costa Rican living in Japan, I have noticed both similarities and differences in communication styles. In Costa Rica, people are generally very expressive. We often use hand gestures, maintain direct eye contact, and show emotions openly during conversations. Physical contact, such as handshakes or friendly hugs, is also common among friends and family. In contrast, Japanese communication tends to be more indirect and subtle. Nonverbal cues are very important in Japan, an...