7.6 Sleazy guarantor brokers pray on the desperate

In Japan, we need guarantor and guarantor's sign or 'inkan' when we contract to something. Then I remembered that exchange students in YMCA worried about house renting system in Japan. Almost of them come to Japan and live there in first time. So, they have to rent or share room at first. Moreover they must find the guarantor and ask them the 'Inkan' to prove thire identification. One of exchange student from Taiwan said 'It was the most hard prossess of settlement in Japan.' Even if they have relatives or friends in Japan, it can't be easy to be accept as their guarantor. When I heared about that, Japan's guarantor system is very complicated. It is also strict to Japanese especialy the poverty. Anyway, our society absolutry needs the identifiable guarantor in every contract.

Nami

7.7 Obese Passengers

Now, the problem of overweight or obese stands for U.S. Many American prefer junky and high-calolie food with large size. It can be said American custom from of old. But, recently the tendency of that is growing by leaps and bounds. One of examples here! Airlines have a problem of obese passengers. They go beyond capacity of economy seat. So, airlines are going to prepare another suitable seat for them or charge the extra fee for obese person. Furthermore, respondant from comment board said "If one in three Americans is fat and one in three is obese, then only one in three is not fat or obese. So airlines need to change the seat sizes anyway to suit the majority." I think it's wrong. They don't have to adapt to this matter, have to solve the root of obese syndrome in U.S. It's better for health of them too.

Nami

7.8 Two Monkeys Appointed Stationmasters in Japan

What's a tiny and Cute stationmasters are they! It's my first expression. Both two prefecture Wakayama and Hyogo adopted animal stationmaster. They work at station and many customer visit to see them. Its economic effect was enough. I think it's so contemporary idea. As recent movement, such a cute and heeling character attracts consumers or customers. For example Sento-kun, Hikonyan as called 'Yuru Chara' in Japan. It can be expected great effect for tourism industry. Furthermore, the payment for them is not so high than that of for person. So, it's a good idea to both of them.

Nami

7.10 A Flare for Language Services

There is a growing demand for translation company that offer industry expertise as well as language service. Sunflare is Japanese company, which offers translation in over 50 languages. They have tow offices in Paris and Dalian. In the near future they would have in U.S.
How to raise up translators? They have a own Academy. The Academy has about 1500 trainees and they are training resourses with translation and writing skills. On the artcle, there is a question "machine translation will replace human translation?". My answer is "NO". The article also said a certain nuance or bridge the cultural gap wil always need human. Therefore the demand of these occupation is growing more and more in the future.

Nami

4.10. A flare for language services

I thought “flare” mean “flash” or “burn suddenly and disappear soon” like sun flare. So I didn’t receive a good image from this company name. My image of flare is not so good. This is just my opinion. It is better to say “flair” than “flare”.
However, I didn’t know that there are too many documents to translate.
I have interested in the question for Executive Managing Director Mr. Shunichi Hagihara by interviewer. It was “Do you think machine translations will replace human translators ?” Mr. Hagihara answered “We are getting close to machine translations but we see it as merely a device that a human will need to operate.” I think this answer is yes he is right now. The translation machine some time translates fearful. But in near the future may be we don’t need interpreter. May be in near the future Japanese creates very useful translation machine which can read emotional things too. I hope so.

Genta Koto.

4.9. Suicides in Japan

Since I was an elementary school student I know that Japan is famous about suicides.
It is said that there are many reasons for suicides. But I feel the most famous reason is a loosing job. As evidence a figure shows a characteristic.
According to the figure and graph rate valance men are committing a suicide more than women.
I think this “men” is business-men.
Men’s mental side doesn’t take care not so much. Recently mount of single man are increasing. I think many Japanese are working too much. Many workaholic business-men are appearing but I guess many more sick persons are hiding. Workaholic needs to be cure to save family to save community to save country to save the world.
Genta Koto

4.8. Two Monkeys

They are doing good job. Good effects are leaded by them.
But some passengers who have fear about animals or person who has an animal allergy might feel unhappy. I like animals and monkeys. But I’m not agree these movements. If I had a fearful experience with monkeys I have to refuse to use the station and choose another station no mutter how the station is far from there.
I think services should be available for universally. From that point I don’t agree even the animals are not dangerous.
Genta Koto

4.7. Obese Passengers

I think it is reasonable to charge for passengers to calculate prices by the pound.
Especially I think airlines have much possibility to do so.
Actually heavy weight it self related to the risk of danger and air plane needs more fuel to fly heavy passengers. They have already calculating luggage by the pound. So it is natural to calculate passengers. I perfectly agree this opinion.
But there are some issues about privacy. Air-ports are already treating our privacy date through scanning body. Even this problem wasn’t solving well but calculating issue maybe call more problem.

Genta Koto

4.6 Sleazy guarantor brokers prey on the desperate.

Sleazy guarantor brokers are really bad.

They are wasting trusts. I think trust is the most important thing for their services.

Maybe the similar companies are feeling troubled.

My father’s company had eaten by these sleazy guarantor brokers and finally smashed 5years ago. (By the way, he could get a good job than former job.)

I think these brokers are maybe making many problems in Japan e.g. suicides, disruption of families.

If they won’t change their working attitudes we probably seem to see more people die in the future.

At least these companies can’t help desperate people.

I think they should take some punishes or stop their preying immediately.

Genta Koto

1.8. Two Monkeys Appointed StationMasters in Japan

According to the article, two monkeys became a stationmaster like Tama, which is in Kishi station in Wakayama prefecture. I think it’s very good thing for people. I like animal, so I’d like to see those animal, which is a stationmaster. Animal can heal people when they have a strong stress. Especially I want to see Tama! Because my favorite animal is a cats. GC2 Daisuke Ohta

6.8 Two Monkeys

What cute monkeys！Animals can be very effective mascot that revitalize local areas. A lot pf Japanese people are likely to enthuse popular animals that are talked about. Actually, many friends around me went to Wakayama to see Tama. However, craze for animals in Japan is may sometimes appear very strange to the eyes of foreign people. For example, in 2002, a bearded seal apppeared in Tamagawa, Saitama prefecture. Japan went crazy over it, and Saitama prefecture gave it a certificate of residence. How dou you think about it? Does a bearded seal need a certificate of residence? I don't think so. Actually animals are very cute and attractive. However, in my opinion, overdone enthusiasm for animals can be foolish.

8.8 Two monkeys are appointed to station masters

I have seen the scenes that some animals are appointed to station masters in Japanese railways particularly in mountains or rural areas on TV. I think that it would be one of the Japanese cultures and it is very interesting. I want to visit the station in which monkeys are the masters of there. In there the monkeys would perform me a proper greeting. That kind of station would be able to attract more tourists if they advertise well. That would be one of the charming points of Japanese rural areas. I also expect that there are some stations that dogs or cats are the station masters in rural areas. I am curious where those kinds of stations would exist.

8.1 About Orland Bloom

I like Orland Bloom because he is cool and his acts are very impressive. I know him since the release of The Lord of the Rings. He played Legolas who is the strongest archer in Elf species and I felt his role very important in the following battle scenes. And he played William Turner who is very good at sword fight in Pirates of the Caribbean series. I felt it a little shocking when I heard that he is going to be absent in Pirates of the Caribbean 4. I anticipate that he will play an important role in the next blockbuster film.

6.5 Hikaru Utada

I strongly agree with Hikaru Utada, and I got angry at commercialism of the music industry. This album doesn't include any new song, so I don't think that we need to buy it. Universal Japan seems to want to make a lot of money before she will take a break. It could spoil her career, because it doesn't have musical value. I really like her, so I felt sad when I heard this news. However, I will not buy it.

1.10. A flare for language services

According to the article, Sun flare has 7,000 translators and handled more than 16,000 translation orders in 2009. I know the name of the company because I found they hold TQE, which is necessary certification to be their translator. I’m very interested in this certification because it connects to job by using English. It’s not a national certification like interpreter guide in Japan, however I’m considering try to pass it to build my career for future. GC2 Daisuke Ohta

7.9 Suicides in Japan

The number of people who committed suicide in Japan is top of the world. Despite of the lank, the number is decreasing from last year. It owed to the government anti-suicide campaign of last year. By this campaign, it could fall 15.9% in April and 13.5% in October. The government ready to make emergency strategy team at the Cabinet office in autumn 2009. They will support that people can get advice about mental health and debt problems, and compiling region-by region suicide prevention steps based on relevant police statistics. I think worker in Japan have many stress about office circumstance. They are bound to hard work and long time. Especially man's task on the work is sometimes burden than that of women's. So, we have to reduce the stress by something another activity or telling to someone. So we need best friend or best partner close by you.

Nami Sutou

3.10 translator & Interpreter

Translator is a job of admiration for students of foreign languages,
but it is not a gorgeous job. My friend's mother is a translator. She has studied
English for more than 30 years. She is a temporary worker of industrial machines'
company now.
She told me about her job...
- recently, there are many useful soft wares. Lots of offers of translation do not
need human.
- you maybe not find any jobs as a full time worker. There are so many translator in
Japan, especially English-Japanese translator.
They are negative points of the job. But, before working, it is important to understand
shortcomings of a job.

8.10 The demand for foreign language translation

I think that foreign language translation business has become more important than ever because of the process of globalization. English is the most common worldwide language but the demand for Chinese language would increase. The reason is the development of Chinese economy and technologies. Not only English spoken countries but also China are indispensable for Japanese trading businesses that create our industries. So I think that Chinese language learning and translation business would be demanded for future young generations and creating that kind of business would give young people the opportunity for getting jobs. The expand of translation business for young people would be the key for improving the job hunting situations. From that point, I think that German language translation business would also be important because of the economy relationship between Japan and Germany.

10. A flare for language services

i. Read the short article about "language services" (click here)

respond to the article by stating your opinion, and why you think so.
Responses should include the reasoning behind your response...

ii. Watch the video, "A day in the life of an Interpreter."


Also available at Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aut2Wy-sSoU&feature=related

8.9 Why are there many suicide cases in Japan?

I think that some of the reasons many people commit suicide are because of the working conditions in Japan and the negative recession conditions. There are many people who lost their jobs and they are obliged to send unstable lives. And there are many people who become ill or melancholia because of working too hard. I think that those working conditions would lead many people to commit suicide or think about it. So I think that some of the solutions to prevent many people from commiting suicide may be improving working conditions and doing something about Japanese recession conditions. I feel that it would be very serious predicament or like crucifixion for older men who have wives and children to lose jobs in these times. I always hear that the government consider about young people's job hunting conditions but they have to consider about older people who have families that they have to foster. These solutions would be more effective.

1.9Suicides in Japan GC2 Daisuke Ohta

According to the article, 31,560 people committed suicide in 2010. I think it comes from too much stress, unemployment, and a mental illness. The ruling set up a task force to prevent suicide in last September; however, I think DPJ cannot solve this problem because they never accomplish their manifest since they won general election in 2009. So, we must solve by ourselves. In my opinion, if you feel nerves, you should go to license school to improve your skill and meet other people.

3.9 Suicides in Japan

Japanese are not accustomed to be alone. When people choose suicides, they feel lonely.

Since we are elementary school students, we have been educated to be with other people. Also, if there is someone who is not good at group activities, he/she is looked as a strange person. So, it is common for us to depend on other people to be with other people.

Because of recent recession, many people lost their jobs and the relationship that accompanied with their jobs. It is important to support depressed people, but it is more important for us to have strong heart in order to put up with our loneliness.

9. Suicides in Japan

i. Read the short article about Suicides in Japan (click here)

respond to the article by stating your opinion, and why you think so.
Responses should include the reasoning behind your response...

ii. Watch the video "Suicides in Japan rise with crisis" (click here)

and "Looking into Japan's High Suicide Rate." (click here)

article can also be found at:
http://www.japantoday.com/category/national/view/suicides-in-japan-top-30000-for-13th-straight-year

6.4 Cosplay

What is Cosplay? Somehow, I don't like Cosplay very much, but I think dressing up is fun. Is there a difference between Cosplay and dressing up for Halloween day? I feel that I could understand the difference between them when reading this article and some other articles about Cosplay. I think the most important difference is their purpose. People who like dressing up just want to enjoy dressing up in costumes. On the other hand, Cosplay fans want to completely become the characters that they like to dress up as. It is a big difference. I like comics, but I don't become overly enthusiastic about them. Therefore, I don't want to identify myself with the characters in them. Maybe it is the reason I don't like Cosplay very much. However, I have to say that I don't dislike Cosplay fans. They are enjoying their hobbies. I think that it's great. In addition most of them make their own costumes, and the quality is excellent. Cosplay is one part of Japanese culture.

http://jollyandy.com/home/?p=306

4.5 The cowardicer. --Genta Koto

4.5 The cowardicer.

Hikaru Utada has a good heart, good righteousness. She said “I don’t want to make fans pay for this because my heart is not in this release.” Another media said Universal Japan was aimed releasing their CD on the same day with EMI studios. She didn’t allow to Universal Japan to release the CD because they are against her opinion. Finally she decided to dissolve them. However, these CDs seemed to be sales well.

GC2 Genta Koto

8. Two Monkeys Appointed StationMasters in Japan

i. Read the short article about Monkeys being appointed station Masters (click here)

respond to the article by stating your opinion, and why you think so.
Responses should include the reasoning behind your response...
ii. Next, watch the video about 'Tama' the station master cat of Wakayama.

article can also be found at:
http://www.weirdasianews.com/2010/11/22/monkeys-appointed-stationmasters-japan/

7.3 For all passengers

I agree with the situation that obese people must sit on big seats and they should pay extra charge. But, who is the irregular people for airlines? One policy is necessary for airlines to make rules for obese passengers. Each airline has each standard for fat customers. For example, according to Southwest Airlines' website, they need customers who cannot seat economy seats to reserve two seats for their width. They declare the width fir each seat is 17 inches. Also, United Airlines has its own regulations for obese customers. They want passengers whose size is bigger than armrest size to buy two seats. They do not say the width clearly. On some another airlines' websites I could not find such rules, but it is said that every airline has their own rules for obese people.
The reason that airlines want extra charge for fat people is to keep them safely, even if the reason is just outward. So, they should decide the same standard for such people, or customers would wonder if they can be regular people for airlines or not.

4.4 Cosplay

 Dear Mondy,

Cosplay is kind of culture.
I feel difficult to understand them but actually I don't have strong opinion to them.
If they appear in front of me I watch them and try to guess who is a main character of this anime.
I think to guess what is fun. Because usually I know the character and maybe you know the character too.
Japan is filling with funny things.  These subculture make good culture. Many many people are watching animes and through it we can have a same image about our self, sometimes it is a model of future, sometimes it is a idea. So anime is not a harm thing.

From Genta.

1.7.Obese Passengers GC2 Daisuke Ohta

According to the article, the growing number of people who are too fat to sit on the seat in airplane. I think it’s a serious problem for the airline company, because some fat passengers complaint about seat and make an unjustified demand for them. If airline companies accept their demand, obesity passengers behave as if they are king. So, airline companies shouldn’t change the size of seat. Anyway, obesity has not only problem from this article, but also, it cause lifestyle-related illness, so, all people in the earth try to walk and exercise. I think it’s the only way of solving the problem.

8.7 My opinion about regulations for obese people

I think that the customer services for overweight people should be changed in some points. For example, it would be better for the airplane companies to make more economy class seats for obese people and make those seats to be next to their associates. So they don't have to be separated. Or it would also be better to make bedrooms for obese people so they don't have to care about the size of plane seats. But if they do so, they have to consider the amount balance of the numbers of seats and bedrooms into calculations. And the airline companies should care about the structure of seats or beds when they make those things to prevent them from collapse.

5.6 Such bad guranter brokers should be arrested.

I don't believe why such sleazy gurantor brokers aren't arrested. It is clear that they are swindlers, take advantage of such weak people and try to get much money irregally. Government should make and enforce laws which can protect such weak people immediately. I think there are lots of same cases which aren't known and sued for damages, because such weak people can't demand lawyer caused usually poor. Government should take some steps immediately before the situation will get completely out of hand.

N.Sakurai

7.Obese Passengers

Read the short article about Obese Passengers (click here)

Make sure to also read the comments section at the bottom of the article. Please respond to the article by stating your opinion, and why you think so. Responses should include the reasoning behind your response...

Read another article in the Washington post before writing your response (click here)

Cartoon By: Mikhaela B. Reid (2010). Angry Cartoonist, retrieved from http://www.flickr.com/photos/mikhaela/4386184154/

Video can be found at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gx9ICWLyHfU&feature=related

Video can be found at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kynejmXQtB4&feature=related

8.4 My opinion about cosplaying as animation characters

I think that it is funny for animation character fans to cosplay as their favorite characters. Japanese animation is very fascinating and it has individual features. Many Japanese animations or comics are becoming more popular all over the world. I have seen some scenes which foregin people cosplay as Japanese animation characters. I think that those people have found enjoyment in these actions. It would relax themselves. But those actions would be allowed in places where some comics or animations derive.
I would consider cosplaying my favorite animation characters. For example, I like a Japanese animation called 「Detective Conan」. I may want to cosplay my favorite characters in that animation in places where the homeland of that animation's auther exist. Which is Tottori prefecture.

8.3 My opinion about the customer services in Japan

I think that there are many people who think that customer is superior standing point when it comes to servicing business in Japan. I cannot deny that there is a tendency that the staff have to listen to whatever customer says in Japanese society. Because of that, there are many remarkable cases that show unreasonable claiming cases against the manager. These phoenomenons often occur particularly in food businesses and restaurant chain worlds. I think that one of the reasons that Japanese food business related jobs like restaurants or food shops are very severe and oppressive is because there are some customers who complain unreasonable claims and the top of the company let shop owners resolve these problems by themselves. The working conditions in food business related jobs like restaurants or food shops are like hell because of not only the few holidays for the workers but also the tendency that the shop staffs have to listen to whatever the customers request. So there are many people who resign these kind of jobs or become melancholia.
I think that Japanese government must take action to resolve these problems and try much efforts to improve the working conditions of food related businesses as soon as possible. Otherwise, the working conditions in food related businesses like restaurants or food shops will become worse and worse.

3.6 Government must protect the nation by laws

Japanese government must make a new law or review the present law about guarantors. The present law is so weak that some malicious companies can continue their "hoshosaabisu" business.
I would like to tell you about the system of Japanese guarantor. This system's origin was "Ninjo"(like humanity and heart) in Edo era. Government made the law about guaruntor(Mimotohosho ni kansuru houritsu) in 1935. The law just explains "the contract of guaruntor". Goaruntors must guarantee money losses if the person who he/she grantee make some miney losses deliberately. But, this system is not duty, but just traditional Japanese custom. Also, there are no laws to ban companies from wanting their employees to prepare their guarantors. So, if workers don't prepare their guarantor, companies can lay them off. This dismissal is legal.
There are two problems in this system and the law.This law has never been reviewed since 1935. The situation and society in Japan have changed very much. Also, this law accepts the existence of guaruntors but doesn't show penalties, fine, and prohibition clearly. So, it is easy for malicious companies to keep their "hinkon business". I want Japanese government to make new law or revise the present law soon and protect us firmly.

Satoko

8.6 It is not good to take advantage of poor people's conditions

I think that it is not good to take advantage of socially poor people's predicament for social working guarantee organization's own purpose. If they get money for introducing jobs to their customers, the guaranteers should take responsibility because it is the social common senses. It is also unfair that the work introducing guaranteers don't have to take responsibility if it comes to impossible situations even if they got money. I think that the government also should consider some solutions for introducing many jobs for people who are socially poor and are in predicament that their life-style is unstable.

1.6. Sleazy guarantor brokers prey on the desperate GC2 Daisuke Ohta

The article say that malicious business called “muen shakai” and “Hinkon Bussiness” are spreading in Japan. Also it says “hosho business” has been growing. Nowadays, income of workers are decreasing, however, why malicious bussinees are growing. A person in this article paid 50,000 yen, but the company which provide services didn’t find guarantor for him. I think not all companies are doing illegal things, however, some company take advantage of one’s weak point of poverty. Bad economy allow malicious business to grow.

8.2 I also love Tom Cruise

I also love Tom Cruise because he is good at acting and he has been popular for long times. His looks is also nice and I think he has nice body enough to challenge many action and fighting scenes. But I felt a little different atmosphere when I saw the movie called Valkrie in which Tom Cruise acted a German official millitary man in World War 2 in an attempt to assassinate Adolf Hitler.

I know how popular Tom Cruise is because he has visited Japan many times and he attracted many fans and he lent Shinkansen for himself. He was welcomed at Kyoto when he visited many sites. But it is regrettable that he has no much time to stay in Japan because he is too busy. I am looking forward to watching his next movie Mission Impossible 4.

I think Cameron Dias is also fantastic because she is beautiful and a little taller. I think that she became more beautiful than she ever was. I thought her voice charming when I watched the movie Shrek.

Tom Cruise goes with the flow

Tom Cruise is the best actor who earn the money by staring hollywood movies. The latest one is "Knight and Day" in which he co-stars with Cameron Diaz. They last stared together in the 2001 film "Vanilla Sky". They are best partner each other. Cruise,48-year-old keeps good looks still now. Also he is multi-actor ,so he hasn't been afraid to go against type like comedy, romance and action. I admired his talent and toughness. He is really famous actor all over the world.

2.1Tom Cruise goes with the flow

No Hollywood movie star gets a bigger reception in Japan than Tom Cruise. The 48-year-old star cultivates his fans here better than any other actor. One week, 800fans were specially invited to a red carpet premiere of his new movie, "Night and Day," in which he co-stars with Cameron Diaz. Tom said "I ' ve always had a great relationship with this country and fan support is something that I have never taken for granted." Diaz also a regular visitor to Japan. In "Knight and Day," Tom plays a spy on the run."knight and day" reunites Cruise and Diaz who starred together in the 2001 film "Vanilla Sky."In interview, Tom said "It was great working with Cameron again." CameronDiaz also praise for Cruise. "There is no one better to work with than Tom."Actually, I watch this movie. Tom retains his boyish good looks, but the body of Diaz slacken.

6. Sleazy guarantor brokers prey on the desperate

Read the short article about Guarantor Brokers (click here)

Make sure to also read the comments section at the bottom of the article. Please respond to the article by stating your opinion, and why you think so. Responses should include the reasoning behind your response...

5.5 It is funny that two similar CDs release on same day

I haven't ever heard that two similar CDs for same artist by different companies will release on same day. And I don't understand why will Universal Japan release the CD without being endorsed by artist, Utada Hikaru. What is its purpose? I can't infer any reason, because I don't know well the background of Utada Hikaru and I'm not interested in her music.
I only know that she is a daughter of Keiko Fuji who used to be one of famous Enka singer and her first single was a big hit song. And I think releasing two similar Cds on same day is one of publicity stunt and probably lots of both CDs will be sold.

N.Sakurai

1.5Hikaru Utada GC2 Daisuke Ohta

This article says Hikaru utada has advised fans not to buy her album, “Utada the Best”. I think professional musician shouldn’t say such thing. It seems that singer doesn’t have confidence about her works. However, I can understand that her works is worse than before. So, I stop buying her CD since 2001. I think she released good works in her early carrier. For example, I like “automatic”, “First Love” “Addicted to you” etc. Also, I like her version of “Fly me to the moon” which is the standard Jazz tune sang by many singers. So, I hope she get back to her basis after she go back to music world.

8.5 Utada Hikaru album collections

I think that there is a good reason that Hikaru Utada think it unacceptable to know that two companies released her albums on the same day. Her fans have to pay for two albums and she may feel sorry about it. And she would not be able to understand why the other company chose the same day for releasing her albums. She may feel that her albums cause the companies much competetion. But she also says that she endorses her fans to buy the albums EMI studios released. I feel that it is her personal feeling and I guess that she likes that studio. I cannot stop feeling that there is her favoritism for that studio.

3.5 Meaning CDs for singers

In this case, Hikaru Utada was shocked at "Utada the Best" album by Universal Japan.
I heard from TV news that she did not really involve in making the CD. Belows are what the news said. Universal Music wants to earn money before she stops her activity as a singer, because she is one of the most popular artists in Japan. She belong to Universal Music in the United States, but in Japan she has been a singer of the company EMI Music. There might be some fights between these two companies.
For singers, their CDs are like their children. As an artist who belongs to one particular company, she has to follow the company's rules and manager's opinions. But, in my opinion, if she did not really involved in making the CD, the company's action showed the inversion of her right as a singer. Maybe a lot of fans will buy the CD "Utada the Best" because they want to hear her beautiful voice. However if they are " true fans" for her, they should not buy it. I think they must understand her feeling.

Satoko

6.3

Both of customers and clerks should have manners, because we should have a minimal standard of consideration. I'm working as a store clerk, so I can understand both feelings. I sometimes see customers who have terrible manners. I don't think that customers should think clerks are king, but customer should have kindness as a member of society. It is needless to say that clerks should have good manners. In this movie, the clerk's serving customers is horrible, but unfortunately, it's a true that we sometimes see attitude to customers like her. I need to pay attention to be customers and clerks who have good manners.

5. Hikaru Utada

Read the short article about Hikaru Utada (Click Here).

Make sure to also read the comments section at the bottom of the article. Please respond to the article by stating your opinion, and why you think so. Responses should include the reasoning behind your response...

http://www.japantoday.com/category/entertainment/view/hikaru-utada-advises-fans-not-to-buy-her-album

Watch the interview with Utada Hikaru

Utada Hikaru 'This is the One' Miami Interview

or you can find it at...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kUETJQEOPdY

1.4What is Cosplay? GC2 daisuke Ohta

I think Japanese Manga is excellent way of representation and it became a worldwide subculture nowadays. Also Cosplay show that many Manga fun are in the country. However, I disagree the only one thing in this article. According to the article, Washinomiya Shrine became a famous place between the readers of “Lucky Star” and fans visit there with costume which comes from the works. I don’t care that people wear such kind of costume, however, It’s a rude manner of worship! The religious place is for respecting God of its religion. So, they must not regard their hobby and worship. Manga is one of artistic thing, so, I think they should enjoy it at suitable place to preserve Manga culture with excellent manner and worship for the works.

5.4 Cosplay might make a good opportunity of new industries

Cosplay might make good opportunities for new industries. When I was a students, I saw some animated cartoon such as Doraemon, Gundam and Dragon ball. However, I am not interested in wearing the costume which "anime" character wear and I don't understand people who want to do cosplay. I am very surprised that the "Lucky Star" animated cartoon gathered about 45,000 people who wore special costumes to a local shrine in the country side. Many forigners are also interested in Japanese animation and cosplay. Therefore, I think cosplay might be a big opportunity for new industry. Disneyland was established after the Disney Animation became very popular with people all over the world. Disneyland is still popular among the young generation.

N.Sakurai

3.4 They should reconsider their own situation.

About business oppotunities of Manga, I think two problems. First, "boom" generally doesn't last for long. I think Washimiya city and the shrine will invest in "Lucky Star",but how long will the investment continue to be profitable? Someday, it will come in the near future, the Manga will become less popular. They should think about another plan for the city (as a business plan).Second, It is strange that the portable shrine is decorated with "Lucky Star". It is important for a lot of customer to be satisfied, but shrines are important things for Shinto religion. It is often said that Japanese are atheists, so many Japanese don't think it odd to decorate a shrine. However I think that people who serve to the Shrine should not allow this to happen. I agree with their positive attitude toward gathering customers. Yet, they should consider their responsibility for preserving culture.

Satoko

6.2

I think they are very hollywood stars. They constantly appear on many movies , and one movie after another is going to be released. I was very surprised at Tom Cruise's age. He looks so young. He is 48 years old, but he still appears on many action movies like 'Knight and Day' and 'Mission: Impossible 4'. I watched 'M:I 2' when I was a junior high school student. It was really exciting, although it's a little too good to be true. I'm looking forward to the release of 'M: I 4'.

4.3 In Japan, Customer is not King.

According to this topic I really agree with this writer’s opinion. When I went to STARBUCKS COFFEE, Mc DONALDO, Mr. DONUTS, SUKIYA…etc all of these chain stores have manual sheet. Sometimes there are few workers who have a passion but all most many workers say same things and make sales smile like robot. Some time it feels good for me when I am hungry and want to just eat and go out, but some time I feel sad.

 Once I went to coffee shop (not STARBUCKS) the owner asks me “what are you doing recently?” I was a little bit surprised because we’ve never seen each other. After his question I saw back side of me, but there is nobody, and I saw his face twice. He smiles to me and he said again “What are you doing recently? I’m speaking to you.” And I laughed.

 As a conclusion I think customer is not a king customer is a guest to the shop and king is a shops shop is a host. Host need to make comfortable situation for customers. In my opinion customer can say order or request to the host but they should not be haughtiness.


Genta

５.３ The writer should go to high class restaurant

Cheap restaurants such as hamburger shops or family restaurants employ only part-time workers. They can get only cheap salary, so they only want to follow the instruction manual for customer service.
I think If the writer want to demand flexible services, he should go to expensive restaurant. He should not go to cheap franchise chain restaurant.

N. Sakurai

4. What is Cosplay?

Please visit the following Website and read the article about Cosplay in Japan (click here)
Make sure to also read the comments section at the bottom of the article. Please respond to the article by stating your opinion, and why you think so.
Responses should include the reasoning behind your response...

Cosplay - A BBC E24 report

4. Cosplay

Please visit the following Website and read the article about Cosplay in Japan (click here)
Make sure to also read the comments section at the bottom of the article. Please respond to the article by stating your opinion, and why you think so.
Responses should include the reasoning behind your response...

3.3 Do you really think "Customers are King"??

Japanese service is not "service". It is so superficial, because Japanes workers connnot work without their mannuals.As the article written by Dean Rogers stated Japan companies have made their manuals too hard. I would like to tell you my experience. When I worked in a bank, I had to follow a lot of manuals and the company laws. The manuals suggested ways of apologizing to customers! In fact, I tried my own kind of customer service first, but some superiors didn't like that. So, I stopped my own action and followed the rules. I believe Japanese workers just follow their manuals. So, even though I received polite service at shops, I cannnot be happy with the shops clerks, because they aren't doing their jobs from the bottom of their heart.
Japanese are so serious and we have obeyed the rules to the letter. Originally, Japanese companies made their manuals for their customers. However, Japanese follow the rules strictly, so the services become rigid. I sometimes wonder whether such superficial services really have value or not.

Satoko Matsuda

1.3 In Japan, the customer is not king GC2 Daisuke

According to the article, Japanese food service is created by manual and it has no emotion. I think it’s true. I have experience about working at convenience store. The owner of the store gave me a manual of service and ask me to use phrases automatically. However, the phrases were too long, furthermore, most customer angry when I said “I’m sorry. We don’t provide such kind of service.” The manual doesn’t show how to decline requires. I noticed when I stop use manual. I tried to say like this. “I’m sorry. We cannot provide the service because of that reason. In my experience, most customers didn’t say complain when I told them why the store doesn’t provide it. The manual isn’t useful in some situation.

7.1 Orland bloom response

I didn't know that UNIQLO adopted Orland to model. UNIQLO is Japanese company, but now developed to giant worldwide company. That's great thing for Japanese industry with Orland's advertisment. UNIQLO will sweep the nation and make a hit.
Recently, in Shinsaibashi new store opened and people made a long line for getting UNIQLO's valuable clothes. Some students in YMCA went there. Did you go?


Nami

3. In Japan, the customer is not king

Please visit the following Website and read the article about customers in Japan (click here)
Make sure to also read the comments section at the bottom of the article. Please respond to the article by stating your opinion, and why you think so.
Responses should include the reasoning behind your response...

Watch the Mr. Bean Video about bad customer service...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lmFXThtn014&feature=fvw

4.2 Tom Cruise goes with the flow.

Dear Sir,

 Tom and Diaz are speaking in an interview. They are relaxing and making comfortable atmosphere. The interview had begun with a chat about “Knight and day”. While watching this interview I was impressed 2 points about Tom’s habitant. He loves family. And his family came to the movie set and watches his work. And he is a gentle man because when Diaz says “This heater is hot.” And soon after of her comment Tom got an action smoothly and make few distance from her chair. I learned how to help people gently. Btw,the “M;I x” series are my favorite movies. I hope that action of “Knight and day” is advanced than M;I x.

Genta.

5.2 Comment about "Night and Day"



Conditions of boring movies which I think are in the following.



1: Advertisement before showing the movie is showy.



2: Many famous acter and actress performed.



3: Easy to infer the story from the title and cast.



So, I will watch this movie if it will have a good reputation.

1.2 Tom Cruise goes with the flow GC2 Daisuke

I didn’t know that he’s 48 years old. He looks very young! According to the article, he stayed Japan only 14 hours because of filming “Mission Impossible 4.” I think he can act various kind of character. I really wanted to watch “Valkyrie”, however, I missed to watch because of my schedule. So, I try to buy it. I don’t know why I always miss to watch his movie. Anyway, I misunderstand “Knight and Day” as love story because most recent movies are love story. . However, I can know that it’s a spy action. I like such kind of movie. I’ll be careful that I don't miss watching “Knight and Day”.

5.1 Orlando Broom

I saw that Orlando Broom acted in "Pirates of Caribbean". I think many women are interested in him, because he is cool and handsome. So, many woman will buy Uniqlo clothes. However I'm not interested him, because he seems to always act a lover's part. I was interested in Jonny Depp, when I saw "Pirates of Caribbean". If Jonny promoted Uniqlo, I might be interested in Uniqlo clothes and boy them often.

By N.Sakurai

6.1

I thought that UNIQLO became a big company when I saw its poster in the summer last year. The reason is, it appointed a supermodel, furthermore, it appointed more top models in the winter. Not only that, it promoted a Hollywood star for this season! Do you think this shows UNIQLO's rapid growth? I think that is not necessarily true. Its sales figures in japan is lower than it of last year. Winter is the season of HEATTECH, which created UNIQLO boom. I suppose UNIQLO is attempting to make a recovery by using Hollywood star for a advertisement.

3.2 Knight and Day

This article is about the movie "Knight and Day" and the main actor Tom Cruise and Cameron Diaz. They introduced this film by saying it was funny and it had a lot of action. Tom Cruise has been busy person. He didn't have enough time to promote the movie in Japan, but he has tried to spend his time with his funs.

I am interested in his ability as an actor. I have watched the movie "Vanilla Sky". In the mysterious film, he acting was so serious. According to the article, Tom hasn't been afraid of to play parts against his own character. So, he could act seriously. I think he is lively. I think the role in the movie really suits him. I am looking forward to seeing him in the movie "Knight and Day".

By Satoko Matsuda

4.1 Orland Bloom

Mr. Bloom said "Uniqlo products are good, because they are reasonably priced, technical and are suitable for almost anyone. When I saw the interview I completely agreed with him. I have some Uniqlo shirts, because they are very cheap and easy to wear. Uniqlo designs are cool because it is simple. I feel “Simple is the best” are the words for Uniqlo. I have tried to change my point of view about workers of Uniqlo in China. Their situation is very severe. Buying cheap clothes from Uniqlo is not good for our relationship with China. Their salary is low and their working conditions are very bad. Maybe in near the future some trouble will occur by some workers. If they get strike, the damages are terrific. Before we get trouble we need to manage the risks.
Genta

2. Tom Cruise goes with the flow

Please visit the following Website and read the article about Tom Cruise and Cameron Diaz (click here).
Please respond to the article by stating your opinion, and why you think so.
Responses should include the reasoning behind your response...

http://www.japantoday.com/category/entertainment-arts/view/tom-cruise-goes-with-the-flow

Watch the ET interview with Tom Cruise and Cameron Diaz on the set of Knight and Day at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jJ5HTtyBFh8

or

3.1 Orlando Bloom

Uniqlo decided to recruit Orlando Bloom as the symbol of their winter collection. Orlando has already heard about Uniqlo from his friend, so he has a good image about Uniqlo. In the video he tries to advertise the quality, and low price (everyone can buy their items) of Uniqlo products.

Uniqlo sells to customers from all over the world. Last year, they opened some shops in foreign countries, and the shops have been popular there. By recruiting Orlando Bloom, Uniqlo can change its image from a Japanese company for only Japanese to a Japanese company for people of all over the world. I believe in their actions, and I wish them a lot of success in the future. According to the Mainichi newspaper, the company's profit has become smaller than it was last year. I believe they have the power to make Japan vital again. I want them to make more of an effort and create ideas like in this case.

Satoko Matsuda

1.1 Orland Bloom

I usually wear UNICRO clothes, so I agree opinion from Orland Bloom. He said that you don’t need to behave affectedly when you wear it.However, Not all men isn’t cool like him, so it may give image that UNICRO is for clothes for good looking person.He only repeat same thing from advertisement, however, I think Orland Bloom understand characteristic of UNICRO Bland very well. It has not only cheap price, but also best function. For example, Heat Tech is light and warm.

1. Orlando Bloom

Please visit the following Website and read the article about Orlando Bloom and Uniqlo (click here).

Please respond to the article by stating your opinion, and why you think so.

Responses should include the reasoning behind your response...