Subculture
第二の文化
Japanese subculture such as manga, anime, and games are very popular not only in Japan but all over the world.
Recently, it has been recognised as a representative culture of Japan,along with traditional culture.
HISTORY OF ANIME
ABOUT MANGA
It was produced in response to the popularity of animated films imported from abroad during the Taisho period.
Japanese directors tried animation techniques that had been used in the West. In 1963, Osamu Tezuka produced Astro, the little robot, and it was the first animated film to get to be very popular.
The term "manga" literally means "derisory image" or "unfinished drawing". Composed of two kanji, "man" means “aimless”, “entertainment” and “exaggeration” while "ga" indicates a graphic representation.
The first manga in the world dates back to 1902.
It appeared in the illustrated pages of the Jiji Shinpō Sunday Supplement - quickly becoming the Jiji Manga
Japan's first serial broadcast animation
Astro Boy
Cosplay (fancy dress)
Maid cafe
(cafe with costumed waitresses)
Costume play is a type of performance in which participants wear costumes and accessories to represent a specific character or idea. Recently, costume playing on halloween day has become popular.
Waitresses are dressed of maid's costumes, act like maids and treat customers like masters in a private home.
Taste quirky food and drinks, and watch waitresses performing songs or dances.
Karaoke
Game Center
Why are people fascinated by karaoke? There are various possible reasons, but most of all, it can be enjoyed with friends or even alone. It is really fun to sing your favourite songs while drinking with friends.
There are still about 4,000 Game Centers in Japan but they are considerably decreasing. Most of the games can be played with coins, so if you have small change you can try playing some of them or Purikura (print club).