History of Japan Episode 291 - What Goes Up, Part 2
May 31, 2019
Dive into the fascinating world of Japan's Bubble Era through captivating media analysis. Explore culinary satire in Itami Juzo's film 'Tampopo,' highlighting cultural disconnects with Western customs. Discover how 'A Taxing Woman's Return' reveals the rise of new religions amidst economic inequality in the 1980s. Delve into the influential voices of Morita and Ishihara, addressing nationalism and societal impacts. Finally, reflect on a poignant poem that captures the irony of technological convenience, liberating yet isolating, during this transformative time.
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Tampopo Shows Bubble Japan's West Fascination
- Itami Juzo's film Tampopo highlights Japan's wealthy but inexperienced relationship with Western culture during the bubble era.
- It shows businessmen struggling with French menus and women learning how to eat spaghetti classily, reflecting the new cosmopolitan Japan.
Satire on New Religions' Greed
- A Taxing Woman's Return satirizes 1980s new religions exploiting followers for money and showing wealth like multi-million yen fur coats.
- Itami Juzo critiqued greed, corruption, and Yakuza ties prevailing in Japan's bubble era.
Contrasting Visions in "Japan That Can Say No"
- Morita Akio's and Ishihara Shintaro's book contrasts a pragmatic Japan wanting trade equality with a nationalist vision of military power.
- It reflected Japan's confidence and complex feelings about its international role during the bubble era.
