Asian Trend Page

Even with the highest population in the world, Asia has been exploding with development and prosperity over the years, raising its importance in the global market. The Asian economy has not only flourished but also accelerated at a tremendous pace.

Although Japan has been struggling with its ailing economy, it still maintains a high profile as the second leading world economy. The other Asian economic giant, China, proceeds on a steady path to global market dominance in the next decade. India has recently enjoyed a new surge of wealth in computer-related business. Vietnam has emerged as a hotspot for tourism. Frankly, it's an exciting time to be in Asia.

Asian Trend focuses on Japan, a nation that has been setting trends in the Asian region and exporting its culture to the rest of the world. Japan Watch section covers the recent social and cultural developments in Japan and other parts of the world on a monthly basis.

JAPAN FOCUS

Japan: Kadomatsu rings in the new year!

By Diana Lee

(January 22, 2011)

Steep in traditional Shinto practices, Japan welcomes the New Year (Shougatsu) with an arrangement of tree sprigs, known as kadomatsu "gate pine" to decorate the inside and outside of homes....(Read More)

Eating Christmas Cake is a Japanese Tradition

By Diana Lee

(December 22, 2010)

Despite a dessert fair held at the store featuring 200 different types of Christmas cakes, the all-time favorite sponge cake with white cream and strawberries is this year's hot seller....(Read More)

'Winter Sonata' Star's Tragedy

By Diana Lee

(July 19, 2010)

Like his role in Winter Sonata where Sang Hyak fell victim to unrequited love for Yu Jin, Park Yong-ha, who would have turned 33 on August 12, fell victim to the dark side of success...... (Read More)

Japan Sees Its Future in Service Robots

By Diana Lee

(January 18, 2010)

Japan's vision for robot revolution is to pave the way for a futuristic lifestyle in the 21^st century ...... (Read More)

Ayu Fishing in Kitani-kyo

By Diana Lee

(November 24, 2009)

When the Japanese summer gets too sultry and unbearable, all I can think about is something cool. I want to eat something cool, or drink something cool, or jump into something cool ...... (Read More)

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WINTER SONATA CORNER Heartwarmers From the Webmaster: Thank you very much for the wonderful comments and letters, ranging from email interviews to sharing personal stories. Here is an inspiring heartwarmer to share with the world. "When we shared the Winter Sonata DVD with our friends, their relationships became closer and wonderful. They realized and appreciated each other more deeply." -- R. Kiwaza "It is like riding an emotional roller coaster and every turn brings on a different set of feelings. Comparing some other drama using teenage actors for the earlier parts, I don't recall one that delivers the same compelling performance as Winter Sonata." --Jennifer Lam Newlyweds - S. Korea