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The Timeless Charm of ‘Heidi, Girl of the Alps’ in Japanese Anime

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In 1974, the anime adaptation of “Heidi, Girl of the Alps” was broadcasted weekly on Japanese television, captivating audiences with a remarkable viewership rate of 23%. This indicates that almost every young girl in Japan was tuning in to watch Heidi’s adventures at the same time.

The Japanese anime creators organized a location team to sketch scenes in Switzerland. As a result, the mountain landscapes in the anime mirrored the actual Swiss vistas, evoking a sense of familiarity for those who know the regions well in Switzerland.

Interestingly, the anime featured German songs, adding a unique touch to the cultural blend. Below, I’m sharing one of these songs from the anime, connecting cultures and hearts across borders.

#Heidi #SwissAlps #AnimeHistory #JapaneseCulture #GlobalAnimation #Nostalgia #CulturalHeritage
#HeidiAnime #JapaneseAnimation #CulturalExchange #SwitzerlandInJapan

Japan’s Struggle with Natural Disasters and Its Impact on Construction Standards

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Today, another strong earthquake with a seismic intensity of over 5 struck the Noto region in Ishikawa Prefecture. This event underlines the fact that Japan is a nation prone to natural disasters, and we all should recognize this reality.

The attached image displays a document created by the Japanese Government’s Cabinet Office. Remarkably, about 18.3% of the total global disaster damage costs are concentrated in Japan.

Due to the frequent occurrence of earthquakes, Japan has established stringent seismic standards for its buildings. These standards mandate the construction of robust structures, implying that significant disaster prevention costs are already incorporated at the building stage.

If appropriate disaster mitigation expenses were not invested during the construction phase, the actual costs of disaster damages would far exceed the current 18.3%.

For everyone involved in construction and disaster prevention in Japan, please understand the high demand for disaster resilience in Japan.

#JapanDisasterPrevention #EarthquakeReadiness #ConstructionSafety #RiskManagement #InfrastructureResilience #BuildingCodes #EngineeringExcellence #NaturalDisasterAwareness #DisasterPrevention #SeismicSafety #Japan #BuildingStandards #InfrastructureSafety

Deep Condolences for the Tragedy of the Niigata Earthquake

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https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20240103_02/

I am deeply saddened by the news of the Japan Coast Guard’s accident while transporting emergency supplies for the earthquake victims in Niigata. This adds another layer of tragedy to the disaster Japan is currently facing.

I believe the full extent of the damage, particularly the number of casualties from the Niigata earthquake, is yet to be comprehensively understood by the Japanese government and media. From my experience and memory of the Great Hanshin Earthquake in 1995 and the Great East Japan Earthquake in 2011, it took a significant amount of time to grasp the complete scope of the disaster.

At this moment, gathering accurate information about this disaster is of utmost importance.

I extend my heartfelt condolences to all those affected by this calamity and express my deep sympathy to everyone mourning during this difficult time. I hope that we all come together, united and supportive, in this challenging period.

#SolidarityInCrisis #DisasterRecovery #JapanNews #CommunitySupport #SafetyFirst
#NiigataEarthquake #JapanDisasterResponse #EmergencySupport
#DisasterPreparedness #earthquake #seismology #internationalcooperation

 

Regarding Safety Measures for Our Clients in Response to the Recent Earthquake

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In light of the recent seismic activities, I wanted to share some important safety tips for the coming days, as we might expect aftershocks or similar-scale earthquakes.

1. Evacuation Routes: It’s advisable to familiarize yourself with evacuation routes and identify nearby parks or public facilities as potential safe spaces to retreat if necessary.
2. Staying Safe Indoors: During strong tremors, it’s crucial to stay still and take cover under a sturdy table or similar safe structure to protect yourself from potential falling debris.
3. Emergency Supplies: Ensure you have easy access to emergency supplies, including a flashlight, spare batteries, a mobile charger, drinking water, non-perishable food items, and a first aid kit.
4. Staying Informed: Keep yourself updated with disaster information in English, either through reliable websites or news channels.
5. Power Outage Preparedness: In case of a power outage, remember that water pumps might not work, affecting toilets’ usability. Filling your bathtub with water can be a helpful contingency measure.

Embracing 2024: A New Year’s Message from Dios Corporation’s CEO Masahiro Fukai

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Happy New Year!

As we usher in 2024, I extend my deepest gratitude for the exceptional support you have shown us last year. We at Dios Corporation are sincerely looking forward to your continued patronage in this new year.

This year, as we gear up for Expo 2025 Osaka, we are committed to redoubling our efforts to provide you with the highest level of service.

I wholeheartedly wish that 2024 will be a year filled with happiness and greatness for all of you.

New Year’s Day, 2024

Dios Corporation
President and CEO
Masahiro Fuka

The Charm of Traditional Japanese Timber in Kyoto’s Kiyomizu-dera

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Today, while exploring the historic slopes of Sannenzaka near Kyoto’s Kiyomizu-dera Temple, I captured this charming sight.

Japanese timber, as seen here in the signage of a local tea shop, possesses a unique allure. It radiates a sense of vitality and tranquility, inviting passersby to pause and enjoy a relaxing cup of tea.

This particular sign, crafted through DIY efforts, showcases the cost-effectiveness of using natural materials over store-bought options. Its aesthetic appeal not only catches the eye but also tempts visitors to step in for a refreshing break.

Today, the streets of Kyoto were bustling with tourists from all around the world, drawn in part by the undeniable charm of Japanese woodcraft.

The seamless blend of tradition and nature in woodworking and architecture captures the hearts of visitors globally, making Kyoto’s cultural streetscape a cherished destination.

#JapaneseTimber #KyotoTravel #TraditionalCrafts #Woodworking #CulturalHeritage #DIYProjects #SustainableDesign #TourismJapan #KiyomizuTemple #ArtisanalCharm

Celebrating the Impact of Anime: The “アルプスの少女ハイジHeidi, Girl of the Alps” Exhibition

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Currently, the Hankyu Department Store in Umeda, Osaka, is hosting an exhibition titled “Heidi, Girl of the Alpsアルプスの少女ハイジ”. Visiting this exhibition profoundly reminded me of the immense power of Japanese anime.

This particular anime was broadcast weekly in Japan in 1974, achieving a staggering 23% viewership rate. It’s common to hear about young people from abroad being drawn to study in Japan, inspired by Japanese anime.

However, what struck me about “Heidi” was how it must have introduced many Japanese girls to the lifestyle and culture of people living in the mountainous regions of Europe, particularly Switzerland and Germany.

Though based on a Swiss novel by Johanna Spyri, the anime adaptation by Japanese creators, especially the genius animator Hayao Miyazaki宮崎駿, brought Heidi to life in a way that perhaps even surpassed the original.

Through the lens of Japanese anime technology, not only is Japan showcased to the world, but European culture is also conveyed to Japan. Anime, with its ability to transcend language barriers, serves as an excellent medium to introduce various cultures to people worldwide.

#HeidiExhibition #OsakaEvents #MiyazakiHayao #SwissCulture #GermanCulture #CulturalAppreciation #AnimeAsABridge #WorldCultures #CreativeStorytelling #HankyuDepartmentStore
#AnimeImpact #CulturalExchange #Heidi #JapanAnimation #GlobalInfluence #Storytelling

Embracing the Essence of Japanese Forests and Japanese Philosophies

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I recently ventured into the deep forests of Wakayama Prefecture, capturing this image during my quest for the finest cedar and cypress wood. At Dios, we’re committed to offering unparalleled service to diplomats and expatriates residing in Osaka, by providing them with the best in furnishings and decor.

Our approach at Dios is multifaceted. While we meticulously select furniture from various interior stores, we also delve deep into nature, personally sourcing materials for our custom-made furnishings and decorative items. We place a special focus on the quality of Japanese timber. After comparing various types of wood from around the world, we are convinced that Japanese wood stands superior on the global stage.

Using natural, solid wood slabs to create stylish dining tables or transforming small wooden pieces into charming signage, we significantly enhance the value of real estate properties. Modern homes often feel impersonal due to synthetic materials; however, incorporating authentic Japanese wood dramatically transforms these spaces.

Interestingly, the same timber we select was once used in the former Italian Embassy Villa in Tochigi Prefecture(See Photos) . This suggests that Europeans with a discerning eye have long recognized the value of our Wakayama’s timber.

Japan’s land is 70% covered in forests, a testament to the generations of Japanese who have painstakingly preserved these woodlands. The Japanese philosophy of forest conservation not only honors this legacy but also contributes to a sustainable and eco-friendly future for humanity. Japanese forests are a global treasure, enriching lives and fostering a sustainable future.

#JapaneseForests #WoodworkCraftsmanship #EcoFriendlyLiving #ExpatLifeInJapan #HeritageConservation #InteriorDesign #WoodenWonder #LivingWithNature #OsakaLiving #GreenFuture #GlobalTreasures
#JapaneseTimber #SustainableDesign #FurnitureArtistry #DiosInteriors #CulturalHeritage #EnvironmentalConservation #OsakaExpats #RealEstateValue #NaturalAesthetics

Recognizing the Craftsmanship Behind the Osaka Expo’s Ring Structure

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Amidst the rising criticism from Japanese citizens towards the Osaka Expo’s Ring structure, I, drawing from my own experiences in interior construction, believe the construction of this ring is an extremely challenging feat.

The technical skill and effort of those involved in this construction should be more highly appreciated. It’s crucial to distinguish between the political leaders of the Osaka Expo and the skilled technicians and workers on the ground.

Working with wood, which often warps and bends due to moisture and other factors, requires significant skill to correct these deviations on-site. Creating a circular structure like the Ring involves considerable difficulty and material waste.

Likely under constant pressure from political leaders to expedite the process, the workers face immense challenges. Precisely carving joints and ensuring perfect alignment within millimeters is no small task. Moreover, ensuring level flooring, especially over a body of water, raises questions about the methods employed in this process.

With multiple contractors involved, the integration of the Ring’s segments is a point of intrigue.

Based on my carpentry experience, I view the construction of this Ring as an extraordinary achievement, showcasing remarkable craftsmanship and engineering prowess.

#ArchitecturalInnovation #ProjectManagement #SustainableConstruction #WoodworkingArtistry #Osaka2025 #ExpoConstruction #EngineeringExcellence #BuildingTheFuture
#OsakaExpo #ConstructionExcellence #EngineeringMarvels #Craftsmanship #InnovationInConstruction

(Photo) From Radio Kansai, November 2023

Addressing Accommodation Challenges for Expo Osaka

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In this photo, you can see an apartment in Osaka, fully furnished which my company purchased  and rented out by our company as a turnkey solution for foreign tenants.

During Dubai Expo, the host country impressively built housing near the Expo site for foreign staff. This well-planned accommodation boasted excellent location, spacious rooms, well-arranged furniture, functional design, and high-grade balancing. Post-Expo, these residences transitioned into profitable rental apartments, also sometimes serving as convenient accommodations for large conferences, as I was informed by UAE contacts.

Regrettably, the Japanese government has not made similar preparations at all for Expo Osaka. The responsibility to devise housing solutions for the expected influx of foreign visitors, a challenging task indeed, seems to fall on private entities like ours.

Furnished rental options are scarce in Japan, and those available often suffer from inconvenient locations, poor furniture quality, or are unsuitable for the large numbers of foreigners expected during the Expo.

Our company is adept at procuring and tastefully arranging furniture, we can offer flexibility in location. However, the process of arranging, accounting, transporting, assembling, cleaning, and eventually removing furniture is far more labor-intensive than one might expect, inevitably driving up rental costs.

Hotels, lacking kitchens, are not suitable for long-term stays. Furthermore, there are no companies in Osaka capable of providing high-quality services to foreign expats because Osaka is not a metropolitan.

I think that this housing issue might become one of the biggest challenges for Expo Osaka.

#GlobalEvents #HospitalityManagement #RealEstateDevelopment #UrbanPlanning #CulturalExchange #BusinessTourism #JapanHospitality
#ExpoOsaka #InternationalEvents #HousingSolutions #FurnishedRentals #JapanRealEstate #ServiceApartments #HospitalityInnovation