
By: Cheryl Lu, Social Media Coordinator
This year, the MCIS Annual General Meeting (AGM) will be embracing the theme of Japanese culture. Japanese culture is captivating and profound, with a heritage that dates back centuries. Remarkably, the Japanese Culture Day, celebrated annually on Nov. 3, is just one week away from our AGM. To mark this dual celebration, let’s dive into the legacy of Japanese culture and explore its contributions to today’s world, notably through Japanese businesses and brands that are making a significant impact globally.
Gaming Revolution – Nintendo
Arguably, a party isn’t complete without a gaming console. Founded in 1889, Nintendo was originally a company that produced Hanafuda, a type of traditional Japanese playing cards. In 1977, after venturing into various different lines of business, Nintendo released its first gaming console. Since expanding to North America in 1979, Nintendo has been rewriting the history of the gaming industry with its system and games, including Super Mario Bros., The Legend of Zelda, Animal Crossing: Pocket Camp and Pokémon Go.
Fashion Evolution – Uniqlo
When seeking durable, basic, and minimalist everyday clothing at a reasonable price in major Canadian cities, Uniqlo is a name you’ll often hear. From loungewear to athleisure to business casual, Uniqlo is a one-stop shop that meets the clothing needs of every person in an entire family. Originally selling only men’s wear, Uniqlo transformed to a unisex clothing brand and opened its first unisex store in 1984. In 1997, inspired by The Gap, Uniqlo adopted the private-label strategy and became well known for its low-cost merchandise, which helped it survive the recession in Japan in the ’90s. In 2002, Uniqlo started expanding globally and opened its first store in China. In 2005, the expansion advanced to South Korea and the U.S. The first Canadian Uniqlo store, located at the Toronto Eaton Centre, was opened in 2016. Uniqlo’s HEATTECH technology has been a saviour during cold Canadian winters, providing warmth without adding bulk.
Automobile Upgrade – Toyota
As one of the world’s largest automobile manufacturer, Toyota Motor Corporation is bringing 10 million vehicles to the market every year. Having developed its first engine in 1934, Toyota was originally a department of a machine making company and was incorporated in 1937. Taking advantage of the alliance between Japan and the U.S. after the Second World War, Toyota was able to leverage the experiences learned from American automotive companies; and developed the famous Toyota Corolla, the world’s best-selling car up until today.
Ageless Beauty – Shiseido
Famous for its anti-aging moisturizers and lightweight sunscreen, the century-old Shiseido is one of the longest-living cosmetic companies in the entire world. With stores across 120 countries and regions, Shiseido’s product lines include skin care, makeup, body care, hair care and fragrances. Founded by a pharmacist, the brand started out as Japan’s first Western-style pharmacy, with its name (資生堂) taken from a phrase in a classical Chinese text: “Praise the virtues of the Earth, which nurtures new life and brings forth significant value (至哉坤元,万物资生).” In 1916, the brand transitioned from using historical images of Japanese female to promoting the western ideal of beauty. In 1957, Shiseido expanded abroad across Asia. In the ’60s, it established its headquarter in the U.S and celebrated its 150th anniversary in 2022.
Capturing Moments – Canon
The realm of photography equipment is almost dominated by Japanese brands, with Canon being a standout. Originally named 精機光学研究所 (Precision Optical Laboratory), Canon specializes in optical, imaging and industrial products from lenses and cameras to medical equipment, scanners and printers. In the ’30s, Canon developed its first focal-plane shutter (FPS) camera. In the ’50s, it introduced a field zoom lens for television broadcasting. In 1996, Canon entered the digital age with its first digital camera. Today, Canon is renowned as the go-to brand for high-end and professional DSLR cameras.
Watch Innovation – Citizen
Known for its Eco-Drive technology, which allows the watches to recharge under exposure to both sunlight and artificial light and never requiring battery replacement, Citizen is one of the world’s leaders in electronics companies founded by Japanese and Swiss investors. Since 1993, Citizen has been pioneering in the field of atomic timekeeping, which enables the watches to be accurate by synchronizing with GPS satellite signals worldwide. Other than technology innovation, Citizen also invests substantial effort into trends and style; its recent collaboration in North America with Disney, Star Wars and Marvel evoked not only fun but also a sense of nostalgia and elegance.
Everyday Essentials – Muji
Whether you are a parent, a student, an artist or simply enjoy scrapbook-making, Muji will definitely be one of the most delightful stores to browse. Founded in 1980, Muji has been upholding its environmental-friendly value with recycled material, minimalist packaging and a “no logo” policy. What began with 40 products has expanded to covering every aspect of lifestyle from pens, pencils, notebooks and erasers to small home décor, storage units, apparel, small appliances and even snacks. Through reducing costs by minimizing advertising, packaging and waste, Muji has been able to maintain its quality throughout the years at an affordable price. In 2014, Muji opened its first Canadian store in Toronto.
Harmonious Melodies – Roland
Every journalism student has heard of the Roland recorder, the famous device that professors and university instructors highly recommend for capturing crisp and accurate quotes for broadcast journalism. Founded in 1972, Roland Corporation is a Japanese manufacturer of electronic musical instruments, electronic equipment and software. Its founder, having no musical training, decided that Roland’s products were designed for amateurs and hobbyists, and focused on miniaturization, affordability and simplicity. In 1973, Roland released the first Japan-produced compact synthesizer. In the ’80s, Roland launched a series of programmable drum machines and synthesizers, which had a lasting impact on hip-hop, techno and house music.
Home Comfort – Panasonic
Headquartered in Osaka, Japan, Panasonic specializes in home electronics from appliances, speakers, telephones, to batteries, headphones, shavers and epilators. In addition, it also offers a wide range of products and services including automotive and avionic systems, industrial systems and home renovation. In 1961, Panasonic started producing television sets for the North American market. In 1979, its business scope expanded to Europe. In 2002, Panasonic Canada marked its 35th anniversary in that country by giving $5 million to help build a “music city” on Toronto’s waterfront.
From tea ceremonies to cherry blossom festivals, Japanese culture has always been giving the impression of serene and artistic imagery. However, upon closer examination, brands originating from Japan are really influencing and changing our world in almost every aspect of life. They seamlessly integrate into our daily routines, enhancing our self-care practices, influencing our modes of travel and communication, and even shaping the entertainment we indulge in. Beyond the examples mentioned, there are still many more of these Japanese brands around us, subtly moulding our daily experiences, unbeknownst to us. This Nov. 9, at the Japanese Canadian Cultural Centre, we’ll be excited to explore more about Japanese culture at our MCIS AGM 2023.