The Differences of Patriotism in Japan and China

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Other Title
  • 日中愛国心の違い
  • ニッチュウ アイコクシン ノ チガイ

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Abstract

Many Japanese songs sing of natural scenes. The words of the song “Furusato” teach about an “orientation towards nature” shared by Japanese people. Natural scenes can be described which are associated with “Furusato”. Memories as a child of walking with parents, brothers and sisters, and playing with friends, are all superimposed onto natural scenes. Engulfed by natural scenes, nostalgia wells up in the breast. Whilst singing the words, one can almost believe unhesitatingly in the creation of a sense of belonging, as if one is actually stepping foot on “that mountain”, “that river”, and which surpasses any personal memories. Many Japanese people learn this song by heart and hold it dear because of a prevailing sense of identity with nature, which cannot be explained in logical terms. There is perhaps a basic element that satisfies feelings of nostalgia for home. Nothing speaks of the shared cultural reality of “orientation towards nature” more than this song. A sense of being one with nature, which shows concern for the existence of a relationship other than human relationships, lies at the root of Japanese culture. I compare this with Chinese culture, and consider the differences between Japan and China regarding a sense of home.

Journal

  • 国際日本学

    国際日本学 7 19-50, 2009-10-29

    法政大学国際日本学研究所

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