The Best of Both Worlds

Kentucky Fried Christmas

2009-12-24T09:14:00.000-08:00

Christmas has hit Japan and KFC has been marketing small Christmas meals for this year. Since the economy is still recovering, and Kentucky Fried Chicken is such the traditional Christmas meal, KFC is marketing meals for couples who choose fast food over expensive restaurant meals. The "home party" meal is being sold for 2,000 yen.

Fortune Cookie Christmas Tree Ornament

2009-12-18T21:43:00.000-08:00

For those of you who have been looking for that fortune cookie ornament to complete your Christmas Tree this year, Urban Outfitters is offering the Fortune Cookie Christmas Tree Ornament for sale online.

Chopstick or Spoon?

2009-12-18T20:58:00.000-08:00

In continuation of July 2009 post "European Designed 'Chopstick Aids'", looks like the concept of adding on cutlery to common chopsticks are catching on. The Chopsticks Plus One designed by Aissa Logerot of Yanko Design is a hybrid of chopsticks and a spoon. The project is said to be geared toward the Asian market where meals require different sets of cutlery to be used however the design seems very skeptical. If one really saw how Asians ate their soups (ramen, pho, miso) the spoon/chopstick mix is not very practical. Link

Vending Machine Camouflage

2009-12-17T09:58:00.000-08:00

In a train station, in a shopping mall or on the side of any road, it would be tough not to see a vending machine while in Japan. Over the years the vending machine has become an integral part of the urban life. Experimental clothing designer Aya Tsukiok took upon this and demonstrated the importance of vending machines in the Japanese culture, creating the vending machine camouflage. It is not a camouflage for the vending machine, rather camouflage that turns into a full size vending machine. When it is not a vending machine, it looks like a skirt. Only drawback...the vending machine does not dispense anything. Link

Aston Martin meets the Toyota iQ

2009-12-16T19:38:00.000-08:00

Unveiled today, Aston Martin released the Cygnet concept - a new luxury commuter car. Taking design cues from the model lineup such as the DBS and Rapide, Aston Martin applied them to a Toyota iQ model, creating a very unsuspecting mix.

"The Cygnet concept represents a creative, environmentally conscious solution, being small, yet with presence - and highly fuel efficient, now combined with the prestige of Aston Martin's luxury brand ownership." According to Aston Martin, the Cygnet will not receive any changes to the iQ's powertrain which is a 67-hp 1.0-liter three-cylinder, 89-hp 1.4 liter turbo-diesel, or an 97-hp 1.2 liter four cylinder. With 0 to 60 in 12 seconds, its definitely not as engaging as the typical Aston Martin lineup.

The Cygnet remains a concept however Aston Martin is planning for a production version for Europe in the first half of 2010. A rough estimation of price of the Cygnet will be around €25,000 to €30,000, around $35,000 to $42,000 USD making it the most expensive Toyota built. Link

China Approves Disney Shanghai

2009-12-16T08:55:00.000-08:00

Over 20 years in planning, China's central government recently gave The Walt Disney Company the approval to build the next Disney theme park in Shanghai Pudong district. Shanghai Disney will be the second in China and third in Asia, Hong Kong and Tokyo. It is estimated the park will be completed in five to six years, occupy 1,700 acres and about 40% owned by Disney. The remainder will be owned by a group of Chinese companies. The Shanghai park will feature the "Magic Kingdom" but will also have its own Chinese characteristics.

Photo courtesy of Wolfgang Staudt

Dawen "American Me"

2009-12-15T21:56:00.000-08:00

"American Me" the debut ablbum from Dawen showcases his passion for Asian American Identity with intellectually powerful lyrics in a soulful acoustic r&b style. "As a singer-songwriter, Dawen hopes his music will further the dialogue on racism and social injustice in American society." He describes the inspiration of lyrics come from issues which are important to him, encompassing both his Asian and American heritage.

Dawen is halfway through his solo acoustic international "American Me Tour", returning from New York and soon continuing onto Hong Kong and ending in Los Angeles.

Upcoming Tour Schedule:

December 17 9:30pm Phila Lounge Central, Hong Kong

February 27 Firecracker Nite N' Day Festival Los Angeles, CA

Learn more

What is your favorite Japanese Kit Kat flavor?

2009-11-30T18:34:00.000-08:00

Those that grew up eating Kit Kat candy bars in America, one might think there is only one flavor, the regular milk chocolate flavor. You would be quite surprised to hear that in Japan, there is basically a flavor for every taste bud and has become part of the Japanese culture. Japanese love seasonal, regional, and limited edition products. Restaurant menus and convenience stores offer flavors in reflection of the season, offering a range of flavors from roasted corn kit kat to caramel macchiato mcflurry kit kat. Link

Kit Kat varieties:

Orange, Mango, Sakura, Grape, Wasabi, Red Wine, Watermelon and Salt, Yellow Peach, White Peach, Kobe Pudding, Green Tea (Kyoto Specific), Jasmine Tea, Azuki (Sweet Red Bean), Adzuki (Sweet Red Bean) Sandwich (Eastern Sea Reason Limited Edition), Potato, Roasted Corn, Tiramisu, Matcha Tiramisu, Lemon, Shoyu (Only in Tokyo), Matcha, Yuzu, Daigaku Imo (College Potato), Milk Chocolate, Dark Chocolate, Oshiruko (Japanese Red Bean Soup), Strawberry Cheesecake, Blueberry Cheesecake, Cookie, Kinako (Soybean Powder), Apple, Tasty Strawberry, Petit Strawberry, White Chocolate, Muscat of Alexandria, Roasted Tea, Caramel Pudding, Caramel Macchiato McFlurry

Cheese Heaven Pizza

2009-11-30T10:36:00.000-08:00

Pizza Hut Japan latest creation, the Cheese Harmony Pizza. Featuring pieces of camembert cheese mixed with fried cheese. The crust is a mixture of mozzarella, parmesan and cheddar cheese. Interesting mix of Eastern and Western take on pizza. The distinctly Japanese style of added mayonnaise, corn, and seafood with the American take of overload of cheese. However Pizza Hut please explain the logic of the label, Harmony Pizza. Seems like there is too much cheese in comparison to the other ingredients.

Source: JapanProbe.com

American Celebrities in Japanese Commercials Pt. 1

2009-11-27T23:23:00.000-08:00

Collaboration of foreign celebrities featured in Japanese commercials:

Mariah Cary for Nescafe

Brad Pitt for Softbank

Tommy Lee Jones for Boss Coffee

Nicholas Cage for Fever Pachinko

Sacramento Hmong New Year

2009-11-26T19:35:00.000-08:00

Sacramento Hmong New Year, beginning Thanksgiving day and continuing through Sunday November 29, 2009. Hosted at Sacramento Cal Expo, the Sacramento Hmong New Year offering an opportunity to reach out to the Hmong community. The festival showcases various cultural competitions such as California Hmong Beauty Pageant, group dance, qeej, lug txaj, Hmong Idol, and swb pob (ball tossing). Link

Image courtesy of Link

Art of Exchanging Business Cards in Japan

2009-11-25T15:32:00.000-08:00

Japan Travel TV explores the etiquette in exchanging business cards (Meishi) the right and wrong way in Japan.

Hamburger Vending Machine

2009-11-02T22:43:00.000-08:00

Located in Tokyo's Katsushika ward, an interesting small restaurant offers hamburgers in vending machines. Upon inserting a 100 yen, the vending machine will quickly offer a hamburger. However, any attempt afterward will fail to produce a hamburger. After a closer look, it turns out the vending machine is operated manually and can only hold a single hamburger at a time by the man running the restaurant. If you would like a second hamburger, you have to go inside the store to order. A second manual vending machine was added selling "royal" hamburgers for 300 yen. These hamburgers come with the addition of tomato and bacon. Link

Alocohol-Free Kirin Beer

2009-11-01T11:22:00.000-08:00

Kirin Brewery Company announced an alcohol-free beer, "Kirin Free." This new beer includes no alcohol, but still has the beer taste. There are many beers on the market that are labeled non-alcoholic, however Kirin claims their new product is the world's first "alcohol 0.00%" beer-taste drink. The demand for a soda with a beer-like taste has brought an overwhelming demand. The demand is especially strong among pregnant women and drivers. Kirin Free costs around 150 yen ($1.50), as compared to regular beer priced around 220 yen ($2.20) Link , Link

O-No Sushi

2009-10-31T12:31:00.000-07:00

O-No Sushi brand sushi figures, based off of Andrew Bell's popular Never Look Back print has recently been released after a year in development. First version was a special International Comic-Con released in blue, an edition of 150 for $30 a set. Standard red edition is available at toy and culture retailers for around $25. Link

Eco Warrior Bag

2009-10-30T10:51:00.000-07:00

Anyone can be a hero with the Eco Warrior Bag by Tokyo design brand, Rezon. The Eco Warrior is a eco-bag that represents that you are an environment activist. When you see someone exhibiting ungreen behavior such as dumping a cigarette butt on the street or not separating garbage by type, transform into the Eco Warrior and give them a warning! Link

PicTranslator iPhone Application

2009-10-28T22:29:00.000-07:00

PicTranslator, an amazing new iPhone application which turns the camera into a point-and-shoot pocket translator. PicTranslator automatically recognizes text, translates it, and even reads the text in the pictures out loud. Perfect for translating restaurant menus while traveling abroad. Application is 99 cents with the option of purchasing additional language packs for another 99 cents.

The Windows 7 Whopper

2009-10-22T09:21:00.000-07:00

Promoting the new operating system Windows 7, Microsoft is teaming up with Burger King in Japan for the Windows 7 Whopper. Incredible seven beef patties hamburger available only for a week only (seven days). Cost is 777 yen ($8.50)

Domo-Nation at 7-Eleven Stores

2009-10-10T10:17:00.000-07:00

Domo, the japanese stop-action critter who hit the American shores last year during Target's Halloween promo is now getting a new job at 7-Eleven this fall season. From collectible Slurpee cups filled with Fuji Frost by Fanta, and Slurpee character straws to hot dog containers, coffee cups and exclusive Domo Attack Energy drink.

The goal by 7-Eleven is to attract character fans between the ages of 16 and 24 years old with collectible Slurpee cups and straws. The promotion marks a new direction for 7-Eleven stores, which typically tags its campaigns with big summer movies. Domo campaign is unique because it is underground and you have to be in the know.

Domo character, created by Japanese illustrator and director Tsueno Goda began in 1998 as a mascot for the Japanese public television station NHK and was supposed to run as a six-month campaign, but his popularity with viewers kept Domo going. Domo achieved pop culture super-status through user-generated content and thousands of viral videos on popular websites such as YouTube, Facebook and Flickr. Link , Link

Different

2009-10-07T22:32:00.000-07:00

Different, a film by Alchemy in Toronto for the Girl Guides of Canada and agency John St.. Stop-motion animation of paper-cut out characters with innovative transitions between scene-to-scene. Noted character design and illustrations by Nathan Jurevicius and Andrea Kang.

Akira

2009-10-06T22:31:00.000-07:00

Directed by Ruairi Robinson, a live action version of Katshurio Otomo's manga will be split into two parts, each based on three volumes of Otomo's six-volume series about a teenager's attempt to save a fellow biker gang member from his involvement in Akira, a secret government project. While doing so, the bikers battle with anti-government activits, shady politicians and reckless scientists. Leonardo DiCaprio is rumored to be starring as biker gang leader Kaneda. Release date 2011.

Red Cliff

2009-10-04T12:25:00.000-07:00

Red Cliff, a Chinese epic film based on the Battle of Red Cliffs during the end of the Han Dynasty. Film directed by John Woo, Red Cliff is the most expensive Asian-financed film to date. Asian release was split into two parts, totaling over 4 hours in length. The first part grossed US $124 million in Asia and broke the box office record previously held by Titanic in mainland China.

Releasing in the United States Novemnber 20, 2009.

Mysterious Quarter Pounder Restaurant in Tokyo

2009-10-02T18:59:00.000-07:00

Mysteriously in early November 2008, a fast-food restaurant appears in two locations in Tokyo called Quarter Pounder. With a minimalistic decor; stark black and red interior color and all fixtures and furniture removed, giving a lounge atmosphere. As word got out, curious customers lined up in long lines to get a try of this mysterious menu. Only two choices were offered: Quarter Pounder with Cheese or a Double Quarter Pounder with Cheese, both as a value meal with a Coke and fries.

Interestingly, this marketing strategy was for McDonald's Japan re-introduction of the Quarter Pounder burger back into the regular menu. The two specially located restaurants in Tokyo were only around for just two weeks before being transformed into the easily recognized McDonalds. The Quarter Pounder has not been available in the Japanese McDonald's restaurants for almost 30 years.

Pepsi Azuki

2009-10-01T23:12:00.000-07:00

In continuation to Pepsi's Shiso soda flavor this summer, Pepsi will release it's new flavor this coming October 20 for the fall season. Pepsi Azuki is a "sweet, mellow and refined" flavor derived from the Japanese traditional food, red azuki beans.

Red azuki beans boiled with sugar is a common in many Japanese sweets such as anmitsu, taiyaki and daifuku. Azuki beans are also commonly eaten sprouted, boiled in a hot tea, or boiled with sugar, lotus seeds and orange peel, making a sweet red bean soup.

Kaela Kimura on Hot Pepper Commercial

2009-09-28T23:32:00.000-07:00

Japanese rock and pop singer, songwriter, model, and presenter, Kaela Kimura is recently starred in a commercial for Hot Pepper with a Peanuts collaboration. The song, "Hot Pepper no Uta" is infectious and highly catchy, becoming one of the popular downloaded songs in Japan. Courtesy of Howie Link

San Francisco International Dragon Boat Festival

2009-09-22T21:45:00.000-07:00

Kaiser Permanente San Francisco International Dragon Boat Festival will host its fourteenth annual event this coming September 26th & 27th at Treasure Island. The SF International Dragon Boat Festival is the largest competitive dragon boat festival in the United States. This year will have over 110 dragon boat teams and 3,5000 dragon boat paddlers. In addition to the dragon boat racing, the festival features many cultural activities such as live dance and music, food, and arts & crafts. Link

Giju John and Latin-Indian Fusion

2009-09-22T08:05:00.000-07:00

Giju John, a Silicon Valley engineer and salsa dancer and Indian music performer by night. Beginning an innovative trend of fusion, mixing two distinct cultures - Indian pop music with Latin cha-cha-cha. Interestingly, India has a number of salsa studios, influenced by the popularity of the ending song from Slumdog Millionaire by Jai Ho. Link , Link

Skin Whitener Controversy

2009-09-14T20:09:00.000-07:00

Cosmetic advertisements shown in India which originally targeted to women are now targeting men with campaigns aimed at skin color. "These commercials are sending a not-so-subtle message to men in Asia: Get whiter skin, and you'll get the girl and the job of your dreams" With well known brands such as Nivea and Garnier, skin whiteners are becoming all the rage for men. Sales for skin whitening products have increased more than 100 percent in rural India.

In countries where the majority of people have brown skin, some are calling these advertisements racist and objectionable. Product makers say they are simply providing the public what it wants. When it comes down to it all, the power is in the hands of the consumer. It is their sole choice whether to believe the commercials they see are true. Link

The Half Asian Conversations

2009-09-07T12:01:00.000-07:00

The Half Asian Conversations by David Yim briefly explores the lives of 5 young half-Asian Americans and what it means to be growing up mixed in America.

Shoes off Please

2009-09-01T23:04:00.000-07:00

This has been the question for ages. The act of taking off shoes before entering the house is a commonplace for Asians and considered best practiced by most, however what are the reasons?

Possibly the biggest reason is just to keep the house clean. Nearly 87% of the dirt in the house comes from outside on shoes. In addition, shoes are conveniently kept by the doorway rather than having to venture around the house to look for lost shoes.

In many Asian cultures, it is customary to take off one's shoes upon entering a house. This is especially evident in Japan where there is a pair of slippers to wear specifically for using indoors. There is also bathroom slippers to avoid puddles. In Chinese culture, on New Years day, it is a sign of whether or not a family will be successful to have a clean house.

In addition, considering most of Asia is located in very humid and temperate weather year round, Asian household's had to deal with the wet and humid conditions. Taking off shoes helps to reduce house damage and foot odor. It is also good to remember that "households for the longest time have had hardwood floors. Carpet has only grown in popularity over the last 30 years." Link

Protest of 'The Goods: Live Hard, Sell Hard'

2009-08-21T19:21:00.000-07:00

Following the recent release of 'The Goods: Live Hard, Sell Hard' movie that opened in theaters last Friday, actor Ken Jeong has embroiled a lot of controversy. In the movie, the car dealership manager makes reference to "Japs" and Pearl Harbor before the actor Ken Jeong is beaten by his co-workers for looking Japanese. In this day and age, it should not be acceptable for public hate crimes, especially in the context of trying to be funny. There could have been various other ways for a comedic effect of 'motivating' the sales members rather than an act of hate crime.

Other recent movies by Ken Jeong such as The Hangover, he embarrassingly portrays an angry Asian crime boss. In the movie, Knocked Up, Ken Jeong plays a short-tempered doctor. "Those who have seen the movie will probably agree that Jeong's character Mr. Chow is quite possibly the most blatantly over-the-top racial stereotype of an Asian man since Mickey Rooney put on 'Yellow Face' makeup to play a 'crazy Jan in the upstairs apartment' for the movie 'Breakfast at Tiffany's.'

What exactly is Hollywood trying to say by making these kind of movies and are moviegoers that pressed for laughs that make it ok for anti-'Political Correctness'?

Today, several Asian American media advocacy groups such as The Japanese American Citizens League, Imada Wong Communications Group and Media Action Network for Asian Americans will be protesting at Paramount Pictures in Los Angeles for the release of The Goods: Live Hard, Sell Hard. Link, Link

Asian Television Dramas - DramaFever

2009-08-17T22:25:00.000-07:00

Based in New York City, DramaFever is a new community website for the fans of Asian television dramas. "We're huge fans of Asian television dramas, especially from Korea, Japan and China. With engaging story lines and top notch talent, these dramas are incredible entertainment. Unfortunately in the past, it's been difficult for North American viewers to watch their favorite dramas and discover new ones. The best options were websites with pirated content and bootleg DVDs." DramaFever was launched to provide a better way to watch drama television which is 100% free. Link

Vietnamese Coffee (Cà Phê)

2009-08-16T11:48:00.000-07:00

Coffee, first introduced into Vietnam by French Colonists in the late 19th Century, the drink was quickly adopted with regional variations. Due to limitations of availability of fresh milk, the French and Vietnamese used sweetened condensed milk with a dark roast coffee. Vietnamese coffee (Cà Phê) traditionally uses coarsely ground and individually brewed with a small metal drip filter and poured into a cup containing condensed milk and ice. Link

What makes Vietnamese Coffee different from the local Starbucks?

1. Drip Filter

A metal coffee filter using a screw-down mechanism to compress coffee grounds into a dense layer through which hot water is filtered.

2. Rich complex blends coffee beans

Blends of coffee including robusta, arabica, chari and catimor coffee beans.

3. Addition of sweetened condensed milk.

Distinct Southeast Asian influence that transforms coffee into a sweet dessert.

Ni Hao, Kai-Lan, the Mandarin Dora

2009-08-12T09:46:00.000-07:00

Premiered on Nickelodeon's Nick Jr. morning kids shows, Ni Hao, Kai-Lan is Nickelodeon's first animated steries to feature Chinese culture, specifically the Mandarin language. Given the huge success of the bilingual television show, Dora the Explorer, which taught Spanish to preschoolers, Nickelodeon is hoping the same cute Kai-lan Chow and her animal friends will have the same effect on learning Mandarin. The series will likely reach millions of kids across the country but Nickelodeon is hoping the show will be particularly poplular in the California Bay Area.

Ni Hao, Kai-Lan features a pre-school aged Chinese girl named Kai-lan, her animal friends, and her grandfather, ye-ye. The show not only introduces Chinese words to learn, there is also the occasional songs sung in Chinese. Ni Hao, Kai-Lan was created by Karen Chau, a first-generation Chinese American who was working as a graphic designer when she came up with the idea. Link

One Perfect Bowl of Ramen at a Time

2009-08-10T21:49:00.000-07:00

Nicknamed the Ramen-Bot, a Tokyo restaurant has programmed a robot to cook the perfect bowl of ramen noodles. 20 million yen and five years, shop owner Yoshihara Uchida developed a robot to custom make broth by adjusting everything from the level of soy sauce and salt to the richness of the soup. "The custom-made broth is then delivered via conveyor belt to the chef who adds noodles and toppings. The whole process takes two minutes, less time than it would take to boil water for instant noodles." Link

Miss Asian America Pagent

2009-08-07T09:19:00.000-07:00

Beginning in 1985, the Miss Asian America Pageant is the premier event in the Asian American community and is the longest running Asian american pageant in the United States. "The Miss Asian America Pageant displays the rich ethnic diversity of our society and gives us a glimpse into the many different cultures that surrounds us today. This pageant encourages young aspiring Asian American women to reach new heights and to work hard to turn their dreams into reality." Link

Miss Asian America Pageant will be held August 8, 2009 in San Francisco. Learn more

Miniature Brides - Latest Thing in Wedding Photography

2009-08-06T14:24:00.000-07:00

A bizzarre indeed wedding photography trend that is hitting China and Korea hard. This weird trend of taking pictures of couples with the bride shrunk in Photoshop and put in various adorable poses such as miniature bride in the hands of the groom or miniature bride sitting on the shoulders of the groom. Adorable or creepy, what is your take? Link

Anyone Can Speak Chinese with Chinglish.com

2009-08-05T16:05:00.000-07:00

Chinglish.com, a website format to promote linguistic and cultural communication between Chinese and English speaking countries with the creation of an internet community in which Chinese and English can coexist and enrich each other in a single location.

Email being the primary application on the internet, "Chinglish is the only email system providing a web-based Chinese input method editor (IME). This enables any user outside of China to email in Chinese from computers that cannot switch alphabet to characters for lack of a Chinese IME or operating system."

"The very first email message from China was sent in 1986 but it took another decade for internet to become available to the Chinese public. Internet being a Western invention, email protocol originally was developed for the alphabet. Until today, China's 150 million internet users could not use their own name in their language to email with." Chinglish gives Chinese their identity and language back as well as helps the vast number of foreigners studying Chinese and cross-cultural communication. Link

Rice Art

2009-08-04T17:10:00.000-07:00

Started in a local village of Inakadate, Japan (600 miles north of Tokyo) sixteen years ago, rice art is a yearly project to revitalize the local economy. Farmers sketch out their designs on computers to help determine where each rice needs to be planted. Murals are created by planting purple and yellow-leafed kodaimai rice along with the green-leafed tsugaru roman variety. A different design is shown each year where more than 15,000 visitors travel to see.

The Apology

2009-07-27T16:52:00.000-07:00

California State Assembly Member, Paul Fong is attempting to take the issue of a landmark bill torequest an apology for the Chinese Exclusion Act to Congress. Fong's bill will aplologize to the state's Chinese-American community for racist laws enacted during the 19th century Gold Rush. It will also recognize the contribution Chinese immigrants made to California, in particular the Transcontinental Railroad.

"The Chinese Exclusion act is the only federal law enacted to deny immigration based exclusively on race or nationality. The Act was repealed in 1943 during World War II as China became an ally against the Japanese. Ironically the repeal of the Act followed by the Internment of Japanese Americans during World War II." Link Link

2009 World Games 世界運動會

2009-07-22T20:48:00.000-07:00

2009 World Games, taking place in Kaohsiung, Taiwan from July 16 to July 26 features sports that are not contested in the Olympic Games. This features such games as aikido, parachuting, bodybuilding, bowling, casting, flying disc (frisbee), sport ju-jitsu, karate, netball, orienteering, sumo, surfing, tug of war, dragon boat, korfball, climbing and many more. Over 3,000 athletes are competing from 91 countries. View the schedule.

One of the most interesting part of the World Games is the main stadium itself, the World Games Stadium. A recently constructed structure designed by famous architect Toyo Ito. It is a a beautiful solar-powered stadium that will generate 100% of its electricity from photovoltaic technology. Seen as a model for future sporting arenas, it is beautiful, functional and environmentally friendly. Link

Hayao Miyazaki in Berkeley

2009-07-20T18:58:00.000-07:00

Hayao Miyazaki has been announced the winner of University of California, Berkeley Center for Japanese Studies 2009 Berkeley Japan Prize. The prize recognizes individuals from all disciplines and professions who have, over a lifetime, influenced the world's understanding of Japan.

"For nearly 50 years, Miyazaki has been enchanting the world with fantastic and emotionally soaring films, making him one of the world's most respected animators and directors. Among dozens of films he has written, directed and animated, his best-known include 'My Neighbor Totoro,' 'Kiki's Delivery Service,' 'Princess Mononoke,' 'Spirited Away,' and 'Ponyo.'"

Miyazaki will accept the award on July 25 at 6:00 pm in Zellerbach Hall on the UC Barkeley campus. Featured on Nichi Bei Times Newspaper. Link

Strike an Asian Pose!

2009-07-19T09:50:00.000-07:00

Cute Asian girl obsessed, Steve has created a blog to help recognize and document Asians and their notoriously known quirky and cute poses, Asianposes.com. According to Steve, "Why are poses so important? One reason is the phenomena known as 'boring photos lowers cuteness' effect. I find this problem to be particularly noticeable while scanning through a large amount of photos." Link

Asian American International Film Festival

2009-07-14T12:16:00.000-07:00

32 years running, the Asian American International Film Festival continues to be the leading showcase of films created by media artists of Asian descent and about the Asian community. Running July 23 through July 26, AAIFF will showcase original feature films, short films, documentaries, and other works from throughouth the world. "AAIFF continues to be a leading showcase for Asian American film and video, placing a substantial focus on local and independent works and working to enrich New York's Asian arts community." Learn more

Featured film list

2009 California Obon and Bazaar Schedule

2009-07-13T23:02:00.000-07:00

Upcoming 2009 California Obon and Bazaar schedule:

July 18:

Buddhist Church of Florin

Buddhist Church of Marysville

July 18/19:

Orange County Buddhist Church (Anaheim)

Mountain View Buddhist Temple

Venice Hongwanji Buddhist Temple

July 25:

Buddhist Church of Salinas

July 25/26:

Higashi Hongwanji Buddhist Temple (Los Angeles)

Berkeley Higashi Hongwanji

Buddhist Church of San Francisco

Aug 1:

Buddhist Church of San Diego

San Luis Obispo Buddhist Temple

August 1/2:

Buddhist Church of Stockton

Palo Alto Buddhist Temple

Gardena Buddhist Church

August 8/9:

Buddhist Church of Sacramento

Nihonmachi Street Fair

Pistahan Parade and Festival

2009-07-13T22:01:00.001-07:00

The largest celebration of Filipino Americans in San Francisco returns and is set for August 8 & 9 2009. The celebration will include the Adobo Cook-off and balut eating contest, Filipino cuisine and deserts, cultural exhibits, and the second annual San Francisco Filipino American jazz festival. The two-day event is expected to draw over 50,000 people. Learn more

Lunch in a Box

2009-07-11T10:23:00.000-07:00

Bentō, a single portion takeout or home-packed meal is a common sight in Japan but is now becoming a popular trend in the United States. Generally consisting of rice, fish or meat, and one or more pickled or cooked vegetables as a side dish, Bento is becoming a fun, colorful, money saving, environmentally friendly, and a way to conserve leftovers.

San Francisco based mom and blogger, Deborah Hamilton is helping Americans learn about bento and tips and tricks with her blog www.lunchinabox.net. "Lunch in a Box" averages 380,000 page views per month and won the 2007 Food Blog Award's "Best Family/Kids Blog" category. Link, Link

San Jose Obon お盆

2009-07-10T18:57:00.000-07:00

Obon - the annual Japanese Buddhist festival to honor departed spirits or one's ancestors, has evolved into a family reunion celebration which traditionally includes a dance known as Bon-Odori. Obon lasts for three days however starting date varies with regions of Japan. Shichigatsu Bon (Bon in July) is celebrated around July 15, Hachigatsu Bon (Bon in August) is celebrated around August 15, and Kyu Bon (Old Bon) is celebrated on the 15th day of the seventh month of the lunar calendar.

Along with the traditional religious Obon observances and Bon Odori dancing for Buddhist temples, United States Obon also hold a cultural and food bazaar providing a variety of cuisine and art, also to display features of Japanese culture and Japanese-American history.

San Jose Buddhist Church Betsuin in San Jose Japantown will be held this coming weekend, July 11 and 12. Learn more

Origins of Bánh mì

2009-07-08T21:26:00.000-07:00

Bánh mì is a Vietnamese baguette made up of thinly sliced pickled carrots and daikon, onions, cucumbers, cilantro, jalapeno peppers and meat or tofu. The sandwich is a product of French colonialism in Indochina, combining ingredients from French (baguettes, pate and mayonnaise) with native Vietnamese ingredients like cilantro, hot peppers, fish sauce and pickled carrots. Bánh mì, in Vietnamese translates to bread but also can be used to refer to bread stuffed with meat. Vietnamese food including Bánh mì and pho is becoming very popular in the United States especially in areas with a Vietnamese immigrant community. "The contrasting flavors and textures of the sandwich - as well as its relatively low cost - make it a popular dish. Bánh mì is referred to as a 'Saigon Sub,' 'Vietnamese Po' boy' in the New Orleans community, or 'Vietnamese Hoagie' in other part of the United States." Link

European Designed "Chopstick Aids"

2009-07-07T10:59:00.000-07:00

Dining out at an Asian restaurant can pose to be problematic for those who are unfamiliar with the new eating utensils. Two questions arise, one can either fiddle with the chopsticks or do the embarrassing thing of asking for a fork. However, Europeans are taking it to another level and are designing different utensils to eat Asian food.

TUKAANI " hand made eating device for Asian food consumers in the West"

Designed by Ugandan-born Finnish designer Lincoln Kayiwa, the Tukaani is an alternative to the chopstick. "It may be held as traditional chopsticks, but unlike the disposable wooden chopsticks, Tukaani provides eased food picking and delivery to the mouth. The loop also allows easier hanging, storage and display." Link

Chopsticks Aid

Designed by Jaroslav Kucera of Poland, which is a fork face that attaches to a pair of chopsticks. With this tool, it will save anybody from hunger, however not necessarily with their dignity intact.

Ponyo 崖の上のポニョ

2009-07-06T21:04:00.000-07:00

From the Academy Award-winning director and world-renowned Japanese animation legend Hayao Miyazaki comes PONYO, a story inspired by Hans Christian Andersen's Fairy tale "The Little Mermaid." Already a box-office success in Japan, the story of a young and overeager goldfish named Ponyo and her quest to become human. Link

In Theaters August 14

What Will They Think of Next?

2009-07-06T12:51:00.000-07:00

With the announcement of Pepsi Shiso in Japan in recent months, Coca Cola, the cola leader in Japan is not letting this product be outdone and is creating its own take. In stores June 8, 2009, Coca Cola released Coca Cola Plus with Catechin, which is full of antioxidants (catechin) and has a slight green tea aftertaste. The target audience is health-conscious young women in their twenties and thirties.

"We wanted to cater to people who are looking for something that tastes good but is also good for health and beauty," said Coca Cola (Japan) Co. spokesman Katsuya Sato.

Anime Expo 2009

2009-06-26T22:39:00.000-07:00

In its 18th year running, Anime Expo shows no signs of losing interest. More than 40,000 anime enthusiasts are expected to attend between July 2 and July 5 in Los Angeles for the largest anime, manga and games convention.

"Anime covers the full breadth and depth of human emotion, but it is also fearless in the topics that it is willing to tackle such as nuclear fallout, biowarfare or S&M. Our attendee demographic ranges from 15 to over 50. It is split 45/55 between women and men. The Expo also does its best to cover all aspects of Japanese anime. While the top titles in the U.S. are familiar names like 'Naruto,' 'Dragon Ball,' 'Final Fantasy' and 'Pokemon,' Liang says that interest in other areas is strong. 'Shojo (aimed at girls aged 10-18) and Seined (for men aged 18-30) reign supreme; it's what drives the sales for major publishers and bookstores in the U.S., but the Yaoi manga (homoerotic male-relationship stories aimed at girls) panel has been one of the most avidly attended panels at our convention." Link, Link

The Reign of the Rooster Sauce

2009-06-23T11:56:00.000-07:00

Huy Fong Sriracha sauce, the Thai-inspired hot-pepper sauce famous for its dominant white rooster against the backdrop of the bright red sauce bottle. Quite possibly, the Sriracha sauce tastes great on everything has taken the following in recent years, even to the extent of having devoted fans.

Despite its popularity, the origins are not very well known. David Tran, after seeking an Asian inspired alternative to Heinz ketchup, created of the sauce in Los Angeles in the early 1980s. The name of his company, Huy Fong was the name of the freighter he took while escaping post-war Vietnam.

"The lure of Asian authenticity is part of the appeal. Some American consumers believe Sriracha to be a Thai sauce. Others think it is Vietnamese. The truth is that Sriracha, as manufactured by Huy Fong Foods, may be best understood as an American sauce, a polyglot puree with roots in different places and peoples." Link

Lords of the Samurai Art Exhibit

2009-06-22T22:00:00.000-07:00

San Francisco's Asian Art Museum is now exhibiting more than 160 objects - weaponry, costumes, paintings, ceramics and more. This exhibit which runs through September 20, 2009 explores the principles that governed the culture of the samurai lords.

"Lords of the Samurai takes an intimate look at the daimyo, or provincial lords of the warrior class in feudal Japan, approximately from the 1300s to 1860. Though trained to be fierce fighters, they also strove to master artistic, cultural, and spiritual pursuits." Link, Link

Chinese or Japanese?

2009-06-19T22:07:00.000-07:00

"Chinese or Japanese?" An exerpt from the TV show King of the Hill brings up a good example of what it means to be Asian American and the understanding of how race and ethnicity can affect us either individually or our perceptions of Asians in the United States.

Star of New Disney/Pixar Movie "UP" In-Depth

2009-06-17T23:49:00.000-07:00

"Up," produced by Pixar Animation Studios and Disney is the latest computer animated motion picture. Released on May 29, 2009, the film stars a cranky old man and an overeager wilderness explorer who fly to South America in a floating house suspended in balloons. The part of Russell, the Asian American young scout is read by Jordan Nagai, a seven-year-old Japanese American. Jordan Nagai interview for up: Link

The character of Russell was modeled on an Asian American animator at Pixar, Peter Sohn. Below is an excerpt taken from an interview of the film's director. Pete Docter, talking about the character Russell. Link

"Pete Sohn is such an entertaining character that we thought, let’s just try to grab him and figure out what he was like as a kid, so that’s kind of where that came from and just trying to be specific and different than things we’d done in the past. We talked early on about making some story point about that but I think by not dealing with it it’s more color blind or accepting or whatever, you just cast that character and move forward.”

U.S. Racial Breakdown in Major League Sports

2009-06-11T13:17:00.000-07:00

Interesting demographics of United States racial breakdown of professional sports organization based upon the illustration found on Good Magazine. The diagram includes Major League Baseball, the National Basketball Association, National Football League and Major League soccer.

(MLB) Major League Baseball:

- White 60%

- Hispanic 29%

- Black 8%

- Asian 3%

(NBA) National Basketball Association:

- Black 76%

- White 20%

- Hispanic 3%

- Asian 1%

(NFL) National Football League:

- Black 66%

- White 31%

- Asian 2%

- Hispanic 1%

(MLS) Major League Soccer:

- White 59%

- Black 22%

- Hispanic 14%

- Asian 1%

Link

Asian American Actors hit the Summer Movie Lineup

2009-06-10T20:58:00.000-07:00

Contrary to any summer movie lineup filled with action packed blockbusters, 2009 is a little different. Unlike summer's in the past, this year possibly features the most Asian American actors and characters. Like typical American cinematography, there is a lack of Asian-American actors. However, this summer's lineup Asian American actors play "normal" roles as opposed to the typical kung fu master or Asian high school student.

Disney Pixar's UP - Perhaps the largest Asian American role for this summer came from the character, Russel from the movie UP. Russel is voiced by a 9-year old Japanese-American actor named Jordan Nagai.

Star Trek - Korean-American actor, John Cho who portrays Hikaru Sulu in Star Trek.

Terminator Salvation - Dutch/Irish and South Korean, Korinna Moon Bloodgood plays the love interest for the newest hybrid Terminator.

X-Men Origins: Wolverine - Korean star, Daniel Henney plays the villain Agent Zero.

Mixed Roots Film & Literary Festival 2009

2009-06-06T11:21:00.000-07:00

Second annual Mixed Roots Film & Literary Festival will be held on June 12th and 13th, 2009 at the Japanese American National Museum in downtown Los Angeles, CA. The Festival is an annual free public event celebrating stories of the Mixed racial and cultural experience through the use of films, readings, workshops and live performances. Link, Link

Pepsi Shiso

2009-06-01T17:54:00.000-07:00

In continuion to Pepsi White post, this summer's limited release product by Pepsi will be Pepsi Shiso. Released to convenience stores on June 23rd, it has got to be one of the most interesting and curious drink flavors to be in the market.

Shiso is a minty herb popular in asian cuisine, especially Japanese. Often eaten with sashimi or for salads, spaghetti, or even pizza. Link

Pepsi White

2009-05-30T09:09:00.000-07:00

Following Pepsi's release of Cucumber flavored soda drink in 2007, Pepsi Japan has released yet another flavored drink called Pepsi White. A very curious combination of caffeinated soda and plain yogurt. Looks like a competition to the very popular Calpis Soda in Japan which has been around for years, though is not caffeinated.

It is great to see Pepsi experimenting with limited-edition flavors to get a test for the market. However, why are these test releases primarily done in foreign markets? Is it because Japanese love their drinks or is it because America is very conservative on new products? In the past Japan has released many interesting soda flavors such as the Ice Cucumber, Blue Hawaii, Pepsi Gold, Pepsi Red, and many more. Link to reviews

Black Tokyo

2009-05-28T19:41:00.001-07:00

Black Tokyo, a website created by Craig Hankerson in January 1999 and later Eric L. Robinson becoming moderator is dedicated to provide readers a voice and a network for Blacks living in Japan as well as to provide news on Japan and address inaccurate or false information, stereotypes and other issues concerning Blacks in Japan.

Eric L. Robinson, born and raised in Detroit, Michigan found himself in Okinawa in 1981 for the Marine Corps. For the past twenty years, Robinson traveled between Japan and the United States, gaining experiences and insights from each culture, which is now shared with his blog website.

When coming up content, Robinson "Looks for artilces that make you think twice, so to speak, as Arsenio Hall used to say, make you go 'hmm.' I want to talk about things that are typically not talked about. I want to talk about things that may be deemed slightly controversial." Link, Link

Etiquette in a Multi-Cultural Society

2009-05-26T21:17:00.000-07:00

California, and San Francisco Bay Area in particular is truly a unique place in the world. One of the few places where it is so multi-cultural that you do not have to travel far to meet people from around the world. And in its benefit, enjoy the diversity of restaurants, shops and celebrations.

As written by Syndi Seid of Asianweek.com, below are some cultural differences that continue to perplex people whom are not familiar with Asian customs.

"Greetings: In the Western world, it is customary to shake hands when we meet someone for the first time - on the street, at an office, at home, at an event. It’s also the custom to shake hands when departing. In the Asian culture the time-honored tradition is to simply to bow. In India, Thailand and other parts of the world, the custom is to place both hands together, fingers pointing up to the heavens, and say, “Namaste” or “Wai.” Today, we are seeing a blending of all these practices. I see people combining a slight bow, or the “Namaste” and “Wai,” followed by a handshake. Learning how to greet someone properly is the best way to win friends quickly.

Receiving Gifts: I love how Chinese etiquette requires a person to refuse and decline a gift or invitation of any kind at least twice or three times before accepting. In American culture, however, if the American offers the Asian a cup of tea, and the Asian refuses it, there will not usually be a second or third chance to say yes. What I see most is: “Would you like a cup of tea?” “Oh, no thank you.” “Are you sure?” “Well, all right. Thank you.” Two rounds are all there will be. Don’t hesitate for that cup of tea if you want it.

Touching: Asians who are new to the U.S. are often uncomfortable with how familiar and physical Americans are when meeting and conversing with one another. I remember being at a dinner party where the guests of honor were this lovely couple, who were on their first trip to the U.S. and San Francisco. I saw how uncomfortable the wife became when one of the American guests kept touching and poking at her arm as she was talking. Another awkward moment occurred at the end of the evening when a male guest gave her a big hug and kiss on the cheek as he said good-bye. The wife smiled and received it graciously, but I could see she was totally lost in terms of how she was to handle or react to such physical contact." Link

Kip Fulbeck and the Hapa Project

2009-05-21T18:51:00.000-07:00

Kip Fulbeck is a pioneering artist in identity politics. With a multiracial identity, Cantonese, English, Irish, and Welsh, Kip Fulbeck is best known for his work addressing Hapa and multiracial identity. Fulbeck's artwork includes video, spoken word, photography and slam poetry. Kip has been featured on CNN, MTV, and PBS, and has performed and exhibited in over 20 countries. He directed twelve films and published three books.

The Hapa Project:

"Kip Fulbeck began The Hapa Project as a forum for Hapas to answer the question "What are you?" in their own words and be pictured in simple head-on portraits. Traveling throughout the country, he photographed over 1200 people from all walks of life - from babies to adults, construction workers to rock stars, gangbangers to pro surfers, schoolteachers to porn stars, engineers to comic book artists. The project now manifests as a book, traveling photographic exhibition, and online community." Link

Origins of the term "Engrish"

2009-05-18T21:14:00.000-07:00

Engrish refers to the non-standard variations of English generally found in East Asian countries. Though the term may be referred to spoken English, it is often used to describe written English where problems are easier to document. The term arises from the ambiguity of the "r" and "l" sounds in the spoken Japanese language. A similar problem exists in Chinese. Engrish are predominantly found in Japanese pop culture where Japanese have assimilated a great deal of vocabulary from the English language. Nihonglish, the opposite term for Engrish refers to the poorly pronounced and ungrammatical Japanese by a native English speaker. Link

A popular website, Engrish.com documents and provides examples of poorly translated English language found in foreign counties, specifically Japan. Examples vary from menus, instruction manuals, advertisements to strange t-shirt slogans. Link

Japan-UK 150

2009-05-15T09:06:00.000-07:00

Japan-UK is a series of events held in the UK to celebrate 150 years of friendship between the two countries. Japan-UK 150 will run from Autumn 2008 until the end of 2009. It will feature a wide range of activities to encourage in such fields as culture, the arts, sport, education and science. Link

Upcoming events:

World Festival 2009 The Growing Force of Manga May 15-17 2009.

Chelsea Flower Show 2009 Show Garden May 19-23 2009.

Kodo Ekkyo: Transborder June 6/7 2009.

Japanese Matsuri June 13 2009.

Sushi Hits France in a Big Way

2009-05-10T17:19:00.000-07:00

Planet Sushi, assimilating classic Japanese cuisine with innovative and exclusive recipes has created a unique concept and has become a worldwide success. Since its opening in 1998 in Paris, the restaurant revolutionized the world of sushi with its free home delivery of sushi service. Popular innovations include the famous Folcon and Fresh Roll. Additionally, the Eggmaki, Japan Roll, Maki Nutella and Makislim. Planet Sushi has also has a growing interest in French and international medias as well as being showcased in films such as the recent "Taken" and "Detrompez-vous." Planet Sushi is recently growing in interest internationally and has opened up markets in Miami an Ibiza. Link

Hapa Social Networking Website

2009-04-28T00:30:00.000-07:00

Social networking website strictly for multicultural ethnicity individuals. "Share, talk, communicate in a user led social network for individuals, family members and those members of the community. Share the wealth of your experience and plan for the future with those like you. Find others with similar interests and goals." Link

Grand Theft Auto: Chinatown Wars

2009-04-26T18:51:00.000-07:00

Only offered for the Nintendo DS system, Grand Theft Auto: Chinatown Wars is an entirely original entry into the GTA series. The game brings a new level of interactivity with the use of the DS touch screen, players navigate their way through the streets as they uncover the truth behind an epic tale of crime and corruption within the Triad crime syndicate. Chinatown Wars is the highest rated DS game ever. Such as the recent release of Mirrors Edge by EA Games, It good to see a trend of gaming with the introduction of Asian characters as the lead of the story. Link

Treeless Mountain

2009-04-19T22:09:00.000-07:00

View Trailer

"When their mother needs to leave in order to find their estranged father, seven year-old Jin and her younger sister, Bin, are left to live with their Big Aunt for the summer. With only a small piggy bank and their mother's promise to return when it is full, the two young girls are forced to acclimate to changes in their family life. Counting the days, and the coins, the two bright-eyed young girls eagerly anticipate their mother's homecoming. But when the bank fills up, and with their mother still not back, Big Aunt decides that she can no longer tend to the children. Taken to live on their grandparents' farm, it is here that Jin comes to learn the importance of family bonds in this beautiful, meditative, and thought-provoking second feature from So Yong Kim, the acclaimed director of IN BETWEEN DAYS." Link

Redesign of Famous Oxford Circus Crossing

2009-04-15T22:09:00.000-07:00

Taking design cues from Tokyo's Shibuya district, central London's Oxford Circus has begun work on a £5m project to pedestrianize the street crossing. Oxford Circus is one of the most famous landmarks in the world, with more than 200m visitors a year. This is part of a large series of design improvements for London's Olympic Games in 2012. Eliminating street clutter and barriers along the Oxford Circus crossing will allow for people to cross in all directions- diagonally as well as straight ahead. The redesign is expected to open in November 2009. Link

International Lao New Year Festival 2009

2009-04-14T21:18:00.000-07:00

Pii May or Lao New Year is considered the most important and largest traditional festival in the country. The festival coincides with the end of the dry season and the beginning of the monsoon season - seen as a day of rebirth and purification. Although already passed, (San Francisco April 11, 2009) the festival was intended to celebrate, collaborate, educate, and advocate 30 years of Lao history in the United States. "As a result of the Indochina Conflict (Vietnam War), Lao refugees have called the US home for the last thirty decades. The first wave of Lao refugees came to the US in the late 1970s. Close to one million people of Lao descent now live in the Us, and about 35,000 of them reside in the San Francisco Bay Area." Link

Sake San Jose 2009

2009-04-14T12:47:00.000-07:00

Hosted by Yu-Ai Kai Senior Community Center, Sake San Jose combines a sake tasting of various sakes as well as a walk through San Jose's Japantown businesses and restaurants. Each business and restaurant will host a various assortment of sakes made in Japan and the United States.

Sake San Jose will be on May 21, 2009 from 5:30pm to 8:30pm.

Link.

San Francisco Japanese Cherry Blossom Festival

2009-04-12T13:35:00.000-07:00

The blooming cherry blossoms in San Francisco's Japantown marks the beginning of the Cherry Blossom Festival. "The Cherry Blossom Festival in San Francisco started as a community event in specific reaction to the redevelopment of Japantown in the 1960s. Traditional Japanese arts are showcased with demonstrations of martial arts, dancing, fashion, tea ceremonies and bonsai exhibits. There are also Asian food kiosks and Asian oriented street vendor booths like Kanji calligraphy scrolls, Japanese art and flowers. Link

April 11 - 19. Saturday/Sundays 11:00am - 6:00pm

Kal Penn joins Obama in White House

2009-04-07T18:18:00.000-07:00

The White House today hired actor Kal Penn to join the staff as an associate director in the Office of Public Liaison for President Barak Obama's administration. "His role will be to connect Obama with the Asian-American and Pacific Islander communities, as well as arts groups. Penn starred as Kumar in the movie, 'Harrold and Kumar Escape from Guantanamo Bay.'" link

Daytime Drinking

2009-04-05T12:57:00.000-07:00

Trailer for the film 'Daytime Drinking' Released in theaters May 15.

Link

HIN 2009 and Asian American Subculture of Import Cars

2009-04-03T20:15:00.000-07:00

The annual Hot import Nights car show returns to San Mateo, California tomorrow, and is still hot as ever. Stepping into Hot Import nights is like mixing the country's largest automobile modification contest with a nightclub atmosphere. Since its beginnings in the late 1980s/ early 1990s in Southern California, the import car scene has become a huge subculture, dominated by Asian Americans. Whether just a hobby or a career, auto modification is just like any other art form. Just like a canvas is for an artist, the automobile is for the tuner. link

HIN brings people together from all nationalities.

SFIAAFF 2009

2009-04-01T23:38:00.000-07:00

Hapa/Multiracial Films and Events featured in 2009 San Francisco International Asian American Film Festival. Presented by the center for Asian Amercian Media, "SFIAAFF is the nation's largest showcase for new Asian American and Asian films, annually presenting approximately 120 works in San Francisco, Berkeley and San Jose. Since 1982, the SFIAFF has been an important launching point for Asian American independent filmmakers as well as a vital source for new Asian cinema." link

Branding of McDonald's Cross-Culturally

2009-04-01T17:01:00.000-07:00

How does a Southern California based hamburger restaurant become the world's largest corporation? Additionally how did it overcome the culture barrier? Since its start in San Bernardino, California in 1940, McDonald's has now grown to 31,000+ restaurants worldwide. "With the expansion of McDonald's into many international markets, the company has become a symbol of globalization and the spread of the American way of life." 1971 was the first introduction of McDonald's in the Asian market - Tokyo, Japan.

McDonald's is also referred differently depending of what region of the world you are in. For instance, McDonald's is referred to as Mickey D's in the United States and Canada. Mak-Dak in Russia, Maccer's in Ireland, and Mac in Portugal and Brazil. Facinatingly, McDonald's is referred differently depending on what location you are in Japan. Makku in most of Japan, but can also be referred to Makudo or McDo in the Kansai region. link

A possible reason for McDonald's success internationall could be its varying products depending on which country you reside. link

China - Chili Garlic sauce, Crispy Chicken Wings, Chicken Thigh Fillet Burger link

Hong Kong - Shogun Burger, Mushroom Burger, Rice Fan-tastic link

South Korea - Bulgogi Burger, McBongsoo, Affogato

Japan - Chicken Katsu Burger, Gratin Korokke Burger, Green Tea Milkshake, Ebi Filet-O, Teriyaki McBurger, Ume Nuggets, Salsa Burger, Tamago Double Mac link

Thailand - Samurai Pork Burger, Rice Patties with Jasmine Rice, Caribbean Shrimp Burger, Papaya Salad Shaker

2009 Clothing Line Preview

2009-03-31T23:02:00.000-07:00

Preview to soon to be release of 2009 Tshirt clothing line for The Best of Both Worlds. Currently limited to three shirts. More to come in the coming months. If interested, the following three shirts can be purchased through cafepress.com. Link