By Steven Horowitz (Aichi-ken, 1992-94)

Just wanted to share that I had a really terrific dinner the other night at Kajitsu (www.kajitsunyc.com), a new and very unique Japanese restaurant on E. 9th Street in NYC, thanks to professional translator Jamie Graves (Saitama-ken, 2002-03) who not only waits tables in the intimate establishment but also translates the menu and other texts for Kajitsu and interprets for important clients.

Jamie, who specializes in translations relating to food and cooking, explained to me a few months ago at a JETAA NY gathering that he was working at a restaurant that specializes in shojin cuisine, which as a non-foodie I can best describe as a sort of high-end, vegan kaiseki.  The chef, Masato Nishihara,  had worked at Kitcho, a very prestigious kaiseki cuisine restaurant in Kyoto before coming to New York to open Kajitsu.

I can’t remember exactly what I ate, but each course did really blow me away in terms of both flavors and creativity.  Plus the soba dipping noodles may be the best in NYC.  The menu changes every month, so apparently a number of regulars come back each month to sample the new menu.

The fare is not inexpensive.  But it’s well worth it if you have a special occasion to celebrate (which I did!)  Especially if you get a seat at the counter where you can watch Chef Nishihara prepare each course right front of you, including his zen-like tea ceremony approach to making the macha at the end of the meal.  (According to Jamie, all chefs at Kitcho must study tea ceremony.)

Here’s a little additional background on Kajitsu from it’s website:

Kajitsu – “Fine Day”
Kajitsu means “fine day”, or “day of celebration” in Japanese. We have chosen the name Kajitsu hoping that a visit here will always be a special occasion for our guests.

Shojin Cuisine
Shojin cuisine refers to a type of vegetarian cooking that originates in Zen Buddhism. Even though it does not use meat or fish, shojin is regarded as the foundation of all Japanese cuisine, especially kaiseki, the Japanese version of haute cuisine.

If you decide you have your own special occasion, make sure to say hi to Jamie and ask him all of your questions about the restaurant and the food.  There’s lots to tell and lots to learn.

Kajitsu (www.kajitsunyc.com) is on E. 9th St between 1st Ave & Avenue A in New York City.

WITLife is a periodic series written by professional Writer/Interpreter/Translator Stacy Smith (Kumamoto-ken CIR, 2000-03). She starts her day by watching Fujisankei’s newscast in Japanese, and here she shares some of the interesting tidbits and trends together with her own observations.

There is a bit of a controversy brewing over implementation of one aspect of the DPJ’s Manifesto.  This is the proposal of free tuition for high schools currently being debated in the Diet.  Students have to pay to attend high school as Japanese education is only compulsory through junior high.  The question here is whether North Korean schools in Japan (of which there are 10 and where about 2,000 students of both North Korean and South Korean nationality are enrolled) should be similarly subsidized considering that Japan imposes economic sanctions on North Korea and in light of the yet unresolved abduction issue.

PM Hatoyama is waffling on this issue, with him initially Read More

WITLife is a periodic series written by professional Writer/Interpreter/Translator Stacy Smith (Kumamoto-ken CIR, 2000-03). She starts her day by watching Fujisankei’s newscast in Japanese, and here she shares some of the interesting tidbits and trends together with her own observations.

The group I was interpreting for this time returned to Japan yesterday, and I have been enjoying the last destination on our program: Hawaii!  After a week of surf and sun I can’t say that I am particularly looking forward to leaving, but I suppose all good things must come to an end.  One stop I knew I had to make while here was Kansai Yamato, a mochi maker located in the Ala Moana mall.  It’s fun to watch them make and pack the mochi before your eyes at their small stall.  Like the stores profiled in my recent writeup about wagashi in LA’s Little Tokyo, this establishment also has some pretty funky mochi flavors.  When I went today, I counted 12 atypical varieties in addition to the standard ohagi, sakura mochi, kinako mochi, etc.

Some of the more unusual types were mango, honeydew and Hawaii gentei Kona coffee daifuku, but I wasn’t brave enough to try any of those.  Instead I stuck with Read More

JET alum Chris Kennedy recently helped his company, translation and localization specialist Keywords International, set up a Tokyo branch.

Here’s the press release:  http://www.gamasutra.com/view/pressreleases/55566/Keywords_International_Limited_Launches_Branch_Office_inTokyo.php

Chris added that, “Translation and localization are definitely fields that former JETs can get involved with, so if there is anything I could do to provide some information about the field, or anything similar, just let me know.”

Are you living in Japan and looking to get into the translation and editing industry?  The Society of Writers, Editors & Translators (SWET), a thirty-year old community of English wordsmiths in Japan, is hosting an event on art translation in March.  If you’d like more information about SWET, please click here.

WHEN: Sunday, March, 7 2010 – 3:00~5:00 p.m.

WHERE: Kobe Centre Plaza Nishi-kan, 6F, Room 11 / http://www.kscp.co.jp/map/map.html

FEE: SWET & JAT members 1,000 yen/non-members 1,500 yen

RESERVE: kansai@swet.jp

ABOUT:
Translating literature related to Japanese art presents unique challenges.  Not only are there issues of origin, as in the case of Buddhist deities, but
the presentation of traditional Japanese art has been targeted at a specific audience up to now, namely one that is educated and Japanese. Since the
language used to describe art can be difficult to read—as can the exhibition title itself at times—an English translation may be helpful not only to English readers but also to some native Japanese. Seen in this light, English translation in the art field can be invaluable tool to reach
new audiences, both domestic and international. This presentation will focus on technical issues related to translation, as well as the wider social
implications surrounding them.

Eric Luong is a full-time instructor at the Kyoto University of Art and Design, teaching English, art, and comparative culture. Originally from
Toronto, Canada, he works as a translator for the Hosomi Museum in Kyoto and as a freelancer specializing in Japanese art history.

WITLife is a periodic series written by professional Writer/Interpreter/Translator Stacy Smith (Kumamoto-ken CIR, 2000-03). She starts her day by watching Fujisankei’s newscast in Japanese, and here she shares some of the interesting tidbits and trends together with her own observations.

A thought-provoking article in Salon regarding Japanese reactions at home to President Akio Toyoda’s Congressional testimony and apology to dealers.  It describes how the populace was moved by him getting choked up when addressing the latter, but also that the Japanese can be fickle in their acclaim for someone.  I found it interesting as I am currently traveling as an interpreter for a seven-person group of political aides, and they are overwhelming in their opinion that Japan is getting the short end of the stick regarding this situation.

At one dinner they expressed difficulty in understanding Read More

New England JETAA Career Workshop:  “Marketing Yourself in a Tough Economy”

Make sure to RSVP to president [at] nejetaa.com!

When: Tuesday, March 02, 3:00PM – 6:00PM (This coming week!)
Where: Downtown Crossing, Borders Bookstore, Robert M. Morgan Conference Room
Map: Borders Boston Map (near Downtown Crossing T station): http://bit.ly/%20BordersDTX
Cost: Free! (There will also be some free food)

Highlights:
We will get a pep talk from Professor Ian Condry of MIT about how to use your JET experience to further your career.

We will have a discussion with people in several different industries in which you may have interest:
*Translation
*Academia
*Teaching
*Entrepreneurial/ Non-profit
*Biotechnology

There will be a resume workshop. Bring some copies of your resume to trade with others and help each other out! The more eyes you have looking at your resume, the more ways you’ll be able to improve it. We will also have a discussion on resume dos and don’ts.

We will adjourn to a nearby bar/restaurant afterward for informal networking and relaxing. This is a great way to meet new people and
discuss your career.

Finally, for those who cannot attend the event but have some career-related wisdom/advice they would like to pass on, please send an email to webmaster [at] nejetaa.com. We’ll make sure to share your comments with our attendees at the end of the workshop.

Here’s your chance to get some JET-specific advice in your quest to career-up!

Thanks for your attention, and we look forward to seeing you there!

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WITLife is a periodic series written by professional Writer/Interpreter/Translator Stacy Smith (Kumamoto-ken CIR, 2000-03). She starts her day by watching Fujisankei’s newscast in Japanese, and here she shares some of the interesting tidbits and trends together with her own observations.

I just started an assignment as an interpreter for a delegation of young political leaders from Japan, divided about evenly between members of the LDP and the DPJ as well as one journalist.  Over our first dinner tonight it was interesting to hear their respective viewpoints regarding various issues, especially ones that are personal to them.  For example, one DPJ rep and one LDP rep were having a friendly debate regarding day care.  Both of these men have wives who work and 3-year old daughters, and as they live in the Tokyo area child care options are limited.  There are not enough facilities to meet current needs, and those that exist are deluged by requests leading to long waiting lists.

As part of the Manifesto, the DPJ has proposed the implementation of a 子供手当て (kodomo teate) of 26,000 yen per month to provide financial aid to those who have a child.  The LDP, on the other hand, does not advocate this and thinks this money should instead be put toward Read More

WITLife is a periodic series written by professional Writer/Interpreter/Translator Stacy Smith (Kumamoto-ken CIR, 2000-03). She starts her day by watching Fujisankei’s newscast in Japanese, and here she shares some of the interesting tidbits and trends together with her own observations.

An interesting article this week in Slate analyzed the intricacies of the Japanese bow and its various gradations.  It was in reference to the apology by Toyota President Akio Toyoda at a press conference last week regarding the company’s massive vehicle recall.  His chosen bow was a keirei, or 30-degree tilt to show respect, though some say he should have opted for a saikeirei, or full 45- to 90-degree bow intended to show the greatest veneration or humility.

With the amount of damage control that Toyota needs at this point, perhaps it is true that Toyoda should have overshot with a deeper bow.  However, critics were likely placated by yesterday’s news that Toyoda will testify before Congress regarding the recalls, something he had previously said he had no intention of doing.  The threat of being subpoenaed by investigators seemed to have persuaded him to accept the formal invitation issued by the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee that followed an informal one.  It remains to be seen how reassuring his testimony will be to the American public.

Does a term in Japanese exist for “pocket dial”?  (i.e., to accidentally dial someone because a button is inadvertently pushed while your cell phone is in your pocket)

You can share any responses to the comments section of this post.

WITLife is a periodic series written by professional Writer/Interpreter/Translator Stacy Smith (Kumamoto-ken CIR, 2000-03). She starts her day by watching Fujisankei’s newscast in Japanese, and here she shares some of the interesting tidbits and trends together with her own observations.

Recently the news ran a piece about the popularity of Japanese foods that are mocchiri, meaning heavy in a way similar to mochi.  Evidently it is a Kansai-ben term that combines mochi mochi shita, sticky or springy, and dosshiri shita, heavy or solid.  The top three reasons consumers cited for liking mocchiri goods were their texture, the ability to make them feel full and the attraction to items with mocchiri or mochi mochi in the name.  In addition, they seem to provide a sense of comfort.

Many manufacturers are capitalizing on this mood by increasing their products that contain such descriptors.  For example, a taiyaki maker with Read More

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WITLife is a periodic series written by professional Writer/Interpreter/Translator Stacy Smith (Kumamoto-ken, 2000-03). She starts her day by watching Fujisankei’s newscast in Japanese, and here she shares some of the interesting tidbits and trends together with her own observations.

In Japan measures are being taken to address the phenomenon of 畳離れ (tatami banare), or moving away from tatami.  Many of us probably saw it when we lived over there, as friends’ houses were largely Western style except for the token 和室 (washitsu), or Japanese style-room.  In order to make sure this integral part of the culture does not disappear, a certification has been created for eligible tatami craftsman which gives them the title of “doctor.”

One such craftsman in the prefecture of Tochigi, who estimates that over the last 29 years he has worked on more than 120,000 mats, received his certification just last year.  He is now called a 「畳ドクター」 (tatami doctor), a designation that he admits he is not quite used to.  However, like an MD he Read More

WITLife is a periodic series written by professional Writer/Interpreter/Translator Stacy Smith (Kumamoto-ken, 2000-03). She starts her day by watching Fujisankei’s newscast in Japanese, and here she shares some of the interesting tidbits and trends together with her own observations.

Last night I went to an event at Japan Society entitled “Wasabi on a Hot Dog?” which discussed the incorporation of Japanese ingredients and cooking styles into non-Japanese food.  The speakers were Michael Anthony, executive chef of Gramercy Tavern, and Craig Koketsu,  Executive Chef at Park Avenue Autumn/Winter, and the discussion was moderated by NYT Dining section reporter Julia Moskin.  They both spoke of the importance of seasonality as a Japanese concept that they have introduced, which is said to be revolutionary but really is at the root of all cooking.  It was interesting to hear about Anthony’s time training with a female chef at a French bistro in Tokyo, and of Koketsu growing up in California as a third-generation Japanese-American and how this has affected his work.

However, by far the greatest contribution of the evening was the off the cuff remarks Read More

WITLife is a periodic series written by professional Writer/Interpreter/Translator Stacy Smith (Kumamoto-ken, 2000-03). She starts her day by watching Fujisankei’s newscast in Japanese, and here she shares some of the interesting tidbits and trends together with her own observations.

Nice to be back in chilly New York, but a bit of an adjustment after the final stop on my business trip last week being balmy LA.  I always love going to this southern California destination for the chance to visit Little Tokyo!  Besides great cultural institutions such as the Japanese American National Museum and the Geffen MOCA, it has delicious mochi flavors that I am yet to find here in the city.  My first two stops when in town are always the sweet shops carrying these creations, Mikawaya in the Japanese village and Fugetsu-do on the main drag.

The more expansive Mikawaya carries a greater selection of mochi, including Read More

WITLife is a periodic series written by professional Writer/Interpreter/Translator Stacy Smith (Kumamoto-ken, 2000-03). She starts her day by watching Fujisankei’s newscast in Japanese, and here she shares some of the interesting tidbits and trends together with her own observations.

Quick follow-up to my last post re. the Okinawa base debate.  An editorial in yesterday’s NYT discusses the importance of a meeting that will take place this week between the Obama administration and two visiting Japanese senior officials.  The article urges both countries to not let this contentious issue get in the way of their valuable alliance.  It will be interesting to see what emerges from these security talks.

Also check out Roger Cohen’s editorial in today’s Times which talks about the imagined results of a future America (circa 2040) that has withdrawn from world affairs (or been supplanted by China in this role).  He discusses the frightening ramifications in regard to Japan and the Asian region in the middle of the article.  Happy reading!

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WITLife is a periodic series written by professional Writer/Interpreter/Translator Stacy Smith (Kumamoto-ken, 2000-03).  She starts her day by watching Fujisankei’s newscast in Japanese, and here she shares some of the interesting tidbits and trends together with her own observations.

This Sunday’s Times carried an interesting article about the shifting nature of the respective relationships between Japan and the US (日米関係 (Nichibei kankei)) and Japan and China (日中関係 (Nicchuu kankei)), and the seeming diplomatic displacement of the former by the latter.  As an example, it discusses the tension regarding the Futenma U.S. Marine base issue when Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates went to Japan last fall, in contrast to the red carpet treatment that a Japanese delegation to China received two months later.  It is said that within the current government there is frustration with the U.S.’s “occupation mentality,” the Obama administration’s high-handed attitude in the heated dispute over the relocation of this base.

Not only are there ripples in the formerly smooth-sailing Japan-U.S. relationship, but there is a Read More

WITLife is a periodic series written by professional Writer/Interpreter/Translator Stacy Smith (Kumamoto-ken, 2000-03).  She starts her day by watching Fujisankei’s newscast in Japanese, and here she shares some of the interesting tidbits and trends together with her own observations.

My travels currently bring me to Rochester, NY, and this morning at the local museum and science center I encountered an unexpected aspect of grassroots exchange between Japan and America.  My Japanese guests and I met with Mr. George McIntosh, Director of Collections, and headed down into the vault to get a closer look at the Japanese Ambassador Doll housed there.  Her name is Tamako and she hails from Nagasaki Prefecture, and she was part of a gift from Japan in return for nearly 13,000 friendship dolls sent over in early 1927 by the Committee on World Friendship Among Children. 

This committee was formed by Dr. Sidney Gulick in 1926 as a reaction to restrictive American Read More

WITLife is a periodic series written by professional Writer/Interpreter/Translator Stacy Smith (Kumamoto-ken, 2000-03).  She starts her day by watching Fujisankei’s newscast in Japanese, and here she shares some of the interesting tidbits and trends together with her own observations.

Interesting intersection of American pop culture and Japanese culture on two back-to-back episodes of 30 Rock last night.  In the first one, James Franco (who manages to be amazing in everything he does) playing himself talks of his knowledge of “moe” before whipping out his very own body pillow girlfriend Kimiko.  In a later scene the morning after he and Liz spend the night together, they both emerge in their pajamas, him holding Kimiko.   This strange threesome freaks out Liz’s cousin who is staying at her place.

In the next episode, Frank refers to a high frequency sound used in Japan to chase away kids loitering in front of conbini, and then uses it on Jenna.  I have never heard of this tactic being employed in Japan, anyone else?

WITLife is a periodic series written by professional Translator/Interpreter/Writer Stacy Smith (Kumamoto-ken, 2000-03).  Recently she’s been watching Fujisankei’s newscast in Japanese and sharing some of the interesting tidbits and trends together with her own observations.

I recently came across this article from the end of last year in the Economist that discusses how deeply rice is embedded in Japanese society.  Some aspects like the designation of  Emperor Akihito as Japan’s “rice-farmer-in-chief” are humorous, and the in-depth look at the history of this crop that is so central to Japanese culture is fascinating.  The author’s description of a rice-producing area of Niigata suffering from a rural exodus is vividly drawn, and interviews with some of the residents are eye opening.  While reading the article I kept flashing back to my experience of doing Read More

WITLife is a periodic series written by professional Translator/Interpreter/Writer Stacy Smith (Kumamoto-ken, 2000-03).  Recently she’s been watching Fujisankei’s newscast in Japanese and sharing some of the interesting tidbits and trends together with her own observations.

Today’s NYT features an interesting editorial from Joseph Nye about the Okinawa base location issue threatening this year’s 50th anniversary of the US-Japan Security Treaty.  This Harvard professor and former assistant secretary of defense coined the term “soft power,” but his article focuses on how he believes our hard power should be used in regard to this matter.  Basically he is urging us to not throw the baby away with the bath water, and advocates a more patient and strategic approach in order to prevent “a second-order issue [from threatening] our long-term strategy for East Asia.”  PM Hatoyama (who Nye describes as being “caught in a vice”) wants to push off resolving this issue until May, but we’ll see what the new year (decade!) brings.

In weather news, we are experiencing quite a cold winter and Read More

WITLife is a periodic series written by professional Translator/Interpreter/Writer Stacy Smith (Kumamoto-ken, 2000-03).  Recently she’s been watching Fujisankei’s newscast in Japanese and sharing some of the interesting tidbits and trends together with her own observations.

アケオメ！ I hope everyone had a super New Year’s celebration and that you are ready for 2010, aka the Year of the Tiger (toradoshi). Yesterday I had the chance to have some belated osechi ryouri and it was well worth the wait!  Tsukiji Fish Market in Tokyo kicked off the new year with its first auction where appropriately enough torafugu (tiger blowfish) was being sold at prices of 10,000 yen each, cheaper than usual.  Maguro (tuna), on the other hand, sold for almost 16.3 million yen (about $177,000) to a Hong Kong customer known as the  “Sushi King.”

In other Tokyo news, an interesting article in the Wall Street Journal last week portrayed Read More

WITLife is a periodic series written by professional Translator/Interpreter/Writer Stacy Smith (Kumamoto-ken, 2000-03).  Recently she’s been watching Fujisankei’s newscast in Japanese and sharing some of the interesting tidbits and trends together with her own observations.

福袋 (or fukubukuro) are an essential part of the Japanese New Year’s celebration.  These are grab bags (literally translated as “lucky bag”) given out at department stores that contain merchandise worth much more than what you pay for the bag itself.  However, there is a bit of chance involved as some deals are better than others.  Here are some new fukubukuro available through the end of 2009 that reflect political and social trends from the past year.

One is the Takashimaya 友愛 (yuai) fukubukuro playing off of Prime Minister Hatoyama’s fraternity theme.  In this case the yuai refers to Read More

Via JETAA DC yahoogroup:

JET alum Jordan Heiber (Fukui-ken, 2000-02) is looking for info/recommendations for intensive Japanese Language Programs in Tokyo — similar to the one offered by Keio University.  Requirements would be:

1) year long course

2) qualifies the participant for a student visa for the year

3) ideally close in proximity to Minato Ku

Jordan notes:  “The Internet is overflowing with less-than-useful information on this, so I’m hoping some of you may have some insider’s knowledge.  Thanks.”

If anyone else in the JET-o-sphere has helpful information, please share in the comments section of this post.  Or e-mail jordansensei [/at/] hotmail [/dot/] com.

WITLife is a periodic series written by professional Translator/Interpreter/Writer Stacy Smith (Kumamoto-ken, 2000-03).  Recently she’s been watching Fujisankei’s newscast in Japanese and sharing some of the interesting tidbits and trends together with her own observations.

One of my favorite things about Japan is the constant changing of flavors, often in accordance with the seasons.  I love just wandering through conbini to see what new tastes have popped up for my favorite snacks/drinks.  One product over there I follow religiously is Kit Kats, as you can often get flavors that are not available here in the States.  This is why I was thrilled to receive an omiyage of ginger ale Kit Kats from a friend who had recently traveled to Japan.

Next to the customary phrase, “Have a break, have a Kit Kat” was a glass of ginger ale with lemon in it.  With use of .3% lemon powder and ginger ale flavor, it promised to be something new.  The aroma was Read More

WITLife is a periodic series written by professional Translator/Interpreter/Writer Stacy Smith (Kumamoto-ken, 2000-03).  Recently she’s been watching Fujisankei’s newscast in Japanese and sharing some of the interesting tidbits and trends together with her own observations.

Last week I had the opportunity to hear a talk given by the Japanese sociologist Dr. Yuko Kawanishi.  Dr. Kawanishi has written numerous articles and is often quoted by Western media on topics such as declining birth rate, education reform, mental health and depression, family relations, juvenile crime and youth culture.  She did her undergraduate work at Doshisha University and got her PhD in Sociology from UCLA.  Currently she is the recipient of an Abe Fellowship and a visiting scholar at Hunter College and Columbia University’s Teacher’s College.

Dr. Kawanishi spoke mainly about her new book entitled “Mental Health Challenges Facing Contemporary Japanese Society: The ‘Lonely People.”  It addresses the question of mental malaise in its many forms in contemporary Japanese society, focusing on three main areas:  work, family and youth.  These include Read More

WITLife is a periodic series written by professional Translator/Interpreter/Writer Stacy Smith (Kumamoto-ken, 2000-03).  Recently she’s been watching Fujisankei’s newscast in Japanese and sharing some of the interesting tidbits and trends together with her own observations.

Thanks to Rochelle Kopp at Japan Intercultural Consulting, I was alerted to an article posted to the website Boing Boing by Lisa Katayama, writer and commentator on modern Japanese society.  In a previous post this summer, I had discussed Katayama’s New York Times magazine article about the subcategory of otaku men and women who indulge in real relationships with imaginary characters.  This time around she focuses on not taking the weirdness of Japan too seriously.  As an example, she cites the strange story last month of a Japanese man wedding an anime game character which received much attention.

This morning I was surprised to find the topic of otaku also taken up by Read More

WITLife is a periodic series written by professional Translator/Interpreter/Writer Stacy Smith (Kumamoto-ken, 2000-03).  Recently she’s been watching Fujisankei’s newscast in Japanese and sharing some of the interesting tidbits and trends together with her own observations.

Yesterday at Kyoto’s Kiyomizu Temple the official announcement of 今年の漢字 (kotoshi no kanji), or the Kanji of the Year, took place.  This is an annual contest run by the Japanese Kanji Proficiency Society that had a record number of applications from all over the country this year, 161,365.  Coming off of last year’s selection of 変 (hen) or change, this year’s winner by 14,093 ballots was 新 (shin) or new.  Among the reasons why this character was picked were the new political administration and the new strain of the flu.

This morning’s news interviewed both young and seasoned prominent political figures regarding what their picks would have been.  One was Read More

WITLife is a periodic series written by professional Translator/Interpreter/Writer Stacy Smith (Kumamoto-ken, 2000-03).  Recently she’s been watching Fujisankei’s newscast in Japanese and sharing some of the interesting tidbits and trends together with her own observations.

政権交代 (seiken koutai) or “change of government,” was announced to be the winner of Japan’s 2009 Buzzword Award on December 1 (Incidentally, last year the title was won by 「アラフォー」 or “around 40 years old”).  This phrase of course refers to the rise to power by Prime Minister Yukio Hatoyama and the Democratic Party of Japan (DPJ), overturning over 50 years of Liberal Democratic Party rule.  Other contenders for the buzzword title were 新型インフルエンザ (shingata influenza)  or “new flu” and 草食男子 (soushoku danshi) or “herbivorous men.”

Since the change in administration, Hatoyama has been dealing with 3Ks.  However, this is not referring to the typical usage regarding undesirable 3K jobs that are kitsui (difficult), kitanai (dirty) and kiken (dangerous).  Hatoyama’s very own 3 K’s are kenkin (contribution), keizai (economics), and kichi (military base).

The first K is in regard to a donation scandal plaguing the new Prime Minister. Prosecutors have traced Read More

WITLife is a periodic series written by professional Translator/Interpreter/Writer Stacy Smith (Kumamoto-ken, 2000-03).  Recently she’s been watching Fujisankei’s newscast in Japanese and sharing some of the interesting tidbits and trends together with her own observations.

Believe it or not we will be greeting the new year in about a month, and today’s news took a look at what is being forecast for お正月 (oshougatsu) 2010.  Similar to last year, it is expected that in light of the dismal economic climate there will be a tendency toward 巣篭り (sugomori), literally nesting or staying close to home as opposed to going abroad or visiting one’s family.  Compared to last year, there has been 30% increased sales of two-person servings of osechi ryouri.  According to an osechi salesperson at a department store, this goes along with Read More

The following request was posted to the JETAA DC yahoogroup by JET alum Tina Meek (Saitama-ken, 1990-92):

I’m co-leading an advocacy called Fairfax FLAGS (Foreign Language Advocacy for Grade Schools), which is working to save its elementary school foreign language programs, currently at risk of elimination due to Fairfax County schools‘ budget crisis.

All 13 language immersion & 32 FLES (foreign language in the elementary school) programs are on the chopping block. This includes the amazing Japanese immersion programs at Great Falls, Floris and Fox Mill Elementary (where my daughters easily learn the language I struggled with during my JET years!).

We are asking as many people as possible to write letters/emails or make phone calls on the importance of early foreign language programs to Fairfax County Supervisors, Chairman Sharon Bulova, Fairfax County Public School Board Members & Superintendent Jack Dale.

Contact information & talking points are on our website at www.fairfaxflags.org. We also have a Fairfax FLAGS Group on Facebook if you’d like to support or join our cause.

Feel free to contact me for information, especially if you went through any of Fairfax County’s language immersion programs. We’re seeking testimonials!

Loss of these programs would be a huge step backward for Fairfax County (currently a role model for early foreign language).

Thank you,

Tina Meek (Saitama-ken, Urawa-shi, 1990-92)
tina.meek [/at/] yahoo [/dot/] com

WITLife is a periodic series written by professional Translator/Interpreter/Writer Stacy Smith (Kumamoto-ken, 2000-03).  Recently she’s been watching Fujisankei’s newscast in Japanese and sharing some of the interesting tidbits and trends together with her own observations.

As we get ready to prepare our turkeys, stuff ourselves silly and max out on football, yesterday Japan celebrated their own day of appreciation with 勤労感謝の日(kinrou kansha no hi) or Labor Thanksgiving Day.  More than anything else this gave Japanese citizens a three day weekend to relax and enjoy.  The keyword for how this long weekend was spent was 「安・近・感」 (an/kin/kan), meaning “cheap, close and feeling.”  The first two words are self-explanatory, and the last one refers to the experience, such as getting a sense of the season.

For Tokyoites, this meant to going to places like Read More

Apparently I.B.M. is making progress on a fairly revolutionary translation project called n.Fluent.  They’re taking advantage of their international employee base to “teach” a system that has the capacity to learn.  See the article in the New York Times:

A Translator Tool with a Human Touch: http://www.nytimes.com/2009/11/23/technology/23link.html?th&emc=th

Any translators out there have an opinion or perspective to share?  How does this compare to Google’s Rosy Etta (see previous JetWit post on Rosy Etta)?

WITLife is a periodic series written by professional Translator/Interpreter/Writer Stacy Smith (Kumamoto-ken, 2000-03).  Recently she’s been watching Fujisankei’s newscast in Japanese and sharing some of the interesting tidbits and trends together with her own observations.

My only time traveling one-on-one as an interpreter for the Department of State’s International Visitor Leadership Program was a year ago with a female entrepreneur from Hokkaido named Yuri Tazawa.  No one epitomizes the “Yes We Can” spirit more than Yuri, so it was appropriate that we were able to celebrate Obama’s victory together while in DC.  She began a company in a town called Kitami 11 years ago after being raised in Nara, going to university in Tokyo, and starting a family.  You might wonder what kind of business one could have being located so far away from a metropolis, but Yuri heads a company called Y’s Staff (taking the Y from her name as well as being a homonym with “wise”).

Y’s has offices in both Hokkaido and Nara, but its actual structure is virtual.  Through her company, Yuri is a promoter of teleworking.  This concept is often confused with telemarketing, but is essentially the idea of doing work in a place other than a fixed office.  This could be your home, the local Starbucks or any other location.  Yuri also advocates Read More

WITLife is a periodic series written by professional Translator/Interpreter/Writer Stacy Smith (Kumamoto-ken, 20 00-03).  Recently she’s been watching Fujisankei’s newscast in Japanese and sharing some of the interesting tidbits and trends together with her own observations.

Last night I attended the world premiere of Talk Like Singing, the first-ever original Japanese musical to premiere in the U.S.  I had high hopes for this production due to the involvement of several big names in Japan.  The star of the show, Shingo Katori, is a member of the ubiquitous boy band SMAP, and though he is less well-known than heartthrob Kimutaku or recently headline-making Kusanagi he holds his own thanks to his eccentricity.  Back in my JET days, he adopted the persona of “Shingo Mama,” and sang of his cooking skills, eating breakfast together and properly greeting everyone with a genki “oha!”  This abbreviation for ohayou or “good morning” and its accompanying hand motion became all the rage at the workplace and beyond.

This song was composed by Yasuharu Konishi, who is in charge of the show’s music and musical direction.  He was Read More

I just got an invite to Google Wave and started playing around with it.  And I noticed that one feature is a simultaneous translator they call Rosy Etta.  The concept is that it translates in real time as you type an email or chat with someone.  (Email and chat are actually kind of fused together in Google Wave which is part of the big picture concept.)  Essentially, this means that you can theoretically have a conversation in English over email with someone else who speaks no English.

The relevant question to JetWit readers: How effective and accurate is Rosy Etta for English-Japanese?  Have any JetWit readers had a chance to try it out?

A second question: What implications, if any, are there for professional translators?  (or JETs for that matter)

Share your thoughts and experiences so far in the comments section.  And if you’re on Google Wave, feel free to start a “wave” with me as well at stevenwaseda [/atto/] googlewave [/dotto/] com.

Lastly, here’s a video about Rosy Etta where you get to see it work with a very basic example:

The following four (4) job openings are via Kentucky-based JET alum Zach Graham (ALT, Niigata 1999-2000) of Consultant Solutions, Inc.  Zack says his company’s current staff is comprised of nearly 50% JET alumni and is looking to add 5-6 new positions over the next several months.

1.  Japanese/English Language and Cultural Instructor

We’re looking for a part-time Japanese/English language and cultural instructor to train busy executives. In this position, you’ll be expected to wear the dual hats of Japanese and English teacher.  Not only will you teach Japanese language classes to American corporate expats on assignment in Japan, but you’ll also be responsible for all levels of English conversation classes, all while facilitating understanding and helping your students communicate across cultural borders.  Additional duties as necessary.

The ideal candidate is an experienced teacher who enjoys working with people of varied backgrounds, has some knowledge of manufacturing environments, and believes that mutual understanding is the first step to mutual success. The instructor will work closely with our client contacts to develop and implement a flexible curriculum that focuses on cultural fluency and effective verbal and non-verbal communication.  A high level of Japanese fluency is required for this position (JLPT 1 or equivalent).

If you’re a hard worker with strong interpersonal skills, an outgoing personality, and a willingness to do whatever it takes to ensure the success of your students, send a cover letter and résumé to hr@csi-ky.com.

Position is in Nagoya, Japan.

Consultant Solutions, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We will provide training and a support network. We will also consider relocation and/or visa support for the right candidate.

***************

2. English Language and Cultural Instructor

We’re looking for a part-time English language and cultural instructor to train busy executives. In this position, you’ll work primarily in our Georgetown Classroom and teaching offsite at student locations such as  manufacturing facilities and corporate boardrooms, where you will facilitate understanding while also helping your students communicate across cultural borders. Read More

Just saw a request on the JETAA DC yahoogroup for electronic dictionary recommendations.  That seems like a good question to throw out to the JET and JET alum community.  So please post your recommendations in the comments section of this post, or send an email to jetwit [/at/] jetwit [/dot/] com.

Yoroshiku!

WITLife is a periodic series written by professional Translator/Interpreter/Writer Stacy Smith (Kumamoto-ken, 2000-03).  Recently she’s been watching Fujisankei’s newscast in Japanese and sharing some of the interesting tidbits and trends together with her own observations.

Last night I attended the North American premiere of Goemon, a movie portraying this titular folk hero who was known as the Robin Hood of Japan.  It takes place during the Warring States period, and some prominent historical figures who appear are Oda Nobunaga, Toyotomi Hideyoshi and Tokugawa Ieyasu.  It is interesting to see Eguchi Yosuke, usually seen in lighter fare such as dramas, as the title character of legendary ninja bandit Ishikawa Goemon.  Hirosue Ryoko, another drama veteran, is featured in the role of Princess Chacha whom Goemon spent his early years protecting.  The movie’s plot is almost entirely fictional, and displays many dazzling special effects in a CGI-enhanced fantasy setting.  The director, Kiriya Kazuaki, hails from my JET hometown of Kumamoto and is the former husband of Utada Hikaru.

During the course of the film, Goemon’s attendant talks of his aspirations to become a samurai and steadily working his way up to achieve this recognition.  As the title of this post (samurai e no agokare or “longing for samurai“) suggests, the appeal of samurai has not been lost in this modern day and age.  Recently various media have been Read More

Via JETAA Pacific Northwest.  Yes, it’s only in Japanese, which means if you can’t read it then it’s really not for you anyway. :-)

Job announcement.  Please direct all inquiries to Uesugi USA, Inc.

Uesugi USA, Inc., 6647 S. 216^th St. Bldg D, Kent, WA 98032  P: (425)679-0660  F: (425)283-5530

www.recycleuesugi.com

「事業内容」　リサイクル可能な資源の収集運搬・選別・販売事業

「求人者仕事内容」　営業活動・企業への収集運搬（トラック運転）・倉庫内

での選別作業

応募資格

「要求される能力 / 職務経験」

・  5年以上の営業業務の実務経験がある方

・  ビジネスレベルの英語と日本語能力がある方

・  ビジネスレベルの英語と日本語の文章力がある方

・  高いコミュニケーション能力がある方

・  運転免許がある方

「勤務時間」

・  午前8：00～午後5：00　月曜日－金曜日

・  休業に適応させる祝日‐New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day,

Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, After Thanksgiving Day, Christmas

「勤務地」

・  ケント / ワシントン州

「予定月給」

・$3000～$4000（経験によって

Job opening received direct from DSG:

DSG, a Clinical Software and Services provider of technologies for the pharmaceutical industry, is seeking multiple Japanese Translators to assist with a large project.

This is a work from home position

Job Description:  The selected candidates will work on translations from English to Japanese using Microsoft Excel.

Requirements

• Candidates should be Native Speakers/Writers in Japanese or should have equivalent skiils. Writing skills is a must.

• Candidates should be fluent in English at a Business level

• Candidates must be familiar with Microsoft Excel

• Candidates must be able to type in Japanese

• Knowledge/experience in the medical, pharmaceutical and IT industries a plus

Company Profile
Since 1992, Document Solutions Group’s goal has been to create intuitive software solutions that improve efficiencies and produce significant cost savings for over 200 life science clients while providing unparalleled customer service.  We have created better, more reliable solutions dramatically changing the way our customers collect and manage clinical trial data.  Our software and services not only expedite trials to bring drugs and devices to market faster, they achieve significant cost-savings and deliver enterprise-wide benefits.

CONTACT INFORMATION

Ilisha Smith

Corporate Recruiter

DSG, Inc.

325 Technology Drive |  Malvern, PA 19355

Office:  +1 484-913-2148

Fax:    +1 484-913-0238

ismith@dsg-us.com

JET alum Kirk Akahoshi, a Life Coach based in Los Angeles (www.QuarterlifeCrisisCoach.com), shared the following job listing from his friend Yan:

Paid Contract Gig Available: Looking for someone in Japan – or someone able to write very well in Japanese – to post ads on message board and follow up with email inquiries. If you or someone you know is interested – let me know!

To apply, contact: Yan <ybudman@hotmail.com>  (If you apply, Kirk says feel free to mention his name.  JetWit says to feel free to mention JetWit too.)

A need for Japanese-speaking attorneys in NYC via Update, Inc., a legal staffing firm.  (FYI, I actually  I did a Japanese review project through Update years ago.)

Our client is a large law firm in NYC looking for admitted attorneys who are fluent in Japanese. The responsibilities includes both direct translation and conducting document review and is supposed to last 3-4 weeks in duration.

Contact: Christina M. Lujan| Legal Placement Manager | Update, Inc.; 1140 Avenue of the Americas, 6th Floor, New York, NY 10036
Tel.  212-921-2200  clujan@updatelegal.com

WITLife is a periodic series written by professional Interpreter/Translator/Writer Stacy Smith (Kumamoto-ken, 2000-03).  Recently she’s been watching Fujisankei’s newscast in Japanese and sharing some of the interesting tidbits and trends together with her own observations.

Last night I was able to attend a private screening of the intriguing documentary Samurai Umpires in the U.S.A.  Executive producer/director Takayuki Tanaka is a Japanese native who conceptualized the idea for his film while studying at the New York Film Academy.  His work focuses on six Japanese baseball umpires working in the minor leagues with dreams of making it to the Majors.

This all-male group ranges in age and umpiring experience, and the movie delves into Read More

Via JETAA DC yahoogroup:

Please pass this to anyone you know who might be interested. People can reply to Clare at TRAK directly; her email address is below.

TRAK Conference Services is looking for a conference worker who speaks fluent Japanese to interpret at an engineering conference November 2nd – 6th in DC. The conference could start as early as 7:00 AM with an hourly rate around $13/hour. The translator must be extremely professional and able to roll with the punches. Please send your resumes to Clare at clare.edwards@trakservices.com!

WITLife is a periodic series written by professional Interpreter/Translator/Writer Stacy Smith (Kumamoto-ken, 2000-03).  Recently she’s been watching Fujisankei’s newscast in Japanese and sharing some of the interesting tidbits and trends together with her own observations.

Last night at Japan Society I had the chance to catch a sneak preview of the American movie version of the Japanese manga series “Testuwan Atomu,” known here in the States as Astro Boy.  This wide-eyed, spiky haired superhero has a huge following both here and at home, and his Hollywood debut was greatly anticipated.  Though I had never seen the original series, which based on a manga became an anime first in Japan and then here in 1963, I truly enjoyed the Western interpretation of the life of this legendary icon.

The voices were provided by a star-studded cast including Read More

WITLife is a periodic series written by professional Interpreter/Translator/Writer Stacy Smith (Kumamoto-ken, 2000-03).  Recently she’s been watching Fujisankei’s newscast in Japanese and sharing some of the interesting tidbits and trends together with her own observations.

The Manifesto is the imposing name of the Democratic Party of Japan (DPJ)’s platform for its new government, one that promises to “put people’s lives first.”  In order to accomplish this, its five pledges are the end of wasteful spending, childrearing and education, pension and medical care, regional sovereignty and employment and the economy.  Although great in theory, new Prime Minister Yukio Hatoyama is realizing that these goals are easier to state than actually carry out.  Japanese ministries and agencies asked to spend a record 95.04 trillion yen ($1 trillion) next fiscal year, risking expansion of the world’s largest public debt.

This creates the issue of whether the DPJ can fulfill its election pledges without worsening an already significant debt burden.  In response to this, Fujisankai carried out Read More

Professional translator Terry Gallagher shared another good event for translators with JetWit, this one via the honyaku Google Group:

As part of its ongoing efforts to develop an international presence, foster new talent, and connect with peer organizations, the Japan Association of Translators (JAT) will be sponsoring a mixer in Manhattan on Friday, October 30, 2009, for veteran and aspiring translators/interpreters alike. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to network, find out more about JAT, and socialize with other translators/interpreters in the big city….Non-members are most welcome. Cash bar, with partial subsidy from JAT.
WHEN: Friday, October 30
Starting: 10:30 PM (after the traditional Friday night JLD dinner
[http://groups.google.com/group/honyaku/browse_thread/thread/c153d891486ac1c8])
Ending: During ATA’s Annual Conference (?)
[https://www.atanet.org/conf/2009/sessionschedule.php#5]
WHERE: Press Box (932 Second Ave., between 49th and 50th Streets)
[http://www.thepressboxnyc.com/index2.html]
Signup (by 10/26; and for last-minute notices/updates):
http://jat.org/2009/10/16/jat-new-york-mixer-oct-30-2009/

Feel free to pass the word on, and hope to see you there!

ニューヨークでJATネットワークパーティを実施します。 会員・非会員を問わず、翻訳に興味のある方ならどなたでもご参加いただけます。 翻訳未経験者の方にとってはベテラン翻訳者と交流する絶好の機会です。
日時: １０月３０日（金） 10:30pm～
場所: The Press Box (http://www.thepressboxnyc.com/index2.html)
参加費: 一部JATが負担。追加分はキャッシュバー。
参加希望者は、１０月２６日（月） までに
[http://jat.org/2009/10/16/jat-new-york-mixer-oct-30-2009/]
へご予約お願いいたします。

Professional translator Terry Gallagher shared the following with JetWit:

The American Translators Association holds its annual conference in NYC at the end of this month. It includes a dinner for the Japanese language division, which will be on Friday, Oct. 30 at IL Punto Ristorante, 507 Ninth Ave.

Contact person is Mina Seat, minaseat [/at/] gmail [/dot/] com  More info here:  https://www.atanet.org/conf/2009/

Cost is $53. It might be late to sign up, but it was an open invitation, and you might still be able to talk your way in. There will be lots and lots of working translators/interpreters there, and you might be able to pick up a bunch of new ideas.

Via Kia Cheleen (CIR, Aichi-ken 1996-98, ALT 1998-1999), Assistant Director at the Donald Keene Center on Japanese Culture at Columbia University.  To get on their e-mail list for future events, send an e-mail to donald-keene-center at columbia dot edu.

1.  “Translation and its Postcolonial Discontents: Controversy over Toma Seita’s Reading of Kim Soun’s Japanese Translation of Korean Poetry in Postwar Japan”

October 14th, 2009 (Wednesday) 5:30-7:00 PM; Serk-bae Suh (University of California-Irvine); Location: 403 Kent Hall, Columbia University (116th St. and Amsterdam Avenue)  http://www.keenecenter.org/content/view/100/126/#oct14

2.   “What Will Be Almost Permanently Lost in Translation? A Cognitive Linguistic View”

November 5th, 2009 (Thursday) 4:00-5:30 PM; Seiichi Makino (Princeton University); Location: 569 Lerner Hall, Columbia University (114th St. and Broadway) http://www.keenecenter.org/content/view/100/126/#nov