Experiences – Life – Inspiration 🇨🇭🇯🇵

Last Saturday after our hike at Itadori Kabusugi-no-Mori Course in Seki, my wife and I stopped along the Itadori river near Hakusui Waterfall. We searched for a spot where we could set up our outdoor foldable chairs that we bought earlier at Mega Don Quijote. And of course we brought our snacks and beer.

Interestingly, shortly after we had found a parking and a pathway down to the Itadori river, an old lady welcoming us and explaining that visitors can come to picnic at the river. Normally a daily fee of 1000 JPY is charged for two persons but because we were visiting late in the afternoon we were charged 500 JPY instead. She explained that we could also bring our portable bbq to grill our meats along the riverside, as long as we kept everything tidy of course. The old lady said that she was surprised to meet us here because it seems that mostly Brazilians come to visit this spot. She said that Brazilians love picnicking outdoors because the forest and rivers reminded them of their life in Brazil.

In case you are wondering why Brazilians, the Brazilian community in Japan is one of the largest and most significant immigrant communities in the country. The majority of Brazilians in Japan are descendants of Japanese immigrants who moved to Brazil in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. However, starting in the 1980s, there was a significant influx of Brazilians of Japanese descent, as well as non-Japanese Brazilians, who moved to Japan seeking employment opportunities.

Many Brazilians in Japan initially found work in sectors such as manufacturing, construction, and services, particularly during Japan’s economic boom years. However, as economic conditions fluctuated and immigration policies changed, many faced challenges such as job instability, discrimination, and language barriers.

Despite these challenges, the Brazilian community in Japan has established vibrant cultural and social networks, including community centers, schools, and festivals celebrating Brazilian culture. These communities help provide support, resources, and a sense of belonging for Brazilians living in Japan.

One notable aspect of the Brazilian community in Japan is its contribution to the cultural diversity of Japanese society. Brazilian festivals, music, dance, and cuisine have become increasingly popular in Japan, enriching the cultural landscape and fostering cross-cultural exchange.

Over the years, there have been efforts by both the Brazilian and Japanese governments to address the needs and challenges faced by Brazilians living in Japan, including initiatives to provide language education, support for integration, and assistance with legal issues.

Overall, the Brazilian community in Japan is a dynamic and integral part of Japanese society, contributing to its diversity, cultural richness, and the broader dialogue on immigration and integration.

My wife and I are happy to have found this scenic spot in nature and we are sure to gear up our outdoor equipment. We might even make some Brazilian friends.

#JapanTravel #CulturalExchange #BrazilianCommunity #OutdoorAdventures #CommunityIntegration #CrossCulturalExperience