TAMIU Reading the Globe 2023-2024

When you think of Akihabara, you likely envision Japan?s cultural hotspot, brimming with manga, video games, and anime. Yet, did you know it's also dubbed "Electric Town" for its incredible tech offerings and unbeatable deals?Akihabara merges shopping, culture, and creativity on a whole other level, filled with endless possibilities and, what feels like, endless walking. There is much to learn from Akihabara such as: delving into Japanese pop culture, experiencing the intersection between entertainment and technology, and contrasting modernity with other traditional areas in Japan. J-pop culture has been a vast part of who I am. For as long as I can remember, I have loved anime and video games dearly and have always yearned to visit the place where it all started, where it all came to life. Akihabara was packed with massive billboards and advertisements with lettering I did not understand due to my lack of understanding of the language, however, I was able to use and develop my skills such as problem-solving, critical thinking, and communication along with the help of apps which proved useful in getting around. On top of that, I learned to appreciate a different culture other than my own and indulge in a myriad of activities. For instance, while walking along the crowded streets, figurine shops frequently captured my attention; I was beaming with excitement, unfortunately, my wallet begged to differ. I had the opportunity to interact with countless locals who were tremendously sweet which demonstrated that Japanese culture embodies a deep-rooted foundation of respect, ethical values, and intelligence. The societal norms in Japan emphasize respect for others, etiquette, and a strong sense of honor that resonates with me and inspires me to strive for those qualities in my own life. The fusion of entertainment and technology is a widely known combination that Japan masters to not only bring amusement but efficiency into a variety of things. Akihabara featured an abundance of cutting-edge technology, making it a treasure trove for all the tech enthusiasts looking for rare and exclusive items.

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