Why many japanese think of Mexico as a land of PONCHOS, CACTUS, and other old stereotypes?

Question

they know USA and they know canada, but they don't know mexico. How is this? Do they learn about hispanic countries in school at all? I've talked to many japanese and they don't know mexico at all. Maybe mexico is very unpopular in japan?

Answer 1

I question just how many actual Japanese you have been in contact with. Mexico has a LOT of tourism from Japan. JALs flights from Tokyo via Vancouver are packed and the wait for a spot is long! Many Japanese who I meet in Mexico have learned much more Spanish than Americans have. Many Mexican cactus food poducts such as "nopals" and "tunas" are popular in Japan.

There is a very large Mexican community living and working in Japan. The Japanese actually grow agave plans and make a copy of tequila over there, and in the World Mariachi Championships held annually in Guadalajara we have even seen Japanese Mariachis competing.

The Japanese here in Mexico City are obsessed with Mexican culture, history, art and customs, I'm sorry but as a resident of Mexico, I don't see this "ignorance" at all!

Answer 2

Are the Japanese you are talking to in their early 20s? If so, Mexico may not be as popular as the U.S. for "them."

Cancún is a popular honeymoon destination for Japanese newlyweds. Japanese men love Corona beer, and the Maya and the Aztecs civilizations fascinate many Japanese. And who doesn't know Frida Kahlo who became an international sensation in the worlds of modern art and radical politics?

You can teach those ignorant young Japanese about the rich history, culture, and tradition of your country Mexico. Or tell them to read Octavio Paz's "Labyrinth of Solitude."

Answer 3

i guess not everyone can know everything.