Following World War II, Japan experienced a period of rapid economic growth and cultural transformation. The country's entertainment industry also underwent significant changes, with the emergence of new forms of entertainment, such as television, anime, and video games.
Surrounded by senior executives and animators, Aoi navigated the delicate social hierarchy. She made sure everyone’s glasses were full, a silent dance of office politics known as ki wo tsukau (anticipating others' needs).
The Japanese government explicitly identified "Cool Japan" as a pillar of its diplomatic strategy in the early 2000s. Recognizing the power of its entertainment exports, the government began funding translation projects and cultural exchanges to spread Japanese aesthetics globally. This "soft power" allows Japan to wield influence far beyond its geopolitical weight. A teenager in Brazil might learn Japanese to read untranslated manga; a child in France might dream of visiting Tokyo because of Studio Ghibli films.
: While the jimusho remains powerful, a new "Freelance Act" introduced in Japan aims to protect independent creators and performers as more artists choose self-management or direct-to-fan digital platforms. Japan a Growing Presence in Global Entertainment in 2024