One of the interesting aspects of Japan is that it’s one of the most pro-American countries on the planet, with most people having a positive view of the U.S., occasional issues over the bases on Okinawa notwithstanding. Compared with Japan’s more restrictive society, Japanese often view America as more “free,” and learning English and immigrating to the U.S. is a popular option for Japanese who don’t fit in with society here for one reason or another. (My wife has a Japanese friend who always says whatever she’s thinking no matter who will be put off by it, because “that’s what Americans do”…I could see why she’d have problems living in Japan.) Japanese are usually favorable to American brands, viewing them as kakko ii — meaning “good style” or “cool” — which allows companies like Jack Daniels and Harley-Davidson and Costco to win many loyal customers here. There’s a booming business for American companies that license their names for use on unrelated products, and if you’re looking for a bicycle in Japan, you can find one bearing the Chevrolet or Ford Mustang or Coleman logos. I bought a Zippo bicycle for the lulz, because I like the company but don’t smoke.
Black Rock Harley-Riding Shooter.
