Globalisation and Japan.

Since the end of World War 2 and the subsequent occupation by Allied forces Japan has wholeheartedly embraced global trends and fashions. Japanese people have a distinct knack for picking and choosing those trends which most appeal to them, never allowing anything to be thrust upon them. Globalisation though, is a two-way street, as much as Japan incorporates world cultures into their own they also have a strong global influence. The list of global trends started in Japan is seemingly endless, everything from computer consoles (and games), car design, robotics, fashion and music. Having the world's second largest economy is no accident, Japan must stay at the forefront of world trends in order to capitalise on and maintain their powerful position. Companies like Sony and Toyota create new technologies which are eagerly snapped up by hungry consumers the world over. Sony's Playstation 3 has quickly established itself as the premier gaming system, producing titles which have broken records thought to have been unattainable. Toyota has pioneered hybrid car technology which is receiving a warm reception from both consumers and fellow car companies who aren't ashamed to jump on the green technology band wagon. Beginning with the Prius, Toyota has now incorporated hybrid technology into the vast majority of its products, including their luxury arm, Lexus.

The true test of globalisation is a countries ability to not only embrace foreign trends but to also contribute globally with their own products and ideas. Japan achieves this on a higher level than any country that Iam aware of. For every McDonald's or KFC one encounters you can rest assured that their will be a Toyota in the drive though or a child playing his PSP whilst waiting for his food.