Thread: JDM rods relating to Panfish

Originally Posted by Chris Stewart

I asked my wife (native born Japanese) about the English names on rods. After a twenty minute explanation she ended with "It's difficult to explain." It would take way, way to long to write what she said, and I would have to end it with "It's difficult to explain." I think this is one of those things you just accept.

Been reading this long thread and would like to add my thoughts regarding the use of names in English (my mother was native born Japanese and my father was a career US Army NCO).

Having spent my youth from 7-9 yrs old in Japan (Camp Drake and Yokohama Naval base, 1969-1971) my guess regarding the use of names spelled in English would have to do with the early westernization of Japan beginning in the mid 1800s upward. I never learned to read Japanese but I do remember some of the larger Japanese corporations displaying signs in English on their corporate buildings back in the early 70s (Sony was one).

Early Westernization & Modernization in Japan 1868-1900 | JapanVisitor Japan Travel Guide