Globalization has profoundly impacted various aspects of Japanese society, including its deeply rooted traditional medicine and food culture. Traditional Japanese medicine, encompassing practices like Kampo (traditional Chinese medicine adapted in Japan) and Shiatsu, has long been integrated into the daily lives of many Japanese people. However, the rise of Western biomedicine and pharmaceutical interventions presents a challenge to its continued prominence. Simultaneously, Japanese cuisine, renowned for its emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients and meticulous preparation, faces pressure from the influx of fast food chains and processed foods. While many young Japanese still appreciate traditional dishes, the convenience and affordability of Western-style options exert a significant pull, particularly in urban centers. This shift threatens the preservation of culinary traditions passed down through generations and the associated knowledge of sustainable agriculture and food preparation. The tension between globalization's homogenizing forces and the desire to preserve cultural heritage is evident in the ongoing debates surrounding healthcare policy and food security. The government faces the dilemma of balancing the need to adopt modern medical technologies with the wish to protect and promote traditional practices which many believe offer unique benefits. Similarly, policies aimed at fostering healthier eating habits often clash with the powerful influence of global food corporations. The challenge lies in finding a harmonious balance that respects both the merits of globalization and the value of safeguarding cultural traditions.
1. According to the passage, what is the primary challenge faced by traditional Japanese medicine?
2. What factor contributes to the decline in traditional Japanese cuisine's popularity among young people?
3. What dilemma does the Japanese government face regarding healthcare and food policy?
4. The passage suggests that the preservation of traditional Japanese food culture is linked to: