Japanese anime and manga are broadly recognized. Do many people outside of Japan have the basic knowledge of traditional Japanese culture?
Responses (2)
At least three of my friends know how to commit seppuku and aren't part of the anime club. At least 34 people in my school have joined the anime club. I know 4 people who aren't part of the anime club but still read manga. I am not sure of the size of the Asian culture club though.
I have a degree in Bungo and ancient Japanese literature because I loved historical Japanese culture growing up. With the introduction of popular Japanese culture to many countries there is a vastly growing population of Japanese culture fans. Among these are the historical culture fans. They have a basic and beyond understanding of the culture that would put your history sensei to shame.
Of course it depends on where you go. In the US all of the major cities have pockets of adoring fans. You'd have to go to the middle of nowhere to find someone who hasn't at least watched anime and seen some portrayal of Japanese historical culture.