なぜ日本人は名前の後ろに “san” を付けるのか？

日本で暮らしたり旅行したりすると、多くの外国人が最初に驚くのが、日本人が自然に使う “san（さん）” という敬称 です。
初対面の外国人に対しても、
“Michael-san” “Emma-san” “Kanai-san”
といったように、名前の後ろに “san” を付けて呼ぶのは、日本ではごく普通のこと。

しかし、こうした文化がない国では、

• 「どうして名前の後ろに “san” を付けるの？」
• 「Mr. や Ms. と同じ意味なの？」

と疑問を持つ方が多くいます。

この記事では、“san” の意味・由来・使い方 を分かりやすく解説し、外国人のお客様にも説明しやすいように実例を紹介します。

“san” は日本語の代表的な敬称（Honorific）

“san（さん）” は、日本語で最もよく使われる 一般的な敬称（Honorific） で、英語の Mr. Ms. Mrs. に近い役割があります。

外国人が “san” に戸惑う理由とは？

日本では当たり前の “san（さん）” という敬称ですが、外国人にとっては馴染みがないため違和感を覚えることがあります。特に次のような理由から戸惑うケースが多いです。

• 母国語に同じ文化が存在しない
  多くの国では、名前の後ろに敬称を付ける習慣がありません。
  
• ファーストネームに敬称を付けるのが新鮮
  英語の Mr. / Ms. は苗字につけるのが一般的なため、“Emma-san”“John-san” のような使い方は新しく感じられます。
  
• Mr. / Ms. よりも柔らかい響きで距離感がつかみにくい
  　“san” は丁寧なのにフレンドリーにも聞こえるため、ビジネスかカジュアルか判断しづらいと感じる人もいます。
  

しかし実際には、“san” は日本語の中で最もバランスの取れた敬称 で、
礼儀と親しみやすさを同時に伝えられる便利な表現です。
意味を理解することで、日本でのコミュニケーションがぐっと楽になります。

“san” の利用シーンと具体例

基本は「名前 + san」

日本語では、名前の後ろに “san” を付けるのが最も一般的です。

• Kanai → Kanai-san
• Michael → Michael-san
• Emma → Emma-san

苗字にも下の名前にも使える

“san” はファーストネーム・ラストネームのどちらにも使える万能敬称です。

• John → John-san
• Smith → Smith-san

日本語では、英語の “Mr. John” のように名前の前に敬称を置きません。
必ず名前の後ろに “san” を付ける のがルールです。

メールやチャットでも自然に使える

“san” は口語だけでなく文章でも問題ありません。

• “Thank you, Kanai-san.”
• “Nice to meet you, Emma-san.”

ビジネスメールでも日常メッセージでも、丁寧かつ自然な表現です。

フォーマル・カジュアルのどちらでもOK

堅すぎず、砕けすぎない表現のため、
仕事、接客、友人同士の会話など、ほぼすべてのシーンで使える のが特徴です。

“san” を使うときの注意点

• 呼び捨ては失礼にあたる場合が多い
  　日本文化では、親しくない相手を呼び捨てにすると失礼と捉えられます。
  
• 外国人はルールを知らないことがある
  　“san” の文化がない国も多いため、軽く説明してあげると安心してもらえます。
  
• ビジネスメールでは最初に一度説明すると親切
  　“日本では敬称として名前の後ろに “san” を使います” と書いておくと誤解を防げます。

ASAHI MOTORS が “san” を使う理由

ASAHI MOTORS Rent a Car では、外国人のお客様にも 日本ならではの丁寧で礼儀正しいコミュニケーション を大切にしています。
そのため、スタッフがお客様のお名前に “san（さん）” を付けて呼ぶ ことがあります。

例：
“Hello Michael-san, thank you for choosing ASAHI MOTORS.”

これは、日本語の敬称文化に基づく表現で、
失礼にならず、かつフレンドリーな距離感を保てる呼び方 として選ばれています。

実際に、多くの外国人のお客様からは、

• 「“san” と呼ばれるのが日本らしくて嬉しい」
• 「丁寧に扱われていると感じる」

といったポジティブな声をいただくことも少なくありません。

ASAHI MOTORS では、この “san” を使ったコミュニケーションを通じて、
より心地よい接客体験を提供しています。

“san” を理解すれば、日本でのコミュニケーションはもっと楽しくなる

“san（さん）” は、日本で最も一般的に使われる敬称で、
敬意・丁寧さ・フレンドリーさ のバランスが非常に良い表現です。

その意味を理解しておくことで、日本人との会話やビジネス、旅行中のやり取りがぐっとスムーズになります。

ASAHI MOTORS では、こうした日本文化の違いも丁寧にサポートし、
外国人のお客様が日本で安心して快適に過ごせるよう、きめ細やかなサービスを提供しています。

日本独自の敬称 “san” を知ることで、あなたの日本での体験はより深く、より楽しいものになるでしょう。

One common question we get from foreigners staying mid- to long-term in Japan is:
“Should I buy a car, or is leasing a better option?”
In this article, we’ll clearly explain the requirements and key points to keep in mind when a foreigner wants to lease a car in Japan.

Can foreigners lease a car in Japan?

Yes, it’s possible! But there are a few conditions.

Foreigners can lease a car in Japan as long as they are not on a tourist visa or short-term stay.
Many of our customers are:

• Foreigners working in Japan (with work or engineer visas)
• People on a working holiday visa
• International students

In most cases, the car is owned by the leasing company, and you are registered as the user.

Required Documents for a Lease Contract

To lease a car in Japan, you’ll need to prepare the following documents.
Please note that the exact requirements may vary depending on the leasing company.

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Why Many Foreigners Prefer Leasing: The Difference Between Leasing and Renting

We often get asked, “What’s the difference between leasing and renting a car?”
Both are ways to use a car without buying one, but they’re actually quite different — especially when it comes to contract length, license plates, and overall costs.

About Voluntary Car Insurance for Foreigners

Car Insurance is Required for Leasing in Japan

When leasing a car in Japan, you must have voluntary car insurance.
However, if you don’t have a Japanese driver’s license, getting insurance can be more difficult and expensive.

🚘 Can I get car insurance with a foreign license?

Yes, but there are some conditions.

• You’ll need an international driver’s permit or your home country’s license with Japanese translation
• Residence card or passport is also required for identity verification
• Some insurance companies do not accept foreign drivers, depending on the license or visa type

💰 Is the insurance more expensive?

Yes — it tends to be much higher without a Japanese license.

• Insurance companies often consider it “higher risk”
• Annual premiums can go over ¥200,000–300,000
• It’s especially expensive if you include vehicle damage coverage (車両保険)

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Summary

For foreigners who want to drive in Japan, leasing a car is a very convenient option.
However, there are some real challenges to be aware of:

• You’ll need several documents like a residence card and sometimes a residence certificate
• Switching to a Japanese license can take several months in some cases
• If you’re staying in Japan for over 2 years, buying or leasing a car may be a good long-term solution
• For shorter stays (1–2 years), a long-term rental is usually easier and more flexible

In any case, handling all the paperwork, insurance, and communication in Japanese can be a lot to manage on your own.

🔧 That’s where ASAHI MOTORS comes in!
We offer full English support and have helped many international customers lease or rent cars in Japan with confidence.

HOME

Flexible long-term and monthly car rentals in Japan. Foreigners welcome! Easy booking, English support, and international licenses accepted.

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Japan hosts numerous exciting full marathon events nationwide, each with its own unique appeal, making it difficult to choose which one to participate in. This article introduces a ranking of the most popular full marathons in Japan, helping you find the perfect race to challenge yourself!

In this article, we will introduce six of the most popular full marathons in Japan. We will provide details on each race’s unique features, key points to consider when participating, event dates, entry periods, and the official registration websites.

Additionally, many foreign runners take part in Japanese marathon events, and numerous volunteers and staff members are available to assist in English and other languages. In particular, the Tokyo Marathon attracts a large number of international participants, and their numbers have been increasing year by year.

１．Tokyo Marathon

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www.marathon.tokyo

Event Date: Every March
Entry Period: Around June each year

The Tokyo Marathon is Japan’s largest urban marathon, planned and organized by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government and the Japan Association of Athletics Federations (JAAF) since 2007.

In 2013, it joined the Abbott World Marathon Majors, becoming the opening race of the prestigious marathon series that includes the Boston Marathon, London Marathon, Berlin Marathon, Chicago Marathon, and New York City Marathon. This recognition has elevated the Tokyo Marathon to global prominence, making it one of the most highly regarded marathon events worldwide. The race is held on a Sunday in February or March each year, with extensive traffic restrictions implemented across Tokyo.

２．Osaka Marathon

Home | Osaka Marathon 2025

Making a Rainbow Together.The official Marathon 2025 Osaka

www.osaka-marathon.com

Event Date: Every November
Entry Period: Around April each year

The Osaka Marathon is the largest urban marathon in the Kansai region, with a participant capacity of 35,000 runners, making it the second-largest marathon in Japan after the Tokyo Marathon. Due to its popularity, the lottery for entry has an exceptionally high competition rate, exceeding four times the number of available spots each year.

Since the 9th edition in 2019, the Osaka Marathon has adopted a new course. The revised route finishes at Osaka Castle Park and now includes iconic landmarks such as the Mint Bureau, Abeno Harukas, Shitennoji Temple, and Osaka Business Park, in addition to the traditional sites like the Osaka City Central Public Hall, Midosuji Boulevard, and Kyocera Dome Osaka. This new course is officially certified by the Japan Association of Athletics Federations (JAAF) and the Association of International Marathons and Distance Races (AIMS).

３．Sapporo Marathon

第51回札幌マラソン

爽やかな秋晴れの中、多くのランナーと共に北の大地・札幌を駆け抜けてみませんか?

satumara.sapporo-sport.jp

Event Date: Every October
Entry Period: Around June each year

The Sapporo Marathon is one of the largest citizen half-marathons in northern Japan, first held in 1976. Taking place every autumn, this signature sporting event of Sapporo attracts a total of 15,000 participants across various race categories. Both the half-marathon and 10km courses are officially certified by the Japan Association of Athletics Federations (JAAF).

The starting and finishing point is Makomanai Park, a well-known autumn foliage spot in Sapporo. Runners can enjoy the sight of trees turning red and yellow as they race through the park. The turnaround point for the half-marathon is located at Odori Park in the city center, where enthusiastic spectators cheer on the runners along the route.

Additionally, shorter races of 5km, 3km, and 2km are held within Makomanai Park, with special categories for families and children. The “Fun Pair” event, where young children (elementary school age and under) can run hand-in-hand with an adult, is particularly popular. As an accessible and enjoyable event, many grandparents participate alongside their grandchildren.

4. Kyoto Marathon

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kyoto-marathon.com

Event Date: Every August
Entry Period: Around August each year

The Kyoto Marathon is held under the main concept of “DO YOU KYOTO? Marathon,” a slogan that translates to “Are you doing something good for the environment?” As Kyoto is an environmentally conscious city, the marathon is organized with a strong focus on sustainability and eco-friendly initiatives.

This race offers a scenic and dynamic course that allows runners to experience the true essence of Kyoto. In 2024, approximately 16,000 runners from Japan and abroad participated. The course takes runners past seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites—Tenryu-ji Temple, Ninna-ji Temple, Ryoan-ji Temple, Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion), Kamigamo Shrine, and Shimogamo Shrine—while also providing a breathtaking run along the Kamo River.

５．Naha Marathon

https://www.naha-marathon.jp/en/index.html

www.naha-marathon.jp

Event Date: Every December
Entry Period: Around June each year

The NAHA Marathon is a JAAF-certified marathon held on the first Sunday of December every year. The event’s theme is “The Festival of Sun, Sea, and Joggers.” With a participant limit of 30,000 runners, it is a relatively large-scale marathon, attracting an increasing number of runners from outside Okinawa and overseas.

The 42.195 km course spans five cities and towns in southern Okinawa: Naha City, Tomigusuku City, Haebaru Town, Yaese Town, and Itoman City. The race starts at Oroku Athletic Park, passes through Peace Memorial Park at the halfway point, and finishes at Oroku Athletic Stadium in a loop course, without a turnaround point.

６．Kanazawa Marathon

金沢マラソン2026

金沢マラソンは、2015年から石川県金沢市で開催されている市民参加型の長距離走大会である。金沢市内の名所を巡るだけでなく、エイドステーションでは金沢の和菓子や金沢カレーなどといったご当地グルメも楽しめるのが特徴です。

kanazawa-marathon.jp

Event Date: Every October
Entry Period: Around June each year

The Kanazawa Marathon offers runners the chance to fully experience the beauty of Kanazawa. This event attracts many participants from Japan and abroad, allowing them to enjoy the city’s rich natural landscapes, historical sites, food, and cultural heritage. With strong support from local citizens, businesses, and volunteers, the race fosters a lively atmosphere where participants and the local community can connect.

The course takes runners through Kanazawa’s most iconic sights, including Kenrokuen Garden, Ishikawa Gate of Kanazawa Castle, Higashi Chaya District, and the Teramachi Temple District. Runners will also pass through historically preserved areas featuring traditional townhouses, winding streets, and old castle roads, offering a uniquely immersive experience of Kanazawa’s historic charm.

Why Do Many Foreign Runners Participate in Marathons in Japan?

Marathon events in Japan are highly regarded internationally for their excellent organization, safety, and scenic course designs. These factors attract runners from all over the world. The most famous races draw participants from numerous countries, making them an opportunity for global cultural exchange.

Another major appeal of marathons in Japan is the deep interaction between runners and local communities. Residents actively support the events, cheering along the course and providing local specialties at aid stations. This culture of community-wide support creates a welcoming and unique marathon experience.

Aid Stations Offer a Variety of Unique and Exciting Foods

Aid stations provide runners with essential hydration and energy during the race, but have you ever wondered what kind of refreshments are available? The standard options include onigiri (rice balls), bananas, bread, salt, water, and sports drinks. However, one of the highlights of local marathon events is the opportunity to enjoy regional specialties at aid stations.

Explore Japan’s Marathon Courses with Ease!

Japan offers a variety of stunning marathon courses, from scenic coastal routes to historic city streets. Whether you’re here for a race or just looking to enjoy a long run, having a convenient and reliable way to travel makes all the difference.

With ASAHI MOTORS Rent-a-Car, you can explore Japan’s best marathon destinations at your own pace. Our rental cars are perfect for runners who need flexibility—whether it’s getting to the starting line, traveling with teammates, or discovering hidden trails beyond the race.

Ready to hit the road? Book your rental car today!

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When purchasing a car or receiving one from someone, two important documents are the Power of Attorney and Certificate of Transfer. Since all these documents are in Japanese, are you simply signing and stamping where the shop staff tells you to? In this article, we’ll provide an explanation of the Power of Attorney and Certificate of Transfer in English to help you better understand the process.

What is a Power of Attorney?（委任状）

A Power of Attorney is required when transferring the title of a vehicle. It must be submitted to the Transport Bureau along with the Certificate of Transfer. This form is not necessary for kei cars. You can download the template from the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism’s website.

① Power of Attorney (Title)
② Address and name of the authorized representative (the person handling the procedure)
③ Appoint the above as an agent and delegate the authority to handle registration changes for the vehicle listed below. (Fill in the type of application, e.g., transfer, cancellation.)
④ Vehicle chassis number
⑤ Address, name, and seal of the principal (the person requesting the procedure)
***The address must exactly match the one on the seal registration certificate.
***Use the same seal as on the seal registration certificate.

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What is a Certificate of Transfer?（譲渡証明書）

The Certificate of Transfer is necessary for proving that the ownership of the vehicle has changed from the previous owner to the new owner, especially in cases of used car sales or private transactions.

① Certificate of Transfer (Title)
② This document certifies the transfer of the following vehicle.
Fill in the vehicle information, such as:

Vehicle make (manufacturer name is sufficient)
Model number
Chassis number
Engine model number (as per the vehicle inspection certificate)
③ Fill in the previous owner’s (transferor’s) address and name exactly as on the seal registration certificate and place the seal on the right side.
④ Fill in the new owner’s (transferee’s) address and name exactly as on their seal registration certificate. No seal is required from the new owner.

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