If a word can ever be said to sum up a nation’s character, the concept of gaman defines Japan. Consider the range of meanings it conveys: patience, silent suffering, perseverance, toleration of hardship, self-sacrifice, a fortifying sense of collective strength, solidarity with fellow sufferers. It’s what got the country through centuries of feudalism, World War II and earthquakes and, today, continues to shore up the populace as they endure tsunamis, rush-hour trains and drug-free childbirth.If you’re following the Olympic flame to Tokyo this summer, you’ll need plenty of gaman. The Japanese capital will be abysmally crowded and hot, it will be peak mosquito season and good luck getting a restaurant booking. Your dream of sushi in a charming local izakaya stands a high chance of being ruined by beery British soccer fans and Uzbek weight-lifting enthusiasts.
Source: The Connoisseur’s Guide to Japan for the Tokyo Olympics – Robb Report
