The Transcultural Identity of Japanese-Filipino Children in Tokyo, Japan

Abstract

This ethnography is an inquiry on the transcultural identity of Japanese-Filipino Children (JFC) who are situated in a multi-cultural context in the city of Tokyo, Japan. In theoretical sense, the analysis centers on culturally nomadic individuals who are active agents in the formation of their cultural identities, rather than being passive repository of social and cultural influences. The cultural identities of JFC are navigated within a transcultural milieu that is perpetuated by Japanese and Filipino cultural background of their parents. The salient cultural identities of JFC include being religious, sociable, hospitable, respectful to elders, patient, hopeful, humble, resilient, hardworking, innovative and resourceful, contented and happy, multilingual, and preference for Filipino food. These cultural identities are unique in contrast to pure Japanese children and correspondingly distinguish them as JFC in Tokyo. Myriad of social forces impinge on the process of cultural formation among JFC however; family, school, and church have played vital role in honing their cultural identities in a transcultural milieu.