The popular Japanese animated show, Crayon Shin-chan's character Hiroshi Nohara's lunchtime practices are causing quite a stir in Japan. More specifically, the portrayal of Hiroshi's midday meal habits, both as a depicted working individual and as a man of clear cut routines, is receiving a significant response from the viewers. Many are intrigued about why such a mundane act has garnered this much attention and debate among the public.
In Japan, mealtime is a meaningful event that is often tied to traditions, values, and social norms. Hiroshi's character and his lunchtime routine often provoke discussions around work-life balance, the ideal power dynamic in a family setting, and the changing societal standards in Japan. It often reflects broader societal issues, such as overwork, societal expectations of men and women, and the importance of simple daily rituals.
In the US or EU, discussions around popular animated characters often revolve around their humorous antics or extraordinary adventures, rather than the mundane aspects of their lives. While representations of mealtime in Western animations could form an interesting side note or humorous gag, it's seldom the main talking point as it is in Japan.