Tojin

Tojin is a term historically used in East Asia, particularly in China and Japan, to refer to foreigners, especially those from Western countries. The term itself, derived from Chinese characters, literally means "Tang person," referencing the Tang Dynasty, a period when China had extensive contact with foreign peoples. Over time, the meaning evolved to encompass a broader range of non-Chinese individuals. In Japan, the term was frequently used during periods of isolation, such as the Edo period, to denote outsiders. The perception and usage of "Tojin" varied across different historical contexts and regions, sometimes carrying neutral connotations of otherness, while at other times implying a sense of exoticism or even suspicion. The term is not commonly used in modern Japanese or Chinese, having been largely replaced by more specific or neutral terms for foreigners. Understanding the historical context of "Tojin" provides insight into past cross-cultural interactions and perceptions in East Asia.