In Japan, overtourism poses a significant problem, and it’s evident that many issues arise from tourists’ misbehavior. But is this misbehavior a result of willful disregard for local customs, or is it simply a lack of understanding of cultural differences? For example, what might be acceptable behavior in the USA may not be permissible in Japan. While carrying firearms is legal in places like Texas or Arizona, possession of guns is illegal in Japan. If a person is unaware of the laws, how are they expected to know without conducting research?
In today’s age of the internet and AI, it is easier to learn the rules. However, what about the gray areas? This concept is particularly relevant in the realm of user experience (UX).
Understanding how individuals in Japan process information—such as interpreting a picture of a room with dining tables—can be challenging. When comparing payment process apps like banking apps, PayPal, or Venmo with Japanese apps like PayPay, it’s clear that what works in Japan may not translate well to Western cultures due to the differences in user experience design. What influences these design choices?
I believe it primarily stems from the contrasting lifestyles. In many Western countries, homes are typically larger and more spaced out, especially in the Midwest, where houses often come with gardens and backyards. In contrast, Japan’s population density is much higher, with buildings constructed closely together. While places like Hong Kong may have even greater density, Japan’s compact living spaces reflect a different approach to app design as well. Western apps tend to utilize more spacing, whereas Japanese (and other Asian) apps often maximize available space.
This brings us back to the question of whether Japan should adapt to accommodate overtourism, or if tourists should make an effort to adopt the local culture. Ultimately, Japan has already adopted operating system frameworks and even designed keyboards that cater to local usage (considering the popularity of mobile app keyboards). Should Japan also transition to adopt Western UX principles?
I plan to continue exploring these cultural differences in the near future.
