It's rare for someone to openly express their anger at foreigners. I guess things have changed somewhat and there are a lot more foreign tourists in the last few years. But it always struck me that during peak tourist seasons like cherry blossom, it was Japanese tourists causing the packed trains and buses. Japanese trains and buses have always been overcrowded...The problem perhaps is that Western tourists tend to be physically taller, can often be loud, and don't respect the no talking norms on public transport, and may not behave in an appropriate manner.
Hi Kamsin! I love hearing your input on this. Do you get back often? I’m usually amazed at how patient everyone is with the packed trains and long lines. I feel like something has shifted, though. So many people live streaming at Meiji Jingū, for instance. Maybe that’s why the side streets are so empty? Because people are focused on what is Instagram or YouTube-worthy?
Hearing about the problems in Italy is so disturbing. I hope things settle down in Kyoto and that the giant tour groups find a better way to introduce people to Japan.
I really worry. I have seen so many beautiful places in Europe lose their beauty and authenticity because of over-tourism, I really don’t want that to happen to Japan as well.
Once you get to the point where stores mainly cater to tourists instead of locals, as one sees in many European destinations, it is too late…
It's rare for someone to openly express their anger at foreigners. I guess things have changed somewhat and there are a lot more foreign tourists in the last few years. But it always struck me that during peak tourist seasons like cherry blossom, it was Japanese tourists causing the packed trains and buses. Japanese trains and buses have always been overcrowded...The problem perhaps is that Western tourists tend to be physically taller, can often be loud, and don't respect the no talking norms on public transport, and may not behave in an appropriate manner.
Hi Kamsin! I love hearing your input on this. Do you get back often? I’m usually amazed at how patient everyone is with the packed trains and long lines. I feel like something has shifted, though. So many people live streaming at Meiji Jingū, for instance. Maybe that’s why the side streets are so empty? Because people are focused on what is Instagram or YouTube-worthy?
The openly angry gentleman surprises me as well. But I understand his feeling. Many spots have just too many tourists now…
Hearing about the problems in Italy is so disturbing. I hope things settle down in Kyoto and that the giant tour groups find a better way to introduce people to Japan.
I really worry. I have seen so many beautiful places in Europe lose their beauty and authenticity because of over-tourism, I really don’t want that to happen to Japan as well.
Once you get to the point where stores mainly cater to tourists instead of locals, as one sees in many European destinations, it is too late…