For our company’s TikTok channel, I have started interviewing tourists strolling along Takeshita Street. I appreciate the opportunity to communicate with people from around the globe and to explore the various aspects of Japanese culture.

Japanese characters are “kawaii”!

Japanese characters and goods often feature cute and unique designs that appeal to a wide range of people, regardless of age or cultural background. The kawaii (cute) culture in Japan has a universal charm that captivates many. Consequently, Japanese products are renowned for both their high quality and craftsmanship. For example, one of the tourists I interviewed showed me a rabbit toy from Sylvanian Families(シルバニアファミリー). When I asked why she bought the rabbit, she answered, “I thought it would be a cute interior design!”.

Harajuku is a hot spot of fashion and subculture

Harajuku is famous for its diverse and unique fashion subcultures, where young people express themselves through bold and creative styles. Takeshita Street, in particular, is a hub for trendy clothing stores and boutiques, attracting fashion enthusiasts from all over the world. The fashion that some tourists wear, which expresses the vibe of Harajuku, is very eye-catching when I stroll around Takeshita Street.

Popular sites: Osaka and Kyoto

When I ask tourists where they are going during their stay in Japan, they almost always answer Kyoto and Osaka. Kyoto is renowned for its beautiful temples and shrines, such as Kiyomizu-dera, Fushimi Inari Taisha, and Kinkaku-ji (the Golden Pavilion), attracting those interested in Japanese architecture, spirituality, and religious practices. Osaka, often referred to as “Japan’s Kitchen,” is famous for dishes like takoyaki (octopus balls), okonomiyaki (savory pancakes), and kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers), making it a paradise for food enthusiasts.

Japanese ramen is extremely cheap!

Ramen is considered a staple of Japanese cuisine and is loved by many in Japan, encouraging a competitive market and leading to more affordable prices. In contrast, ramen served in other countries can be relatively expensive. For example, when I interviewed a lady from New Zealand, she mentioned that a bowl of ramen served in New Zealand costs around 30 dollars. As a result, many tourists indulge in ramen during their stay in Japan.

Japanese women look pretty in foreigners’ eyes?

Many of the tourists I interviewed pointed out that Japanese women always appear clean and pretty. I believe that Japanese people, especially women, emphasize skincare and grooming. Many Japanese women follow meticulous skincare routines to maintain healthy, radiant skin. During the summer, I often see Japanese women carrying small handy fans and sweat wipes, reflecting this common practice.

The allure of Japan’s kawaii culture extends from the bustling streets of Harajuku to the culinary wonders of Osaka and the timeless beauty of Kyoto’s temples. Japan offers an enriching blend of experiences that showcases its multifaceted appeal. The availability of affordable ramen and the appreciation for Japanese women’s grooming habits further illustrate the depth of Japanese culture. These elements combine to create a tapestry that continually draws tourists and admirers, allowing them to explore and enjoy all that Japan has to offer. If you are interested to learn more about the Japanese culture, go check out our TikTok account from our website!