The Reality Gap for Japanese Tourists
The enchantment of Paris, depicted as a realm of romance, luxury, and elegance, is etched deeply into the fabric of Japanese media and culture. This idealized image creates a sense of allure that renders Japanese tourists particularly susceptible to the complexities of Paris Syndrome. The stark contrast between these elevated expectations and the realities they encounter on Parisian streets can trigger profound culture shock. Adding to this predicament is the language barrier, which complicates communication and the disparities in cultural norms and expectations. These factors collectively amplify the emotional turmoil experienced by those afflicted with the syndrome.
In the eyes of many Japanese travelers, Paris stands as a symbol of luxurious consumption, perpetuated by media portrayals. Yet, as Hiroaki Ota and his colleagues elucidate in their paper, this glamorous image often unravels when confronted with the practicalities of everyday life in the city. This dissonance between idealized perceptions and on-the-ground realities deepens the culture shock experienced by affected tourists, shedding light on the profound impact of preconceived notions when navigating a foreign culture.
