Through Korean eyes: Overtourism something I won’t miss about Japan

Shibuya Crossing (Photos by Hyemin Lee)

While I thoroughly enjoyed stunning destinations, culture and cuisine during my visit to Japan, there are some aspects I won’t miss.

Rules of the road

(Rules of the road)

The challenge of sitting on the right side to drive a car while navigating on the opposite side of the road from what I am accustomed to, turned my driving skills from bad to disastrous. Grocery shopping became a life-or-death situation as I went onto off-ramps and confidently navigated into the wrong turning lane at intersections. I’m pretty sure I won’t miss Japan’s rules of the road.

Overwhelming crowds

Then, there were overwhelming crowds at nearly every tourist spot. I should’ve realized this when I arrived at Narita International Airport and the customs clearance felt like a BTS concert.

Shibuya was a highlight. Navigating through the bustling intersection surrounded by towering malls, electronic boards, and a massive crowd was both exciting and overwhelming at first.

As a clueless rookie in Tokyo, I dared to dream of grabbing a table at an all-you-can-eat wagyu yakiniku on Saturday night without a reservation. The harsh reality hit brutally when I was turned away multiple times even before I stepped into a line at a restaurant. They didn’t even let me beg.

(yakiniku)

After what felt like an eternity, I finally found a restaurant desperate enough to let me in. Wagyu BBQ was divine, but afterward, my legs were shaking like a newborn giraffe’s. Lots of walking for some Wagyu.

MEGA Don Quijote

(MEGA Don Quijote)

Even though I was exhausted, I had to make my way to Mega Don Quijote. I know what you’re thinking: “Mega Don Quijote on Saturday night?” Black Friday sales are less hectic than what I encountered.

Surprisingly, among the countless items, there was no need to worry about what to buy. In every corner of the shop, Koreans were enthusiastically chatting with friends about the must-buy items, and I simply followed their advice by eavesdropping.

Yet, when I had barely started my journey on the second floor of this giant 7-story store, my legs finally decided to go on strike. I squeezed out the last ounce of my strength to push through the sea of people, reaching out to barely grab two of Koreans’ must-buy items. Then I made it to the counter like a warrior who achieved victory in battle. My small hotel bed couldn’t have looked more welcoming.

Selfie warriors

(Selfie warriors)

Turns out my Sunday plan to escape the hustle and bustle of Tokyo by driving to Kawaguchiko for some peaceful moments with Mt. Fuji was merely wishful thinking. As I pulled over to grab a snack, there was a swarm of people gathered in front of a Lawson convenience store to snap photos of and take selfies with Mt. Fuji. Turns out, even Mt. Fuji couldn’t escape these selfie enthusiasts.

While police struggled to manage traffic and save these selfie takers from getting hit by buses or cars on the narrow streets, I found black barriers seemingly installed to prevent people from flocking to this narrow road. There were signs warning folks to not poke holes in the barriers and take photos through them. Of course, some photo enthusiasts still poked holes through the thin barriers and took pictures.

More drama took place on Honcho Street, a famous street known for its view of Mt. Fuji. When the light turned green for pedestrians to walk, a police officer generously gave them time to take photos while politely urging them to continue walking to the other side. Getting the perfect shot, oncoming traffic be damned, was the only thing on these tourists’ minds. Watching this poor cop rescue these selfie takers from oncoming cars was like a slapstick comedy.

Think about the locals

(Honcho Street)

I fully understand why people around the world are enthusiastic about traveling to Japan. Not only does it boast numerous charming spots, but the weak yen makes for a more affordable trip for foreigners. And amidst the chaos, Japan always maintains a clean and safe environment, which is very impressive.

However, witnessing overwhelming crowds nearly everywhere, I couldn’t help but feel for the locals. Exploring Japan is a blast, but let’s remember these places are a part of everyday life for those who live here. As visitors, let’s blend in gracefully and respect our hosts.