The Audio Long Read Tokyo drift: what happens when a city stops being the future?
Feb 7, 2025
Explore the shifting image of Tokyo as it grapples with economic revival and the impacts of mass tourism. Discover how tourism reshapes public spaces and local identities while affecting immigrant workers within the hospitality industry. Delve into the lives of expatriates navigating these changes and reflect on the historical evolution of East Tokyo. Lastly, consider the city's challenges in attracting foreign labor and redefining its future amidst modern demands.
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Tokyo's Image vs. Reality
- Tokyo's post-war image as sophisticated and wealthy is partly due to calculated PR campaigns.
- This image, coupled with Japan's economic struggles, fuels the narrative that tourism is its last hope.
Cringing at Tourist News
- Dylan Levi King cringes when news reports depict foreign tourists misbehaving in Tokyo.
- He feels the judgment of Japanese patrons, even though he savors reports of tourist-caused disruptions.
Unwritten Rules of Tokyo
- Tourists often unknowingly violate unwritten social rules in Tokyo.
- These transgressions, while unintentional, disrupt the city's rhythm and highlight cultural differences.