Matt Alt

Matt Alt, a Tokyo-based translator and writer, discusses the fascinating rise of 'kidults' in Japan and how this trend reflects societal shifts amid economic challenges. He explores the impact of Japanese pop culture on Western audiences, emphasizing the embrace of anime and gaming as escapism. Alt also delves into Japan's economic journey from prosperity to decline, and the cultural evolution that followed. This rich conversation reveals how Japanese media continues to transform identities and provide solace in a disjointed world.

In this engaging discussion, Matt Alt, a Tokyo-based translator and pop culture writer, dives into the captivating world of 'kidulting'—a phenomenon born in Japan that appeals to millennials and Gen Z. He explores how Japan's pop culture, including anime and gaming, has influenced Western adults seeking escapism and nostalgia. Alt discusses the impact of Japan's economic landscape and its tourism boom, revealing how these factors resonate with those rediscovering their inner child. With personal anecdotes and cultural insights, he questions if Japan holds the key to navigating modern uncertainties.

Matt Alt, a Tokyo-based translator and writer, explores how Japan's 'kidult' culture emerged amid economic turmoil, allowing adults to connect with their childhood interests. He discusses how this trend has shifted perceptions of adulthood in the West, especially for millennials and Gen Z. The conversation highlights the rise of anime and gaming as mainstream escapes and cultural influences on Western society. Alt reflects on how nostalgia for Japanese pop culture offers comfort and identity, showing that the intersection of youthful passions and adulthood is more relevant than ever.