Ishita Roy

Why Does Paris Syndrome Make Japanese Depressed?

Paris Syndrome

Paris. Just the word is enough. Even for those who have not been to there, (like me), can picture them there amid the smell of roses and freshly baked croissants. They can imagine this fresh vanilla smell through the Parisian streets with the images of picturesque boulevards and charming cafes. But sadly, it is far from reality and even further from the Paris dream that is portrayed by popular media. Nalla El Shekshaky, born and raised in Paris writes in Metropolis, which is Japan's English Magazine that Paris is far from what people are fed by the media. This affects particularly Japanese tourists, and the fantasy quickly crumbles into something far more disillusioning, giving rise to the <span>Paris Syndrome</span>. 

It was first identified by psychiatrist Hiroaki Ota in the 1980s and is characterized by severe symptoms such as anxiety, hallucinations, dizziness, nausea, and feelings of persecution. While it can occur with any tourist, it is most frequently reported by Japanese travelers.

Paris Syndrome is a rare but real psychological phenomenon that affects some visitors when the reality of Paris sharply contrasts with their expectations. 

<h4>But, why does it affect Japanese tourists?</h4>

To understand why this syndrome predominantly affects Japanese visitors, we must consider the cultural factors at play. Japanese people have a particularly idealized view of Paris, one that is deeply ingrained in their society. From French-sounding store names to the portrayal of Paris in films and literature, France—especially Paris—represents a symbol of luxury, refinement, and sophistication. This idealization leads to heightened expectations that may not align with the reality of the city.

In fact, many Japanese tourists are surprised to find that Paris isn’t as pristine and perfect as they imagined. The city’s streets are often littered with cigarette butts, and the romantic notion of a peaceful stroll along the Seine may give way to encounters with urban grime and occasional rat sightings. The contrast between the pristine, almost fairy-tale image of Paris and its real, bustling urban life can feel jarring. This shock is often amplified by cultural differences, such as the French penchant for smoking in public spaces, which is in stark contrast to the Japanese disdain for smoking in the open.

Now the challenge is not just cultural, but also logistical. The language is a barrier, then there is racism too. All of these are accompanied by jet lag, home sickness, of all leading to the symptoms of Paris Syndrome. 

While the syndrome is not widely known outside of psychological circles, its effects are real and severe. For some, the disillusionment with Paris becomes so overwhelming that they seek psychological help or are even repatriated back to Japan. Some report extreme paranoia, believing their hotel rooms are bugged or that they are being persecuted. In extreme cases, hallucinations and feelings of depersonalization can occur.

The simple answer is no. It is not unique to a particular place, but could happen to anyone who has idealised any region. Similar cases have been reported with Jerusalem Syndrome, where religious pilgrims experiences psychosis due to overwhelming spiritual significance of the location. Though Paris Syndrome stands out more because it comes from a mismatch between fantasy and reality.

<h4>Is there a way to avoid Paris Syndrome?</h4>

Well, to avoid psychological toll, it is important that the visitors know the reality and adjust their expectations accordingly. While Paris is a beautiful and iconic city, not everything they see on TV is true. The best way is to talk to those who have been there to know what to expect. It is always better to lower your expectations than to be disappointed.

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paris syndrome in japanese

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Paris. Just the word is enough. Even for those who have not been to there, (like me), can picture them there amid the smell of roses and freshly baked croissants. They can imagine this fresh vanilla smell through the Parisian streets with the images of picturesque boulevards and charming cafes. But sadly, it is far from reality and even further from the Paris dream that is portrayed by popular media. Nalla El Shekshaky, born and raised in Paris writes in Metropolis, which is Japan's English Magazine that Paris is far from what people are fed by the media. This affects particularly Japanese tourists, and the fantasy quickly crumbles into something far more disillusioning, giving rise to the Paris Syndrome. What is Paris Syndrome?It was first identified by psychiatrist Hiroaki Ota in the 1980s and is characterized by severe symptoms such as anxiety, hallucinations, dizziness, nausea, and feelings of persecution. While it can occur with any tourist, it is most frequently reported by Japanese travelers.Paris Syndrome is a rare but real psychological phenomenon that affects some visitors when the reality of Paris sharply contrasts with their expectations. But, why does it affect Japanese tourists?To understand why this syndrome predominantly affects Japanese visitors, we must consider the cultural factors at play. Japanese people have a particularly idealized view of Paris, one that is deeply ingrained in their society. From French-sounding store names to the portrayal of Paris in films and literature, France—especially Paris—represents a symbol of luxury, refinement, and sophistication. This idealization leads to heightened expectations that may not align with the reality of the city.In fact, many Japanese tourists are surprised to find that Paris isn’t as pristine and perfect as they imagined. The city’s streets are often littered with cigarette butts, and the romantic notion of a peaceful stroll along the Seine may give way to encounters with urban grime and occasional rat sightings. The contrast between the pristine, almost fairy-tale image of Paris and its real, bustling urban life can feel jarring. This shock is often amplified by cultural differences, such as the French penchant for smoking in public spaces, which is in stark contrast to the Japanese disdain for smoking in the open.Now the challenge is not just cultural, but also logistical. The language is a barrier, then there is racism too. All of these are accompanied by jet lag, home sickness, of all leading to the symptoms of Paris Syndrome. While the syndrome is not widely known outside of psychological circles, its effects are real and severe. For some, the disillusionment with Paris becomes so overwhelming that they seek psychological help or are even repatriated back to Japan. Some report extreme paranoia, believing their hotel rooms are bugged or that they are being persecuted. In extreme cases, hallucinations and feelings of depersonalization can occur.Is It Only Limited To Paris?The simple answer is no. It is not unique to a particular place, but could happen to anyone who has idealised any region. Similar cases have been reported with Jerusalem Syndrome, where religious pilgrims experiences psychosis due to overwhelming spiritual significance of the location. Though Paris Syndrome stands out more because it comes from a mismatch between fantasy and reality.Is there a way to avoid Paris Syndrome?Well, to avoid psychological toll, it is important that the visitors know the reality and adjust their expectations accordingly. While Paris is a beautiful and iconic city, not everything they see on TV is true. The best way is to talk to those who have been there to know what to expect. It is always better to lower your expectations than to be disappointed.