On social media, part of Gen Z mocks fans of Japanese pop culture

The phenomenon of the “Japan Effect,” which originated in the United States, makes fun of the fascination with Japan, largely encouraged by the Japanese government.

A new trend on social media platforms like TikTok and X involves sharing two nearly identical images. One shows a suburban town near Paris or a dull English park. The other depicts the same location but enhanced with cherry blossoms, anime music, and a Japanese-sounding name. Consequently, Créteil becomes “Kureteiyu,” and La Défense turns into “Ra Defanssu.” With the “Japan Effect,” Generation Z humorously mocks the trend of idealizing ordinary places by giving them a Japanese makeover.

The purpose, according to 25-year-old YouTuber Rocky Louzembi, known as Rocky Le Vrai, is to satirize the “kawaii” (cute) effect of Japan on the internet. This humor is used to criticize stereotypes about Japan, as explained by Louzembi.

Rocky Louzembi defines “Japan glazers” as individuals excessively admiring Japanese pop culture, including manga, anime, gastronomy, and fashion. These Japan glazers are portrayed as those who elevate everything Japanese while overlooking their own country’s cultural aspects.

For over a decade, the Japanese government’s “Cool Japan” strategy has promoted Japanese culture worldwide. This soft power approach has been particularly successful in France where the nation ranked as the second-largest consumer of manga globally in 2025. As a result, Japanese influence has shaped social media perceptions, a trend highlighted by the “Japan Effect.”

The fascination with Japan often ignores social issues and inequalities. Despite the portrayed aesthetic appeal, there are real problems within Japanese society that are not reflected in popular culture. This discrepancy is noted by professionals like Marika Sato, who highlights the prevalence of harassment against women in Japan.

Tourists flock to Japan in record numbers, drawn by the country’s unique cultural attractions. Many visitors remain captivated by Japan’s distinctive charm, reinforcing its reputation. In 2024, a record-breaking 389,000 French tourists visited Japan, reflecting the enduring appeal and cultural mystique of the country.