The Warner Bros. Studio Tour in the UK is a special place where visitors can experience the world of Harry Potter up close. Japanese visitors, with their cultural background and eye for detail, enjoy the tour from perspectives that are often different from those of foreign tourists.
- Why Japanese Visitors Are Drawn to the Warner Bros. Studio Tour
- Japanese Impressions vs. Foreign Visitors’ Impressions
- Points That Leave a Strong Impression on Japanese Visitors
- What Japanese Visitors Want to Share with Foreign Visitors
- Japanese Preference for Experience Over Photos
- Souvenir Choices Reflect Cultural Differences
- Focus on the Craft Behind the Scenes
- Conclusion
Why Japanese Visitors Are Drawn to the Warner Bros. Studio Tour
A Culture That Respects Both Film and Original Work
The Japanese tend to enjoy comparing differences between the original book and the film. While touring, they observe the film sets and reflect on how they were described in the novels. Because Japanese culture values both literature and its adaptations, visitors approach the displays not just as cinematic recreations but as extensions of the story itself.
Attention to Detail
Japanese culture emphasizes craftsmanship and precision. As a result, Japanese visitors deeply appreciate the small props and decorations. They often notice things like wall posters, potion bottles, and the texture of furniture—details that others might overlook—and they are impressed by the painstaking effort behind them.
Japanese Impressions vs. Foreign Visitors’ Impressions
| Japanese Impressions | Foreign Visitors’ Impressions |
|---|---|
| Moved by intricate decorations and props | Excited to recall movie scenes |
| Quietly observe exhibits and try to memorize them | Focus on photography and sharing on social media |
| Highlight the “authenticity” compared to theme parks | Enjoy mainly as an entertainment facility |
| Prefer practical souvenirs like stationery | Purchase large props and costumes |
Points That Leave a Strong Impression on Japanese Visitors
The Taste of Butterbeer
Japanese people are sensitive to sweetness, so many comment that Butterbeer is “sweeter than expected.” While foreigners often view it as a fun novelty, Japanese visitors may say, “I’m glad I tried it once, but I might not have it again.”
The Power of the Sets and Craftsmanship
Walking through the Great Hall or Diagon Alley, Japanese visitors don’t just see recreations. They recognize the effort and skill of the craftsmen who built them. In Japanese culture, respect for artisanship is strong, so the sets are seen not just as backdrops but as works of art.
What Japanese Visitors Want to Share with Foreign Visitors
- Exhibits crafted down to the smallest detail
From potion bottles to wand designs, tiny elements carry the world of the story. - A quieter way of enjoying the tour
Japanese visitors avoid being loud, instead observing exhibits respectfully, which contributes to a comfortable environment. - A perspective of cultural comparison
They often compare the tour with Universal Studios Japan, describing the theme park as “performance” and the studio as “authentic.”
Japanese Preference for Experience Over Photos
Japanese visitors tend to value the atmosphere that photos cannot capture. They pay attention to lighting, textures, and even acoustics, trying to preserve these impressions in memory rather than just in images.
| Japanese Tendencies | Foreign Tendencies |
|---|---|
| Try to etch the real scene into memory | Focus on taking pictures |
| Value the sounds, atmosphere, and overall “experience” | Enjoy sharing photos and videos later |
| Prioritize the memory of the moment itself | Use records to complement their memory |
Souvenir Choices Reflect Cultural Differences
Japanese visitors often choose souvenirs they can use in daily life. Stationery or small items are popular because they can be taken to school or work. Foreign visitors, however, tend to prefer impactful items like costumes or large figures, showing a clear cultural difference.
| Souvenirs Preferred by Japanese | Souvenirs Preferred by Foreigners |
|---|---|
| Pens, notebooks, keychains | Robes, scarves, wand replicas |
| Everyday usable items | Large items for collection |
| Small mementos | Eye-catching character goods |
Focus on the Craft Behind the Scenes
The Studio Tour is not just about entering the magical world; it’s also about experiencing the filmmaking process. Japanese visitors, who value traditional crafts and manual work, often see artistry in the stitching of costumes or the stone texture of sets. Looking at the Great Hall’s walls and tables, they think, “This is not just a set, but a piece of art.”
Conclusion
The Warner Bros. Studio Tour attracts fans worldwide, but Japanese visitors bring a unique sensitivity to detail and authenticity. They observe exhibits quietly, compare the experience to theme parks, and recognize the craftsmanship behind the scenes. For foreign visitors, understanding these Japanese impressions offers a new perspective and a deeper way to enjoy the Studio Tour.
